Are you looking for the best protection from harmful UV rays without the use of synthetic chemicals? Mineral sunscreens are created with minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to help protect your skin from UVA/UVB rays.
They form a barrier on top of the skin so that these dangerous rays can’t penetrate through. With so many different options out there, it may be tough finding what works best for your particular, skin tone and type.
Don’t worry - we have done all the hard work for you to bring you our Top 5 Best Mineral Sunscreen products.
These tried-and-true picks offer superior protection while still being gentle enough on delicate and sensitive complexions.
Read more to find out what makes each one unique, as well as which option most closely aligns with your needs.
We take the guesswork out of finding the best products. Each product was individually selected by our editors. Some may have been sent as samples for us to try out for ourselves and some we combed through thousands of reviews to find, but all opinions in this article are our own.
P.S. LindsaysReviews may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something at no extra cost to you (that's how we stay in business and keep bringing you the best finds to save you time).
How We Chose The Best Mineral Sunscreen
When researching the best mineral sunscreen products, we considered a variety of factors such as SPF strength and protection rating, ingredients list, user reviews, price point and more.
We also looked for products that offer broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and are suitable for those with sensitive skin.
And most importantly, we wanted to make sure that each of the sunscreens on our list are free of any harsh chemicals or fragrances.
Also we looked for products that were tested and approved by the Environmental Working Group (EWG).
Now, let's take a look at our top picks.
Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
Why It's Our Top Pick
Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion offers superior protection while still being gentle enough on delicate and sensitive complexions. It is free of any harsh chemicals or fragrances and is EWG tested and approved.
It offers Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB protection, is vegan and cruelty-free, and provides a matte finish with SPF 50 coverage.
In addition, it is also reef safe—meaning it does not contain ingredients that are harmful to coral reefs.
This sunscreen lotion offers a natural, zinc-based protection that is sure to keep your skin safe and sound in the sun. And, it offers a lightweight and silky feel that makes it great for daily use.
All The Details
The Sun Bum Mineral Collection is designed to provide superior protection without using synthetic chemicals and creams.
This Natural SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion contains mineral-based zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to create a physical barrier on your skin, so UVA/UVB rays can’t penetrate it.
It is formulated with Vitamin E and added Sunflower Seed Oil for superior hydration, perfect for those looking for an all-natural sunscreen.
Tested by our team of salty friends who live the “bum” life one day at a time, this product is cruelty free, gluten free and Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free.
And, it’s Vegan and Reef friendly! We guarantee you’ll love this Mineral Collection.
BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen
Why It's Our Top Pick
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen is a top pick because it offers superior protection with no harsh chemicals or fragrances.
It contains two mineral active ingredients, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, that create a physical barrier on your skin to reflect UV rays away before they enter your body.
This formula is free of parabens and fragrances, making it ideal for those with sensitive or dry skin too.
Furthermore, it has an impressive 80 minutes water and sweat resistance rating, which means you can stay out in the sun for longer with peace of mind.
And, it comes with Smart Bottle Technology which turns the sunscreen bottle into blue light when UV levels are high to remind you to reapply. Plus, this sunscreen is reef safe and cruelty-free.
All The Details
The Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen is the perfect choice for those with sensitive skin, who want to protect dark skin for themselves from harmful UV rays without using chemical active ingredients.
It contains no oxybenzone or Octinoxate, two common chemical active ingredients used in traditional sunscreens that have been found to have potentially damaging effects on coral reefs when they make their way into the ocean.
Instead, it uses mineral-based active ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to form a physical barrier on your skin that reflects away UV rays before they can enter your body.
This SPF 50+ broad spectrum formula also provides UVA/UVB protection, and is paraben-free and fragrance-free so it won’t irritate sensitive skin.
Seaweed Bath Co. Clear Moisture Mineral
Why It's Our Top Pick
Seaweed Bath Co. Clear Moisture Mineral SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray is top pick because it offers superior protection with natural and non-toxic minerals, plus nourishing ingredients like algae and coconut oil to hydrate your skin.
It contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, two mineral active ingredients that create a physical barrier on your skin to reflect UV rays away before they can enter your body.
This formula is paraben-free, sulfate-free, vegan, cruelty-free and gluten-free so it won’t irritate sensitive skin.
Plus, this sunscreen is reef safe and packaged in post consumer recycled plastic for earth conscious individuals.
It also contains hyaluronic acid, which helps to hydrate the skin and provide long-lasting protection from the sun.
All The Details
The Seaweed Bath Co. Clear Moisture Mineral SPF 30 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Spray is the perfect choice for those looking for the best protection from UVA/UVB rays without using any synthetic chemicals.
This spray provides superior sun protection, by forming a barrier on top of the skin, blocking the sun's harmful rays.
It is made with natural and marine-derived ingredients including zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, seaweed extract, algae extract, coconut oil and hyaluronic acid to nourish your skin.
This sunscreen is also Leaping Bunny certified, cruelty free, vegan, gluten free, paraben free and sulfate free - making it perfect for all your darker skin tones and types.
The tropical scent will make you feel like you're lounging in a beach paradise every time you use it.
CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Why It's Our Top Pick
CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 is a top pick because it offers superior protection with natural and non-toxic minerals.
It contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, two mineral active ingredients that create a physical barrier on your skin to reflect UV rays away before they can enter your body.
This formula is also paraben-free, sulfate-free, vegan, cruelty-free and gluten-free so it won’t irritate sensitive skin.
Plus, this sunscreen is reef safe and packaged in post consumer recycled plastic for earth conscious individuals.
It also contains hyaluronic acid, which helps to hydrate the skin and provide long-lasting protection from the sun.
This sunscreen is perfect for anyone looking to protect their skin from the sun without any harsh synthetic chemicals.
All The Details
The CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen is a great mineral sunscreen option for those looking for UVA/UVB protection without the use of synthetic chemicals.
Developed with dermatologists, this oxybenzone free and avobenzone free sunscreen is a great choice for those with sensitive skin.
The formula contains physical and chemical filters of Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide for superior protection against sun damage, as well as three essential ceramides to help restore the skin’s natural barrier.
Suitable for both kids and adults, this sunscreen is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation and National Eczema Association as an effective, broad spectrum sunscreen.
With its oil free, fragrance free, and noncomedogenic formula, you can trust CeraVe's 100% Mineral Sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays without leaving behind a white cast.
La Roche-Posay Mineral Ultra-Light Face Sunscreen
Why It's Our Top Pick
La Roche-Posay's Mineral Ultra-Light Face Sunscreen is a top pick because it is great for sensitive skin.
The 100% mineral sunscreen has an ultra lightweight texture that won't clog pores or leave behind a white residue.
It also combines antioxidants like Vitamin E and Ferulic Acid to protect the skin from free radicals and other environmental aggressors.
This sunscreen is also oil free, fragrance free, paraben free and non-comedogenic so it won't irritate your skin.
Plus, it has a 50 SPF protection rating which will keep you safe from UVA/UVB rays. And last but not least, it was tested on sensitive skin and found to be suitable for all skin types.
All The Details
The La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Ultra-Light Face Sunscreen is specifically designed to protect sensitive skin from the sun’s harmful UVA/UVB rays. It is a 100% mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to form a barrier on the skin for maximum protection and it is free from oil so that it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
The antioxidants in this product help to protect against free radicals, leaving your skin looking healthy and hydrated. This sunscreen is also lightweight and non-greasy, so you won’t be left feeling sticky or greasy all day long. Also, it is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you don’t have to worry about reapplying after getting wet.
Best Mineral Sunscreen FAQs
Is mineral sunscreen better than chemical sunscreen?
It depends on your skin type and preferences. Mineral sunscreens are physical blockers, meaning they create a barrier on the skin to reflect UV rays away. They are often preferred by those with sensitive skin because they don’t contain any chemicals that can irritate the skin. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, absorb UV rays and convert them into heat before they reach your skin. Both types of sunscreen are effective at protecting against UVA/UVB rays, so it’s a matter of personal preference.
Do I need to reapply mineral sunscreen?
Yes, you should reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. Mineral sunscreens are not water-resistant mineral and chemical sunscreen will need to be reapplied more often than chemical sunscreens.
Do mineral sunscreens leave a white cast?
Some mineral sunscreens can leave behind a white residue on the skin, but many of the newer formulas are designed to be non-whitening. Look for sunscreens that contain lightweight oxides like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which will give you broad-spectrum protection without leaving a white cast.
Are mineral sunscreens good for acne-prone skin?
Yes, many mineral sunscreens are suitable for acne-prone skin. Look for noncomedogenic mineral formulas, that won’t clog pores or contain any irritating ingredients.
How do I choose the right mineral sunscreen for my skin?
The most important thing is to find a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and broad-spectrum coverage. It should also be suitable for your skin type, i.e., noncomedogenic if you have acne-prone skin or oil free if you have oily skin. Additionally, look for a sunscreen that is lightweight and won’t leave behind a white residue.
Should I use mineral sunscreen on my face?
Yes, it is important to wear a facial sunscreen every day. Mineral sunscreens are often preferred for the face since they won’t irritate sensitive skin or clog pores. Look for an oil-free mineral sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and broad-spectrum coverage.
Will mineral sunscreen protect me from the sun’s damaging rays?
Yes, mineral sunscreens will provide protection against UVA/UVB rays. Just be sure to reapply every two hours or after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. Additionally best sunscreen, make sure you choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and broad-spectrum coverage for maximum protection.
Can I use mineral sunscreen on my body?
Yes, you can use mineral sunscreens on your body. Just be sure to choose one that is suitable for your skin type. If you have sensitive skin, look for a lightweight formula with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. If you have oily skin, opt for an oil-free product.
Best Mineral Sunscreen For You
Our skin is our most valuable asset, so it’s important to protect it with the best products available.
The top 5 mineral sunscreens we’ve shared here offer unbeatable protection against both UVA and UVB rays, along with nourishment for your skin. If you don’t already use a mineral sunscreen, now is the time to start.
Not only will these sunscreens help keep your skin safe from the damaging effects of the sun, but they will also keep you feeling refreshed and energized all day long.
Plus, with their natural ingredients and non-toxic formulas, mineral sunscreens are kinder to both our planet and our skin than chemical sunscreens.
Lindsay Sewell
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