The Best Zinc Sunscreens

EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen

The undisputed champion

There's a reason why this EltaMD sunscreen gets recommended by so many dermatologists, facialists, and skincare addicts everywhere: it's simply the best.

Best Overall

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The gold standard in zinc sunscreen, EltaMD UV Clear Sunscreen is beloved by skincare fiends, aestheticians, and dermatologists alike. This excellent-quality sunscreen provides broad-spectrum coverage from both UVA and UVB rays, but unlike so many other zinc sunscreens out there, it doesn’t make your face look chalky and ghost-white. Instead, it smoothly sinks into the skin, leaving behind a pearly, dewy finish that looks good on all skin types. And, if you have acne or rosacea, EltaMD can even help calm redness and discoloration.

Pros:

• Provides broad-spectrum coverage but doesn’t leave behind a chalky residue.
• Sinks into the skin quickly, leaving a dewy, pretty finish.
• Can help calm redness and irritation.
• Suitable for all skin types.

Cons:

• It’s expensive (but worth it).

Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Sunscreen

No need to suffer for beauty

If you don't want to spend a ton of money on sunscreen, this sunscreen from Neutrogena is a fantastic budget-friendly pick.

Best Bargain

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There’s no need to shell out the big bucks for sun protection; if you’re shopping on a budget, try Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Sunscreen. The gentle, effective formula is made with naturally sourced zinc, and it’s non-comedogenic and oil-free, so it won’t break you out. It also features dry-touch technology to help ensure that your face doesn’t look like an oil slick after you slather it on. All that, and this sunscreen is water-resistant, too.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly.
• Delivers great sun protection but won’t leave you feeling too greasy or shiny.
• Non-comedogenic and oil-free; won’t clog pores.
• Water-resistant.

Cons:

• Not totally sheer.

Babo Botanicals Sheer Zinc Continuous Spray Sunscreen

Sensitivity is a strength

Does the mere thought of sunscreen make you break out? Try the Babo Botanicals Spray Sunscreen.

Best For Sensitive Skin

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For those who have particularly sensitive or acne-prone skin, wearing the wrong kind of sunscreen can equal inflammation and blemishes galore. If this sounds like you, then the Babo Botanicals Sheer Zinc Spray Sunscreen is likely very well-suited for your skin. This fast-absorbing, lightweight, ultra-sheer sunscreen is specifically formulated for sensitive skin types. It’s free of harsh chemicals and irritants, and it even offers up to 80 minutes of water- and sweat-resistant coverage.

Pros:

• Suited for even the most sensitive skin types; free of harsh chemicals and irritants.
• Lightweight and goes on sheer.
• Provides up to 80 minutes of water- and sweat-resistant coverage.

Cons:

• Not the cheapest.

Zealios Sun Barrier Water-Resistant Sunscreen

Go for a dip

Slather on this sunscreen from Zealios and enjoy totally water-resistant coverage.

Best For Swimming

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If you’ll be in the water, it’s especially important to wear sunscreen that actually stays on your body. In which case, you’ll want to have a tube of Zealios Sun Barrier Water-Resistant Sunscreen at the ready. This is the ideal sunscreen for swimming, boating, and any other activity that involves water thanks to its highly effective sweat- and water-resistant formula. It’s also great for sensitive skin since it glides on like lotion without clogging pores.

Pros:

• Offers awesome water and sweat resistance.
• Won’t clog pores or irritate the skin.
• Powerful SPF 45 protection, with 8% zinc oxide.

Cons:

• Again, like many of the best zinc sunscreens, this one is definitely expensive.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk

From sunrise to sundown

If you'll be out all day, be sure to bring along La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen Milk.

Longest Lasting

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For the ultimate all-day protection, there’s nothing better than La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen Milk. Combining UVA and UVB filters to provide broad-spectrum SPF 60 coverage, this face & body sunscreen is the real deal. It’s even formulated with Cell-Ox Shield antioxidant technology, which delivers much-needed antioxidants to the skin that help to fight free radicals (which cause sun damage). And, the velvety-smooth finish can’t be beaten; you’ll love how healthy and nourished your skin looks.

Pros:

• Superior all-day sun protection from UVA/UVB rays.
• Contains Cell-Ox Shield antioxidant technology to help fight free radicals that cause sun damage.
• Super-smooth finish.

Cons:

• You have to be super careful not to get this sunscreen in your eyes; it stings and burns like crazy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is zinc sunscreen?

As opposed to chemical sunscreen, zinc (or mineral) sunscreen reflects rather than absorbs the sun’s rays.

What are the benefits of wearing zinc sunscreen?

Zinc is a non-irritant and anti-inflammatory, so it’s great for those with extra-sensitive skin. It’s also a clean, non-toxic ingredient, meaning that it’s better for you and for the environment. And, zinc protects the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. This stands in stark contrast to most chemical sunscreens, which typically only protect from one type of ray or the other.

How often should I wear sunscreen?

Without question, you should wear sunscreen every day, and if you’ll be in the sun for long periods of time, you should re-apply at least every two hours.