The Best Mineral Sunscreens, According to Testing

Earning the top spot amongst mineral SPFs in our Lab's latest face sunscreen test, Colorescience's sunscreen proved to absorb quickly into skin and not leave any residue behind. It also earned top scores for not interfering with makeup and not irritating or stinging the face or eyes. Don't be surprised if it looks white when you first apply it, as testers noted it'll be white initially but will disappear upon rubbing it into your skin.

"The more I use this product, the more I love it," one tester raved. Another noted that it "went on easily, absorbed quickly and left no greasy feeling. Best face sunscreen I have ever used," and many testers shared they'd continue to buy this product. This SPF has a runny texture, so make sure to shake well before use.

A lightweight, milky emulsion, Hawaiian Tropic's lotion is top-tested in the Beauty Lab for body sunscreens. Testers found that it's easy to apply, non-drying and rinses off easily at the end of the day. They also praised the pump bottle style and scent, though they wish the size could be a bit larger when using it as a body SPF. "I loved that it had such a pleasant fragrance and didn't leave a white cast on my body," shared one tester. "This made it easier to use on my arms for everyday use."

From famed dermatologist Dr. Dennis Gross, this mineral SPF was also a stellar performer in our recent Lab testing. Earning top scores for overall satisfaction and making skin feel hydrated, it's a great pick especially for those with dry skin.

It came in second place for not leaving a white cast, film or residue on the skin. "It felt like a cosmetic product, not a sunscreen," one tester shared. Another liked that "the formula was very spreadable and easy to use." Double-check that you've secured the cap, though, as testers reported it doesn't attach well to the tube.

Coppertone's mineral formulation earned the second highest overall score for not causing any stinging or irritation in Lab testing, with an impressive 100% of testers strongly or somewhat agreeing. True to its name, this SPF is simply made with just zinc oxide as its main sunscreen active.

Testers also agreed that this budget-friendly pick is easy to apply — one noted that it's one of the easiest mineral sunscreens they've tried, adding that "for a mineral sunscreen, it rubbed in easily and was dry to the touch shortly afterward." However, some testers found it greasy and tacky.

Though mineral sunscreens are formulated to work for sensitive skin, this Lab test winner from Sun Bum went above and beyond. The non-oily formula earned an almost perfect score for not causing skin redness and irritation in testing and didn't leave skin shiny. Testers also loved the texture of this mineral option. "The silky texture went on like a makeup primer and worked as such," one tester said. "I liked the velvet feel of the product," another added. Take note, some testers found that it leaves a white cast on skin.

For those looking for a mineral sunscreen from a K-Beauty brand, reach for this Dr. Jart formula that's also great for oily or acne-prone skin. The Lab test winner earned top scores for a shine-free finish, not causing bumps or breakouts, and not causing visible redness or irritation, making it any oily-skinned person's dream.

Testers loved the citrus scent of this sunscreen. "This product absorbed quickly, and I love that it left my face looking smooth and matte," one shared. Note that this sunscreen isn't water-resistant, so if you're swimming or sweating, it may be best to try a different option.

If you're looking to protect your face from the sun, turn to SkinMedica's formula, which performed the best out of the mineral options in Lab face sunscreen testing. It earned the highest overall scores for not feeling oily or greasy on skin, not interfering with makeup, providing shine-free finish and not leaving a film or residue on skin.

Many testers praised how well it works under makeup. "The white cast faded in a minute, leaving me free to do my makeup as usual fairly soon after," one says. Another adds, "Felt and looked like a primer finish." Some testers did find it to be a bit hard to spread around, though.