Spf

Zinc Oxide

The only mineral SPF filter with broad-spectrum UVA+UVB — zinc oxide protects from the sun from the first second of application, soothes inflamed skin, and effectively regulates sebum. The FDA classifies it as GRASE (Generally Recognized As Safe and Effective).

SPFUVA+UVBacnemineral

⚠ Use with Caution

Comedogenic Rating

1/5

Irritation Potential

3/5

What is it?

Zinc oxide (ZnO) — an inorganic mineral SPF filter that absorbs, scatters, and reflects UV radiation in the range of 290–400 nm (UVB + UVA I and II). Unlike organic filters, it does not require time for activation — protection begins immediately after application. The FDA classifies zinc oxide as GRASE (Generally Recognized As Safe and Effective) — the only filter in this category along with titanium dioxide. Nanoparticles (nano ZnO) provide a more transparent finish; ECVAM and FDA studies do not confirm systemic penetration through intact stratum corneum. Additional properties: antibacterial and antiseptic action (inhibits C. acnes), anti-inflammatory (inhibits 5-LOX and COX-2), astringent action, and sebum regulation.

SPF products (sunscreens, SPF primers, foundations). Optimal for sensitive, acne-prone, and reactive skin. Often combined with titanium dioxide to enhance SPF and improve texture. Mineral filters are better for children and during pregnancy.

Key Benefits

✦

Broad-spectrum UVA+UVB — the only such mineral filter

Zinc oxide covers the entire UV range of 290–400 nm, including UVA I (340–400 nm), where titanium dioxide is already significantly weaker. This makes zinc oxide the only mineral filter with full broad-spectrum protection in one ingredient. FDA GRASE status confirmed after extensive safety reviews in 2019 and 2021.

◈

Anti-acne and sebum regulation

Zinc oxide inhibits C. acnes by releasing Zn²⁺ ions that damage the bacterial cell membrane. Additionally, it reduces the inflammatory response by inhibiting 5-LOX and PGE2. Astringent properties help to tighten pores and regulate excessive sebum production — especially relevant for oily and combination skin.

✧

Soothing and post-procedure support

The anti-inflammatory properties of zinc oxide have been used in medicine for millennia — from zinc paste for wound healing to modern treatments for dermatitis. In cosmetics: reduces redness in rosacea, reactive skin, and after procedures. Often included in post-procedure products along with centella and panthenol.

Suitable for

sensitive skinacne-prone skinoily skinskin with rosaceafor children and during pregnancy

Main Actions

✓ protection from UVA+UVB✓ anti-acne action✓ skin soothing

Mineral vs chemical SPF

Mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) — immediately active, rarely cause allergies, suitable for sensitive skin. Chemical filters (avobenzone, octinoxate) — require 15–30 minutes for activation, lighter texture, more effective protection at lower concentrations. The modern trend is hybrid formulas with both mineral and chemical filters: combining the advantages of both. Zinc oxide remains the gold standard for sensitive skin, children, and for those who want to avoid chemical filters.

From our blog

Sunscreen Ingredients Explained: Chemical vs. Mineral Filters

Check if this ingredient works for your skin — analyze your full product formula for free.

Analyze your product