- Best Sunscreen Mist | 100% Pure | Find on 100% Pure
- Best Sports Sunscreen | Thinksport | Find on Amazon
- Best Sunscreen Lotion | Babo | Find on Amazon
- Best Sunscreen Cream | Badger | Find on Amazon
- Best Sunscreen Gel Lotion | Bare Republic | Find on Amazon
- Best Sunscreen Stick | Blue Lizard | Find on Amazon
- Best For Face | Cotz | Find on Amazon
- Best Tinted Mineral Sunscreen | Suntegrity | Find on Amazon
- Best Oil-Free Mineral Sunscreen | EltaMD | Find on Amazon
- Best Mineral Sunscreen For Babies | Thinkbaby | Find on Amazon
- Best Mineral Sunscreen Powder | Colorescience | Find on Colorescience
Shielding your skin from the sun's harmful rays is crucial to maintaining good health and achieving a youthful, glowing complexion. Sunscreen should be essential to everyone's daily skincare routine, regardless of age, gender, or skin tone. Even if you spend most of your time indoors, you should still apply sunscreen to protect your skin from UV damage that can penetrate through windows.
While sunscreen used to have a bad reputation for leaving a greasy, oily residue on the skin or causing breakouts, new and improved formulas have been developed that address these concerns. By understanding why you need sunscreen, what to look for when shopping for the perfect formula, and which sunscreens are best, you can find the perfect product to suit your needs. In this guide below, we will discuss everything you need to know about selecting the ideal sunscreen and the best mineral sunscreens on the market. From ingredients to avoid to application frequency, we've got you covered.
What Is Mineral Sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreen, also known as physical sunscreen, is a type of sun protection that works by sitting on top of the skin to block and reflect harmful UV rays from the sun physically. It typically contains active mineral ingredients such as titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide, which are considered safer and less irritating than the chemical ingredients found in traditional sunscreens. Mineral sunscreen is a popular choice for sensitive skin or allergies, as it is less likely to cause skin irritation.
Chemical Sunscreens Or Mineral Sunscreens
So, what is the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen? Mineral and chemical sunscreens differ in the way they protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays and maintain stability in sunlight.
Active ingredients in sunscreens come in two forms: mineral and chemical filters. The most common sunscreens on the market are chemical sunscreens. Chemical sunscreen is often referred to as organic sunscreen and is made with a combination of chemicals such as: oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate. Chemical sunscreens work by allowing UV light to enter the skin, and then the chemicals in the sunscreen create a chemical reaction in which the UV light is converted to heat. This heat then dissipates from the skin, providing protection from the sun's harmful rays. But some of these chemical ingredients can be absorbed into your skin, enter your bloodstream, and cause long-term health effects.
What You Need To Consider When Shopping for Sunscreen
Finding an effective sunscreen can be daunting. Unfortunately, many on the market don't live up to their claims or contain harmful ingredients. According to a recent Environmental Working Group report, only 25% of sunscreens offer sufficient sun protection while they are also formulated without harmful ingredients that can pose health risks. With the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MoCRA) signed into law on Dec 29, 2022, you can expect to see more recalls and changes in the cosmetics industry.
When it comes to shopping for sunscreen, here are some factors to consider:
SPF
SPF indicates a sunscreen's ability to prevent UVB damage to the skin. However, it doesn't measure UVA protection, which is also harmful. For instance, SPF 15 sunscreen blocks 93% of UV radiation, while SPF 30 blocks almost 97%. The higher the SPF, the more protection from the sun's harmful UV radiation. Sunscreen with extremely high SPF, like 75 or 100, doesn't offer significantly greater protection than SPF 30.
Broad-spectrum protection
Broad-spectrum protection refers to a sunscreen's ability to protect against both UVA and UVB rays from the sun. Choosing a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection is important because both types of UV radiation can increase the risk of skin cancer. SPF, or sun protection factor, only measures a sunscreen's ability to block UVB rays, so it's essential to look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that also protects against UVA rays.
