9 Best Mineral Sunscreens That Won’t Leave a White Cast

Image contains Allure senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino with the EltaMD UV Clear Acne BlemishProne  Oil Balancing SPF...Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Sunscreen has a reputation for being chalky and hard to blend, but we’re here to ease your fears of ghostly white casts with the best mineral sunscreens. Of course, we all (should) know by now that sunscreen is a non-negotiable part of any skin-care routine, but even the most lauded formulas have varying qualities. Chemical-based options absorb into the skin to filter UV rays (a process we’ll get into below), and then there are mineral-based sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens or sunblock. These formulas create a mineral-based barrier over your delicate skin to literally block UV rays (and reflect them away from skin) to keep them from potentially damaging the DNA in your cells. Because mineral UV filters don’t penetrate the skin, they’re usually gentler on sensitive skin. The downside? They tend to leave darker skin tones with an ashy finish. But don't worry, our picks pass the test. Check out our all-time favorite mineral sunscreens for all-encompassing daytime protection and glowy, non-ashy finishes.

Our Top Mineral Sunscreens

  • Best Overall Untinted: SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50, $60
  • Best Overall Tinted: Supergoop Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40, $40
  • Best for Acne-Prone Skin: EltaMD UV Clear Acne Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50, $49
  • Best for Mature Skin: Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36, $84

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

  • What's the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens?
  • Who should use mineral sunscreen?
  • Meet the experts
  • How we test and review products
  • Our staff and testers

Best Overall Untinted: SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50

SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50 black bottle of sunscreen on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

SkinCeuticals

Future Mineral UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50

$60

Bluemercury

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it’s worth it: A telltale white cast tends to come with the (mineral) territory—blame the filters for that—but the SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50 has managed to outsmart it. SkinCeuticals uses Z-Cote, a microfine form of zinc oxide with particles much smaller than those of traditional mineral filters, allowing the formula to blend in with a nearly invisible finish. Beyond broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection, it’s packed with niacinamide and panthenol to support the skin barrier, calm redness, and promote a more even-looking tone. “This is especially great for mature skin since it adds the benefit of integrating actives to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration,” says Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. The lightweight, almost serum-like texture melts into skin without pilling or feeling heavy under makeup.

Lee before applying the SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50

Lee before applying the SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50

Christa Joanna LeeLee after applying the SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50

Lee after applying the SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“I had a true wait, this is mineral? moment with this sunscreen. It pours out like a lightweight serum that’s slightly opaque at first, then it disappears completely into my skin without a trace. True to form, the brand packs in plenty of nourishing skin-care ingredients, and makeup layers over it effortlessly. Now I just need this in a body lotion version.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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  • Key ingredients: 15.35% zinc oxide, 2.66% titanium dioxide, 3% niacinamide, 0.5% panthenol, 0.1% beta glucan, and 2% cellulose
  • Fragrance-free: yes

Best Overall Tinted: Supergoop Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40

Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40 in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Supergoop

Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40

$40

Amazon

$40

Nordstrom

$40

Dermstore

Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40

Alessandra Foresto

Why it’s worth it: If you don’t want to take any chances with a white cast, Supergoop's Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40 is one of the most blendable mineral sunscreens to reach for. The tinted formula (here, in the form of iron oxides) “offsets zinc oxide’s naturally chalky white base, so the formula blends in more seamlessly with skin,” Sherry Backman, a cosmetic chemist based in Brattleboro, Vermont, previously told Allure. Skin-conditioning polymers like dimethicone create a velvety, primer-like texture that blurs the look of pores and fine lines, leaving behind a soft, matte finish that’s especially flattering on oily or combo skin. Meanwhile, antioxidant-rich bamboo extract defends against free-radical damage, making this multitasking sunscreen a go-to choice for anyone who wants mineral protection, a subtle tint, and smoother-looking texture in a single step.

