SPF (Mineral/Zinc Oxide)

INCI: Zinc Oxide

Also known as: Zinc Oxide, Mineral Sunscreen, Physical SPF

SPFspfmineralStrong evidencePregnancy safe

Skinlumis Rating

Comedogenic

1/5

Irritancy

0/5

Best applied

Effective range

10%–25%

How It Works

The broadest-spectrum mineral filter, protects from UVA1 through UVB. Sits on the skin and reflects/absorbs UV.

A semiconductor: electrons in zinc oxide absorb UV photons and re-emit them at longer wavelengths or as heat. Also reflects/scatters UV.

pH Range

6.0–8.0

Benefits

Broad-spectrum UV protection
Reef-safe
Suitable for sensitive skin
Anti-inflammatory

Proven For

What the evidence supports.

UV damage preventionSensitive skinPost-procedure

Best For

All skin types

Avoid If

No notable contraindications reported.

Layering Order

10/10

Final occlusive/SPF layer.

Max Safe Concentration

25%

Concentration range in well-formulated products: 10%–25%

Seasonal Use

Year-round daily.

Nutrition Connection

Skin Signals When You Need It

Cumulative photo-damage

For Estheticians & Professionals

Non-nano ZnO chunkier finish; nano ZnO more elegant but check formulation safety standards.

Clinical Evidence

The research behind SPF (Mineral/Zinc Oxide).

2 peer-reviewed studies

Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.

Randomized Controlled Trial

Daily sunscreen use reduced photoaging markers by 24% over 4.5 years compared to discretionary use.

Hughes MCB, Williams GM, Baker P, Green AC
Annals of Internal Medicine, 2013

View Study →

Randomized Controlled Trial

Oral zinc supplementation equivalent to tetracycline antibiotics for mild-to-moderate acne.

Meynadier J
European Journal of Dermatology, 1998

View Study →

Pairs Well With

Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)Niacinamide Hyaluronic Acid

Conflicts With

No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.

Your Skin Compatibility