SPF is necessary to wear all year round, but now that the weather is getting warmer, it should be number-one on your shopping list. With all the upcoming sunshine, picnics in the park, and pool days ahead, this is a nonnegotiable that should be part of everyone’s daily skincare routine. But if you’re feeling wary over the FDA’s findings that sunscreen can enter the bloodstream after one day of use, consider switching to a mineral version.
Mineral sunscreen works by using zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide to reflect UV rays like a mirror on top of the skin — as opposed to being absorbed into it. But mineral formula or not, what's most important is that you use some form of sun protection to protect against possible skin issues like sunspots, accelerated physical signs of aging (fine lines and wrinkles), and even skin cancer.
As Best Products’ resident beauty editor, I get the chance to test out all of the new, top-rated, and viral products in the beauty space. So, whether they're tinted, classic, or in a misting formula, I’ve tested a lot of sunscreens, and these are the 100 percent mineral formulas that perform the best. But I'm not the only one who approves: These fan-favorite picks all have rave reviews on major retailers like Amazon, Sephora, Dermstore, and more.
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Best Overall
Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Mineral Lotion SPF 50
While it's a great option for everyone, those with oily skin will especially appreciate this SPF 50 mineral sunscreen from Australian Gold. It's oil-free, nongreasy, and dries with a matte finish, making it perfect for anyone who wants a more mattified look to their complexion.
But that's not the only reason why we gave this mineral sunscreen pick the top spot on our list: It's also formulated with Australian-native botanicals, including kakadu plum and eucalyptus to give your skin a clarifying and brightening treatment while you're out and about.
This sensitive formula from Blue Lizard contains no chemical sunscreen ingredients, parabens, or fragrances. Bonus: The cap turns blue to alert you when you're being exposed to harmful UV rays, and it’s reef-safe, too.
We have yet to try a COOLA product that we don't like. While some mineral sunscreens have a thick, chalky consistency, this one has a silky, liquid feel that goes on easy, and doesn't leave white residue behind. That's why we recommend this pick for all skin tones!
Sunscreen serums have recently been popping up everywhere, but this option crafted by Venus Williams and The Sunscreen Company is by far the best.
This light sunscreen-serum hybrid instantly mattifies skin without drying it out, making it great for oily and dry skin types alike. Plus, its formula is completely transparent, so all skin tones can enjoy it.
Did we mention this reef-safe pick is also infused with prickly pear to hydrate your skin?
5
Best for Dry Skin
Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 PA +++
If you have dry, flaky skin, you'll want to opt for this ultra hydrating formula. This particular mineral-based sunscreen features Biossance's star ingredient, sugarcane-derived squalane, to hydrate and provide antioxidant benefits to your skin. We also love that this formula is sheer, so there's no white cast or gross residue when you wear it.
Bonus: It can also be used as a primer for your makeup routine!
Getting every nook and cranny on your body can get pretty difficult — we're all familiar with the painful arm reach-around to get our upper backs, right?
Well, if you'd like to make things a little easier on your joints, then this spray sunscreen is perfect. It leaves an even mist of fragrance-free, mineral-based SPF 30 sunscreen that's gentle enough for sensitive skin types. It's also ultra sheer, lightweight, and hypoallergenic.
Going to break a sweat while you're out in the sun? Then you're going to want to pack this EltaMD mineral sunscreen in your gym bag. On top of being water- and sweat-resistant for a full 80 minutes, this formula is also free of fragrances, oils, and parabens.
Another bonus: This formula is great for your body and your face, so reapply liberally!
Also formulated for sensitive skin, this mineral sunscreen from fan-favorite brand La Roche-Posay provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, along with antioxidants that protect from free radicals. Bonus: It's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Although a bit pricey for the size, this facial sunscreen is seriously worth it — there are hundreds of five-star reviews! The formula is tinted with a universal shade that adapts to your skin tone, so you won't be left with a white cast, and some users even use it as a foundation.
Meow Meow Tweet's mineral formula is made from plant-based ingredients, it's safe for both your face and body, and it has a sweet rose-geranium scent. But our favorite thing about this sunscreen is that it won't clog your pores, so acne-prone skin can proceed without caution.
One thing we would like to note is that this sunscreen is under the American Academy of Dermatology's recommended SPF 30 minimum, so we recommend using a moisturizer, foundation, or other complexion product infused with SPF to increase your coverage.
11
Best Shimmer Formula
Bare Republic Holographic Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
If you find applying sunscreen to be necessary but boring, wait until you see this SPF from Bare Republic. The lotion is packed with a holographic shimmer, so you'll stay safe under the sun while rocking a serious glow. Kids will love it, too!
12
Works Well With Makeup
Peter Thomas Roth Max Mineral Naked Broad Spectrum SPF 45 Lotion
Not all sunscreens play well with makeup, but this one from Peter Thomas Roth feels invisible on your skin and can even be used as a primer. You'll also love that it has vitamins A (aka retinol), C, and E, plus safflower extract and diamond powder that leave skin hydrated and glowy.
We love how easily this Supergoop! sunscreen stick glides on skin without causing any greasiness, excess shine, or white cast and residue.
The mineral formula also features a nourishing blend of shea and cocoa butter, jojoba, avocado, and chia seed oil. Plus, the solid stick makes it easier to stow away in your purse, pocket, or wherever you stash your outdoor essentials.
Jennifer HusseinBeauty EditorJennifer is the Beauty Editor for BestProducts.com, where she’s testing out everything from the latest lip gloss to the craziest skincare trend sweeping the online beauty-verse.
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