There are 2 types of sunscreen you can buy for your skin and body: chemical and mineral. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays and dissipating that heat and damage from the skin, whereas mineral sunscreens work by reflecting the sun's rays to shield against UV rays.
What is mineral sunscreen?
Containing active mineral ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, mineral sunscreens are considered gentler on our skin and better for the environment than their chemical counterparts.
Traditional mineral sunscreens can leave a chalky, white cast on the skin, but modern technology has eliminated that.
Which are the best mineral sunscreens?
We have selected our edit of the best mineral sunscreens on the market for their efficacy, broad spectrum protection and ability to coat the skin without leaving a white glow.
8 best mineral sunscreens
- SkinCeuticals Mineral Matte UV Defense
- Omorovicza Mineral UV Shield
- First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Mineral Sunscreen Moisutriser
- REN Clean Screen Mineral SPF30 Mattifying Face Sunscreen
- Elizabeth Arden Prevage City Smart Hydrating Shield
- Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for the Body
- Bioderma Photoderm AKN Mat Sunscreen
- Bioderma Photoderm Mineral Spray
Best matte mineral sunscreen
Renowned for its medical-aesthetic approach to skin and suncare, there's no better brand to keep your skin protected against damaging UV rays than SkinCeuticals. Their Sheer Mineral Matte UV Defense has an SPF 30 alongside broad spectrum protection to keep the skin shielded. It has a naturally matte finish, which holds up in hot climates thanks to its unique Aerated Silica Technology. Trust us when we say if you have oily/combination skin, this is the best mineral sunscreen for you.
Best mineral sunscreen for sensitive skin
Hailing from Hungarian brand Omorovicza, the Mineral UV Shield has been specially formulated to target and soothe reactive and easily irritated skin types. With an SPF 50 to shield against UV damage, it also contains the brand's renowned Hungarian Thermal Water, rich in minerals to replenish, restore and rejuvenate. It leaves a light matte finish behind, meaning you can apply makeup on top without it slipping.
Best mineral sunscreen for dry skin
Packed full of emollient and hydrating ingredients like shea butter and meadowfoam seed oil, the First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Mineral Sunscreen Moisutriser is the best mineral sunscreen for anyone with dry and dehydrated skin. It also contains super soothing extracts of liquorice root and white tea, while a mineral formulation of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide shield against damaging UV rays.
Best mineral sunscreen for oily skin
Powered by antioxidant yellow passionfruit seed extract to provide further protection against external aggressors, REN Clean Screen Mineral SPF30 Mattifying Face Sunscreen provides high protection aginst UVA/UVB and blue light rays. Silicone-free and suitable for breakout-prone and sensitive skin types, it keeps oils at bay and does not leave behind a white cast. In line with REN's environmentally-responsible blueprint, it comes in a recyclable tube crafted from recycled plastic.
Best anti-ageing mineral sunscreen
A cult product in the beauty industry, Elizabeth Arden's Prevage City Smart Hydrating Shield is made specially to target the visible signs of ageing (along with keeping your skin protected!). 100% broad spectrum and mineral protection shield the skin against damaging UV rays, and with an SPF 50, it works to give your skin the best level of protection possible. It's also a great product to use if you live in the city during the summer months as it protects against pollution.
Best mineral sunscreen for the body
Utilizing titanium and zinc oxides, the JASON Mineral Sunscreen SPF30 contains an SPF of 30 to seriously protect the skin against sunburn, premature ageing and damage. With a hypoallergenic formula, the cream feels weightless on the skin and doesn't leave a white cast; perfect if you have sensitive or congested skin on your body.
Best waterproof mineral sunscreen
Bioderma's Photoderm AKN Mat Sunscreen is not only waterproof, it's also hypoallergenic, paraben-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it won't block pores. With an SPF of 30, the lightweight cream helps to shield against both UVA and UVB rays, which makes it one of the safest sunscreens on the market. Utilising unique Cellular Bioprotection technology, the cream helps to protect against premature ageing caused by sun damage.
Best mineral sunscreen for children
When it comes to your children, you only want to use the very best products on their delicate skin, which is why we think Bioderma's Photoderm Mineral Spray is the perfect choice. Free from common irritants like parabens and fragrance, the lightweight cream is also hypoallergenic and suitable for even the most delicate skin. With an easy-to-use spray nozzle, it makes sunscreen application fun and quick; perfect for children.
