Best Mineral Sunscreens (2026) Reviewed
Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to physically block UV rays instead of absorbing them like chemical formulas. They work immediately upon application and tend to be gentler on sensitive skin. Here are the best options across different price points and use cases.
What to Look For
- Active ingredients — Zinc oxide provides the broadest protection; titanium dioxide excels at blocking UVB. Many formulas combine both.
- SPF level — SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays; SPF 50 blocks about 98%. Higher numbers offer marginal additional protection.
- White cast — Tinted formulas and newer micronized zinc formulations minimize the chalky appearance on darker skin tones.
- Water resistance — Look for 40 or 80 minutes of water resistance if swimming or sweating heavily.
- Texture — Lotions work well for full coverage; sticks are convenient for touch-ups; sprays require rubbing in for proper protection.
- Reef safety — Mineral sunscreens without oxybenzone and octinoxate are considered safer for coral reefs.
Best Mineral Sunscreens
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 — Best Overall
- CLEAR SUNSCREEN FOR FACE: This lightweight face sunscreen with transparent Zinc Oxide provides broad spectrum SPF 46 protection and helps protect normal and sensitive skin types from UVA and UVB damage without leaving white cast residue behind
- FOR NORMAL, ACNE-PRONE, AND SENSITIVE SKIN TYPES: UV Clear uses an oil-free, non-comedogenic formula that’s designed for daily use on normal, oily, rosacea, and acne-prone skin so you get effective daily sun protection without feeling greasy
- SUITABLE FOR HYPERPIGMENTED SKIN: Contains Niacinamide which helps to visibly improve skin tone and reduce the appearance of discoloration and blemishes on the skin
- CONVENIENT TRAVEL SIZE SUNSCREEN: This face sunscreen is TSA approved and comes in a convenient travel-size pump bottle that easily fits in handbags, beach bags, and carry on luggage so you can protect your skin at home, work, or on the go
- SUITABLE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: UV Clear comes in both tinted and untinted versions that support a wide range of skin types and complexions; it’s a dermatologist recommended sunscreen that’s fragrance-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free, and non-comedogenic
EltaMD UV Clear consistently earns top marks from dermatologists for its lightweight formula that works well on acne-prone and sensitive skin.
This formula combines zinc oxide with niacinamide to calm redness and help control breakouts. It absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue and layers well under makeup. The untinted version works on most skin tones without significant white cast.
- Pros:
- Contains niacinamide for acne-prone skin
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
- Oil-free and fragrance-free
- Available in tinted and untinted versions
- Cons:
- Higher price point than drugstore options
- Small 1.7 oz size doesn’t last long with daily use
Best for: Those with acne-prone or sensitive skin who want a dermatologist-recommended daily SPF.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted SPF 50 — Best Tinted
- Potent Mineral Formula for Natural Suncreen Protection: This lightweight 100% mineral tinted faces sunscreen with titanium dioxide was developed for daily SPF protection, gentle enough for sensitive skin, and provides broad spectrum SPF 50 protection
- Subtle & Blendable Tint for a Flawless, Glowy Look: The fast-absorbing, blendable texture leaves a tinted matte finish on skin for a healthy glow. Gentle and non-greasy to provide a smooth base for makeup application on all skin types
- Unique Cell-Ox Shield Technology: Formulated with Cell-Ox Shield Technology, this 100% mineral sunscreen offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB defense to decrease the risk of skin cancer and early aging from sun exposure. Face sunscreen for women and men
- Available in 4 Flexible Shades - Find your Match: Now available in 4 flexible shades - Tinted, Medium, Medium-Depp and Deep - this sunscreen blends seamlessly into diverse skin tones, ensuring a healthy glow without any white cast
- Allure Best of Beauty Winner: Winner of the Allure Best of Beauty Badge, it is dermatologist tested & recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation to be effective at preventing sun-induced damage to the skin, including sunburn & possibly premature aging
This tinted mineral sunscreen provides reliable broad-spectrum protection while evening out skin tone and reducing visible white cast.
