Top Rated Mineral Sunscreens for Face: European Brands

As the importance of sun protection continues to gain recognition, more individuals are seeking safer and more sustainable options to shield their skin from harmful UV rays. Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, have emerged as a popular choice for those looking for effective protection without compromising on safety or environmental impact. As I am from Europe myself and have been using EU sunscreen/skincare brands mostly my whole life, in this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the top rated mineral sunscreens by well-known European brands. I have noticed that mineral sunscreens are not as widely used and available as chemical ones in Europe (as they are more rare, they also tend to be more expensive than chemical SPFs too). However, you can still find some god options!

Based on my experience and research, I have selected top mineral sunscreens from 4 of my favorite European skincare brands. Let me know if you would like me to do a review video of any of these sunscreens on my Instagram page!

_______________________________

What are mineral sunscreens?

Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, harness the power of naturally occurring minerals to provide protection against the sun's harmful UV rays. Unlike chemical sunscreens, which use chemical (also sometimes referred to as organic) filters, mineral sunscreens use such non-organic ingredients as filters, which work by partly reflecting and partly absorbing the UV rays and transforming them to heat energy (similar to chemical filters).

The primary active ingredients in mineral sunscreens are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, both of which are naturally derived minerals. These minerals possess unique properties that make them effective at blocking UV radiation across the entire spectrum, including both UVA and UVB rays. Zinc oxide, in particular, is highly regarded for its broad-spectrum protection and photostability, making it a popular choice for mineral sunscreen formulations.

One of the key advantages of mineral sunscreens is their gentle and non-irritating nature, making them suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and reactive skin. Unlike chemical sunscreens, which can sometimes cause irritation or allergic reactions, mineral sunscreens are less likely to cause skin sensitivity, making them ideal for individuals with delicate or easily irritated skin.

Another notable benefit of mineral sunscreens is their eco-friendly and reef-safe properties. Unlike certain chemical UV filters, which have been linked to coral bleaching and environmental damage, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are considered safe for marine ecosystems, making mineral sunscreens a more sustainable choice for both your skin and the environment.

Mineral sunscreens by URIAGE

1. BARIÉSUN PROTECTIVE CREAM SPF50+ MINERALE

This has been labelled as ideal for use on body by Uriage, however, I have used it on my body as well as face and found it very suited for both uses. It does leave a mild white cast as most non-tinted mineral sunscreens, however, it can be fixed with a little foundation or BB cream on top.

✅Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection

✅100% mineral: both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide filters

✅Water resistant

✅Hypoallergenic

✅Non-comodogenic

✅Creamy and moisturizing texture

✅Fragrance-free

✅Alcohol-free

2. BABY'S 1ST SKINCARE - 1ST MINERAL CREAM SPF50

✅Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection

✅100% mineral: both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide filters

✅Water resistant

✅Fragrance-free

✅Suited for kids/babies

✅Suited for use on both face and body

Mineral sunscreens by AVENE

3. SPF 50+ Mineral Fluid

✅Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection

✅100% mineral: both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide filters

✅Water resistant

✅Contains Provitamin E

✅A light, fluid texture with a matte finish

✅Leaves no white film

✅Tinted version available as well: beige

✅Fragrance-free

Mineral Sunscreens by BIODERMA

4. Photoderm Cover Touch SPF 50+

✅Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection

✅100% mineral: both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide filters

✅Water resistant

✅Contains Glicolyc and Salycic acid, provides sebum-control

✅A light, fluid texture with a matte finish

✅Non-comodogenic, oil-free

✅Suited for oily and combination skin

✅Fragrance-free

✅Tinted: available in different shades

5. Photoderm NUDE Touch SPF 50+ Teinte Très claire

Although it says that it has a matte finish, I personally found it left a glowing finish, not a matte one on my skin. I have oily skin, so this sunscreen felt a little greasy on my skin, however, after applying a little amount of powder, it looked and felt just right! The sunscreen contains shea butter which is great for moisturizing the skin, however, for severely acne prone and oily skin it could be too much to handle.

✅Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection

✅100% mineral: both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide filters

✅Water resistant

✅Fluid texture with a silky, matte finish

✅Suited for oily and combination skin

✅Fragrance-free

✅Tinted: available in 3 different shades (the light option was perfect on my skin)

Mineral Sunscreens by ISDIN

6. Fotoprotector ISDIN Fusion Fluid MINERAL SPF 50

✅Broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection

✅100% mineral: both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide filters

✅Water resistant

✅Perfect for very sensitive skin

✅Tinted versions available as well (with party mineral/partly chemical filters)

✅Fragrance-free

7. Fotoprotector ISDIN UV Mineral Brush SPF 50+

✅Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection

✅100% mineral: both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide filters

✅Powder type - easy to apply with the brush

✅Includes blue light filters

✅No color, adapts to any skin tone and can be applied over makeup

✅Matte finish

Conclusion

From the broad-spectrum protection provided by mineral filters - zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, to the gentle formulation suitable for even the most sensitive skin types, mineral sunscreens have proven their worth as reliable guardians against sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. Moreover, their reef-safe properties make them a responsible choice for preserving marine ecosystems, aligning with the growing movement towards environmentally conscious skincare.

Whether you prioritize a lightweight texture, a tinted formula, or added skincare benefits, there are plenty of European mineral sunscreen out there suited even for the most sensitive skin. Let me know if you would like to see a review of other types of European sunscreens!

You might also enjoy:

Sun Protective Foundation: Tinted Sunscreens

Sun Protection for Lips: Best SPF Review

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen?

UV Radiation and Skin Protection Indoors

UV Radiation and Aging: Explained For Beginners