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Whether chemical sunscreens have never worked for your skin type or you’re simply curious to try the best mineral sunscreen formulas—you’re not alone in your reasoning. Experts say that mineral sunscreens are the most effective way of limiting UV damage. By sitting on top of the skin, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose explains that mineral sunscreens create “a physical shield or a barrier between the skin and the sun’s harmful rays, blocking the rays from reaching the skin.”
Vogue’s Favorite Mineral Sunscreens:
- Best Overall: SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50, $42
- Best for Everyday: The One Daily Sun Cream SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen, $48
- Best Brightening: Dune The Mineral Melt Sunscreen, $30
- Best Moisturizing Formula: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral SPF 30, $37
- Best Sheer Finish: Supergoop Mineral Sheerscreen SPF 30, $40
There used to be a lot of stigma around mineral sunscreens, since they often left behind a pretty intense white cast that made you look like Casper’s not-so-friendly twin. But today’s formulations rarely have that problem. In fact, many leave a glowy, radiant finish or come tinted so you can skip makeup altogether, which is especially nice in the summer when it’s hot and sticky outside.
Ahead a look at the 11 best mineral sunscreens beloved by dermatologists and Vogue editors alike.
In This Story
- What is mineral sunscreen?
- Mineral sunscreen vs chemical sunscreen
- Who should use mineral sunscreen?
- How to apply mineral sunscreen
- Are mineral sunscreens better?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of mineral sunscreens?
- Meet the experts
Le Prunier Plumscreen SPF 31 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
- Why we love it: If you swear by Le Prunier’s cult-favorite Plum Beauty Oil, you’ll be pleased to know the brand’s Plumscreen offers the same moisturizing and anti-aging benefits—with the added bonus of broad-spectrum sun protection. The formula is silky and sheer, so there’s no need to worry about a white cast, and it layers beautifully under makeup. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp adds, “In addition to being non-comedogenic and a vegan formula, this SPF 31 facial sunscreen is made with plum oil and a proprietary antioxidant-rich plum superfruit complex to protect skin from the damaging effects of free radicals.”
- SPF Level: SPF 31
- Texture: Silky cream
- Size: 1 Fl oz.
- Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide 4.7%
- Finish: Sheer
- Shades: N/A
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Suitable for all skin types | The formula is not waterproof |
| Deeply hydrating without feeling heavy | |
| No white cast or greasy finish |
Good Weather Skin The One Daily Sun Cream SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen
- Why we love it: New to the market, The One is the first product in Good Weather Skin’s lineup, and everyone at Vogue HQ is already obsessed. You might be thinking: do we really need another sunscreen brand? The answer is yes—we needed this one. The formula is ultra-nourishing and hydrating thanks to a thoughtful blend of peptides, niacinamide, squalane, and sea buckthorn oil, layered in amounts that actually benefit the skin. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dara Spearman, these ingredients “hydrate, promote collagen production, and improve skin texture,” while the SPF itself “offers broad-spectrum sun protection while nourishing the skin.”
- SPF Level: SPF 30
- Texture: Buttery cream
- Size: 1 oz.
- Key Ingredients: 15% Zinc oxide, squalene, peptides, niacinamide, seabuckthorn oil
- Finish: Sheer
- Shades: N/A
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Leaves a radiant, glowy finish | One reviewer noted a subtle white cast, though it was easily covered with tinted moisturizer |
| Hydrating and absorbs easily into the skin |
Lightsaver Activated Mineral Sunscreen
- Why we love it: With a texture best described as fluffy, this mineral sunscreen is a delight to apply each morning. Its key ingredient is zinc oxide, which provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA1 (340–400 nm), UVA2 (320–340 nm), and UVB (290–320 nm), so no matter where you’re headed this summer, your skin stays protected. According to Dr. Murphy-Rose, it also offers “blue light protection for everyday defense that repairs while it protects.” The formula includes soothing plankton extract, hydrating squalane, and antioxidant-rich lingonberry. And if you’re worried about breakouts, rest assured—it’s suitable for oily and sensitive skin types.
- SPF Level: SPF 33
- Texture: Cream
- Size: 1.7 Fl oz.
- Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide 14.2%, plankton extract, niacinamide, lingonberry
- Finish: Sheer
- Shades: N/A
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Whipped, cloud-like texture | Requires reapplication throughout the day |
| Fragrance-free and gentle on skin | |
| Leaves a soft, radiant finish |
Ultra Violette Future Screen SPF 50 Modern Mineral Sunscreen
- Why we love it: Our favorite thing about this SPF is that you’ll forget you ever applied it—it’s that lightweight. Although it’s an Australian brand, it uses Japanese zinc, meaning the formula is more advanced, offering a mineral UVA and UVB filter that’s gentle, non-greasy, and breathable. Dr. Murphy-Rose adds that its formula of 20% zinc oxide, combined with squalane and tocopherol, nourishes the skin while protecting it at the same time. For those who sweat a lot, play outdoor sports, or simply enjoy lounging by the pool, it’s also water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and is designed for use on both the face and body.
- SPF Level: SPF 50+
- Texture: Fluid
- Size: 1.7 Fl oz.
- Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide 20%, squalene, vitamin E
- Finish: Sheer
- Shades: Tinted
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Lightweight feel | Some reviewers found the tint too orange for lighter skin tones |
| Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes |
Kosas Dreambeam Comfy Smooth Sunscreen SPF 40
- Why we love it: This lightweight broad-spectrum sunscreen from Kosas comes in two dreamy shades: Original, a peachy-pink hue, and DreamBeam Sunlit, a soft golden tone designed for deeper skin tones or anyone looking to add a touch of summer bronze without stepping foot outside. It blends effortlessly into the skin, making it easy to wear under makeup, or on its own for a sweaty day outdoors. The formula is water-resistant, hypoallergenic, non-acnegenic, and safe for sensitive skin. The original size is perfect for travel, but if you want something even more compact (or just want to test it out), there’s also a handy mini size available.
- SPF Level: SPF 40
- Texture: Fluid
- Size: 0.5 oz., 1.3 oz.
- Key Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 21.7%, peptides, ceramides, hyaluronic acid
- Finish: Sheer
- Shades: 2; original, sunlit
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Smooth, even finish | Shade or tint may not suit all skin tones |
| Moisturizing and comfortable on the skin |
Solara Suncare Guardian Angel Super Peptide Sunscreen Milk SPF 50
- Why we love it: Oil-free, this SPF-packed sunscreen milk is great for oily or acne-prone skin types, or really anyone looking for something lightweight and easy to apply (or reapply). Dr. Camp says, “Free of fragrance and oil, this smooth, hydrating SPF 50 sunscreen is appropriate for use by those with sensitive or oily skin. It is also made with peptides to encourage collagen production and botanicals that provide antioxidant protection.” The formula is a bit runny, so be careful when using it, but that also makes it easier to apply to other areas like the neck, hands, and feet. Made with zinc oxide, it offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, and even pollution.
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Fluid
- Size: 1 Fl oz.
- Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide
- Finish: Radiant
- Shades: N/A
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Ideal for mature skin | Some reviewers report minor pilling, especially under makeup |
| Deeply hydrating and nourishing |
Supergoop! Mineral Sheerscreen SPF 30
- Why We Love It: The name of this product says it all: It’s a completely sheer mineral sunscreen (not always easy to come by!). “This SPF 30 mineral sunscreen applies sheer, feels lightweight, and is fragrance-free. It also helps filter blue light emitted from phone and computer screens,” says Dr. Camp. Bush clover extract is the main event, as it defends against free radical damage and blue light. “The brand is a personal favorite of mine because there is something for everyone, with a wide variety of products and inclusive shade options,” adds Dr. Nosworthy.
- SPF Level: SPF 30
- Texture: Aloe-leaf juice acts as the ultimate skin hydrator, and squalane serves up extra non-greasy softness.
- Size: 45ml
- Key Ingredients: 17.5% Zinc oxide, bush clover extract, aloe leaf juice, squalane
- Finish: Natural finish
- Shades: N/A
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Absorbs quickly into the skin | May leave a noticeable white cast on some skin tones |
| Easy, mess-free application |
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
- Why we love it: A blend of UVA/UVB filters makes up this sun protector: titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and antioxidants. Then there’s hyaluronic acid to keep the skin hydrated and plump, while glycerin takes skin moisturization to the next level. “It’s cosmetically elegant and inexpensive,” says Dr. Chilukuri. Dr. Camp adds, “Made with thermal spring water, a rich source of antioxidants, this SPF 50 mineral sunscreen contains both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, is fast-absorbing, and leaves a matte finish.”
- SPF Level: SPF 30
- Texture: Non-greasy cream.
