Mineral filter

Zinc oxide

Mineral broad-spectrum filter and the best common option for long UVA. Safe on skin, including nano grades, according to TGA. Skip sprays.

Zinc oxide is an inorganic filter that absorbs and scatters UV across UVB and UVA, including the long UVA that titanium dioxide covers less well. Australia sets no maximum concentration. FDA treats it as GRASE at up to 25%. The EU cap is 25%, not in applications that can reach the lungs.

TGA’s nanoparticle review found nano zinc oxide does not go deep into living skin and is unlikely to cause harm when used as directed. The main safety issue is breathing particles, not absorbing a cream through intact skin.

It can leave a white cast, less so in modern micronised or well-dispersed nano formulas. A first-choice filter for sensitive skin, children, and anyone who wants to step around older organic filters now under review.

Sources

Sunscreens with Zinc oxide

Are we sloppy? Tell Gus.