Foresto before applying the Supergoop Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40

Foresto before applying the Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40

Alessandra ForestoForesto after applying the Supergoop Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40

Foresto after applying the Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40

Alessandra Foresto

Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto

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“I've been a fan of this tinted matte mineral sunscreen from Supergoop since it only came in one universal shade. I'm even more of a fan now that they have extended their range to better match my skin tone (I use shade Golden Hour). I love wearing it on its own on a summer day when I don't feel like wearing a full face of makeup, for a little coverage over my dark spots. But it's also by far the best sunscreen to use under makeup because it acts as a smoothing, grippy primer that helps my foundation, concealer, or skin tint (whatever I feel like that day) go on more evenly and stay on longer.” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor

More to know

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  • Shades: 3
  • Key ingredients: 1.33% titanium dioxide, 17.42% zinc oxide, dimethicone, bamboo
  • Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: EltaMD UV Clear Acne Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50

EltaMD UV Clear Acne Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50 in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

EltaMD

UV Clear Acne Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50

$49

Amazon

$49

EltaMD

Allure senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino applying the EltaMD UV Clear Acne Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50

Elizabeth Gulino

Why it’s worth it: EltaMD’s latest UV Clear Acne Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50 is everything you love about the 2025 Best of Beauty-winning UV Skin Recovery Broad-Spectrum SPF 50, but tailored for acne-prone or oily skin. This version pairs 11% zinc oxide and 3.5% octinoxate (a UVB filter that boosts sun protection while keeping the formula lightweight) with 5% niacinamide to soothe redness, even out skin tone, and minimize excess oil throughout the day. The brand’s proprietary ZincAOXPro Technology also provides antioxidant protection against UV rays, blue light, pollution, and other environmental stressors. Best of all, it maintains the elegant, non-greasy feel that made the original so popular—just with extra support for shine, congestion, and post-blemish marks.

A selfie of Allure senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino before applying the EltaMD UV Clear BlemishProne  Oil Balancing...

Gulino before applying the EltaMD UV Clear Acne Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50

Elizabeth GulinoA selfie of Allure senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino after applying the EltaMD UV Clear BlemishProne  Oil Balancing...

Gulino after applying the EltaMD UV Clear Acne Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50

Elizabeth Gulino

Tester feedback from senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino

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"It’s no secret that EltaMD has the best of the best sunscreens. I’m a longtime user of the brand’s tinted version of UV Clear, but have recently started using the new UV Clear Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50 in my routine. As someone who wears SPF every day and is prone to getting oily in my T-zone, this has been a life saver. When I wear this—especially under makeup—I find myself not needing to powder my face mid-day. The best part? It’s clinically proven to reduce excess oil over time, so the more you wear it the better it works.” —Elizabeth Gulino, senior staff writer

More to know

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  • Key ingredients: 11% zinc oxide, 3.5% octinoxate, 5% niacinamide
  • Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Dry Skin: Ilia Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Ilia Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Ilia

Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

$40

Sephora

$40

Ilia

Allure creative producer Sydney Malone applying the Ilia Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Sydney Malone

Why it’s worth it: When we had five editors spanning a range of skin tones put Ilia’s Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 to the test, it won over even mineral-sunscreen skeptics. Despite containing a hefty 10.5% zinc oxide, the formula glides on like a hydrating serum and leaves skin looking fresh and dewy. What makes it particularly great for dry skin is its blend of seven forms of hyaluronic acid, which pull moisture into the skin and counteract the dryness mineral SPFs can sometimes cause. The formula also comes in two adaptable tinted shades: light-medium and medium-deep. “I am a longtime user of mineral sunscreen, and I have never experienced anything like this,” says senior commerce director Shanna Shipin. “This is such an elegant formula that is so lightweight, it performs like a chemical sunscreen—I can hardly believe that there are mineral blockers in it.”

Malone before applying the Ilia Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Malone before applying the Ilia Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Sydney MaloneMalone after applying the Ilia Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Malone after applying the Ilia Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Sydney Malone

Tester feedback from creative producer Sydney Malone

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“I have combination skin, so I am always wary of products that will either dry me out or make me appear too oily—I prefer a happy medium. This is especially true of sunscreens, because I have found that there are either mineral formulas that often leave an ashy appearance or sheer ones that are supposed to give a ‘glow’ but, in reality, make me look sweaty.

When I first squeezed this product out of the bottle, I was scared by the tone of brown that the product was because it seemed like it would be ashy. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it applied to my skin and settled. It felt like that perfect mix I look for, and honestly, it was the most impressed I’ve ever been with a facial sunscreen. I didn’t look sweaty; I didn’t look ashy. In fact, you almost couldn’t even tell it was on, which I loved.