Ingredients
It's important to carefully read the label when shopping for a sunscreen to determine whether it's a mineral or chemical-based product. Even though chemical sunscreens tend to be easier to rub in, they may not be the best choice for your long-term health.
Ingredients To Avoid:
- 4-Aminobenzoic acid (PABA)
- Avobenzone
- Cinoxate
- Diethanolamine methoxycinnamate
- Dioxybenzone
- Drometrizole trisiloxane (Mexoryl XL)
- Ecamsule (Mexoryl SX)
- Ensulizole
- Enzacamene
- Fragrance
- Homosalate
- Meradimate
- Nanoparticles
- Octinoxate (non-encapsulated*)
- Octisalate
- Octocrylene
- Oxybenzone
- Padimate O
- Sulisobenzone
- Triethanolamine salicylate
Look for Non-Nano Or Coated Nano
"Non-nano" has become a buzzword in the mineral-based sunscreen category. Traditional zinc oxide sunscreens, famously seen on lifeguards' noses, were known for their chalky white appearance. Nowadays, sunscreen manufacturers use zinc oxide nanoparticles to create lotions with a reduced white tint.
The terms nano and non-nano are used to describe the particle size of minerals present in mineral-based sunscreens. Nano-sized particles can enter the bloodstream, whereas non-nano particles cannot. Therefore, non-nano sunscreens are generally considered safer unless the brand coats its nanoparticles to make them non-reactive and completely safe. However, you will need to be careful when it comes to coating nanoparticles as they may cause sunscreen to be less effective and may have long-term health effects on you and be bad for the environment.
Water Resistant
When sunscreen is labeled as water-resistant, it can maintain its level of sun protection for a specific amount of time while swimming or being active. However, you will need to reapply the sunscreen when it's up or after toweling off to maintain the same level of protection.
Non-comedogenic
Non-comedogenic sunscreens are formulated with ingredients that are less likely to block pores and irritate the skin, making them a better choice for people with oily or acne-prone skin. Comedogenic ingredients in sunscreens, such as oils or certain types of alcohol, can block the pores and lead to breakouts. Non-comedogenic sunscreens typically use lighter, less pore-clogging ingredients like silicone, which helps the sunscreen glide smoothly without clogging pores.
Sunscreen Application Types
Cream/lotion Sunscreens
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
It can be applied more evenly than spray sunscreen | Takes longer to apply |
Longer lasting than spray sunscreen | It may feel heavy or greasy |
Doesn't pose an inhalation risk | May stain cloth |
Moisturizing and making it a great choice for anyone with dry or sensitive skin | It can clog pores and cause breakouts for people with acne-prone skin |
Spray Sunscreens
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Quick and easy to apply, even in hard-to-reach areas | There is a risk of inhalation, which can be harmful to the lung |
Fast drying | It can result in uneven coverage |
Lightweight and doesn't leave a heavy or greasy feel | Difficult to use in windy conditions |
It provides more coverage and makes it less likely to miss any spots | It can contribute to air pollution and may be harmful to marine life |
Cell | Flammable |
Stick Sunscreens
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Easy to apply, especially for small areas | It may not provide adequate coverage for larger areas of the body |
Compact and easy to carry. Also, travel friendly. | It can be difficult to blend |
Less messy than lotion and cream sunscreen | It may be more expensive |
Good for targeted application | Some stick sunscreens can be comedogenic or irritating for some people with sensitive or acne-prone skin |
Sunscreen Gel
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Lightweight and absorbs quickly into the skin | Not as widely available, and there may be limited options to choose from |
Leaving no greasy or heavy feeling | It may not offer as much protection |
Some sunscreen gels have a cooling effect on the skin | It may not be suitable for all skin types |
Often formulated to be non-comedogenic | Can be expensive |
Easy to spread and can be applied evenly over the skin | Cell |
Sunscreen Powder
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Easy to apply | Best suited for small areas and may not provide adequate coverage for larger areas of the body |
Compact and easy to carry | It may not provide enough protection |
No mess | It may not be suitable for all skin types |
It can be used over makeup without causing it to smudge or run | May not be as effective as other types of sunscreen |
EWG Rating
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is an American non-profit organization that provides information on consumer products' safety and environmental impact, including sunscreens. Every year, the EWG releases a list of sunscreens with ratings based on their safety and efficacy. The EWG sunscreen rating can be a useful tool for any who is looking to make informed choices about the products they use on their skin.
