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- Our Top Picks
- Best Spray
- Best for Oily Skin
- Best Drugstore
- Best for Sports
Its time to find your summer sunscreen. While experts recommend wearing sunscreen all year long, the increased time spent outdoors during the summer and the suns proximity to Earth mean that sunscreen is even more important during the warmer months.
Sun protection is a key step to keep your skin looking healthy, saysJennifer Stein, MD, professor of dermatology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine in New York City. Sun protection is the best beauty tip I share with patients. The sun prematurely ages your skin and brings out brown spots and wrinkles.
We are mineral sunscreen fans, too, which is why we tested more than 30 of the most popular ones so we could tell you about our favorites.
Our Top Picks for Mineral Sunscreens
- Best Spray:COOLA Zinc Oxide Sunscreen Spray
- Best for Oily Skin:La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Sunscreen for Face with SPF 40
- Best Drugstore:Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
- Best for Sports:Australian Gold Mineral SPF 50 Tinted Face
- Best for Mature Skin:Kiehls Better Screen Miner-all UV Serum - Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ with Cica Centella
- Best Under Makeup:Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40
- Best for Face:ILIA Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
- Best Lightweight:KORRES Mineral Milk Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50
- Best Tinted:Eucerin Tinted Sensitive Mineral SPF 35 Face Sunscreen
- Best for Kids and Babies:Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Best For Scalp: Rida Hair Research Institute Scalp and Hair Mineral Sunscreen Spray SPF 30
Best Spray
Coola Zinc Oxide Sunscreen Spray
Pros
- Nonaerosol lotion spray
- Antioxidant protection
- No white cast
- Dries quickly
- Organic, plant-based ingredients
- PETA-certified cruelty-free
Cons
- Tacky upon application
- Advertised as fragrance-free, but we noticed a light scent
- SPF could be higher
Key Specs
- SPF: 30
- Water-resistant:Up to 80 minutes
- Scented:Advertised as unscented, but we noticed a mild, pleasant scent
Some prefer a spray-on sunscreen for ease of application, and we found Coola Zinc Oxide Sunscreen Spray to be a great mineral sunscreen alternative to the many chemical options out there. Its a nonaerosol lotion spray that comes out white upon application.
I generally love all Coola sunscreens, says writer Jessica Migala.I have used them for years (this is my first time with this specific product) and they all perform really well, feel good on skin, and have pleasant scents. While this one is advertised as fragrance-free, Migala says she noticed a very light, pleasant scent. It does not have a chemical scent, as many fragrance-free sunscreens do.
It incorporates into skin nicely without leaving a white cast like some mineral sunscreens, so it's extremely pleasant to apply, she says. Tacky upon application but takes less than a minute to dry. This sunscreen makes reapplication easy, and could be great for parents with active kids who just cant wait to get into the water as well.
We Also Liked:
Banana Boats Sensitive Enriched Mineral Spray. It has a high SPF (50+), is sensitive skinfriendly (like the Coola spray), and is lightweight. However, Banana Boat is not cruelty-free, if thats important to you.
Best for Oily Skin
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Sunscreen for Face with SPF 40
Pros
- Lightweight formula works well under makeup
- Comes in tinted and nontinted
- Noncomedogenic
- Contains antioxidants to address inflammation and protect skin
Cons
- Can be drying
- Not the most budget-friendly
Key Specs
- SPF:40
- Water-resistant:40 minutes
- Scented:No
Wearing sunscreen can be tough for people with oily skin, as many sunscreens have oils in their formulas. Anthelios Mineral Tinted Sunscreen by La Roche-Posay is an exception. Its an oil-free, 100 percent mineral sunscreen that absorbs quickly and dries down to a matte finish (a rarity in the sunscreen world). Its also allergy- and dermatologist-tested, so its okay for sensitive skin.
We love that it comes in a few different tints or tint-free, which still wont leave a white cast. WriterAmy Marschall, PsyD, who has rosacea, says the sunscreen had a nice evening effect on her skin when she tested it. It left her skin feeling smoother, and it never caused a rosacea flare-up. That said, it might be somewhat drying if you dont have oily skin.