- Size: 50ml
- Key Ingredients: 5.5% Titanium dioxide, 10% Zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, panthenol, thermal spring water
- Finish: Smooth finish
- Shades: N/A
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Absorbs quickly into the skin | May leave a noticeable white cast on some skin tones |
| Easy, mess-free application |
SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF 50
- Why we love it: SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical Fusion is as good as sunscreens get. Why? It boasts a weightless, almost serum-like texture that sinks right into the skin without leaving behind a white cast. It pairs SPF 50 with protective and soothing ingredients like plankton extract and artemia salina for added benefits. “It’s one of my favorites,” says Dr. Spearman. “It wears well and is lightweight, leaving a matte finish. It’s a 100% mineral sunscreen that offers UVA and UVB broad-spectrum protection, and it’s suitable for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin.”
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Lightweight cream
- Size:
- Key Ingredients: Artemia salina, 5% zinc oxide, 6% titanium dioxide, translucent color spheres, 100% mineral filter
- Finish: Sheer, radiant finish
- Shades: N/A
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Blends effortlessly | Sheer tint may not complement all skin tones |
| Lightweight feel | |
| Long-lasting wear |
Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Mineral Milk Sunscreen
- Why we love it: Summer Fridays seems to launch hit after hit. First its mask, then its viral lip balm; and now, the mineral sunscreen. With a serum-like texture, this lightweight SPF is infused with hydrating ingredients like squalane and vitamin E to improve skin quality with consistent use. “It also contains bisabolol to protect against free radicals and repair damage to the skin,” says Dr. Spearman, adding that it’s “designed to provide broad-spectrum sun protection with a natural finish.” Board-certified dermatologist. Dr. Rachel Nazarian says, “the texture is velvety and appropriate for wearing underneath [makeup]. And for those who don t, the slight tint is effective at preventing a white cast.”
- SPF Level: SPF 30
- Texture: Lightweight and oil-free
- Size: 50 mL
- Key Ingredients: 9.4% zinc oxide, squalane, vitamin E, ethyl ferulate
- Finish: Natural finish
- Shades: N/A
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Milky, lightweight texture | May not be suitable for sensitive skin |
| Layers well under makeup |
Dune The Mineral Melt Skin-Brightener SPF 30
- Why we love it: If you prefer a gel texture, add this lightweight sunscreen to your cart immediately. While its gel formula might not sit well underneath makeup (it can pill!), it’s perfect for outdoor activities and makeup-free days under the sun—the brand was started by avid surfers, after all. Its combination of sunflower extract, rich in vitamin E, and antioxidants makes it excellent for hydrating and neutralizing free-radical damage. And if you’re prone to breakouts, Dr. Nazarian says Mineral Melt is non-comedogenic—making it a good option for acne-prone individuals. Dr. Spearman adds that it’s fast-absorbing, leaves an invisible finish on all skin types, and is water-resistant and free from parabens, fragrance, and other irritants.
- SPF Level: SPF 30
- Texture: Lightweight, oil-free
- Size: 50 mL
- Key Ingredients: 4.8% zinc oxide, 2.34% titanium dioxide, vitamin E, carrot root extract, carrot seed extract, sunflower extract, rock rose extract
- Finish: Sheer finish
- Shades: N/A
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Applies smoothly and evenly | Gel-like texture can pill, not ideal for wearing underneath makeup |
| No white cast |
Everything You Need to Know:
What is mineral sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to provide full-spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays. “These minerals work by sitting on top of the skin and reflecting the sun s rays away from the skin, providing a physical barrier to UV radiation,” explains aesthetic physician Dr. Glenicia Nosworthy. “UV damage can lead to skin cancer, skin aging, and irregularities in skin tone (like redness and pigmentation),” according to Elyse Love, MD, board-certified dermatologist.
You might be wondering: Why mineral sunscreens specifically? Often referred to as physical sunscreens, not only are mineral SPFs better for your skin, but they’re also better for the environment. Non-mineral sunscreens include chemicals, like oxybenzone, which, when in water, can be damaging to marine life and coral reefs.
Mineral Sunscreen vs. Chemical Sunscreen
Mineral sunscreen differs from the chemical SPF in two ways: The active ingredients found in the formula—chemical formulas often include avobenzone, octinoxate, and/or oxybenzone—and how they protect the skin from UV rays. “Mineral sunscreens physically block and reflect UV rays, while chemical sunscreens absorb and dissipate UV rays as heat,” says Dr. Nosworthy. She adds that while mineral sunscreens work as soon as they’re applied to the skin, chemical products should be put on 20 minutes prior to sun exposure.
Who should use mineral sunscreen?
