The Best Mineral Sunscreens – 2023 Edition

This is the third summer in a row that I am posting an article about mineral sunscreen. If you’re a fan of the Clean Beauty section of my blog, you may already know that I wear sunblock practically every day. So if, you too, are slightly obsessed about protecting your skin from the sun or just simply looking for some good recommendations, keep on reading to discover which mineral-based SPF moisturizes I am currently using.

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.

URSA MAJOR – Force Field SPF 30

The Verdict: Ursa Major has done it again as I have completely fallen in love with their newest SPF moisturizer! I wasn’t a fan of their older, now discontinued daily face balm since it did not offer any sun protection. However, this latest product is a dream come true! The formula is lightweight, incredibly hydrating, and perfect for daily use under makeup. In addition to the zinc oxide that blocks the sun, Force Field contains Lingonberry Stem Cells and Eldoc Flower which both help to improve skin texture. Every time I apply this moisturizer, I feel like a million bucks. It’s that good! And yes, this SPF is indeed a touch pricey but in my opinion, it’s well worth the cost. I think it’s also worth mentioning that Ursa Major is a Certified B Corp and Certified Plastic Negative via their partnership with rePurpose Global. They are continuously striving to make their products as sustainable as possible which is why I love their company and their glass bottle packaging so much.
White / Purple Cast: None! This magic formula blends into my darker skin almost instantly.
Broad-Spectrum SPF: 30
Water-Resistant: No
Active Ingredient: Non Nano Zinc Oxide 14.95%
Price: $58.00 for 1.7oz

NATIVE – Mineral Face Lotion

The Verdict: I’m a big fan of this product. The formula is ultra lightweight, unscented, and feels like a real moisturizer when applied. The lotion leaves a subtle matte finish and wears nicely under my loose powder makeup. It also comes in a convenient, pump style bottle. 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 is perfect for both normal, combination, and oiler complexions.
White / Purple Cast: None! It blends in quite quickly.
Broad-Spectrum SPF: 30
Water-Resistant: No
Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 20%
Price: $16.00 for 1.7 oz
EWG Rating: 2
Target Clean: Yes, Indeed

RAW ELEMENTS – Face + Body Sunscreen

The Verdict: I have known about Raw Elements for quite some time, but finally decided to give it a try last 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 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 nicely 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
Water-Resistant: Yes
Active Ingredient: Non Nano Zinc Oxide 23%
Price: $19.49 for 3.0 oz
EWG Rating: 1
DISCOUNT: Use code HILA10 to save 10% Off your purchase.

And just for good measure, let me mention one last item. It’s not a moisturizer but a fabulous, mineral-powdered sunscreen that I wear over my makeup when reapplying a lotion just isn’t an option.

BRUSH ON BLOCK – Translucent Mineral SPF Powder Sunscreen

The Verdict: I use my Brush On Block so often that one of my oldest friends bought me a new one for my birthday this past year. She clearly knows what I like! If you wear makeup and are in the sun often, this translucent mineral SPF powder is a true game changer! The applicator is slender, and the powder comes out nicely. I keep this product in my purse and use it often during days spent out in the sun. It’s also worth mentioning that my boyfriend really loves this stuff as well because he doesn’t have to get traditional sunscreen all over his hands. Oh and let’s not forget that Brush On Block is water resistant up to 80 minutes, reef-friendly, and perfect for your scalp, neck, and the back of your hands as well. I genuinely love this powdered sunscreen and cannot recommend it enough! They also have a handy dandy refill cartridge.
Broad-Spectrum SPF: 30 PA+++
Water-Resistant: Yes
Active Ingredient: Titanium Dioxide 15% and Zinc Oxide 12%
White / Purple Cast: None! It’s slightly tinted but blends into skin instantly.
Price: $34.00 for 0.12 oz

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 previous sunscreen posts for an even longer list of some other, clean SPFs that I truly enjoy.