The ultra-light fluid texture spreads easily and sets to a natural matte finish. Iron oxides in the formula help mask the white cast typical of mineral sunscreens while providing some additional visible light protection. Works well as a primer under makeup.
- Pros:
- Self-adjusting tint blends into most skin tones
- Lightweight fluid texture
- Water resistant for 40 minutes
- Fragrance-free formula
- Cons:
- May appear slightly dark on very fair skin
- Needs shaking before each use
Best for: Anyone who wants mineral protection with a tint that doubles as a light coverage base.
Blue Lizard Sensitive SPF 50+ — Best for Sensitive Skin
- POWERFUL MINERAL SUNSCREEN - Protect sensitive skin from the sun’s harmful rays with Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion it contains no harsh chemical active ingredients that might irritate sensitive skin.
- SPF 50 BROAD SPECTRUM PROTECTION - The water-resistant formula provides broad spectrum protection and helps protect skin from up to 98% of UVB rays.
- FORMULATED FOR SENSITIVE SKIN - Developed specifically for sensitive skin, the hypoallergenic formula is also paraben-free and fragrance-free.
- INFUSED WITH ORGANIC ALOE VERA - gently soothes and moisturizes.
- WE ♥ THE REEF – The reef-friendly formula is formulated without Oxybenzone or Octinoxate to help protect fragile reef ecosystems.
Blue Lizard’s sensitive formula uses only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide with no chemical filters, fragrances, or parabens.
The hypoallergenic formula includes organic aloe vera to soothe skin. The Smart Cap technology turns the lid blue in harmful UV light as a reminder to apply. Water resistant for 80 minutes, making it suitable for beach days and outdoor activities.
- Pros:
- Fragrance-free and paraben-free
- 80 minutes water resistance
- Reef-safe formula
- Smart Cap UV indicator
- Cons:
- Thicker texture requires more effort to blend
- Can leave noticeable white cast on darker skin
Best for: Those with reactive or easily irritated skin who need dependable mineral protection.
Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40 — Best for Oily Skin
- MINERAL SUNSCREEN - Now with a new-and-improved, oil-free formula, Mattescreen delivers the same great benefits in a more neutral tint. This mineral sunscreen helps leave skin looking mattified & poreless, all with broad spectrum SPF 40.
- NEUTRAL TINT - Mattescreen's neutral tint helps to mask the white cast from a mineral formula and allows it to blend across most skin tones. For an invisible formula on any skin tone, try Unseen Sunscreen.
- PROTECTIVE INGREDIENTS - Mattescreen contains wild butterfly ginger to help filter blue light and bamboo extract to help reduce the visible effects of free radicals.
- NOURISH & PROTECT SKIN - Oxybenzone and octinoxate-free, Mattescreen absorbs easily and is perfect for all skin types.
- HOW TO APPLY - Apply generously & evenly to face for a natural, matte finish with shine control. Use as the last step in your skincare routine and before makeup.
This 100% mineral formula controls shine and blurs pores while providing broad-spectrum protection in a weightless, oil-free texture.
The whipped cream texture applies smoothly and sets to a true matte finish without feeling dry. Contains wild butterfly ginger to help filter blue light and bamboo extract for antioxidant benefits. The neutral tint helps minimize white cast on most skin tones.
- Pros:
- True matte finish controls oil all day
- Doubles as a makeup primer
- Blurs pores visibly
- Water and sweat resistant
- Cons:
- Premium price
- May feel drying on already dry skin
Best for: Oily and combination skin types who struggle with midday shine.
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Tinted — Best Budget
- [ SHEER TINTED 100% MINERAL SUNSCREEN ] Available in 3 flexible tinted shades that blend into a range of skin tones leaving skin with a natural, healthy glow. Formulated with iron oxides for a sheer, flexible tint to offset the white-cast typically associated with mineral sunscreens. Lightweight, non-greasy feel.
