Top 12 Mineral Sunscreens You Should Know About

Top Pick

La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios mineral sunscreen features a non-greasy, fluid texture that glides on effortlessly. Enriched with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, it provides a lightweight feel, making it ideal for layering with other skincare or makeup products. The formula is infused with the brand’s signature thermal spring water and advanced Cell-Ox Shield Technology, which combines antioxidants with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection for enhanced skin defense.

This sunscreen is water-resistant, oil-free, and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for all skin types, including dry skin. Its matte finish blends naturally, avoiding emphasis on textured areas. However, individuals with deeper skin tones may notice a slight white cast due to its mineral-based formula.

Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | SPF: 50 | Consistency: Liquid | Size: 1.7 ounces | Water Resistant: Yes

Top Affordable Choice

Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch Face Sunscreen SPF 50 is a budget-friendly option that boasts one of the highest zinc oxide concentrations available (21.6%). Its hypoallergenic nature makes it suitable for sensitive skin types.

The oil-free SPF formula delivers a matte finish, which may not suit dry skin but simplifies reapplication, especially after sweating or swimming. With 80 minutes of water resistance, this mineral sunscreen minimizes the need for frequent layering, preventing a heavy buildup on the skin.

Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide | SPF: 50 | Consistency: Lotion | Size: 2 ounces | Water Resistant: Yes

Top Premium Choice

Bloomeffects' Tulip Dew Sunscreen Serum SPF 50 justifies its premium price with its exceptional formulation. Featuring non-nano zinc oxide as the UV filter, it also combats blue light and incorporates the brand’s unique tulip complex. Sourced from upcycled tulips on their family-owned farm, this complex delivers antioxidants, hydration, and amino acids, resulting in a radiant and glowing complexion.

Mytour Beauty Director Heather Maffei Muri praises it, stating, "This 100% non-nano mineral sunscreen is light, hydrating, and imparts a beautiful glow. Enriched with antioxidants and amino acids, it leaves skin smoother after removal." We agree, especially appreciating the subtle tint that prevents any white residue. 

While Bloomeffects’ SPF is packed with skin-nourishing ingredients, its ultra-light texture may require careful application to ensure adequate protection.

Active Ingredients: Non-nano zinc-oxide | SPF: 50 | Consistency: Serum | Size: 1.86 ounces | Water Resistant: Yes

Top Tinted Option

We absolutely adore Tower 28’s SunnyDays Tinted Sunscreen. Combining the benefits of foundation and SPF, this versatile product offers 17 shades with diverse overtones and undertones, catering to a wide range of skin tones. However, those with oily or combination skin might need to blot occasionally, particularly in humid conditions.

The standout feature of this formula is its use of non-nano zinc oxide, a gentle mineral filter suitable for sensitive skin that provides robust UVA and UVB protection. Unlike typical zinc oxide sunscreens, the SunnyDays Tinted Sunscreen feels as light as a regular foundation. 

The formula also includes white sage extract to combat free radicals caused by sun exposure and prickly pear extract to shield against blue light damage. Combined with pigments, these ingredients deliver natural coverage, allowing you to enjoy the sun without concerns. 

Active Ingredients: Non-nano zinc oxide | SPF: 30 | Consistency: Lotion | Size: 1 ounce | Water Resistant: No

Top Choice for Sensitive Skin

Perfect for sensitive or reactive skin, this SPF 45 provides broad-spectrum protection while soothing and hydrating the skin. Enriched with cica, vegan squalane, and eight types of hyaluronic acid, it ensures long-lasting hydration and nourishment. Its silky, weightless texture avoids clinging to dry patches and doubles as a color-correcting primer, making it a versatile addition to your skincare routine. 

While the color-correcting feature benefits some by creating a more even complexion, it may not be universally flattering. The green-tinted mineral formula can leave a greyish cast on darker skin tones, which might be undesirable.

Active Ingredients: Non-nano zinc oxide | SPF: 45 | Consistency: Lotion | Size: 1.69 ounces | Water Resistant: Not specified

Top Pick for Acne-Prone Skin

Clearstem Skincare’s product range is tailored for acne-prone skin, and the You Are Sunshine Sheer exemplifies this commitment. With a 21% zinc oxide concentration, one of the highest available, this SPF balances, soothes, and protects the skin effectively. 

The formula incorporates botanicals such as green tea, gotu kola, and horse chestnut to balance, soothe, and calm irritated skin, particularly during breakouts. Unlike many other sunscreens, this one is non-comedogenic, ensuring it won’t clog pores. Its subtle peachy tint helps neutralize the white cast often associated with mineral sunscreens. 

