11 Top Drugstore Mineral Sunscreens for Fun Under the Sun
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Looking for the top drugstore mineral sunscreens today? Indeed, effective sun protection doesn’t have to break the bank.
Great drugstore sunscreens provide your skin with exceptional protection that’s comparable, if not better, than many premium brands out there.
Before you get yourself a mineral sunscreen though, know they’re not all made the same. Read on for some of the top mineral sunscreens that are both effective and affordable.
- Effective skin protection against UVA/UVB
- Nourishes and hydrates skin
- Helps even out skin texture
- Protects the skin from UVA/UVB
- Helps restore the skin’s protective barrier
- Hydrates skin
- Potent UVA/UVB protection
- Protects skin from free radicals
- Gentle formula perfect for sensitive skin
Table of Contents
Choosing the Right Mineral Sunscreen
In case you didn’t know, there are two types of sunscreens that you can get: physical sunscreens and chemical sunscreens.
Mineral sunscreen is just another term for physical sunscreens.
Such products use ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to form a physical barrier on your skin. This is how such products protect you from harmful UV rays.
When shopping for skincare products, you may find that you have a wide array of drugstore physical sunscreens to choose from.
Here are some things you need to consider to find the top drugstore mineral sunscreen for you.
SPF Rating
First and foremost, you should be looking for a sunscreen’s SPF rating. This is how you can gauge a product’s effectiveness in protecting your skin.
If you can, you should also look for the added PA rating as well.
According to dermatologists, when buying sunscreen, you should look for a product with SPF 30 at the very least.
The top drugstore mineral sunscreens should also provide broad-spectrum protection, which means they can block both UVA and UVB rays.
Ingredients
Any facial or body sunscreen now has added ingredients that can help nourish your skin. Depending on your skin type, you should look out for ingredients that you should use or avoid.
However, many brands today try to use effective and natural substances that nourish your skin.
Usually, sunscreens, especially facial sunscreens, contain antioxidants that can help block free radical damage.
Many brands also have added hydrating, moisturizing, and soothing ingredients to keep your skin in tip-top shape.
Mineral Sunscreen vs. Chemical Sunscreen
The difference lies in how these products interact with your skin.
A mineral sunscreen simply sits on top of your skin and offers sun protection by reflecting UV rays away from your face and body. Meanwhile, a chemical sunscreen sinks into your skin and works by dissipating UV rays.
Here’s a table differentiating mineral sunscreen and chemical sunscreen in detail:
| Feature | Mineral Sunscreen | Chemical Sunscreen |
| Active Ingredients | Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | Avobenzone, octocrylene, oxybenzone, etc. |
| Mechanism of Action | Reflects and scatters UV rays | Absorbs UV rays and transforms them into heat |
| Protection Spectrum | Broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB protection) | Varies; some may provide broad-spectrum, others may not |
| White Residue | May leave a white residue on the skin | Typically transparent and less likely to leave a white cast |
| Suitable for Sensitive Skin | Generally suitable for sensitive skin | May cause irritation for those with sensitive skin |
| Environmental Impact | Generally considered environmentally friendly | Some chemical filters may have environmental concerns; more research ongoing |
| Photostability | Generally more stable in sunlight | Some chemical filters may degrade over time with sun exposure |
| Application Timing | Can be applied immediately before sun exposure | Typically needs to be applied 15-30 minutes before sun exposure |
| Water Resistance | Often more water-resistant | Varies; some are water-resistant, others less so |
| Reapplication Frequency | May require less frequent reapplication | Generally needs more frequent reapplication |
| Common Skin Sensitivities | Less likely to cause skin irritation | Some individuals may be sensitive to specific chemical filters |
| Availability | Widely available | Also widely available |
Top Drugstore Mineral Sunscreens for the Face
Many recommend this sunscreen for its impressive UVA/UVB protection while creating a flawless finish on the skin.
Key Benefits: Effectively protects the skin from UVA/UVB, helps smoothen skin, helps protect skin from free radical damage
Features:
- Has SPF 50 using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for sun protection
- Contains antioxidants like eucalyptus, kakadu plum, and red algae
- Lightweight, non-comedogenic, reef-friendly, and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
Experience the solid protection that the Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen offers!
Let’s start this top affordable mineral sunscreen list with an offering from Australian Gold.
Using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as physical sun blockers, this sunscreen provides exceptional protection from harmful UVA/UVB.
Besides mineral sun blocking ingredients, it also has antioxidants, namely eucalyptus, kakadu plum, and red algae.
These ingredients aid in fighting free radicals that also damage your skin and accelerate skin aging.
Gentle and non-comedogenic, this hypoallergenic sunscreen is a must-try for long, fun days outdoors!
Consumers and dermatologists love recommending this for its effective protection, lightweight formula, and easy application.