- [ TINTED MOISTURIZER WITH SPF 30 ] Can be worn alone or under makeup as a tinted primer with SPF 30. Suitable for all skin types, including dry skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, and acne-prone, now in 3 flexible shades. Helps protect against visible aging caused by the sun including wrinkles, dark spots, fine lines and discoloration.
- [ HYDRATING FACE SUNSCREEN ] Dermatologist-developed to blend skincare with suncare. Formulated with Niacinamide to help calm skin and Hyaluronic Acid to help retain skin's natural moisture.
- [ 3 ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES ] Ceramides are found naturally in the skin and can become damaged with sun exposure. All CeraVe products are formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
- [ SAFE AND GENTLE FORMULA ] Oxybenzone free, avobenzone free & benzene free, this 100% mineral sunscreen contains only physical filters Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide. Formula is paraben free, fragrance free & noncomedogenic. FSA Eligible & HSA Eligible.
CeraVe delivers their signature ceramide-rich formula in an affordable mineral sunscreen with a sheer tint that adapts to different skin tones.
The formula includes three essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier. Niacinamide helps calm skin. The sheer tint provides light coverage without looking heavy or cakey.
- Pros:
- Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid
- Affordable price point
- Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free
- Suitable for all skin types
- Cons:
- Only SPF 30
- Tint may not suit all undertones
Best for: Budget-conscious shoppers who want hydrating mineral protection with skincare benefits.
Thinkbaby SPF 50+ — Best for Kids
- SAFE, NATURAL PROTECTION: Thinkbaby sunscreen provides effective SPF 50+ sun protection for babies. The broad spectrum UVA & UVB kid sunscreen is suitable for daily use on infants’ sensitive skin, offering gentle defense against the sun’s rays
- EASY APPLICATION: The hydrating mineral sunscreen is quick and easy to apply to even the most active babies, and protection begins instantly. The fast absorbing kids sun lotion won’t leave skin feeling oily or sticky, and has no unpleasant chemical scent.
- CLEAN MINERAL FORMULA: The first baby mineral sunscreen to pass Whole Foods Premium Care requirements, Leaping Bunny certified sun creams contain no PABA, parabens, phthalates, BPA, oxybenzone, avobenzone, petroleum, gluten, dairy, or toxic chemicals.
- WATER RESISTANT: Your baby can splash, swim and play in the water safely. Our children's and toddler sunscreen provides the highest water resistance per the FDA, offering babies continuous protection for up to 80 minutes in the pool or sea before the sunscreen should be re-applied.
- SUNCARE BY THINK SUN: Thinkdaily, Thinkbaby, Thinkkids & Thinksports have got your family covered with gentle and reef-safe ingredient based clean sunscreen, made to be effective for delicate and sensitive skin without sacrificing protection
Thinkbaby was the first sunscreen to pass Whole Foods Premium Care requirements and maintains a top rating from the Environmental Working Group.
The non-nano zinc oxide formula provides broad-spectrum protection without harsh chemicals. Free of PABA, parabens, phthalates, oxybenzone, and avobenzone. Water resistant for 80 minutes. The cream absorbs without feeling sticky or leaving an oily residue.
- Pros:
- EWG rated “1” since 2010
- 80 minutes water resistance
- No chemical UV filters
- Leaping Bunny certified cruelty-free
- Cons:
- Can leave white cast
- Thicker texture than some adult formulas
Best for: Parents who want the cleanest possible formula for babies and young children.
COOLA Organic Mineral Body SPF 50 — Best Organic
- BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 50 MINERAL LOTION: Water resistant up to 80 minutes
- NON-NANO ZINC OXIDE: Mattifying mineral face sunscreen with non-nano Zinc Oxide actives
- ANTIOXIDANT-RICH PLANT PROTECTION: Helps fight free radicals, hydrates, & nourish the skin barrier
- FRAGRANCE FREE LOTION
- ENVIRONMENT FRIENDLY: Hawaii Reef Compliant Act 104, Vegan, Gluten Free, Paraben Free
COOLA’s body lotion combines 70%+ certified organic ingredients with non-nano zinc oxide for broad-spectrum protection that meets clean beauty standards.
