- Sun & Tan
- Best Mineral Sunscreens
The Best Mineral Sunscreens for the Face in 2024
Ask any aesthetician, dermatologist or even doctor - finding (and wearing) a good sunscreen is the best thing you can do for your skin. Mineral sunscreens, in particular, are great for shielding your face from harmful UV rays while maintaining a radiant, healthy complexion. But just like with all other skincare and makeup products, the amount of choice out there can be a little overwhelming. Not all sunscreens are created equal and picking the right one for you isn’t always easy.
Well never fear—the team at Cosmetify is here to answer all your sunscreen questions with our edit on mineral sunscreen.
What is mineral sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreens are also called physical sunscreens because they create a physical barrier on your skin to reflect UV light. Unlike chemical sunscreens, which absorb UV rays, mineral sunscreens deflect them, providing a physical shield that’s less likely to irritate sensitive skin. They’re particularly favoured for their gentle touch and effective sun protection. Ideal for those with sensitive skin or anyone seeking a more natural approach to sun safety, mineral sunscreens blend seamlessly into your routine while delivering a fresh, natural finish.
Mineral vs chemical
The choice between mineral and chemical sunscreens is up to you - it’s as personally tailored as your skincare routine. Mineral sunscreens are known for their minimal irritation and protective barrier that sits on top of the skin. They’re a good choice for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. On the other hand, chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and can sometimes cause irritation for sensitive skin types. When choosing, consider your skin type and sensitivity—mineral options offer a gentler approach, while chemical sunscreens might provide a lighter, more invisible finish. Ultimately, both types offer stellar sun protection; it’s about finding the perfect match for your unique skin needs.
To help you get the immediate and skin-loving protection of a mineralised sunscreen without the signature white cast, we’ve rounded up our top ten best mineral sunscreens for the face and best mineral sunscreens for the body, to keep both healthy and glowing.
What are the best mineral sunscreens?
To help you get the immediate and skin-loving protection of a mineralised sunscreen without the signature white cast, we’ve rounded up our top ten products for face and body to keep you healthy and glowing from head to toe.
Avène Mineral Fluid SPF 50+
£14.46 £22.25 (36% off)Finally, for a lightweight, high-performance sun protector, look no further than Avène’s Mineral Fluid SPF 50. This fluid delivers superior protection against UV rays while keeping your skin feeling fresh and breathable. Ideal for all skin types, it’s the perfect foundation for a sun-safe beauty regimen.
UpCircle Beauty SPF 25 Mineral Sunscreen
£27.49Upcircle’s mineral sunscreen: where sustainable beauty meets serious protection. Enriched with natural ingredients, this SPF 25 wonder provides a reliable shield while nourishing your skin with eco-friendly finesse. Ideal for those who want to protect their complexion and the planet at the same time.
Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Face Lotion SPF 30
£7.57 £8.41 (10% off)For the chance to experience the lush, tropical paradise of Hawaiian Tropic in a bottle, try their Silk Hydration Lotion (SPF 30). This lotion delivers deep hydration while safeguarding your skin from the sun’s harsh rays. It’s a holiday for your face every day—moisturising and protecting with a touch of island flair.
Bioderma Cicabio SPF 50+ Soothing Repairing Care
£8.40 £12.00 (30% off)Bioderma’s Cicabio SPF 50 combines high-level sun protection with skin-soothing benefits. Super for sensitive skin, this formula helps repair and protect, offering both immediate relief and long-term care. It’s like a comforting hug for your face, with SPF protection that’s also top-tier.
Avène Tinted Mineral Fluid SPF 50+
£14.46 £22.25 (36% off)If you’re looking for a double combo, you can achieve a flawless, sun-protected complexion with Avène’s tinted mineral fluid. Offering SPF 50 protection and a hint of colour, this fluid provides a natural-looking finish while shielding your skin from UV damage. Ideal for those who want both coverage and care in one elegant bottle. This option, like several others on our list, is one of the best mineral sunscreens with no white cast.
Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Facial Milk SPF 30
£7.13 £7.92 (10% off)With SPF 30 and a lightweight texture, this milk blends effortlessly into your skin, providing essential sun protection while keeping your face feeling soft and hydrated. Hawaiian Tropic’s Mineral Facial Milk is a gentle experience with each application.
DCL Antioxidant Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
£40.00 £48.00 (17% off)You can combine sun protection with antioxidant benefits using DCL’s Antioxidant Mineral Sunscreen. This SPF 30 formula guards against UV rays while infusing your skin with powerful antioxidants, helping to neutralise free radicals and enhance your complexion in just the way a sunscreen should. A tad more sophisticated choice for skin looking for both defence and renewal.
Institut Esthederm No Sun 100% Mineral Screen Protective Care
£41.60 £53.10 (22% off)This advanced formula also offers mineral-based protection without the white cast, providing a smart alternative to traditional sunscreens. The Institut Esthederm’s No Sun Lotion is perfect for those who want to protect their skin discreetly, it’s high-tech care for the modern skincare lovers.
Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defence SPF 30
£40.90 £49.00 (17% off)This SPF 30 formula offers a sheer, non-greasy finish that feels weightless on your skin. It’s the perfect choice for those who prefer sun protection that seamlessly blends into their daily routine, without any visible trace - step into the world with confidence using Dermalogica’s Invisible Physical Defence.
Benton Mineral Sun Stick SPF 50+
£22.00For on-the-go sun protection, Benton’s Mineral Sun Stick is a game-changer. With SPF 50 and a compact design, this stick delivers robust mineral protection in a travel-friendly format. It’s the ultimate convenience for those who need to shield their skin from the sun’s rays, anytime and anywhere.
So there you have it, the best mineral sunscreens of 2024! Found something you like? Shop our suncream sale to find some of your favourite SPFs for a fraction of their normal price.
If your skin is newly sensitive, check out our Guide to Repairing a Damaged Skin Barrier, then make your routine both sensitive and maturing skin-friendly with these Best Retinol Alternatives.
Written by Gabriella Buckner
Gabriella is a junior content writer with a background in creative writing, content marketing and journalism. She’s passionate about all things makeup and skincare, but especially vegan and cruelty-free beauty that is effective and inexpensive.
Written by Maria
Maria’s background is rooted primarily in creative media and a love for all things written, expressed through experience both online and in print; for creative platforms spanning from music to fashion to beauty.