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Zinc Oxide

What Zinc Oxide is & what it does

A mineral broad-spectrum filter that covers both UVB and UVA by absorbing and scattering light. It is one of the gentlest filters available and a common choice for sensitive or reactive skin, with the trade-off that high loads can leave a white cast.

What does Zinc Oxide do in sunscreen?

Zinc oxide is a mineral (physical) UV filter and the broadest single filter available, covering both UVB and the full UVA range. It is gentle and soothing, which makes it a favourite for sensitive, reactive and baby skin.

Is Zinc Oxide safe?

Yes. Topical zinc oxide stays on the skin's surface rather than being absorbed, and it is one of the two filters the US FDA recognises as generally safe and effective. It is among the best-tolerated sun filters there is.

Does Zinc Oxide leave a white cast?

It can. Zinc oxide is naturally white and tends to leave more of a cast than chemical filters, especially on deeper skin tones. Micronised grades and tinted formulas help minimise it.

Is Zinc Oxide natural?

Zinc oxide exists in nature as the mineral zincite, but the cosmetic grade is synthesised for purity and a controlled particle size. Calling it a natural or mineral filter refers to it being a mineral, not to it being unprocessed.

Is Zinc Oxide safe to use during pregnancy?

Yes, zinc oxide is widely seen as the top sunscreen choice during pregnancy. As a mineral filter it sits on the skin's surface and is barely absorbed, which is why dermatologists often suggest mineral sunscreens for pregnant and breastfeeding skin. If you want a sunscreen to feel relaxed about while pregnant, a zinc oxide one is the usual pick. Your doctor or midwife can confirm what suits you.

Sunscreens with Zinc Oxide

We rate 2917 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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