Best Zinc Oxide Facial Sunscreens of 2026

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2026

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Zinc oxide facial sunscreens are a popular choice among those looking for a natural and effective way to protect their skin from harmful UV rays. These sunscreens contain zinc oxide, a mineral that acts as a physical barrier to block the sun's rays. Zinc oxide is gentle on the skin and does not clog pores, making it a great option for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. These sunscreens come in various forms, including lotions, creams, and powders, and are available in a range of SPF levels to suit different skin types and needs. Overall, zinc oxide facial sunscreens are a safe and reliable option for anyone looking to protect their skin from the sun's harmful rays.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Liquid Sunscreen for Face SPF 50 Cover #TOP 1
Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Liquid Sunscreen for Face SPF 50
ftb score rating icon 9.8
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Face Sunscreen Cover #TOP 2
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Face Sunscreen
ftb score rating icon 9.7
EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 Sunscreen Moisturizer Face Lotion Cover #TOP 3
EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 Sunscreen Moisturizer Face Lotion
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Zinc Oxide Facial Sunscreens

Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Liquid Sunscreen for Face SPF 50

0299.411000
white
Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Liquid Sunscreen for Face SPF 50 Cover
Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Liquid Sunscreen for Face, 100% Mineral UVA/UVB Filters, Zinc Oxide Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Formulated for Sensitive Skin, Unscented, 1.7 Fl Oz

Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Liquid Sunscreen for Face SPF 50 is a gentle formula that provides hydrating, chemical-free sun protection for sensitive skin. The non-comedogenic, ultra-lightweight formula blends quickly into the skin without leaving a white cast or greasy residue, making it perfect for daily use alone or under makeup. It is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and is a reef-friendly sunscreen. Additionally, this product comes in a travel size under 3.4 fl oz, making it easy to take with you on your next vacation or trip.

What We Like
Lightweight and non-irritating
Broad-spectrum protection
Blends well and leaves no residue

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Face Sunscreen

02500
Untinted
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Face Sunscreen Cover
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46, Oil Free for Face with Zinc Oxide, Dermatologist Recommended Sunscreen Lotion, For Acne-Prone Sensitive Skin, 1.7 oz Pump

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Face Sunscreen is a broad-spectrum sunscreen lotion designed for sensitive, acne-prone skin. With 9.0% Zinc Oxide, Niacinamide, and antioxidants, it promotes healthy skin while protecting from harmful UV rays. This oil-free sunscreen is non-greasy, fragrance-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free, and noncomedogenic. It helps soothe sensitive skin types prone to acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation, and protects against breakouts. With SPF 46 coverage, it is a daily face sunscreen for your everyday skin care needs.

What We Like
Lightweight, non-greasy texture
No white cast on most skin tones
Suitable for sensitive, acne-prone skin
Layers well under makeup
Contains soothing niacinamide
#TOP 3

EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 Sunscreen Moisturizer Face Lotion

02289
EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 Sunscreen Moisturizer Face Lotion Cover
EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 Face Sunscreen Moisturizer with Zinc Oxide, Daily Face Moisturizer with SPF, Sunscreen, For Dry Skin 1.7 oz Pump

Protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays while keeping it moisturized with EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 Sunscreen Moisturizer Face Lotion. This non-greasy sunscreen lotion glides effortlessly over your skin and can be worn alone or under makeup. Formulated with Zinc Oxide and Hyaluronic Acid, this mineral-based daily moisturizer sunscreen reduces fine lines and hydrates your skin. Its TSA-approved travel size makes it perfect for quick trips. This fragrance-free, paraben-free, and sensitivity-tested lotion leaves your skin feeling smooth and comfortable. Ideal for use on post-procedural and photosensitive skin types.