This sunscreen is both sweat and water-resistant, offering a velvety, blurring finish that eliminates the need for primer on heavy makeup days or foundation for a natural look. However, avoid pairing it with silicone-based cosmetics, as it may pill when layered underneath.

Active Ingredients: Non-nano zinc oxide | SPF: 50 | Consistency: Cream | Size: 2.1 ounces | Water Resistant: Yes

Top Choice for Dark Skin

Traditional mineral sunscreens often leave a white residue, particularly on darker skin. Brands like Cay Skin are innovating to provide formulas that deliver the skincare benefits of popular ingredients while catering specifically to melanin-rich skin.

The Mo'Bay Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 is a lightweight, fluid formula packed with antioxidants and nourishing oils that blend seamlessly into the skin. Ingredients like sea moss and fermented guava help restore the skin barrier, while vegan squalane provides lightweight hydration. 

Despite its milky texture and hydrating ingredients, this non-nano zinc oxide sunscreen delivers a natural finish that avoids excess shine throughout the day. However, we wish it offered better water resistance, similar to other sunscreens on our list.

Active Ingredients: Non-nano zinc oxide | SPF: 30 | Consistency: Liquid | Size: 1.7 ounces | Water Resistant: No

Top Reef-Safe Choice

To be reef-safe, sunscreens must exclude oxybenzone and octinoxate, relying instead on mineral filters. Naked Sundays, an Australian brand, ensures compliance with the Hawaii Reef Act 104, making their products a trustworthy choice.

The SPF50+ Collagen Glow 100% Mineral Lotion is a versatile 4-in-1 product, combining UVA/UVB protection with the benefits of a moisturizer, primer, and collagen booster. Its micronized non-nano zinc oxide and iron oxides ensure no white cast, blending seamlessly into the skin. 

While the formula can feel thick and requires effort to blend, especially on dry skin, watermelon extract provides antioxidants, hydration, and free radical protection while smoothing fine lines. It layers beautifully, imparts a radiant glow, and is water-resistant. Given its impressive formulation, it’s no wonder it sells out quickly.

Active Ingredients: Non-nano zinc oxide | SPF: 50 | Consistency: Lotion | Size: 1.7 ounces | Water Resistant: Yes

Top Hydrating Choice

Innbeauty Project Mineral Sun Glow SPF combines peptides and natural moisturizing factors to nourish and hydrate the skin. The inclusion of Hydroviton 24 ensures a lightweight feel, preventing the formula from feeling heavy. As it dries, the SPF imparts a radiant glow enhanced by its pearlescent finish, and its layering capability makes reapplication effortless.

This SPF blends zinc oxide, vitamin C, and rice extract to shield against UVA/UVB rays and blue light. However, the product’s shade range is restricted, with only two options available.

Active Ingredients: Non-nano zinc oxide | SPF: 43 | Consistency: Lotion | Size: 1.7 ounces | Water Resistant: No

Top Lightweight Option

The SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense offers unparalleled blurring effects. Its lightweight liquid formula is perfect for those seeking an easy-to-apply sunscreen that feels neither heavy nor sticky.

This product comes from a top-tier skincare brand, making it a premium investment. The formula is enriched with skin-nourishing ingredients like plankton extract, which boosts elasticity and enhances the broad-spectrum protection provided by titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. A subtle tint helps counteract the white cast often associated with mineral sunscreens. 

Active Ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide | SPF: 50 | Consistency: Lotion | Size: 1.7 and 4.2 ounces | Water Resistant: No

Top Stick Option

Supergoop is renowned for its high-quality sunscreens, and this mineral SPF 50 is no exception. The stick applicator ensures hassle-free touchups, while its sweat- and water-resistant formula makes it perfect for beach trips or outdoor activities. However, it may melt in high temperatures. Enriched with hydrating ingredients like cocoa butter, shea, and jojoba, it feels creamy without being greasy, simplifying reapplication. 

Olive fruit oil and extract contribute to a smooth finish while combating free radical damage. The 20.6% zinc oxide ensures robust sun protection, leaving your skin feeling nourished and shielded.

Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide | SPF: 50 | Consistency: Cream | Size: 0.67 ounces | Water Resistant: Yes

Top Powder Option

A compact powder sunscreen is ideal for midday SPF touch-ups. Among Colorescience’s impressive range, the Sunforgettable® Total Protection™ Brush-On stands out. With SPF 50 and a soft brush applicator, it applies smoothly, reducing shine and preventing buildup. Its lightweight formula layers effortlessly, providing a flawless, weightless finish. 

