How to tell if sunscreen is mineral

How to check the label

1. 1Find the section marked "Active Ingredients" on the container. On US sunscreens, the active ingredients are the ingredients responsible for UV protection.
2. 2Look for zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Either can identify a mineral filter; a sunscreen does not need both.
3. 3Read the whole active ingredient list. Finding zinc oxide does not make the formula mineral only if chemical sunscreen filters are listed too.
4. 4Check the actual bottle you plan to use. Sunscreens bought outside the US can have different labels, so read their ingredient information and directions rather than expecting an identical US label.

Which words on the bottle actually help?

"Physical sunscreen" is another name for mineral sunscreen. "Sensitive skin" and "baby" labels often appear on formulas containing mineral filters, but neither term has an FDA definition for sunscreen. "Reef safe" is also undefined by the FDA. Treat these words as reasons to inspect the active ingredients, not as substitutes for reading them.15

Can you tell by the colour or texture?

A white or grey cast can happen with mineral sunscreen, but its absence does not rule out mineral filters. Modern mineral formulas can leave less white residue, which retires the idea that mineral sunscreen must announce itself from across the room. Smaller mineral particles have improved application and reduced visible residue. Tinted sunscreen can also help avoid a white cast, but "tinted" does not identify the sunscreen type; check the filters separately.134

Does mineral sunscreen work differently?

Mineral and chemical sunscreens both protect primarily by absorbing ultraviolet radiation. Mineral filters also reflect and scatter some UV light. The familiar description of mineral sunscreen as a purely reflective shield is inaccurate, so use the ingredients, not a claim about reflecting sunlight, to classify the formula.4

Mineral is not the whole protection checklist

Choose broad spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher, and water resistance. Broad spectrum means protection against UVA and UVB; SPF primarily describes protection against sunburn. Mineral, chemical and hybrid sunscreens can all provide effective protection with these features. Check the stated water resistance instead.126

If you are checking because sunscreen irritates you

Mineral sunscreen is an option for skin sensitive to chemical sunscreen ingredients. For a diagnosed chemical sunscreen photoallergy, an allergic reaction triggered by an ingredient and sunlight, zinc oxide or titanium dioxide sunscreens are alternatives. If an itchy rash develops after sunscreen and sun exposure, stop using the suspected product and seek medical assessment. Photopatch testing can help identify a sunscreen photoallergy.67

How to use the sunscreen you choose

Wear sunscreen daily when going outdoors, including cloudy days. Follow the label; general FDA directions are to apply 15 minutes before sun exposure and use about an ounce to cover the body. Reapply at least every two hours outdoors and after toweling off. For swimming or sweating, follow the label's 40 or 80 minute water resistance limit. Mineral filters do not remove the need for reapplication.126