Key Benefits: Effective skin protection against UVA/UVB, nourishes and hydrates skin, helps even out skin texture
Features:
- Has SPF 50 for protection against sun damage
- Has added antioxidants and natural ingredients, including colloidal oatmeal and feverfew plant juice
- Lightweight, easy-to-apply formula that’s makeup friendly
For a flawless look that doesn’t skimp on protection, use Neutrogena’s Sheer Zinc Mineral Sunscreen!
A lot of people can attest to the Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Mineral Sunscreen’s effectiveness when it comes to sun protection.
In fact, many people claim it to be the top drugstore mineral sunscreen for the face. That’s a tough label to live up to, but Neutrogena does it with flying colors.
It contains zinc oxide to provide SPF 50 and protect your skin from UVA and UVB.
It is also formulated with antioxidants, including colloidal oatmeal and feverfew plant extract, for added skin nourishment and hydration.
The best part is that it’s lightweight yet it provides better UVA protection than many of its competitors.
Oh, and did we mention it’s makeup-friendly too?
Many recommend this sunscreen for its fantastic skin protection while looking flawless under makeup.
Key Benefits: Protects the skin from sun damage, prepares skin for flawless makeup application, nourishes and hydrates skin
Features:
- Has SPF 40
- Contains antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin E
- Suitable for all skin types
Get your skin protected and ready for makeup with the TIZO 3 Primer/Sunscreen lotion!
Another cheap mineral sunscreen that’s just as good as many premium brands is the TIZO 3 Primer/Sunscreen lotion.
It uses physical blockers to provide SPF 40, but it leaves a smooth matte skin finish, making it perfect for makeup application.
Additionally, it has vitamins C and E — antioxidants that help your skin fight against free radicals that may damage it. These also provide nourishment to your skin.
Gentle and water-resistant, this product is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
A lot of people swear by this sunscreen for its sun protection and nourishing skin benefits!
Key Benefits: Protects the skin from UVA/UVB, helps restore skin’s protective barrier, hydrates skin
Features:
- Mineral-based (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) sun protection
- Contains ceramides for hydration and skin restoration
- Gentle and suitable for sensitive skin
Protect and repair your skin using CeraVe’s Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen.
Arguably the top drugstore sunscreen for dry skin, Cerave’s Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen is known for its potent UVA/UVB protection.
Of course, since this is a CeraVe product, the benefits this product offers don’t stop at pure sun protection. It also contains ceramides that reinforce the skin’s natural barrier to keep your skin hydrated and supple.
It also works well with makeup. And you can use it under foundation and other makeup products without any drawbacks!
Both consumers and experts love recommending this sunscreen for its effective sun protection and budge-proof, long-lasting formula.
Key Benefits: Protects the skin from UVA and UVB and free radicals, helps achieve healthy skin
Features:
- Contains 0.9% transparent oxide and has SPF 46
- Formulated with antioxidants
- Budge-proof, oil-free formula provides a matte finish
Block harmful sun rays from damaging your face by trying out EltaMD’s sunscreen!
One drugstore mineral sunscreen you should try out is EltaMD’s Broad-Spectrum Facial Sunscreen.
It is infused with antioxidants that protect your skin from free radicals as you go about your day.
When applied, this slightly tinted sunscreen offers a matte finish. It’s also budge-proof and water-resistant for up to 40 minutes.
On top of that, it’s free from most irritants like fragrances and harsh chemicals, making it an excellent choice for people with sensitive skin.
Many swear by this tinted sunscreen for providing maximum UV protection while being gentle enough for sensitive skin.
Key Benefits: Potent UV protection; protects skin from free radicals; gentle formula perfect for sensitive skin
Features:
- Has SPF 50 for maximum skin protection
- Contains antioxidants
- Smooth formula that’s irritant-free
You don’t have to worry about protecting your sensitive skin with this La Roche-Posay tinted sunscreen!
Given the premium quality of several La Roche-Posay products, many find it surprising that it’s actually a drugstore brand. It goes to show how price doesn’t dictate quality, and this quality isn’t lost in this sunscreen.
This brand’s offering is one of the top mineral sunscreens that you can easily get.
Apart from giving maximum protection against harmful UV rays, it’s also formulated without fragrances, oils, and parabens, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin.
With a smooth texture that easily glides onto your skin, this SPF 50 sunscreen is a must-add to your skincare lineup.
Top Drugstore Mineral Sunscreens for the Face and Body
Recommended by many, this sunscreen provides mineral sun protection in a convenient and family-friendly package.
Key Benefits: Protects skin from both UVA and UVB, nourishes skin; hypoallergenic
Features:
- Uses zinc oxide for sun protection (SPF 50)
- Contains oats to nourish the skin
- Fast-absorbing, gentle, and lightweight formula
Perfect for all ages, this Aveeno sunscreen can protect and nourish your skin at the same time!
Arguably the top mineral sunscreen for sensitive skin is Aveeno’s Positively Mineral sunscreen. It contains zinc oxide as the physical sun blocker that blocks UV rays from damaging the skin.
