Mineral Sunscreen: What It Is and How To Use It

Mineral sunscreen has become increasingly popular. But what exactly is it? And is it right for you?

“The best sunscreen is the one you’re willing to wear every day,” says dermatologist Taylor Bullock, MD. “Mineral sunscreens can be a great choice for certain people."

Understanding mineral sunscreen

There are two main types of sunscreen:

• Mineral sunscreen uses mineral-based ingredients, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
• Chemical sunscreen contains chemical compounds, like avobenzone, oxybenzone or octinoxate.

Both types can help protect your skin from UVA rays (which are responsible for premature aging) and UVB rays (which cause sunburns). Both UVA and UVB contribute to skin cancer.

How mineral sunscreen works

Some people may tell you that mineral sunscreen works by reflecting the sun’s rays — but that isn’t entirely accurate.

“Both mineral and chemical sunscreens work primarily by absorbing ultraviolet radiation and converting it into a small amount of heat,” Dr. Bullock explains. “Mineral sunscreens reflect and scatter some UV light, but not to the extent many people have been led to believe.”

The real power in mineral sunscreen comes from these active ingredients:

• Zinc oxide provides excellent protection against both UVA and UVB rays and is considered one of the most comprehensive sunscreen ingredients available. 
• Titanium dioxide offers strong UV protection, particularly against UVB rays, and is often combined with zinc oxide for broader coverage.
• Iron oxides are found in tinted versions of mineral sunscreens and provide additional protection against visible light. They can help reduce discoloration for people with hyperpigmentation.

Benefits of mineral sunscreen

Like any effective sunscreen, mineral sunscreen can help:

• Prevent sunburn
• Protect your skin from signs of premature aging
• Lower your risk of skin cancer
• Prevent dark spots and discoloration

Mineral sunscreen also may be more comfortable, especially if you have sensitive skin that gets irritated by chemical sunscreen. Your skin doesn’t absorb much zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. So, mineral sunscreen is less likely to clog your pores or cause other reactions.

“Mineral sunscreens are often a great choice for people with sensitive skin, rosacea or eczema, or for people who have experienced irritation from certain chemical sunscreen ingredients,” Dr. Bullock suggests.

One complaint about mineral sunscreen from generations past is that it can leave a white or grayish cast on your skin. But the formulations have improved significantly in recent years.

“Modern formulations are much more cosmetically elegant than what many people remember from years ago,” Dr. Bullock shares. In other words, they’re a far cry from that thick, white goop that covered your nose at summer camp.

Is it safe to use during pregnancy?

Many dermatologists recommend mineral sunscreens during pregnancy, but that doesn’t mean chemical sunscreens are off-limits.

“Both can be appropriate options,” Dr. Bullock notes. “But some dermatologists may prefer to recommend mineral sunscreens during pregnancy because they don’t get absorbed much by your skin, and they’ve long been used safely in pregnancy.”

Protecting your skin from the sun is especially important during pregnancy. Hormonal changes can make some people more prone to melasma, sometimes called the “mask of pregnancy.” And sun exposure can make it worse.

“UV exposure can make dark patches from melasma much more noticeable and much more difficult to treat,” Dr. Bullock explains. “Daily sunscreen use is one of the best ways to help prevent that.”

How to apply mineral sunscreen

Choosing the right sunscreen is only half the battle. You also need to use it properly.

“Most sunscreen failures happen because people either don't apply enough or don’t reapply often enough,” Dr. Bullock states.

Follow these tips:

• Don’t be stingy. You probably need more sunscreen than you realize. Aim for a nickel-sized amount for your face and neck, and enough to fill a shot glass for your entire body.
• Cover all exposed areas. Don’t forget commonly missed spots like your ears, hairline, neck and tops of your feet.
• Apply and reapply. Use sunscreen every day. Reapply it every two hours when outdoors — or sooner if you’re swimming or sweating.

Choosing a mineral sunscreen

When shopping for a mineral sunscreen, Dr. Bullock recommends focusing less on brand names and more on ingredients and ease of use.

Look for:

• Broad-spectrum protection, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays
• SPF 30 for daily use
• SPF 50 for days when you’ll be spending lots of time outdoors
• A water-resistant formula if you'll be swimming or sweating heavily

As for application options, sprays may be more convenient, but lotions and creams typically provide more reliable coverage.

“The challenge with sprays is that many people simply don’t use enough,” Dr. Bullock says. “If you use a spray sunscreen, apply it generously and rub it in for even coverage.”

And never forget that sunscreen is just one part of a complete sun-protection strategy.

“No sunscreen blocks 100% of UV radiation,” Dr. Bullock points out. “The best approach combines sunscreen with shade, protective clothing, hats and sunglasses.”