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#SkinSchool: The best mineral sunscreens for every skin concern
Mineral is having a moment; physical sunscreen formulas have come a long way, and these are the ones to know
We all know how important suncream is for protecting our skin – both from sun damage, pre-mature ageing and, most importantly, skin cancer – but finding a body or face SPF you like enough to actually use on a daily basis isn't always easy. A winning sunscreen needs to be suitable for your skin type, applied without causing a white cast or triggering acne, and pleasant enough to ensure you slather it on generously every single morning.
Best mineral sunscreens
Best for a no-feel finish
Ultra Violette Future Fluid Superlight Mineral Skinscreen SPF50+
Read review
What is a mineral SPF?
When choosing the right one for you, it's useful to note that there are two types of SPF filter:
Chemical UV filters, like the commonly used oxybenzone, are absorbed by the skin, and they themselves absorb harmful UV rays once they hit the skin.
Mineral filters such as zinc oxide, meanwhile, are not absorbed by the skin (which is why you want a non-nano formula). They sit atop it and work as a physical barrier to deflect UV rays, batting them away before they can do any damage.
A sunscreen can contain solely chemical filters, solely physical ones, or a combination of both.
Mineral sunscreens used to be considered less user-friendly, as they often left a thick white residue on the skin. Nowadays though, the technology behind mineral sunscreens has vastly improved and there's an increasing number of formulas to choose from. "New formulations are made of much smaller particles, so it can be rubbed into the skin without leaving residue," explains consultant dermatologist at Self London, Dr Anjali Mahto.
What are the benefits of mineral SPF?
While chemical filters have to pass vigorous testing to be considered safe to use in the UK, there is nevertheless some uncertainty about the longterm impact of specific chemicals in sunscreens. On top of that, some complexions simply tolerate mineral sunscreens better - especially those who have very sensitive and reactive skin, according to Dr Mahto. That said, it is important to look at the formula as a whole. Steer clear from heavy oils if you have oily or acne-prone skin and look to niacinamide and vitamin C if you'd like additional skincare benefits.
How to use a mineral SPF
If you're looking specifically for a facial SPF, dosage is as crucial as the formula you choose. Here, see our guide to exactly how much SPF you should be using on your face. Zinc oxide, a primary ingredient in mineral sunscreens, is a white powder by nature, hence why many formulas create a white cast - even the tinted options. Things have improved for the better, but the way you apply can make a difference, too. Shake the bottle, and be patient with blending. It might take a while for it to completely sink in. Applying in light layers (and waiting a few seconds between each layer) can also create a more seamless finish. And remember: you need to have applied the length of two fingers-worth of SPF to be suitably covered.
To help keep you protected, we've tracked down the best mineral sunscreens that guarantee high protection alongside a host of other skincare benefits. Here are the formulas to trust both at home and on holiday.
Below, the Bazaar-approved mineral sunscreens for year-round protection
Ultra Violette Future Fluid Superlight Mineral Skinscreen SPF50+
Sourcing its zinc from Japan allows cult Aussie brand Ultra Violette to formulate super lightweight, super invisible mineral SPFs (we await new Vi launches with baited breath). But the fineness of this formula belies its strength – it offers heavyweight broad spectrum protection that goes on seamlessly, soothing and hydrating (thank you vitamin E and squalane) the skin barrier as it does so.
Texture: Light tinted fluid
Finish: Invisible
Mineral SPFs are notoriously difficult to formulate as they tend to feel heavier and leave a grey cast on the complexion, but Kate Somerville's new silky texture uses sheer, non-nano zinc oxide (your skin doesn't need to absorb it) so it feels comfortable on even oilier types. Given the nature of mineral sunscreens, it does take a few seconds to massage in the product completely, but once blended, it has a traceless finish. Slightly pearlescent particles help enliven tired complexions, too.
Texture: Silky fluid
Finish: Glowy
The Organic Pharmacy Daily Mineral SPF30 UV Protection
This new formula uses non-nano filters to protect against pollution as well as broad spectrum UV. All the while, triple molecular weight hyaluronic acid hydrates, witch hazel soothes, and vitamin-A-rich carrot root extract provides anti-oxidant benefits to the skin barrier.
Texture: Creamy
Finish: Natural
Those with thirsty complexions will drink up the nourishing formula of Kora's mineral SPF. It contains a cocktail of plant oils, squalane and glycerin to replenish loss moisture and leave your skin feeling extra soft.
