8 Best Mineral Sunscreens to Protect Skin




BEST MINERAL SUNSCREEN FOR DARK SKIN

Essential Defense Mineral Shield SPF 35

SKINMEDICA
  • Won’t leave a white film on skin
  • Not greasy or tacky
  • Works well with makeup
  • Expensive

After trying out SkinMedica’s physical sunscreen that’s sheer enough for dark skin tones, several GH Beauty Lab testers said that they wanted to purchase it for themselves. The formula earned top scores for not leaving a visible residue on skin, feeling or looking oily, interfering with makeup or having a sticky feel. “It did not leave that heavy white film,” a tester reported. Another said: “Others left a white cast over my face, but this product didn’t. I love it!”

• SPF 35
• Active ingredients: Zinc Oxide (6%), Titanium Dioxide (5%)
• Water resistance: Not water resistant
• Price per ounce: ~$20.50

BEST MINERAL SUNSCREEN FOR ACNE-PRONE SKIN

Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Face Gel Lotion SPF 30

BARE REPUBLIC
  • Non-greasy matte finish
  • Stays put on skin
  • Appealing gel texture

This innovative Bare Republic formula for face is a gel-lotion hybrid that sinks into skin instantly, leaving it matte and non-oily. Testers also liked the texture and how well it stays on during exercise. “This product truly shocked me in how well it went on, how it felt on my face, how my face looked, and that there were no ill effects like many sunscreens — the burning and stinging, breakouts,” one marveled.

• SPF 30
• Active ingredients: Zinc Oxide (18.2%)
• Water resistance: 40 minutes
• Price per ounce: ~$9.40