We Also Liked:
Best Drugstore
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
Pros
- Water resistant up to 80 minutes
- Good for sensitive skin
- Hypoallergenic
- Cruelty-free and vegan
Cons
- May leave a white cast
- Takes some time to fully absorb
Key Specs
- SPF:50
- Water-resistant:Up to 80 minutes
- Scented:No
WriterRaki Swanson, who has sensitive skin, notes this screen did not cause any adverse skin reactions. She also liked the consistency. Its watery and not as thick as your average sunscreen, she says. It can leave a white cast and may take a bit longer to rub into the skin, but it does work. I did not get any sunburn during my testing, and I was outside all of those days, says Swanson.
We Also Liked:
CeraVe Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50for its wallet-friendly price and how it disappears into the skin. This pick is nongreasy and includes ingredients that protect skin from sun damage, like ceramides.
Best for Sports
Australian Gold Mineral SPF 50 Tinted Face
Pros
- Doesnt sting or burn the eyes during active workouts
- Adds a subtle glow to the complexion
- Wears well under makeup
- No white cast
Cons
- Limited shade range
- Pills after reapplication
Key Specs
- SPF: 50
- Water-Resistant? Up to 80 minutes
- Scented? No
If you find yourself skipping out on sunscreen due to the aftermath of a sweaty workout, Australian Golds SPF 50 tinted sunscreen is a reliable choice that protects skin from the sun while you live an active lifestyle. Sunscreen formulas can sometimes work against you as you begin to sweat. However, writer Maria Cristina Lalonde put the product to the test and confirms this sunscreen doesnt burn if it gets in your eyes. I workout a lot, and that is always my biggest pain point with sunscreen the sweat gets in my eye and can be painful. That wasn't a problem at all with this product, she said.
Along with its tinted properties, which notably left a natural glow on Lalondes skin, this pick doesnt feel greasy nor tacky on the skin, and wears well under makeup. Actually, it can double as the perfect skin tint base for summer days where the less products you have to layer on, the better. Whether worn on a run, high-intensity workout, or swim, this SPF 50 sunscreen is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
The one caveat: reapplication can get messy with this product. The more sunscreen you layer on the skin, the more risk you have noticing a chalky texture. However, it does spread evenly, so rest assured one coat of product will coat the skin seamlessly.
We Also Liked:
Shiseidos Ultimate Sun Protector Clear Stick SPF60+ as an on-the-go shield of sun protection that doesnt glide or melt off, and enhances the skins natural glow all without any tinting properties.
Best for Mature Skin
Kiehls Better Screen Miner-all UV Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ with Cica Centella
Pros
- Includes soothing, moisturizing ingredients, like Cica Centella
- Good for sensitive skin
- Protects the skin barrier
- No white cast
- National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance
Cons
- Pricey for the size
- Not water-resistant for long
Key Specs
- SPF:50+
- Water-resistant:Up to 40 minutes
- Scented:Unscented
As we age, our skin tends to get drier, so its important to use skin care products that moisturize whenever possible. This sunscreen serum from Kiehls does just that, but it also somehow manages to feel light as air.
EditorAlly Hirschlagtested this on her mature, sensitive skin and could not believe how lightweight it felt. It blended in quickly and seamlessly, and gave her a nice glow that looked great under makeup. I love that it never feels sticky, but my skin feels hydrated all day, says Hirschlag. The only downside is you dont get a ton of product for the price, but it is travel-friendly, which is nice.
We Also Liked:
Best Under Makeup
Supergoop Mineral Mattescreen
Pros
- Blurring effect, doubles as a primer
- Lightweight, airy feel
- Tinted with a mattifying effect
- Fragrance-free
- No white cast
Cons
- We wish it were water-resistant for longer
- Tint may be too light for darker complexions
- Some users may not like the mousse-like texture
Key Specs
- SPF: 40
- Water-resistant:Up to 40 minutes
- Scented:No
While most sunscreens leave skin looking a bit shiny for at least a few minutes, Supergoop Mineral Mattescreen has a wonderful mattifying effect, which makes this our pick for best mineral sunscreen for use under makeup. It can double as a primer and will effectively grip whatever makeup you put atop it, but its tinted and has a blurring effect itself, so it helps to obscure any skin imperfections you might want to hide.
Its a blurring sunscreen, so that helps with my discoloration, but its not specifically made for this reason, Ziegler says. Its super lightweight, it almost has a whipped, airy texture. It's smooth on the skin doesn't leave my skin looking or feeling greasy.