It has a super natural finish, and I wore it for almost nine hours before I washed my face at night, and it never changed. It gave my holy grail sunscreen a run for its money.” —Sydney Malone, creative producer

More to know

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  • Shades: 2
  • Key ingredients: 10.5% zinc oxide
  • Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Mature Skin: Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36

Alastin Skincare HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36 in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Alastin Skincare

HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36

$84

Amazon

Lee applying the Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it’s worth it: If your ideal makeup routine is "less is more,” Alastin's HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36 may be all you need. “It functions as a hybrid between sunscreen and complexion product,” Anetta Reszko, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, previously told Allure. The sheer tint even out redness and discoloration enough that many people can skip foundation entirely, though it still wears nicely under makeup if you want more coverage. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide broad-spectrum protection, while ectoin supports the skin barrier and keeps skin hydrated, so makeup is less likely to catch on dry patches. Even better, the formula goes beyond sun protection, featuring antioxidants such as phytoene, phytofluene, and hydroxymethoxyphenyl decanone, which defend against pollution and other environmental stressors. Though it only comes in one shade, “the tint blends easily for most skin tones,” May Hall, DO, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Asheville, North Carolina, previously said.

Lee before applying the Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36

Lee before applying the Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36

Christa Joanna LeeLee after applying the Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36

Lee after applying the Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from Lee

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“As someone with sensitive and fair skin, I’m usually picky about mineral sunscreens, and I was a little hesitant that Alastin's Skincare HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36 only comes in one shade—but the tint is sheer enough to cancel out any chalkiness. I definitely wouldn't personally say it’s in makeup territory, but it does add just enough to even out your skin. It blends in beautifully and absorbs quickly, but I usually sweep another layer of my favorite dewy serum foundation to even out my melasma more.” —Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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  • Shade: 1
  • Key ingredients: 3.4% zinc oxide, 8.9% titanium dioxide, ectoin, phytoene, phytofluene, Thermus thermophilus ferment
  • Fragrance-free:

Best Under Makeup: Summer Fridays ShadeDrops SPF 50 Mineral Milk Sunscreen

Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Mineral Milk Sunscreen in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Summer Fridays

ShadeDrops SPF 50 Mineral Milk Sunscreen

$38

Amazon

$38

Sephora

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the Summer Fridays ShadeDrops SPF 50 Mineral Milk Sunscreen

Shanna Shipin

Why it’s worth it: If you liked the original Summer Fridays ShadeDrops, there's plenty to love about the updated version. The reformulation boosts protection to SPF 50 and combines 9.4% zinc oxide with titanium dioxide for broader UV coverage, all while maintaining the weightless feel that made the original such a favorite. (Just don't let the higher SPF fool you into skipping reapplication—the higher SPF simply means more protection against UVB rays.) It also features a lineup of skin-care staples, including ectoin, ceramides, allantoin, and chamomile extract to hydrate, soothe, and support the skin barrier. True to its name, ShadeDrops feels more like a lightweight, milky serum than a traditional mineral sunscreen. For dry or sensitive skin, it's an easy way to get daily sun protection without the heaviness or chalkiness mineral SPFs are often known for.

Shipin before applying the Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Mineral Milk Sunscreen

Shipin before applying the Summer Fridays ShadeDrops SPF 50 Mineral Milk Sunscreen

Shanna ShipinShipin after applying the Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Mineral Milk Sunscreen

Shipin after applying the Summer Fridays ShadeDrops SPF 50 Mineral Milk Sunscreen

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from Shipin

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“I am so happy Summer Fridays reformulated this product to boost the Mineral Milk to SPF 50! I was already a fan of the original, but there's so much more to love about this new version. The packaging, for one, is so cute—a happy tangerine with a more luxe finish that won't discolor over time (unlike the original!)—and the formula itself isn't as runny. It's just as lightweight and a bit smoother, and I love that it leaves my skin with a glowing (but not greasy) finish. This product is probably best for drier skin types. It's hydrating (thanks to glycerin and a ceramide complex in the formula), but I can see it being a hair too glowy on someone looking for a matte or more natural finish. I typically only wear skin tints, so I love the extra glowy-skin boost that this SPF provides! And it never competes with anything I layer over it: blush, bronzer, setting spray—they all play so well on top of this formula.” —Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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  • Key ingredients: 5.93% zinc oxide, 5.46% titanium dioxide, shea butter, ceramides, glycerin
  • Fragrance-free: yes