The Plant Protection Complex includes red raspberry seed oil, buriti oil, and meadowfoam seed oil to nourish skin while defending against free radicals. The sheer formula blends without heavy white cast. Water resistant for 80 minutes.
- Pros:
- 70%+ certified organic ingredients
- Fragrance-free option available
- Sheer, lightweight finish
- Vegan and gluten-free
- Cons:
- Higher price per ounce
- 5 oz size runs out quickly for body use
Best for: Clean beauty enthusiasts who want organic certification with effective mineral protection.
Australian Gold Botanical Tinted Face SPF 50 — Best Drugstore
- TINTED SUN PROTECTION - This SPF 50 Tinted Sunscreen Lotion doubles as a makeup base or BB Cream. The weightless sunblock seamlessly blends into most skin tones & washes away with water (water resistant up to 80 minutes) - perfect for on-the-go touchups!
- 100 PERCENT MINERAL SUNSCREEN - Non-chemical SPF 50 formula with Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide offers broad-spectrum protection that blocks and deflects harmful UVA & UVB rays off your face, leaving a refreshingly luxurious powdery-clean feel
- BLESSED WITH AUSTRALIAN BOTANICALS - Formulated with soothing ingredients like Kakadu Plum, with the highest Vitamin C content, Eucalyptus & Red Algae, which form a unique blend of antioxidant-rich botanicals that fight free radicals and nourish the skin
- MADE FOR EVERYDAY ADVENTURES – This Tinted Facial Sunscreen is hypoallergenic and free of any fragrances making it suitable for even the most delicate skin. It does not clog skin pores and provides good protection from the sun. Excellent for daily use
- ECO CONSCIOUS RANGE OF SUNSCREENS FOR CHILDREN, TEENS & ADULTS - The Botanicals range is designed to be free of Oxybenzone, Parabens, PABA, Phthalate, Petroleum, SLS (Sulfate), Dye and Oil. It is Dermatologist & Pediatrician Tested. Not tested on animals
This drugstore favorite delivers a matte, powdery finish with a subtle tint that works as a BB cream or makeup primer.
Formulated with native Australian botanicals including kakadu plum, eucalyptus, and red algae for antioxidant benefits. The non-nano titanium dioxide and zinc oxide provide reliable mineral protection. Oil-free formula won’t clog pores.
- Pros:
- Matte finish works well under makeup
- Available in multiple tint shades
- Water resistant for 80 minutes
- Fragrance-free
- Cons:
- Fair-Light shade may be too light for medium skin
- Can emphasize dry patches
Best for: Those who want an affordable tinted mineral sunscreen with a sophisticated matte finish.
Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face SPF 50 — Best Value
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Neutrogena’s Purescreen technology uses naturally-sourced 100% zinc oxide to provide reliable broad-spectrum protection at a mass-market price.
The Dry-Touch formula absorbs without leaving a greasy residue. Free of fragrance, parabens, phthalates, dyes, and irritating chemicals. Earned the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance for sensitive skin.
- Pros:
- Affordable and widely available
- National Eczema Association approved
- Layers invisibly under makeup
- Oil-free and non-comedogenic
- Cons:
- May leave slight white cast on darker skin
- Not as elegant as higher-end formulas
Best for: Shoppers who want effective mineral protection without spending premium prices.
Verdict
For most people, the EltaMD UV Clear offers the best combination of gentle ingredients, lightweight texture, and dermatologist-backed efficacy. On a budget, CeraVe’s Hydrating Mineral Tinted sunscreen delivers ceramides and hyaluronic acid at a fraction of the cost. Those with oily skin should try Supergoop Mineral Mattescreen for its true matte finish and pore-blurring effect.