Available in four shades, the Total Protection formula includes hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and antioxidants to combat free radicals. Hypoallergenic and resistant to water and sweat for up to 80 minutes, it appeals to a wide audience. However, it’s best used as a touch-up SPF, as achieving full coverage with a powder can be challenging.

Active Ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide | SPF: 50 | Consistency: Powder | Size: 0.21 ounces | Water Resistant: Yes

Final Verdict

Our top pick is the La Roche Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Fluid Mineral Face Sunscreen, thanks to its unique blend of titanium and zinc oxide for a lightweight, easy application. It provides full-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, waterproof coverage, and a rich array of skin-enhancing antioxidants. 

How to Shop for Mineral SPF Like a Pro 

SPF and Broad-Spectrum

The SPF number on a sunscreen bottle indicates the Sun Protection Factor, which measures how long it takes for skin to burn under sunlight without protection. For instance, an SPF of 50 means it would take 500 seconds for UV rays to cause burning when the sunscreen is applied.

UV rays are categorized into different types, so you’ll often see "broad-spectrum" on labels, such as the Supergoop! PLAY 100% Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50. "Broad-spectrum sunscreen shields against both UVA and UVB radiation—protection against both is crucial, as UVA causes aging and sun damage, while UVB can lead to skin cancer," Pavitt explains. A helpful way to remember: UVA ages, and UVB burns.

Active Ingredients

Mineral sunscreens primarily use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as filters. These ingredients absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, preventing skin damage. Zinc oxide is effective against both UVA and UVB rays, while titanium dioxide doesn’t fully block UVA. Many brands opt for zinc oxide for comprehensive protection, but blends like the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 50 are also excellent choices.

When a brand mentions non-nano zinc oxide, it refers to the larger particle size of the zinc, which sits on the skin’s surface to block UV rays and prevent damage. These larger particles can cause a white cast on some skin tones, but brands often counteract this by incorporating additional ingredients into the formula.

Finish

Mineral SPFs no longer limit you to a matte finish. Many brands now offer lightweight formulas with a radiant glow, hydrated look, or seamless blend, such as the Innbeauty Project Mineral Sun Glow SPF. If the finish isn’t specified, the consistency can be a clue—liquid or milk formulas often provide a dewy finish, while thicker creams or lotions tend to be more natural or matte. For clarity, check the product packaging or the brand’s website.

Questions You Might Ask

What is the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen?

Gohara explains, "Mineral sunscreens use filters that act as shields to deflect UV rays, while chemical sunscreens use filters that absorb UV rays like a sponge." This difference affects how they interact with the skin—mineral SPF sits on the surface, while chemical SPF penetrates deeper. 

To identify whether a sunscreen is mineral or chemical, check the active ingredients. Pavitt notes that zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are common mineral filters, while chemical filters include avobenzone, oxybenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate.

Do dermatologists recommend mineral sunscreen?

Dermatologists emphasize the importance of daily sunscreen use. While personal preference plays a role, they often recommend mineral sunscreen for specific cases. "Mineral sunscreens are ideal for sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea and atopic dermatitis. They also provide immediate protection, so you can step outside right after application," says Gohara.

Is mineral sunscreen water-resistant?

Mineral SPF can be water-resistant, and this will be indicated on the packaging. If it’s not explicitly stated, check the instructions. Products requiring reapplication immediately after swimming or sweating are not waterproof. However, if reapplication is suggested after a specific time post-water exposure, it’s likely water-resistant. For clarity, always refer to the product instructions or contact the brand.

Does mineral sunscreen expire?

Mineral sunscreen, like all products, has an expiration date. "While mineral SPF may have a longer shelf life than chemical SPF, it’s still a drug product, so follow the expiration dates on the packaging," advises Pavitt. Gohara adds that if a tube lasts months, "you’re not applying enough," as daily application is essential for effective protection.

Trust Our Expertise

This article was authored by Grace Parsons, a seasoned beauty industry professional with extensive experience in cosmetics, skincare, and wellness. After extensive research and testing of numerous formulas, we identified the best mineral SPFs based on active ingredients, protection level, size, texture, and water resistance. Grace consulted Sofie Pavitt, a New York City esthetician and founder of her eponymous skincare line, and Mona Gohara, M.D., Vice President of the Women's Dermatologic Society and a Connecticut-based dermatologist, for their expert insights.