Its water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, so this SPF 40 sunscreen plays well during workouts or if swimming or a workout is in the cards.
We Also Liked:
Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion Mineral SPF 60+ for wearing under makeup. It has a super high SPF, disappears completely upon absorption, and includes super-hydrating ingredients. The consistency is on the runny side, though, so if thats not your cup of tea, we suggest skipping this one.
Best for Face
Ilia Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Pros
- Hydrating
- SPF 50
- Blends more easily than most mineral sunscreens
- Wears well under makeup
Cons
- Dewy finish may not suit very oily skin
- Sheer tint may not work for all tones
Key Specs
- SPF:50
- Water-resistant:No
- Scented:No
If youve ever struggled to find a mineral sunscreen that actually feels good on your skin, Ilias Sun Serum may be a good fit. The formula uses zinc oxide for broad-spectrum protection and is packed with ingredients youre more likely to see in skin care products, like hyaluronic acid for added hydration. It has a thin, almost watery texture that spreads easily and sinks in quickly; it feels more like a hydrating serum than your typical sunscreen. It also comes in two tinted shades to help offset any potential white cast.
EditorKatie Tuttleused this sunscreen on her combination skin and was impressed. I loved how lightweight and moisturizing this sunscreen feels, she says. It gave my skin a nice glow, and it didnt pill up under my makeup.
Of course, the dewy look may not be for everyone, and the shade range may prove limiting. But if youre looking for a more natural, skin-like finish, this is a great pick.
We Also Liked:
Best Lightweight
Korres Mineral Milk Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50
Pros
- No white cast
- Very hydrating
- Absorbs quickly
- Looks great under makeup
Cons
- Not necessarily water-resistant
- May not be the best for oily skin
Key Specs
- SPF:50
- Water-resistant:N/A
- Scented:Slight almondy scent
Mineral sunscreens have come a long way since the days of thick, goopy formulas that clogged pores and always left lots of white streaks. This milky sunscreen from Korres is a perfect example. Its fluid formula feels featherlight on the skin, yet it still offers primo sun protection (broad-spectrum SPF 50). It has what the brand calls a universal tint thats designed to disappear on all skin tones. Plus, you can go outside right after application no 15-minute wait time.
Hirschlag loved testing this product and continues to wear it regularly under makeup (it makes her skin glow). She notes it does have a slight almond scent, but its very mild and dissipates quickly.
We Also Liked:
Best Tinted
Eucerin Tinted Sensitive Mineral SPF 35 Face Sunscreen
Pros
- Sleek pump bottle
- Silky feel on the skin
- Blends nicely with different skin tones
- Hypoallergenic for sensitive skin
- Hydrating and moisturizing
Cons
- Takes some work to rub in completely
- Middle-of-the-road SPF
- Not water-resistant
Key Specs
- SPF: 35
- Water-resistant:No
- Scented:No
Eucerin Tinted Sensitive Mineral SPF 35 Face Sunscreen touts that its blendable with all skin tones. It is easy to apply, says writer LT after testing this product for Everyday Health. Since I ordered one of the darker skin tone tints, I was surprised by how light it looked when I started rubbing it into my skin. I felt like it took a bit of rubbing to get the lightness and any white cast to start to disappear. But then it did disappear, and my skin felt soft and moisturized.
The tint can serve as a very light foundation for underneath makeup. LT liked the soft, silky feel of this sunscreen, which she says made her skin feel hydrated after use.
I like the pump feature that allows the sunscreen to come out in one fluid motion, LT says. I also like that the product notes that it comes in a variety of skin tone options. This is great for those with sensitive skin, as the lotion isnt abrasive or harsh, and it was developed with dermatologists to ensure top quality. Its hypoallergenic and free of parabens, dyes, fragrances, phthalates, PABA, oxybenzone, and octinoxate.
It comes in SPF 35, so if you want a higher level of sun protection, this product may not be the one for a long day outdoors. This product is also not water-resistant.
We Also Liked:
Innbeauty Project Mineral Sun Glow SPF. It offers similar light coverage to the Eucerin pick and comes in three shades to better match different skin tones. We love that its packed with skin care ingredients, including vitamin C, but wish the formula didnt include silicone.
