Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide is a gentle, mineral-based ingredient widely used in UK sunscreens, tinted moisturisers and calming skincare products. It sits on the skin’s surface to provide broad-spectrum protection while helping to soothe and protect. You’ll often find it in baby nappy creams, mineral make-up and after-sun lotions.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, zinc oxide functions as a physical UV filter, reflecting and scattering both UVA and UVB rays away from the skin. Its mild astringent and soothing properties also make it a popular choice in formulations designed to reduce redness and protect the skin barrier. Because it is not absorbed into the bloodstream, it is a preferred mineral sunscreen active for sensitive skin and is commonly used in clean-beauty and reef-friendly products available on the UK high street.
Key benefits
- Provides broad-spectrum mineral sun protection
- Calms and soothes irritated or reddened skin
- Helps protect the skin barrier
- Non-comedogenic and suitable for blemish-prone skin
- Offers gentle coverage in mineral foundations and tinted creams
- Widely used in nappy creams and after-sun products
Best for
sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, rosacea-prone skin, eczema-prone skin, all skin types
Where it comes from
Zinc oxide is an inorganic mineral compound obtained from the naturally occurring mineral zincite, which is refined and purified for cosmetic use.