Sunscreen Game-Changers: 14 Best Mineral Sunscreens for a Healthier You
Beautycounter Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
Best mineral sunscreen overall
Source: Beautycounter
Beautycounter is a brand committed to creating safe and sustainable beauty products, and the Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 is no exception. This sunscreen is free from harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been linked to coral bleaching and other environmental concerns. Formulated with non-nano zinc oxide and antioxidant-rich California Poppy, this mineral sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Unlike chemical sunscreens, which can absorb into the skin and potentially cause hormonal disruption, this mineral sunscreen sits on top of the skin to reflect the sun's rays, making it a safer option for both you and the environment.
One of the standout features of the Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Lotion is its lightweight, non-greasy formula. Unlike other mineral sunscreens that can leave a residue or feel heavy, this lotion goes on smoothly and absorbs quickly, leaving your skin soft and moisturized. This fragrance-free sunscreen is an ideal choice for those with skin sensitivity. Its water-resistant formula lasts for 40 minutes, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and running.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Ease of use: 5/5 Spreadability: 4.5/5 Value: 4.8/5 Oil/Greasy Level*: 1.5/5 Thickness Level**: 5/5 Residue Level**: 1/5
SPF | 30 |
Water Resistance | Up to 40 minutes |
Coral Reef Safe | Yes |
Vegan Friendly | N/A |
Recommended Skin Type | N/A |
Pros:
Cons:
BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide
Best For sensitive skin
Source: Amazon
Are you looking for a mineral sunscreen that's gentle on the skin but still effective at protecting you from the sun's harmful rays? Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen may just be what you need! This mineral sunscreen is made with a mineral-based formula containing non-nano zinc oxide. It's free from harmful chemicals like parabens, fragrances, and other common irritants that can cause skin irritation, making it perfect for those with sensitivity.
The Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen features a non-greasy and lightweight formula that swiftly penetrates the skin, providing a soft and moisturized feel. It's also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, perfect for outdoor activities like swimming, running, or hiking. One unique feature of this sunscreen is the Smart Bottle Technology, designed to change color when exposed to harmful UV rays. This reminds you to reapply the sunscreen and protect your skin from damage. The bottle is also easy to use, with a flip-top cap that makes it easy to apply sunscreen on the go.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Ease of use: 4.8/5 Spreadability: 4.5/5 Value: 4.8/5 Oil/Greasy Level*: 1/5 Thickness Level**: 4.6/5 Residue Level**: 1/5
SPF | 50 |
Water Resistance | Up to 80 minutes |
Coral Reef Safe | Yes |
Vegan Friendly | yes |
Recommended Skin Type | Sensitive |
Pros:
Cons:
Kypris Heliotropic: SPF 30 Treatment Primer
Premium Choice
Source: KYPRIS
If you're looking for a multitasking skincare product that provides sun protection and a flawless base for makeup, KYPRIS Pot of Shade Heliotropic SPF 30 Primer is an excellent choice. This luxurious primer is designed to nourish and protect the skin while also providing a smooth, even base for makeup application. It helps to extend its wear time throughout the day. Made with natural and organic ingredients, including botanical extracts and zinc oxide. The lightweight and fast-absorbing formula won't leave a greasy or heavy feeling on the skin. What sets this product apart from its competitors is its multitasking formula, combining sunscreen's benefits and a makeup primer in one luxurious product.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.6/5 Ease of use: 5/5 Spreadability: 5/5 Value: 4.6/5 Oil/Greasy Level*: 1/5 Thickness Level**: 1.5/5 Residue Level**: 1/5
SPF | 30 |
Water Resistance | No |
Coral Reef Safe | No |
Vegan Friendly | N/A |
Recommended Skin Type | Most skin types |
Pros:
Cons:
100% Pure SPF 30 Yerba Mate Mist
Best Sunscreen Mist
Source: 100% PURE
The 100% Pure Yerba Mate Mist SPF 30 is a versatile and convenient sunscreen option for those who want sun protection on the go. Its natural formula and mist delivery system provides even coverage without any greasy feeling on the skin. It's ideal for outdoor activities with its water resistance for up to 80 minutes and SPF rating of 30. It is formulated without harsh chemicals and irritants, making it safe and gentle even for the most sensitive skin types. This antioxidant-rich, Non-Nano Zinc Oxide-based broad-spectrum SPF contains no synthetic chemical ingredient, is quick-drying, easy-to-apply, and lightweight with full coverage water-resistant protection that lasts for up to 80 minutes.
