The Best Mineral Sunscreens – 2022 Edition

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I really enjoyed writing about my favorite clean sunblocks last summer, that I figured I would make it a tradition. Keep on reading to discover some of my new, go-to SPF moisturizes.

Before we get to my list, here’s a quick refresher regarding sunscreen.

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor.
An SPF number indicates how well it protects skin from UVB rays.
UVB rays cause sunburns. It’s important to know that sunburns can develop into skin cancer.
UVA rays cause skin damage in the form of tanning, wrinkles, and aging.
PA ratings indicate how well a product protects against UVA rays.
Broad-Spectrum sunblocks are always best because they protect against both UVB & UVA rays.
Mineral sunblocks are also known as physical sunscreens. They sit on top of the skin and bounce UV light off and away from the body.
Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin, convert UV light into heat, and then release said heat from the body.
In addition to wearing a broad-spectrum sunblock & remembering to reapply it throughout the day – hats, long sleeve shirts, long pants, and minimal exposure to the sun are the other simple and effective ways you can protect your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet light.
If you have a serious skin condition or health concerns, always consult your dermatologist or doctor about which sun protection products are best for you.

Now that we are caught up on the facts, let’s talk recommendations.

BLISS – Block Star Invisible Daily Sunscreen

The Verdict: This tinted sunblock is incredibly lightweight, non-comedogenic, and absorbs instantly into my skin. The scent is subtle yet pleasant, and the formula helps protect from free radicals through the inclusion of green tea, acai, and blueberry extracts. Bliss Block does not have a ton of moisture and leaves a matte finish which makes this daily sunscreen ideal for makeup-free days, humid weather, and those with oilier complexions. Please note that this formula is not water resistant and therefore, should not be worn while swimming.
White / Purple Cast: None at all. It blends in instantly.
Broad-Spectrum SPF: 30
Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 11.5% and Titanium Dioxide 4.1%
Price: $7.00 for 0.4 oz // $25.00 for 1.4 oz
EWG Rating: 3
Target Clean: Yes, Indeed

NATIVE – Mineral Face Lotion

The Verdict: I’m pretty obsessed with this stuff. The formula is ultra lightweight, unscented, and feels like a real moisturizer when applied. The lotion leaves a subtle matte finish and wears really nicely under my loose powder makeup. It also comes in a convenient, pump style bottle. The only downside to this sunscreen is that it isn’t water resistant so be sure to use another brand of sunblock before swimming or sweating. Due to its matte finish, Native’s sunscreen might not have enough of a moisturizing element for those living in arid climates. Otherwise, it’s a great product for daily use and seems perfect for both normal, combination, and oiler complexions
White / Purple Cast: None! It blends in super fast.
Broad-Spectrum SPF: 30
Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 20%
Price: $16.00 for 1.7 oz
EWG Rating: 2
Target Clean: Yes, Indeed

RAW ELEMENTS – Face + Body Certified Natural Sunscreen

The Verdict: I have known about Raw Elements for quite some time, but finally decided to give it a try this year. All I can say is wow, wow, wow! Since the Raw Elements brand is just over a decade old, I assumed their sunblock would be incredibly thick and impossible to blend into my darker skin which is why I never bought it. But boy, was I wrong! So wrong that I’m kicking myself for not trying out this sunscreen sooner. Compared to the other sunblocks on this list, the formula is definitely thicker, but the texture is ultra creamy and smooth with no mattifying effects. I love this product because it leaves my skin feeling completely moisturized and hydrated. For these reasons, this sunblock is ideal for those with drier complexions, cold weather, arid climates, use under makeup, and for days spent in the water. Last but not least, it comes in an eco friendly tin & has a lovely herbal scent. If you are sensitive to rosemary oil, this sunscreen may not be for you. However, if you love the scent of rosemary – please give this natural sunscreen a try because it really is quite perfect in my opinion. And if this stuff couldn’t get any better, Raw Elements donates to 1% For The Planet and makes all of their products in the USA.
White / Purple Cast: It has a slight purple cast at first but blends in very quickly leaving a completely sheer finish. I even tried it on my arms and legs to make sure it didn’t leave a cast. I was shocked at how quickly it soaked into my skin and how you couldn’t see any zinc oxide under the hairs of my arm after a few minutes. It was a small miracle to say the least!
Broad-Spectrum SPF: 30
Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 23%
Price: $18.99 for 3.0 oz
EWG Rating: 1
DISCOUNT: Use code HILA10 to save 10% Off your purchase.

SOLARA SUNCARE – Mineral Defense Sport Antioxidant Face Sunscreen

The Verdict: I first learned about Solara Suncare via The Detox Market, but recently came across their Go! Collection at Target which is less expensive than their Luxe line. I was drawn to this particular sunscreen because of the high SPF rating and became further intrigued by the inclusion of acerola cherry which is known for its antioxidant properties. The formula itself is unscented, water resistant, and very lightweight. It has a nice creamy consistency upon application but somewhat mattifies after rubbing it in. For this reason – I believe this sunblock would be best for humid climates, oilier complexions, and days without makeup.
White / Purple Cast: Very slight but disappears quickly after a few minutes of rubbing it in.
Broad-Spectrum SPF: 50
Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 20%
Price: $17.00 for 1.7 oz
EWG Rating: EWG Verified Brand
Target Clean: Yes, Indeed

And there you have it folks! I truly hope that you enjoyed the reviews above. And if you need some more recommendations, please check out my 2021 Post for an even longer list of some other, clean SPFs that I truly enjoy.