The brand uses its star ingredient, colloidal oatmeal, to help nourish and hydrate your skin, keeping it healthy.
When applied, it quickly sinks into the skin, leaving a smooth, matte finish.
Suitable for everyday use by all skin types and all ages, this sunscreen has a mild yet effective formula that those with sensitive skin can benefit from.
We love this sunscreen spray for its potent sun protection and its versatility.
Key Benefits: Protects skin from both UVA and UVB, hydrates and nourishes the skin, helps protect skin from free radicals
Features:
- Has SPF 50 using non-nano zinc oxide
- Full of natural antioxidants
- Water-resistant, lightweight, and gentle formula
For quick and easy sunscreen application, try out this COOLA spray!
Effective yet cheap mineral sunscreens in spray form are hard to come by, but they certainly are available. However, the top of them is COOLA’s Mineral Body Sunscreen Spray.
Offering SPF 30 for protection, this sunscreen effectively blocks many of the sun’s harmful rays from harming your skin.
It’s formulated with over 70% organic ingredients, including antioxidants to fight free radicals.
The best part is that, even if it’s a spray, it’s water-resistant and gentle on the skin. Also, while it says “body” sunscreen, it’s gentle enough to be used on the face’s delicate skin.
This sunscreen is well-loved for its excellent protection and skin-nourishing properties.
Key Benefits: Protects the skin against UVA rays and UVB rays, helps skin look radiant and healthy, fights signs of aging
Features:
- Has SPF 50
- Contains nourishing vitamin E
- Budge-proof formula that’s perfect for all skin types
Prevent UV rays from damaging your skin by trying out this Blue Lizard sunscreen!
Potent and effective, Blue Lizard’s Australian Sunscreen Lotion provides SPF 50 and blocks UVA and UVB from harming your skin.
On top of that, it has vitamin E to nourish your skin, keep your skin remain radiant and healthy, and slow down signs of skin aging.
A worthy contender for the top drugstore sunscreen for the face, this product has sweat and water resistance that can last up to 80 minutes.
For a fun day at the beach, try this product out!
We love this sunscreen for its budge-proof formula, making it a perfect base underneath makeup.
Key Benefits: Protects from UVA/UVB, doesn’t irritate even the most sensitive skin
Features:
- Mineral formula provides SPF 50+
- Stays on for a long time; water- and sweat-proof for up to 80 minutes
- Gentle and non-irritating
Having fun under the sun for the entire day? Protect your skin with Banana Boat Sport Mineral sunscreen!
The top drugstore physical sunscreen you can use for an active day out is the Banana Boat Sport Mineral sunscreen.
It has broad-spectrum coverage that provides SPF 50+ and exceptional protection from UVA and UVB rays.
Despite its potency, it’s gentle enough to be granted the seal of approval from the National Eczema Association. Given this, it’s also one of the top drugstore facial sunscreens you can find.
With a formula made with outdoor activities in mind, this sunscreen has good staying power. It has water and sweat resistance that lasts up to 80 minutes.
For lots of fun under the sun without any worries, try the Banana Boat Sport Mineral sunscreen!
This gentle, kid-friendly sunscreen provides effective sun protection for all ages and skin types.
Key Benefits: Protects the skin from UVA/UVB, nourishes and moisturizes skin, provides hydration for parched skin
Features:
- Has SPF 50
- Formulated to be gentle enough even for little kids
- Has nourishing natural ingredients (coconut oil, cocoa butter, and shea butter)
Protect yourself and your family from harmful sun rays using this Baby Bum mineral sunscreen!
Many say Baby Bum’s sunscreen offering is the top mineral sunscreen for the face and body. It’s formulated to be potent yet gentle enough to be used on the face.
This sunscreen has SPF 50 and can effectively protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
It also has a lot of natural ingredients, such as coconut oil, cocoa butter, and shea butter, all of which nourish and moisturize the skin.
The formula is easily absorbed by the skin and was made with small kids in mind. That doesn’t mean adults can’t use it too. For healthy skin and undoubted protection, check this sunscreen out!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Physical Body Sunscreens Be Used on the Face?
Some, not all. The skin on our faces is more delicate than most body parts. Sunscreens for the body usually have a harsher formula than facial sunscreen.
However, more and more brands have started coming out with face and body sunscreens with milder formulas.
Always check the product’s packaging for information.
How Often Should I Reapply Sunscreen?
Dermatologists recommend reapplication every two hours.
Worry-Free Daytime Fun With Drugstore Mineral Sunscreens
UV protection is a crucial aspect of skin care. Luckily, it’s an easy thing to take care of.
Sunscreens, especially mineral sunscreens, are widely available, and there are many brands you can choose from.
Among those brands, many offer effective products that are highly effective but for a fraction of the price of premium brands.
However, the market is oversaturated with products that work and those that falsely advertise their capabilities.
Hopefully, this article has helped you narrow down your search for the top drugstore mineral sunscreen to try. Get the top physical sunscreen for you for worry-free fun under the sun!
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