Best for Kids and Babies
Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
Pros
- High SPF that absorbs quickly
- Refreshing citrus scent
- Vegan, Leaping Bunny certified
- Hypoallergenic and gluten-free for sensitive skin
- Reef-friendly
Cons
- Scent isnt prominently disclosed
- A bit greasy at first
Key Specs
- SPF: 50+
- Water-resistant:Up to 80 minutes
- Scented: Yes
Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. I tested this at a water park with my two kids during midday, and we all came out without burns. I found it to be a bit greasy at first, but it absorbs quickly, and isnt overly thick, as many high-SPF sunscreens are, so its easy to apply on squirmy kiddos.
While the scent isnt prominently displayed on the front of the product, the back mentions natural fragrance oil. I loved the citrusy scent, but wish there were more details on the fragrance and that it was mentioned on the front so that parents of sensitive kids are in the know.
We Also Liked:
Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Sensitive Skin Lotion Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 for babies and young kids. The formulas super gentle: It carries the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptanceand includes skin-calming ingredients. Its on the thick side, though, so it might take a minute to rub in.
Best for Scalp
Rida Hair Research Institute Scalp and Hair Mineral Sunscreen Spray
Pros
- Lightweight
- Absorbs quickly
- Protects hair from sun-related color fade and sun damage
- Hydrating
Cons
- Slightly greasy
- Advertised as unscented, though our tester did notice a scent
Key Specs
- SPF: 30
- Water-resistant:Up to 80 minutes
- Scented: Advertised as unscented, but some users noticed a scent
It's super lightweight and comes in a spray bottle that makes it easy to apply without making your hair look overly greasy and dirty the way a typical sunscreen does, saysAshley Ziegler, an editor at Everyday Health. Also, since its water-resistant, I don't have to worry about it becoming ineffective when I sweat.
The product absorbs quickly and protects well against sunburn. Ziegler says this product is great for anyone with thinner hair or anyone who doesnt want to wear a hat outdoors, but still wants scalp protection. This sunscreen is water resistant for 80 minutes and includes aloe and jojoba for hydration. She also mentions that she used this product on her 5-year-old daughter with eczema, who didnt have any adverse reactions to the sunscreen.
We Also Liked:
Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 is a great option for touch-ups throughout the day. The powder formula makes it especially convenient for targeting your part and hairline without leaving behind a greasy residue (or messing with your hairstyle). However, it may not provide as even coverage as a spray or lotion.
Comparison Table
How We Tested Mineral Sunscreens
We tested more than 30 mineral sunscreens over the course of 10 days to two weeks. We wore them while out on walks, exercising, swimming, working in the yard, and more. As someone who burns easily and a mom of two, Im a daily sunscreen user, and I keep sunscreen readily available in every diaper bag, backpack, stroller, and car. Im always on the lookout for affordable sunscreen without oxybenzone and avobenzone thats best to use on my kids sensitive skin, as well as my sun-damaged, aging skin.
I also spoke with Jennifer Stein, MD, professor of dermatology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, and Sara Moghaddam, MD, vice president of the Delaware Academy of Dermatology, about skin health and the importance of sun protection.
What to Look for When Buying Mineral Sunscreen
The sheer number of mineral sunscreens on the market can be overwhelming, but there are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for sun protection. You may first want to decide whether youre interested in a sunscreen lotion, spray, or powder. Consider the conditions under which you will be wearing the sunscreen.
For proper coverage, aim to use about 1 ounce, or a shot glass-sized amount for the entire body. Many people don't apply enough, so be sure to be generous and reapply every two hours. I also advise caution with spray sunscreens, as it can be difficult to ensure even and sufficient coverage without rubbing them in, says Dr. Moghaddam. For all-day protection, a lotion works best. For touch-ups, powdered sunscreens and sprays are great.
Heres what you should consider when buying a mineral sunscreen:
- IngredientsLook for a sunscreen that lists zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or both as its active ingredients.
- SPFFor the best protection, your sunscreen should have an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Broad-SpectrumThis means a sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Your sunscreen should prominently say broad spectrum on the front of the bottle.
- ScentCheck the back and front of your product to see if its scented. Fragrances can sometimes bother those with sensitive skin.