Best Lightweight: Koolsol by Knours Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Koolsol by Knours Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Koolsol by Knours

Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

$22

Amazon

$25

Soko Glam

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Koolsol by Knours Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Sarah Han

Why it’s worth it: K-beauty has earned a reputation for making sunscreens people actually want to wear, and Knours’ Koolsol Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 is a perfect example. If you applied this with your eyes closed, you'd probably assume it was a lightweight hydrating lotion, not a zinc oxide-powered sunscreen. The formula is also packed with beloved Korean skin-care ingredients, including soothing Centella asiatica, plus there’s aloe, niacinamide, and panthenol to soothe irritation, support the skin barrier, and boost hydration. Snow mushroom extract acts like a natural moisture magnet, helping skin stay plump and dewy throughout the day.

A selfie of Allure commerce editor Sarah Han before applying the Knours Koolsol Ultra Light Invisible Sunscreen SPF 50

Han before applying the Koolsol by Knours Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Sarah HanA selfie of Allure commerce editor Sarah Han after applying the Knours Koolsol Ultra Light Invisible Sunscreen SPF 50

Han after applying the Koolsol by Knours Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“I have never met a Korean mineral sunscreen—or any mineral sunscreen, especially untinted—that has this close to the feel of a chemical sunscreen. As you probably know, no mineral sunscreen can be 100% cast-free (zinc oxide starts as a white powder, after all!), but Koolsol Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 leaves my complexion looking almost indiscernibly the same. I only notice the teeniest tinge of cast in real life, but I honestly don't think an observer would. (At least my boyfriend, who stares at my face quite a lot, couldn't tell!) It applies so elegantly, like a lightweight moisturizer, and leaves my skin looking dewy, but not overly so. I'd never thought I'd say such a thing, but I think I even prefer this mineral option over Knours' chemical SPF (which is also nice, to be fair)!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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  • Key ingredients: 10% zinc oxide, niacinamide, snow mushroom, aloe, Centella asiatica
  • Fragrance-free: yes

Best Drugstore: La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen

La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

La Roche-Posay

Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen

$43 $30 (30% off)

Amazon

$43

Dermstore

$43

Ulta Beauty

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen

Deanna Pai

Why it’s worth it: Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, is a certified fan of La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen for its ultra-sheer finish and high-grade protection. "It has a subtle mattifying effect that's perfect to wear under makeup," she adds. The formula is fortified with nourishing and barrier-strengthening vitamin E oil to make this pick extra worth your while. And, as with any La Roche-Posay stunner, the brand’s proprietary Thermal Spring Water makes a welcome appearance. If you’re also looking to even out your skin tone, there’s a tinted version that leaves a healthy glow.

Selfie of Pai before applying La RochePosay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen

Pai before applying La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen

Deanna PaiSelfie of Pai after applying La RochePosay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen

Pai after applying La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen

Deanna Pai

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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"I don't typically trust untinted mineral sunscreens, since they almost always leave a white cast on my olive skin. Not this one! It's practically perfect: It doesn't have a weird scent, absorbs quickly, and even seems to control the shine on my nose, leaving my very oily T-zone looking more matte, but not flat or one-dimensional. The tube also holds a ton of product, too, so it can last me through a beach trip and then some." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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  • Key ingredients: 6% titanium dioxide, 5% zinc oxide, vitamin E oil, La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water
  • Fragrance-free: yes

Highest SPF: Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion Mineral SPF 60+

A blue bottle of Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion Mineral SPF 60+ on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Shiseido

Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion Mineral SPF 60+

$52

Amazon

$52

Nordstrom

Allure senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor applying the Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free Mineral Clear Sunscreen SPF 42

Jesa Marie Calaor

Why it’s worth it: We've been fans of Shiseido's chemical and hybrid sunscreens for well over a decade, so when the brand finally introduced a 100% mineral formula, expectations were understandably high. Thankfully, Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion Mineral SPF 60+ lives up to them. Despite offering SPF 60+ protection, it feels lightweight and comfortable on the skin. While it dispenses as a milky white lotion, it dries down to a virtually invisible finish across a wide range of skin tones. Beyond UV protection, the formula is packed with antioxidant-rich botanical extracts to defend against UV-induced signs of aging, soothing licorice root extract, and a blend of five types of algae that keep skin hydrated and comfortable throughout the day. There's also an adorably petite travel-size version, making midday reapplication much easier.