Unlike traditional spray sunscreen, this mineral sunscreen is formulated using natural ingredients like Yerba Mate tea leaf that can also protect against free radicals and environmental pollutants. Safflower oil can deeply moisturize and soothe your skin, and jojoba can deeply moisturize and heal your skin. While the lightweight formula is easy to apply without rubbing or blending in, the mist delivery system provides even coverage without any greasy or heavy feeling on the skin. It's perfect for face, body, and hair use, making it a great option for outdoor activities or everyday use.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Ease of use: 4.9/5 Spreadability: 4.9/5 Value: 4.5/5 Oil/Greasy Level*: 2/5 Thickness Level**: 1/5 Residue Level**: 4/5
SPF | 30 |
Water Resistance | Up to 80 minutes |
Coral Reef Safe | yes |
Vegan Friendly | Yes |
Recommended Skin Type | All type |
Pros:
Cons:
Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen
Best Sports Sunscreen
Source: Amazon
Looking for a reliable and effective mineral sunscreen that will keep you protected during outdoor activities? Look no further than Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+! This mineral sunscreen provides an SPF of 50+, and it's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a great option for outdoor adventures. Unlike other mineral sunscreens, Thinksport Sunscreen is made with safe and natural ingredients free from harmful chemicals such as avobenzone, oxybenzone, parabens, and phthalates. This means you can rest assured that you are using an effective and safe product for yourself and the environment. With its non-greasy formula, Thinksport Sunscreen is easy to apply and absorbs quickly, leaving no residue or white cast. It is also gentle enough to use on all skin types, even for sensitive skin.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Ease of use: 4/5 Spreadability: 2/5 Value: 4.8/5 Oil/Greasy Level*: 1.5/5 Thickness Level**: 4.5/5 Residue Level**: 4/5
SPF | 50 |
Water Resistance | Up to 80 minutes |
Coral Reef Safe | yes |
Vegan Friendly | Yes |
Recommended Skin Type | All skin types and safe for sensitive skin |
Pros:
Cons:
Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen Lotion
Best Sunscreen Lotion
Source: Amazon
Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen Lotion is a high-quality mineral-based sunscreen that offers excellent protection against UVA and UVB rays. It's made with natural, plant-based ingredients like zinc oxide, sunflower oil, and organic shea butter without fragrance, making this sunscreen an excellent choice for sensitive skin. This broad spectrum SPF30 sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It's also reef-friendly, which means it's free from harmful chemicals that can harm marine life, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Unlike other mineral sunscreens on the market, this sunscreen lotion has a smooth, non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving a matte finish. It doesn't leave a white cast on the skin like some other mineral sunscreens, making it perfect for everyday wear. While the price point may be higher than other sunscreens on the market, Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen Lotion is well worth the investment. Its commitment to natural, sustainable ingredients and effective sun protection make it a great choice for anyone looking for a safe, high-quality sunscreen.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.4/5 Ease of use: 4.8/5 Spreadability: 4.1/5 Value: 4.2/5 Oil/Greasy Level*: 2/5 Thickness Level**: 2.5/5 Residue Level**: 2/5
SPF | 30 |
Water Resistance | Up to 40 minutes |
Coral Reef Safe | yes |
Vegan Friendly | Yes |
Recommended Skin Type | All type |
Pros:
Cons:
Badger Mineral Sunscreen Cream SPF 30
Best Sunscreen Cream
Source: Amazon
The Badger Sunscreen Cream is a reef-friendly, water-resistant, and broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen that provides all-day protection. Made with uncoated zinc oxide that can help prevent sunburn, this sunscreen is non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, and gentle on the skin. Unlike other mineral sunscreens, The Badger Sunscreen Cream is sweat and water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, making it suitable for outdoor activities and hot summer days.