- Water ResistanceDepending on when you plan on wearing your sunscreen, water resistance may or may not be important to you. If you are planning to wear your sunscreen to the beach, pool, or during exercise, you should consider purchasing a water-resistant sunscreen. Sunscreens are water resistant for up to 40 or 80 minutes, and the longer your sunscreen is water resistant, the better.
- SizeCheck the fluid ounces, especially if ordering online. You wont want to be disappointed by the size and price of the product.
Whats the Difference Between Mineral Sunscreen and Chemical Sunscreen?
Does Mineral Sunscreen Protect the Skin From Sun Exposure as Well as Chemical Sunscreen?
Both mineral and chemical sunscreens can help protect your skin from harmful UV rays, preventing sun damage, skin cancer, and premature aging. The UV rays of the sun damage the DNA of your skin cells. DNA mutations lead to skin cancer and premature aging of the skin, says Stein. Mineral sunscreens, however, may have to be applied more frequently than chemical sunscreens. Wearers should be sure to reapply mineral sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
Is Mineral Sunscreen Better for You Than Chemical Sunscreen?
Is Mineral Sunscreen Water-Resistant?
Not all mineral sunscreens are water resistant, but many are. This should be clearly displayed on the front of the product, with a time for how long it is water resistant (e.g., 40 minutes, 80 minutes). Mineral sunscreens tend to have shorter water-resistance times compared to chemical sunscreens, as they generally wash off more easily.
For activities involving sweating or water exposure, it's important to use a traditional sunscreen that is labeled as water resistant, says Moghaddam. Users who are swimming or sweating will have to reapply sunscreen after the water-resistance time has passed, so instead of reapplying after the typical two hours, you should reapply after 40 or 80 minutes, whichever your sunscreen recommends on the front of the bottle.
What Is SPF?
FAQ
Aminobenzoic acid and trolamine salicylate are not generally recognized as safe and effective by the FDA. These are two ingredients that are rarely found in sunscreen in the United States, but its always best practice to read the ingredients of any sunscreen you are planning to use.
Why Trust Everyday Health
Nicole Bonaccorso
Author
Nicole Bonaccorso is a writer and editor with more than 12 years of journalism experience. She has been writing for Everyday Health since 2025, and has also been published on NBCNe...
Ally Hirschlag
Author
Ally Hirschlag is an award-winning journalist with over 10 years of experience editing and writing health, fitness, beauty, lifestyle, and science content. Her work has appeared in...
Chelsea Avila
Author
Chelsea Avila is a freelance commerce and feature writer who covers the health, beauty, style, and wellness market. She has forecasted beauty market trends for publications such as...
Ray Finch
Fact-Checker
Ray Finch is a content specialist with expertise in fact-checking, copy-editing, sensitivity reading, and content management, and has worked with publishers including Health.com, P...
Katie Tuttle
Editor
Katie Tuttle is an editor and writer specializing in food, nutrition, and product testing. Her work has appeared in EatingWell, Food & Wine, The Spruce Eats, and Real Simple. She h...
Ashley Ziegler
Tester
Ashley Ziegler is a full-time writer with extensive experience covering womens health, babies' and kids' health, mental health, and wellness. Her work has appeared on websites inc...
Julie Cunningham, MPH, RDN, LDN, CDCES
Tester
Julie Cunningham is a registered dietitian-nutritionist and a certified diabetes care and education specialist.
Cunningham received a bachelor's degree from Appalachian State Univer...
Raki Swanson
Tester
Raki Swanson is a Minnesota-based freelance health writer and married mother to two adult children. She has experience covering mental health, fitness, food, and lifestyle topics, ...
Lili Ladaga
Tester
Jessica Migala
Tester
Jessica Migala is a freelance writer with over 15 years of experience, specializing in health, nutrition, fitness, and beauty. She has written extensively about vision care, diabet...
Brittany Vargas
Tester
Brittany Elyse Vargas has been a professional writer and journalist for over a decade and has been exploring topics around mental health, mind-body medicine, health, wellness, and ...
Ashley Rowe
Tester
Ashley is a health and education writer who has covered fitness, mental health, nutrition, parenting, and education topics in her writing.
She is also an educator who brings over 15...
LT
Writer
Susan Bard, MD
Medical Reviewer
Susan Bard, MD, is a clinical instructor in the department of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medicine and an adjunct clinical instructor in the department of dermatology at Mount Sin...
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