Protect your skin from the sun with these expert-approved formulas. Dermatologists always talk about the importance of having the best sunscreen, but have you ever thought about how it protects you?
The first thing you should know is that there are two types of sunscreen: chemical sunscreen and physical (or mineral) sunscreen. The first method is to use chemical filters that “absorb UV rays and prevent them from penetrating
the skin
explains Joshua Zeichner, MD, board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. On the other hand, “mineral sunscreens contain inorganic compounds like zinc
oxide or titanium dioxide to block UV rays,” he says.
Because of how mineral sunscreen works, you might associate it with thick, white plaster. But many of today’s formulas are nearly sheer, even if you have darker skin and it’s hard to blend your SPF.
Additionally, experts say mineral sunscreens are great for sensitive skin because they generally don’t cause irritation.
Angela Casey, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and skin cancer specialist at the Ohio Dermatological Surgery Center, says many experts believe mineral sunscreens are safer than chemical formulas.
Both types are approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but last year the FDA called for more research to examine the safety of certain chemical sunscreen ingredients once absorbed into the skin. Mineral
sunscreens don’t have the same burden.
That being said, there are a variety of mineral sunscreens on the market, but don’t worry: We’ve done all the hard work for you. After consulting with multiple dermatologists and sifting through countless online reviews, we
found the best mineral sunscreens for every skin type and complexion.
Are you looking for a safe, effective sunscreen that will need to be reapplied all summer long? Below, dermatologists list the best mineral sunscreens for face and body.
1. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Ultra-Light Liquid Broad Spectrum SPF 50: This liquid mineral sunscreen comes highly recommended by several dermatologists we spoke with and Emily Goldman, editor-in-chief of Prevention
magazine.
It has a lightweight formula that absorbs directly into the skin and blends seamlessly. It’s also non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, so it won’t clog pores or cause unnecessary irritation. Another advantage is the higher SPF
and water resistance.
Goldman calls it “ultralight” and stresses that it feels great on her skin. “My skin feels hydrated and perfect even in the colder months. This is effective year-round sun protection.”
2. CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50: This mineral sunscreen contains ceramides, which help skin retain moisture, which is why Meghan Feely, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New Jersey and New York City and a clinical
instructor at Mount Sinai, endorses it.
The oil-free, non-comedogenic, non-greasy formula also contains niacinamide to soothe redness, making it a great sunscreen for the face. Goldman is also a fan. “CeraVe is a must-have in my medicine cabinet. It’s super gentle on
my sensitive skin, yet super powerful with SPF 50, and it’s pretty affordable. I wear this every day.”
3. Eucerin Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50: If you are looking for a sunscreen that you can use anywhere and is also suitable for sensitive skin, this product from Eucerin is your best choice.
“This ultra-light sunscreen uses only mineral filters and can be used on face and body,” says Dr. Illustrator. “It spreads easily over large areas of the body and is completely absorbed into the skin, leaving no harsh white
residue. It also offers 80 minutes of water resistance.”
4. Coppertone Pure & Simple Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50: Coppertone’s mineral sunscreen lotion has a high SPF and is relatively cheap. Perfect for your days spent by the pool.
The formula contains zinc oxide and skin-boosting botanicals including tea, seaweed, and lotus flower extracts to keep your face and body hydrated and happy, even under the harsh sun.
5. Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen, Sensitive SPF 30+: Marisa Garshick, a dermatologist at MDCS in New York, says this mineral sunscreen “contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which have particle sizes that are too large to
penetrate the skin and therefore do not Can cause irritation.
” The us before. “It offers broad-spectrum coverage with SPF 30, and the bottle changes color when exposed to UV rays to remind you when to apply.”
6. EltaMD UV Elements Tinted Facial Sunscreen SPF 44 This option is ideal for everyday use SPF. “Its universal shade is perfect for most skin types and provides the greatest possible coverage to suit all skin tones,” says Dr.
Kathy. Plus, it contains skin-hydrating hyaluronic acid and antioxidants to provide extra protection against environmental influences. “EltaMD’s tinted sunscreen is great for those looking for an SPF and foundation combo,” says
Goldman. “I wear this product when I want to apply a fuller look and am out for longer than planned. Think daytime wedding.”
7. Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Dry Facial SPF 50 Neutrogena’s SheerZinc sunscreen uses the brand’s Dry Touch technology to prevent your face from looking and feeling oily. It’s waterproof, fragrance-free, and has a lightweight
finish. The oil-free, non-comedogenic, non-greasy formula gives you peace of mind when applying to oily or even acne-prone skin. “This is my go-to for serious beach time,” Goldman said. “Broad Spectrum SPF 50 protects me when
I’m at the beach, and it’s waterproof for up to 80 minutes, so when I swim in the ocean I’m protected. I’ve been using the Neutrogena variant since I was a kid, and it’s also No harm was done to me.”
8. Dr. Jart+ Every Sunday Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ Looking for a premium mineral sunscreen from a Korean beauty brand? This product from Dr. Jart is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and reviewers love its
absorbency, lightweight feel, and matte finish. “I finally found my perfect sunscreen,” one Sephora customer wrote. “The product is lightweight and blends into the skin easily. My skin is light brown and it doesn’t leave a white
cast…my face feels hydrated but doesn’t feel sticky or look greasy.” . ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Ultra-Light Emulsion Sunscreen SPF 50+ This zinc oxide sunscreen “is loved by both women and men because it applies beautifully
and doesn’t leave a white film on the skin,” says Dr. Shari Marchbein, a dermatologist in New York and a member of the American Academy of Dermatology. “It’s a physical sunscreen, so it’s great for people with sensitive skin,”
she adds. It also contains other ingredients, including DNA repair enzymes and vitamin E, for extra protection.