Crafted with an organic formula free from harmful chemicals, it is gentle on the skin and the environment. Compared to chemical sunscreen, the cream's mineral-based formula is less likely to cause skin irritation or allergies. The cream is non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, and free from harsh chemicals and fragrances. Badger has a long-standing reputation for creating high-quality, safe, and natural products; this sunscreen is no exception. It is perfect for outdoor activities, beach days, and everyday use. So, if you are looking for a natural sunscreen that provides all-day protection, Badger Sunscreen Cream SPF 30 is an excellent choice.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Ease of use: 4.5/5 Spreadability: 3.8/5 Value: 4.2/5 Oil/Greasy Level*: 5/5 Thickness Level**: 4.5/5 Residue Level**: 1.5/5
SPF | 30 |
Water Resistance | Up to 40 minutes |
Coral Reef Safe | yes |
Vegan Friendly | No |
Recommended Skin Type | All type |
Pros:
Cons:
Bare Republic Mineral SPF 30 Body Sunscreen Gel-Lotion
Best Sunscreen Gel Lotion
Source: Amazon
The Bare Republic Mineral SPF 30 Body Sunscreen Gel-Lotion is a great option for those who prefer a lightweight, non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly into the skin. Crafted from natural and eco-friendly ingredients, this sunscreen does more than protect you from the sun, it can provide hydration and antioxidants to help fight free radicals. The broad-spectrum sunscreen is water-resistant for 40 minutes. Compared to other face and body mineral sunscreens on the market, the Mineral SPF 30 Body Sunscreen Gel-Lotion sets itself apart with its unique gel-lotion formula that provides the coverage of a lotion but with the feel of a lightweight gel. And if you are planning on heading to Hawaii, this sunscreen meets Hawaii Reef Compliant Act 104.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.3/5 Ease of use: 4.5/5 Spreadability: 4.5/5 Value: 4.2/5 Oil/Greasy Level*: 1/5 Thickness Level**: 5/5 Residue Level**: 1.5/5
SPF | 30 |
Water Resistance | Up to 40 minutes |
Coral Reef Safe | yes |
Vegan Friendly | Yes |
Recommended Skin Type | Sensitive |
Pros:
Cons:
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Stick
Best Sunscreen Stick
Source: Amazon
Looking for mineral sunscreen to target small areas? Look no further than Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen. Formulated with mineral zinc oxide without harmful chemicals like parabens, dyes, and fragrances. Its gentle formula is perfect for those with sensitive skin, and it's free from common irritants like oxybenzone and octinoxate. The mineral sunscreen's lightweight texture makes it effortless to apply, and it's non-greasy, leaving no residue behind.
The Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Stick provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Its lightweight, non-greasy formula goes on smoothly and absorbs quickly, leaving your skin feeling soft and moisturized. The stick design makes it perfect for targeting small areas like the nose, ear, and elbow. One drawback, however, is that it may leave a white cast on darker skin tones.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.6/5 Ease of use: 5/5 Spreadability: 4.8/5 Value: 4.8/5 Oil/Greasy Level*: 1/5 Thickness Level**: 1/5 Residue Level**: 2/5
SPF | 50 |
Water Resistance | Up to 80 minutes |
Coral Reef Safe | Yes |
Vegan Friendly | N/A |
Recommended Skin Type | Sensitive |
Pros:
Cons:
Cotz Face Prime and Protect Mineral Sunscreen Lotion
Best for face
Source: Amazon
If you're looking for a mineral sunscreen for your face that won't leave a white cast on your skin, Cotz Face Prime And Protect Mineral Sunscreen Lotion is an excellent choice. This sunscreen is made with natural ingredients and is free from harmful chemicals. It's designed to provide broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays while blending seamlessly into your skin tone for a natural look. What sets Cotz Face Prime And Protect Mineral Sunscreen Lotion apart from other mineral sunscreens is its tinted formula that seamlessly blends into your skin tone for a natural look. It's non-greasy, oil-free, and hypoallergenic, making it safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Its water-resistant formula offers up to 80 minutes of protection, making it ideal for great outdoor use. Use it as a base under makeup to even out skin tone and achieve a flawless look.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Ease of use: 5/5 Spreadability: 4.6/5 Value: 4.5/5 Oil/Greasy Level*: 1/5 Thickness Level**: 3.5/5 Residue Level**: 1.5/5
SPF | 40 |
Water Resistance | Up to 60 minutes |
Coral Reef Safe | yes |
Vegan Friendly | N/A |
Recommended Skin Type | All skin types |
Pros:
Cons:
Suntegrity Skincare 5 in 1 Natural Tinted Moisturizing Face Sunscreen
Best Tinted Mineral Sunscreen
Source: Amazon
Suntegrity 5-in-1 Tinted Sunscreen Moisturizer is a revolutionary product that combines the benefits of sunscreen, moisturizer, and foundation all in one. Designed not only to protect you against UVA + UVB rays, this tinted moisturizer will actually treat your skin while adding the perfect amount of color to leave your skin looking flawless! Made with ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Red Algae, Organic Aloe, Jojoba, and Cucumber, this keeps the skin calm and soothed, making it perfect for acne-prone skin, rosacea, or melasma! It provides up to 80 minutes of water resistance, making it perfect for outdoors. It also provides buildable coverage that can be customized to your skin tone, making it a great choice for those looking for a multitasking product that can simplify their daily routine.
What sets this product apart from other facial mineral sunscreens is its 5-in-1 formula, which combines the benefits of a sunscreen, moisturizer, foundation, primer, and anti-aging product all in one luxurious product. It's also free from harmful chemicals like parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances, making it safe for both you and the environment. With four color shades available, you will find one that fits your skin tone, and being a multitasking product, it can simplify your daily routine.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Ease of use: 4.5/5 Spreadability: 4.5/5 Value: 4.6/5 Oil/Greasy Level*: 1/5 Thickness Level**: 1.5/5 Residue Level**: 1/5
SPF | 30 |
Water Resistance | No |
Coral Reef Safe | yes |
Vegan Friendly | Yes |
Recommended Skin Type | All skin types and safe for sensitive skin |
Pros:
Cons:
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Face sunscreen
Best oil-free Mineral sunscreen
Source: Amazon
If you're looking for a mineral sunscreen specifically designed for acne-prone skin, EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Face Sunscreen is an excellent choice. Its lightweight and sheer formula and its gentle and effective ingredients make it a top pick for anyone looking to protect their face from the sun's harmful rays without causing breakouts or irritation. This lightweight sunscreen is specially formulated for acne-prone and sensitive skin and is free from oils, fragrances, and parabens. The sheer, lightweight formula won't leave a white cast on the skin or clog pores. This product is enhanced with niacinamide, a potent antioxidant known for enhancing skin texture and even skin tone.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Ease of use: 4/5 Spreadability: 4/5 Value: 4.6/5 Oil/Greasy Level*: 1/5 Thickness Level**: 4.5/5 Residue Level**: 1/5
SPF | 46 |
Water Resistance | No |
Coral Reef Safe | No |
Vegan Friendly | N/A |
Recommended Skin Type | Sensitive, Acne-Prone, Rosacea |
Pros:
Cons:
Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
Best mineral sunscreen For Babies
Source: Amazon
Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+ is a highly rated and popular mineral-based sunscreen option for babies, children, and adults. This sunscreen is free of harmful chemicals, parabens, and phthalates, making it a safe choice for those with sensitive skin. It provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection using zinc oxide as its active ingredient, known to be gentle on the skin. The sunscreen's water-resistant formula ensures protection for up to 80 minutes during outdoor sports and activities. Its smooth application and quick absorption leave no greasy or sticky residue. Additionally, the company is committed to eco-friendly practices and is a member of the Safe Cosmetics Campaign.
