Zinc Oxide Sunscreen: Is it the best choice for you?

Zinc oxide is a common ingredient in mineral/physical sunscreens. It reflects and scatters UV radiation, reducing or preventing tanning, sunburn, and premature skin aging. Not only does a zinc oxide sunscreen provide good sun protection, it has a more immediate effect and works well for all skin types.

What is Zinc Oxide?

Zinc oxide sunscreen includes zinc oxide as an active ingredient, the component that does the work of protecting your skin against the sun's rays.

Zinc oxide is a naturally white, powdery mineral with a long history of use in sun protection products, diaper rash creams, calamine lotions, and makeup. It was initially used to treat skin conditions like rashes and poison ivy. Medical research in the 80s widely supported zinc oxide's efficacy in reducing skin damage, and it began making an appearance in sunscreens. Today, zinc oxide sun protection is endorsed by dermatologists everywhere. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of zinc oxide in sunscreen drug products at concentrations up to 25 percent.

What are the benefits of Zinc Oxide Sunscreens?

Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide are a popular choice for sun protection for a number of reasons:

Provide broad spectrum protection

A zinc oxide sunscreen works by forming a barrier that protects skin from UV rays. Zinc oxide is special in its ability to provide defense against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Not all sunscreens protect against both types of UV rays. For context, UVA rays penetrate and damage deep tissues, while UVB rays affect surface tissues. A sunscreen containing zinc oxide covers the entire UVA, UVB and UVC spectrum, fending off all types of UV rays at the same effectiveness.

Do not change in sunlight

Sunscreen can degrade in sunlight through a process called photodegradation, leading to reduced efficacy over time. Zinc oxide is photostable. It is much less likely than a chemical sunscreen ingredient to break down on your skin or in the bottle. So, you can count on a zinc oxide sunscreen to remain stable in the presence of sunlight and provide the desired level of protection. Of course, the amount of sunscreen you apply and its reapplication also determine whether you receive optimal sun protection throughout the day.

To achieve the sun protection factor (SPF) mentioned on a bottle of sunscreen, you should use two tablespoons (enough to fill a shot glass) of sunscreen to the exposed areas of your face and body, and 1/3 to 1/4 teaspoon (one finger from tip to first finger crease) on the face.

Work for all skin types

A sunscreen that has zinc oxide rarely irritates sensitive skin. It is also non-comedogenic, which means it is unlikely to cause breakouts on oily and acne-prone skin.

Not absorbed by your body

A zinc oxide sunscreen sits on the surface of your skin and fends off UV rays. It doesn't penetrate past the first layer of skin, so there is no chance of it getting absorbed by your body. Due to this reason, a zinc oxide sun cream may be safe for young children and pregnant women.

Have an immediate effect

Mineral sunscreens start protecting your skin immediately after application. This is in contrast to chemical sunscreens that need a while to be absorbed into your skin to start working. The recommended wait time between sunscreen application and heading outside is 15 minutes. You can break the rule when you use a zinc oxide sunscreen. Even though zinc oxide has an immediate effect, you should avoid waiting until you're outdoors to apply sunscreen.

Who does Zinc Oxide best suit?

Zinc oxide sunscreen works well for everyone. As it does not penetrate the skin, people with sensitive skin can wear it with confidence. Zinc oxide has anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for soothing irritated skin and discomfort associated with various skin conditions. A sunscreen that has zinc oxide is a good option for those with rosacea.

Sun exposure is among the triggers for melasma and hyperpigmentation. A zinc oxide sunscreen is helpful for anyone with these skin conditions as it blocks UV light at the skin's surface, without producing heat. In contrast, a chemical sunscreen absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat energy, which is otherwise non-damaging but may potentially trigger or aggravate melasma or hyperpigmentation.

Conclusion

Zinc oxide is an excellent defense against the sun. It works better in higher concentrations (20-25%). In general, the more the zinc oxide, the higher the UV protection, regardless of the sunscreen's stated SPF value.

When choosing a zinc oxide sunscreen, check if it's water-resistant and rub-resistant. Most of it will stay on when you sweat, wash your hands repeatedly, or if your skin is rubbed by clothing. If you have an oily complexion, go for oil-free and matte sunscreens. For dry skin, a mineral sunscreen with hydrating ingredients like glycerin, Vitamin C, green tea extract, or peptides can provide a moisturizing effect.