Texture: Milk
Finish: Radiant
Part serum, part base, all sunscreen, this cult formula uses non-nano zinc oxide to protect the skin, while offering hydrating and skin-tone-evening benefits via hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and squalane. On top of this, the serum comes in 30 stretchy shades making it easy to find a colour to suit.
Texture: Serum-like
Finish: Natural, sheer coverage
This fluid formula blends in as seamlessly as a hydrating moisturiser and leaves skin looking radiant. It contains skin-plumping squalane and vitamin E for lightweight nourishment, wears beautifully with or without make-up, and the bottle is practical for travel.
Texture: Milky cream
Finish: Natural
Institut Esthederm are at the cutting-edge of sun protection skincare, and this fully mineral-based offering from the high-tech French brand is essential for extremely sensitive skin. It provides high-level protection from UV rays that withstands the likes of swimming and sweating. The formula has also been formulated for anyone recovering from cosmetic or surgical procedures, and those who are on medication that can increase sun sensitivity.
Texture: Cream
Finish: Radiant
A creamy-yet-lightweight fluid texture with a gentle peach tint that helps to perk up the complexion as it protects. This formula is loaded with skin-caring ingredients; from niacinamide and squalane to rice ferment and tea extracts to maintain skin health. It works beautifully under foundation, but it also helps even skin tone, reduce pore visibility, and plump the skin in that signature juicy Tatcha way, begging the question of whether you need apply a base product at all.
Texture: Silky fluid
Finish: Natural matte
Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defence Mineral SPF50
This mineral SPF is gently tinted to avoid any white casts and is designed with acne-prone complexions in mind, so expect a barely-there feel. Additional vitamin E acts as a shield against damaging free radicals (unstable molecules that can impair the skin cells).
Texture: Milky cream
Finish: Natural
Beauty Pie has perfected the balance between hydrating and non-greasy with this formula. The velvety texture skims over pores and lines to provide the perfect canvas for foundation, keeping your base looking freshly applied for hours on end. It's vegan, too.
Texture: Lightweight cream
Finish: Natural
Everything Omorovicza does is steeped in luxury and finesse, so it's no surprise that this sunscreen is so elegantly formulated, it doesn't leave a grey cast behind. Padded with squalane and glycerin, this one works best for those prone to dry patches.
Texture: Cream
Finish: Radiant
This skincare-first formula uses a combination of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to protect, and plant-based oxidative-stress-reducing polysaccharides, squalane and a form of hyaluronic acid to hydrate. There's also vitamin C to brighten, plant extracts to purify, and peptides to boost the skin barrier while also reducing the appearance of fine lines. But no, sadly, it does not do the washing up.
Texture: Cream
Finish: Natural
While it's infusing your skin vitamin C and amino acid-packed watermelon extract, this formula also offers a translucent veil of tinted coverage that leaves your skin either perfectly prepped for more make-up, or ready to go as is, depending on your mood.
Texture: Creamy, tinted
Finish: Natural coverage
Dermalogica's Porescreen is formulated with niacinamide to help keep spots at bay. That said, there is a slight sheen to this formula that makes it particularly ideal for those struggling with dry skin that's still prone to blemishes, and it successfully blurs out pores, too.
Texture: Lightweight cream
Finish: Soft matte
Formulated specifically to be kind to fragile skin, Avène's tinted cream creates a defensive barrier against free radicals while soothing redness and irritation. It does take some time to sink in (and the shade might be too dark for extremely fair complexions), so do apply after you're dressed.
Texture: Cream
Finish: Natural
A liquid or cream formula should always be your first port of call, as it provides even coverage and thus better sun protection, but for on-the-go touch-ups, this powder SPF does come in handy. It's translucent too, so all skin tones are covered.
Texture: Powder
Finish: Matte
If many sunscreens leave your skin feeling irritated, this vegan sunscreen could be the solution.
The non-greasy, fragrance-free formula is kind on complexions prone to blemishes, rosacea and sensitivity. It's embedded with sustainably-sourced mica to enliven the complexion without any tell-tale sign of sparkle.
Texture: Cream
Finish: Radiant
A go-to for dermatologists, Heliocare offers protection you can trust, whether you are in your back garden or on the beach. It uses Fernblock FC, a specific antioxidant to block UV rays while still being lightweight and non-chalky. Just remember to shake before you apply (as is the case with most mineral sunscreens).
Texture: Creamy
Finish: Matte