If you are between Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen and California Baby Super Sensitive Sunscreen Lotion, both are popular among parents. They are both safe and effective choices for your little ones. The main difference between the two is that Thinkbaby sunscreen has a higher SPF rating of 50+, while the California Baby sunscreen has an SPF rating of 30+. This means the Thinkbaby sunscreen offers slightly more protection against the sun's harmful rays. The Thinkbaby sunscreen uses zinc oxide as its active ingredient, while the California Baby sunscreen uses titanium dioxide. Both ingredients are considered safe and effective, but some people prefer one over the other. And lastly, California Baby sunscreen price per ounce is much more than Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Ease of use: 5/5 Spreadability: 5/5 Value: 4.8/5 Oil/Greasy Level*: 1/5 Thickness Level**: 4/5 Residue Level**: 4/5
SPF | 50 |
Water Resistance | Up to 80 minutes |
Coral Reef Safe | yes |
Vegan Friendly | yes |
Recommended Skin Type | N/A |
Pros:
Cons:
Colorescience Sunforgettable Brush On Sunscreen SPF
Best mineral Sunscreen Powder
Source: Colorescience
Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 is a revolutionary product that provides high-quality sun protection in a convenient and portable brush-on form. A broad spectrum SPF 50 protects against UVA and UVB rays, ensuring your skin stays safe from the sun's harmful rays. Unlike the other sunscreen products on the market, this unique brush on sunscreen is perfect for on-the-go touch-ups throughout the day, with a self-dispensing brush that delivers the perfect amount of product with each use. This brush-on sunscreen features antimicrobial bristles that are non-comedogenic, making it a safe and effective choice for all skin types. Its water-resistant formula provides up to 80 minutes of protection, making it perfect for outdoor activities. What sets this product apart from its competitors is its unique application method and combination of sun protection and makeup. However, it may provide less coverage than traditional makeup, so it's important to consider that when considering this product.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.6/5 Ease of use: 5/5 Spreadability: 5/5 Value: 4.8/5 Oil/Greasy Level*: 1/5 Thickness Level**: 1/5 Residue Level**: 1/5
SPF | 50 |
Water Resistance | Up to 80 minutes |
Coral Reef Safe | No |
Vegan Friendly | N/A |
Recommended Skin Type | Dry to normal |
Pros:
Cons:
*1= None oily/ greasy 5= oil/greasy
** 1= Lightweight 5= Heavy
*** 1= No white cast 5= Ghostly white
FAQ
How often should I apply mineral sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreen should be applied every two hours or immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying to ensure continued protection from the sun's harmful rays. It's also important to reapply after activities that may cause the sunscreen to rub off, such as excessive sweating or towel drying.
Can sunscreen cause acne?
If you are prone to acne, looking for a non-comedogenic sunscreen formula is important, as some sunscreens can clog pores and cause breakouts.
Can I wear makeup over mineral sunscreen?
Yes, you can wear makeup over mineral sunscreen. Wait a few minutes after applying sunscreen to allow it to absorb before applying makeup.
How We Picked
We have meticulously handpicked the best mineral sunscreens for you by combining our personal experiences, in-depth research of customer reviews from various retail platforms, and valuable inputs shared by dermatologists. Our selection process has prioritized crucial factors like ingredients, EWG scores, ease of use, texture, SPF score, residue level, and ease of application to ensure we recommend only the best products to our readers.