As most derms will tell you, the best type of sunscreen is whichever type you use. However, there are some instances where mineral sunscreen may be more beneficial. According to Dr. Chilukuri mineral formulas have the highest safety profile in the U.S., therefore making them ideal for anyone with sensitive, acne-prone, or eczema-prone skin, as well as anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding. Dr. Nosworthy agrees, adding that due to mineral formulas’ ability to work instantly, they’re also ideal for parents applying sunscreen to children—or anyone who needs quick sun protection.
But that doesn’t mean mineral sunscreens don’t come with their share of drawbacks. “They can produce a white-gray cast particularly on darker skin tones that can be unappealing and prevent users from applying sunscreen regularly,” Dr. Chilukuri explains. Thankfully, there’s a way around it. “This can be solved by [using] a high-quality mineral sunscreen that has been formulated for and tested on dark skin tones.” Read: all the options on this list.
Additionally, the derm recommends that anyone with acne-prone skin should look out for lightweight, non-comedogenic or oil-free formulas “to minimize the risk of clogging pores and exacerbating breakouts.”
How to Apply Mineral Sunscreen
Generally speaking, it’s best to apply mineral sunscreen as the last step in your morning skin-care routine—prior to leaving the house in the morning.
Dr. Nosworthy notes it’s always good to be a little heavy-handed when figuring out how much SPF you should be using. “The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using about one ounce—enough to fill a shot glass—to cover the body,” she says. You’ll also need to ensure it’s rubbed into the skin properly and you may have to give it some time once applied to allow for the dreaded white cast to dissipate. You should also pay special attention to areas like the hairline, ears, and neck to ensure there’s no left over residue.
Are mineral sunscreens better?
According to Dr. Nazarian, the key difference between physical (mineral) and chemical sunscreens is in how they protect against ultraviolet radiation. Mineral sunscreens create a protective barrier that blocks UV light from reaching the skin, while chemical sunscreens absorb UV light and convert it into a form less harmful from skin.
Mineral and chemical SPF varies in application, too. Per Dr. Nazarian, physical sunscreens tend to be less irritating, whereas chemical sunscreens are often more cosmetically appealing and lightweight. “Neither is ‘better’ than the other—they’re just different,” she stresses. Each year, companies continue to improve the cosmetic elegance of mineral sunscreens, making them smoother, more hydrating, and nearly invisible. Let’s also not forget the innovations in sunscreens from other countries, such as the best Korean sunscreens and the advancements in Japanese sunscreens.
Lastly, if you have sensitive skin (think: those with sensitive skin, including babies, children, individuals with rosacea, or those with allergies), mineral sunscreens are often a better choice. The reason being that they don’t contain harsh chemical sunscreen ingredients such as homosalate, octocrylene, octisalate, and avobenzone, which can exacerbate skin issues or cause allergic reactions.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of mineral sunscreens?
Dr. Murphy-Rose explains that mineral sunscreens, which use zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide, create a physical shield on top of the skin that blocks UV rays. They are less likely to trigger allergic reactions, are typically reef-safe, and are currently the only sunscreen ingredients recognized as “Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective” (GRASE) by the Food Drug Administration (FDA). “Mineral sunscreens also offer better protection against sun-induced conditions like pigmentation changes and rosacea.”
Dr. Camp adds that mineral-based sunscreens work right away, especially those formulated with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. “On the other hand, chemical sunscreens are absorbed into the skin and convert UV rays into heat energy; they need about 15 to 20 minutes before they work,” he says.
However, mineral sunscreens can have drawbacks. “They can leave a white or gray cast, especially on skin of color, unless micronized,” says Dr. Spearman. “They tend to have a thicker texture, are harder to blend, and may have less water resistance, meaning they can wash or rub off more easily than chemical formulas.”
Meet the Experts
- Dr. Elyse Love is a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist and co-host of the Beauty Curious podcast.
- Dr. Glenicia Nosworthy is an internal medicine physician, who specializes in aesthetic and integrative medicine.
- Dr. Suneel Chilukuri is a board-certified dermatologist and the director of cosmetic surgery at Refresh Dermatology in Houston, Texas.
- Dr. Rachel Nazarian is a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in NYC.
- Dr. Brendan Camp is a double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in NYC.
- Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose is board-certified dermatologist and clinical instructor at Weill Cornell Medicine practicing between NYC and Newport Beach.
- Dr. Dara Spearman is a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Radiant Dermatology Associates practicing in Fort Wayne, IN.