What We Like
Lightweight texture
Non-greasy finish
Effective sun protection
Good for sensitive skin
Natural-looking tint

CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 for Sensitive Skin

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CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 for Sensitive Skin Cover
CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50, Face sunscreen With Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide, Hyaluronic Acid + Niacinamide + Ceramides, Oil Free, Travel Size 2.5 oz

CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 is a gentle, unscented facial sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection with 100% mineral sunscreen, which reflects the sun's damaging UVA/UVB rays. The formula is oil-free, fragrance-free, and noncomedogenic, making it suitable for sensitive skin. It contains three essential ceramides that help restore and maintain the skin's natural barrier, while hyaluronic acid attracts hydration to the skin's surface and helps the skin retain moisture. The sunscreen is Hawaii compliant and does not contain oxybenzone or avobenzone.

What We Like
Excellent sun protection
Gentle for sensitive skin
Keeps skin hydrated
Non-irritating formula
Effective for rosacea-prone skin
#TOP 5

EltaMD UV Clear Sunscreen SPF 46

Untinted
EltaMD UV Clear Sunscreen SPF 46 Cover
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46, Oil Free Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide, Dermatologist Recommended, 0.5 oz

EltaMD UV Clear Sunscreen is a lightweight, oil-free option that effectively shields your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays without leaving any white residue. This dermatologist-recommended formula is ideal for those with acne-prone or sensitive skin, as it helps prevent breakouts while providing essential hydration. Enriched with Zinc Oxide, Niacinamide, and Hyaluronic Acid, it promotes a healthy appearance and minimizes dryness and redness. By incorporating this sunscreen into your skincare routine, you can enjoy sun protection that caters to your skin's unique needs.

What We Like
Oil-free formula
Non-white cast
Hydrating ingredients
Acne protection
#TOP 6

CeraVe Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

White
CeraVe Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Cover
CeraVe Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50, Face Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin With Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide, Vitamin E + Niacinamide + Ceramides, Oil Free, Travel Size 1.62 oz

The CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen offers a clear, mineral-based formula that protects your face from harmful UVA and UVB rays without leaving a white residue. It works well for all skin tones and can even be used as a hydrating primer under makeup, making your daily routine easier. The sunscreen is gentle and fragrance-free, so it’s suitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin, providing 24-hour hydration to keep your skin comfortable throughout the day. Plus, it includes three key ceramides that help repair and strengthen your skin’s natural barrier, which can be damaged by sun exposure. This makes the CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen a reliable choice for daily skin protection and care.

What We Like
Invisible finish
Hydrating primer
Gentle for sensitive skin
Contains ceramides
Broad spectrum protection

Sun Bum SPF 50 Clear Sunscreen with Zinc

20-45090
Clear
1 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Sun Bum SPF 50 Clear Sunscreen with Zinc Cover
Sun Bum SPF 50 Face Cream Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide - Broad Spectrum Moisturizing Facial Sunscreen with Vitamin E - Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Without Octinoxate & Oxybenzone) - Travel Size - 1 oz

Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Clear Zinc Sunscreen provides moisturizing sun protection to all skin types. This reef-friendly, water-resistant sunscreen delivers UVA/UVB protection and adds a barrier to your face. It is hypoallergenic and free of oxybenzone, octinoxate, gluten, cruelty, and parabens. Apply every two hours for maximum sun protection. Trust Sun Bum for products that work on the most intense days in the sun.

What We Like
Water-resistant
Reef-friendly
Non-comedogenic
Hypoallergenic
#TOP 8

CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

Sunscreens
Light
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Cover
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 with Sheer Tint, Tinted Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide, Blends Seamlessly For Healthy Glow, Light, 1.7 Oz

CeraVe Tinted Mineral Sunscreen offers a sheer tint available in three shades, allowing you to achieve a natural glow while minimizing the dreaded white cast. This sunscreen is perfect for those who want to combine sun protection with a tinted moisturizer, making it suitable for all skin types, including dry or sensitive skin. Formulated with Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid, it hydrates your skin while shielding it from sun damage. Additionally, it contains three essential ceramides that help restore and maintain your skin's natural barrier, ensuring your complexion stays healthy and protected.

