10 Best Mineral Sunscreens (Review) In 2020

Features To Look For In Best Mineral Sunscreens

Application - The application of mineral sunscreens is not in any way different from applying traditional sunscreens. Creams are easy to apply and as most of them are white when applied, it is easy to see on the skin so if it is still visible, you know you need to keep rubbing the cream into your skin. However, some creams are also tinted which is great for those who want to cover blemishes as well as protect their skin.

Sprays are also a good option as you can then apply a light mist over your skin. This is a popular choice for those who really don’t like applying blobs of cream. However, it may be necessary to give your skin a quick rub to ensure the spray is evenly applied and covering all areas of exposed skin.

Ingredients - Traditional sunscreens are often loaded with chemicals and those with sensitive skin may experience irritation. Even those who don’t have sensitive skin often experience some inflammation or other adverse effects from prolonged use. Mineral sunscreens are quite different. The active ingredients are natural minerals that are gentle enough for everyday use and, in particular, for those with delicate skin. These natural ingredients are a great choice for those who find themselves exposed to the sun on a daily basis whether for work or play. If you’re not sure of which active ingredients you should be looking for, check the label. Titanium Dioxide and zinc oxide are good ingredients but avoid parabens, phthalates, and similar ingredients.

SPF Level - All sunscreens have an SPF level, otherwise known as the Sun Protection Factor. The SPF level determines how much protection you get from the sun’s harmful UV rays and the length of time you are protected. As an example, a mineral sunscreen with an SPF of 15 will generally only protect your skin for about an hour. Less if you have very fair or sensitive skin. Many sunscreens have an SPF that goes up to 50 or even 100. The higher the SPF, the longer you can spend in the sun before you need to re-apply your sunscreen. Play it safe and use a higher SPF mineral sunscreen than you think you will need, particularly if you do have fair and sensitive skin.

Quantity - If you are buying a mineral sunscreen for the whole family to use, it helps to have a larger quantity. However, keep in mind that sunscreen for the face is always going to be in smaller packaging than full-body sunscreen. All sunscreens, including mineral ones, come with a use-by date, so it is somewhat pointless to purchase a really large container if you don’t intend on using it regularly. If you are planning a seaside vacation with the whole family, you can justify getting larger quantities. Otherwise, it may be better to get a smaller quantity and replace it if you run out, rather than having a large bottle that will not be usable several months later.

Water Resistance - It’s hard to imagine a summer without some aquatic activities so a mineral sunscreen that is water-resistant is an absolute must. Otherwise, you will lose your sun protection once you hit the water. Always look for water resistance in sunscreen, even if you aren’t planning on swimming. Summer is hot and people sweat so you don’t want your sunscreen dribbling off your skin. Just remember that you may need to apply your sunscreen a little more frequently if you are frolicking in the water.

Scent - This feature is open for debate and is a matter of personal preference. Some mineral sunscreens have a light and very subtle scent. This scent often reminds us of summer so we look forward to the days we need to use sunscreen. However, scents and fragrances can be irritating to some people, especially kids. A scent can also clash with your perfume or cologne. Fortunately, you have the choice of a mineral sunscreen with or without a scent so check the label for the one you prefer.

Quick Drying - All sunscreens come in some type of liquid form. Whether it is a spray, cream, or even oil, they are all liquid. Mineral sunscreens are no different in that regard and these liquids can be quite uncomfortable when you apply it on a sandy beach. Look for mineral sunscreens that are quick drying. You’ll appreciate this for a couple of reasons. Firstly, the faster the mineral sunscreen dries, the sooner you can go out and have fun. Secondly, sand is less likely to stick to every part of the skin you’ve just applied sunscreen to.

Non-Greasy - Choosing a quick-drying formula is preferable to one that takes half an hour or so to dry, but for the same reason, you want to find a non-greasy mineral sunscreen. Sand at the beach is pretty much inevitable and even if you manage to keep the sand off your towel while you apply sunscreen, that doesn’t mean the wind can’t blow it on you. Greasy sunscreens can result in sand sticking to your skin and the stickiness also means the sand stays glued to you even in the water.

Moisturizing - Sand, sea, and wind are the perfect storm for drying your skin but that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying your day at the beach. The good news is that many mineral sunscreens also include ingredients that are hydrating so you can not only protect your skin from sunburn, you can also ensure your skin stays supple and moisturized.

Tinted or Non-Tinted - Mineral sunscreens are available in tinted or non-tinted varieties, especially the ones for the face. If you already have a nice tan, or you’re spending a day near water, non-tinted mineral sunscreen is the better choice. However, if you a spending a day at something like an outdoor wedding or garden party, tinted mineral sunscreen is the perfect cosmetic that can cover up a few blemishes and protect your skin from UV rays at the same time.

Use Case - Anytime you spend in the sun for longer than 15 or 20 minutes is a case where a mineral sunscreen should be applied. The main considerations for using any type of mineral sunscreen will depend on the type of skin you have, the activities you will be engaging in and the length of time you plan to spend outdoors. It is very likely you will need a different type of sunscreen for gardening than you would for a day at the beach. It’s also worth noting that the skin on your face is very different from the skin on the rest of your body. Your face is often more exposed to the sun than other parts and facial skin is also more sensitive. While you can use a body mineral sunscreen on your face, it is actually better for your facial skin to use a mineral sunscreen that has been specially formulated for the delicate skin of your face.

Eco-Friendly - The trouble with traditional sunscreens is that many are laden with a cocktail of chemicals. When you go swimming or diving in a reef, these chemicals end up in the water where they can do all sorts of damage to aquatic creatures, plants, and coral. If you see oxybenzone or octinoxate on the label, give it a miss as these and other similar substances will not be kind to the reefs you plan on swimming near.

Whichever mineral sunscreen you choose to use this summer, or winter for that matter, just make sure you apply it before any prolonged exposure to the sun. The ones in this selection will ensure the only memories you have this summer are happy ones, and not painful ones you spent treating sunburn.