Selfie of Jesa Calaor before applying the Shiseido Urban Environment OilFree Mineral Clear Sunscreen SPF 42

Calaor before applying the Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free Mineral Clear Sunscreen SPF 42

Jesa Marie CalaorSelfie of Jesa Calaor after applying the Shiseido Urban Environment OilFree Mineral Clear Sunscreen SPF 42

Calaor after applying the Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free Mineral Clear Sunscreen SPF 42

Jesa Marie Calaor

Tester feedback from senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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"With my extra-dry complexion, I am always looking for hydrating products that leave me with a summery, dewy glow. This sunscreen gives me exactly that. The mineral formula is more like a fluid than a lotion, and quickly melts down to blend in with my medium-tan skin." —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior editor

More to know

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  • Key ingredients: 5.7% titanium dioxide, 5.9% zinc oxide, raspberry extract, witch hazel, glycerin, algae
  • Fragrance-free: yes

More mineral sunscreens we love:

  • For an honest-to-goodness skin tint that doubles as an SPF, try Saie’s Slip Tint Dewy Tinted Moisturizer SPF 35—one of Shipin’s ride-or-die products. As its zinc oxide-based formula guards against skin-damaging UV rays, its 14 flexible tints work to even out discoloration and blemishes while still looking natural and non-cakey.
  • Mature skin needs a sunscreen that treats accumulated damage, and that calls for Isdin’s Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion SPF 50+. While anyone can enjoy this formula, it’s especially ideal for people treating substantial sun damage from burns and/or age spots caused by years in the sun. Also in the mix is vitamin E to repair barrier damage and guard against free radicals.
  • Midday SPF touch-ups are made easy with the Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50. This convenient, self-dispensing brush shields skin with all-mineral UV filters and adds a dose of hydration, thanks to hyaluronic acid powder. (Pai loves that she can sweep it onto skin mid-pool day to re-up protection and sop up shine on her forehead.) The four shades, ranging from Fair to Deep, make reapplying sunscreen (every two hours or so) a piece of cake.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens?

While chemical sunscreens feature UV filters that absorb onto skin, mineral sunscreens sit on the surface of your skin, physically reflecting and scattering "a wide range of UV wavelengths," as New York City-based, board-certified dermatologist Hadley King, MD, explains. These wavelengths include UVB rays, which are responsible for sunburns, and UVA rays, which cause longer-term issues like hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and skin cancer.

According to Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, "Chemical-free sunscreens should only contain ​zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as their active ingredients." (It's important to note that hybrid formulas exist and contain the aforementioned ingredients plus chemical-based sunscreen compounds, so always triple-check the ingredients label.)

Who should use mineral sunscreen?

"Chemical sunscreens can be irritating and allergenic for some folks," explains Dr. Mudgil. And it turns out that "some folks," according to board-certified dermatologist Corey L. Hartman, MD, based in Birmingham, Alabama, is a whopping "25% of all people," he told Allure. If that statement rings true for you, it's time to consider a physical sunscreen with non-chemical shields. They reduce the risk of irritation to practically zero, due to "organic, inert, and hypoallergenic" formulas, Dr. Mudgil explains. Incidentally, sunscreens that don't contain chemical protectants are generally healthier for coral reefs. (In fact, Hawaii banned the sale of products with chemical filters oxybenzone and octinoxate altogether.) However, take the term "reef-safe" with a grain of salt, as it's not regulated.

Meet the experts

  • Sherry Backman, a cosmetic chemist based in Brattleboro, Vermont
  • May Hall, DO, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Asheville, North Carolina
  • Shereene Idriss, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
  • Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
  • Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
  • Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and medical director of Mudgil Dermatology in New York City
  • Morgan Rabach, MD, a clinical assistant professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai in New York City
  • Anetta Reszko, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
  • Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in New York City

How we test and review products

When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

For our list of the best mineral sunscreens, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it's never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

We have the highest standards for sunscreens—keep reading for a formula that suits your needs and preferences:

  • 7 Best Korean Sunscreens to Complete Your Glass Skin Routine
  • 7 Best Sunscreens Under Makeup for Smooth, Pill-Free Wear
  • 8 Best Sunscreens for Mature Skin That Protect and Plump All at Once

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