What We Like
Sheer tint available in three shades
Hydrating formula for all skin types
Contains essential ceramides
Free from harmful chemicals
#TOP 9

Prequel Skin Sun Barrier Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

810129110043
Prequel Skin Sun Barrier Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Cover
Prequel Skin Sun Barrier Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50. PA++++ Broad Spectrum Zinc Oxide Sunblock with Semi-Transparent Lightweight Texture. Moisturizing UV Defense for Face. Travel Size, 1.7oz

The Prequel Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 offers strong protection against UVA and UVB rays, helping you prevent sun damage and premature aging. Its lightweight, semi-transparent formula makes it comfortable for daily wear without feeling heavy on your skin. The sunscreen includes antioxidants like tetrahydrocurcuminoids and natural extracts that help shield your skin from environmental stress and reduce redness, keeping your skin calm and healthy. Plus, it’s gentle enough for all skin types, including sensitive and irritated skin, with a fragrance-free and pH-balanced formula that won’t dry you out. This makes it an easy addition to your skincare routine for reliable sun defense.

What We Like
Broad spectrum protection
Antioxidant skin support
Gentle on sensitive skin
Lightweight, non-drying formula
#TOP 10

Seaweed Bath Co. Fortify & Protect Super Sheer Face Serum SPF 50 Broad Spectrum Zinc Oxide Facial Sunscreen

0857854007859
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Seaweed Bath Co. Fortify & Protect Super Sheer Face Serum SPF 50 Broad Spectrum Zinc Oxide Facial Sunscreen Cover
Seaweed Bath Co. Fortify & Protect Super Sheer Face Serum SPF 50 Broad Spectrum Zinc Oxide Facial Sunscreen, 1.1 Ounce, Non-Tinted, Sustainably Harvested Seaweed, Collagen, Ceramides

Introducing the Seaweed Bath Co. SPF 50 Face Serum, a consciously created facial sunscreen that offers ultimate protection for your skin. This lightweight mineral SPF serum is packed with marine-derived ingredients, including sustainably harvested seaweed, to infuse your skin with the nourishing power of the ocean. With bio-mimicking collagen, replenishing ceramides, and peptide-packed red seaweed, this serum helps fortify your skin barrier, minimize fine lines, and protect against harmful UV rays. The Seaweed Bath Co. SPF 50 Face Serum is perfect for those looking for a natural, effective, and cruelty-free sunscreen that is also vegan, gluten-free, and paraben-free. Embrace the magic of the ocean and let your skin be energized, inspired, and restored.

What We Like
Ultimate sun protection
Nourishes and fortifies skin
Minimizes fine lines and wrinkles
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you use zinc oxide sunscreen on your face?

Therefore, zinc oxide-based sunscreens are ideal for the face. Non-greasy formula: Many sunscreen products are specially formulated for the face with a lightweight feel and non-greasy finish that won't clog your pores.

2. Is zinc oxide better for face?

“Zinc oxide is considered one of the best sunscreen ingredients we have access to. Not only does it block both UVA and UVB rays – which are responsible for causing burns, skin damage, and skin cancer — but it's completely photostable and resistant to water.

3. Which sunscreen has the most zinc oxide?

Best Overall: EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 From one of the brand's most often recommended derms, this formula—made with 9 percent clear zinc oxide—provides broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection for both the face and body.

4. Is zinc oxide a good sunscreen?

Zinc oxide gives you broad spectrum protection from UVB all the way through to UV-A1, meaning your skin is getting the best sun protection possible. Zinc oxide is a stable sunscreen ingredient that is much less likely than chemical ingredients to break down in the bottle or on your skin.

Editor's Notes

During our zinc oxide facial sunscreen research, we found 48 zinc oxide facial sunscreen products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 1,032,392 customer reviews through our big data system to write the zinc oxide facial sunscreens list. We found that most customers choose zinc oxide facial sunscreens with an average price of $18.19.

The zinc oxide facial sunscreens are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of zinc oxide facial sunscreens, including Cetaphil, EltaMD, CeraVe, Sun Bum, Prequel. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.