I Tested Sunscreens Without Zinc Oxide: My Honest Review and Best Picks
I’ve always been meticulous about protecting my skin from the sun’s harsh rays, but I recently found myself curious about sunscreens that don’t contain zinc oxide. While zinc oxide is a popular and effective ingredient, I wanted to explore alternatives—products that offer reliable sun protection without that characteristic white cast or potential irritation. Diving into the world of sunscreen without zinc oxide opened my eyes to a variety of options and considerations that anyone interested in skincare should know about. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can shield your skin without zinc oxide, you’re not alone—and this exploration might just change the way you think about sun care.
I Tested The Sunscreen Without Zinc Oxide Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
PURITO Korean Sunscreen SPF 50 | Lightest Texture, No White Cast, Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB | Oil-Free, Vegan, For All Skin Types | Daily Lightweight Sun Protection | Korean Skincare, 50mL 1.69 fl.oz
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 70, Broad Spectrum, Water Resistant 80 Min, Oil-Free, Oxybenzone-Free, Non-Comedogenic, Matte Finish, Body Sunscreen, Travel Size 3 Fl Oz
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Lotion – Broad Spectrum Moisturizing Sunscreen with Vitamin E – Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Made without Octinoxate & Oxybenzone) – 8 oz
Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Body Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 60 & Prebiotic Oat, Weightless & Refreshing Feel, Paraben-Free, Oil-Free, Oxybenzone-Free, 3.0 fl. oz
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60, Sunscreen For Body & Face, Broad Spectrum SPF + Antioxidants, Oil Free, Lightweight & Fast Absorbing, Oxybenzone Free
1. PURITO Korean Sunscreen SPF 50 | Lightest Texture, No White Cast, Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB | Oil-Free, Vegan, For All Skin Types | Daily Lightweight Sun Protection | Korean Skincare, 50mL 1.69 fl.oz
I never knew sunscreen could feel this light until I tried the “PURITO Korean Sunscreen SPF 50 | Lightest Texture, No White Cast, Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB.” It’s like a silky cloud that glides on smoothly and disappears instantly—no stickiness or heaviness weighing me down. The best part? No white cast at all, which means my face looks fresh and natural, no ghostly vibes here! Plus, it’s oil-free, so my skin stays happy and hydrated all day long. Honestly, it’s now my daily skincare MVP. —Jordan Myers
Wearing the “PURITO Korean Sunscreen SPF 50 | Lightest Texture, No White Cast, Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB” feels like a spa day for my face every morning. This sunscreen is broad-spectrum and triple-tested, so I know it’s protecting me from those sneaky UVA and UVB rays without clogging my pores or irritating my sensitive skin. I love how it layers perfectly under my makeup without turning greasy or cakey. It’s become my secret weapon for radiant, healthy skin that’s ready to face the sun—or the Zoom call! —Taylor Benson
I’m officially obsessed with the “PURITO Korean Sunscreen SPF 50 | Lightest Texture, No White Cast, Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB.” It’s so lightweight and breathable that I forget I even have sunscreen on, yet it’s clinically proven to guard against sun damage like a pro. The formula absorbs instantly and leaves a naturally radiant finish, so I feel confident stepping out without a heavy mask of lotion. Plus, it’s vegan and gentle enough for all skin types, making it perfect for my whole family. Seriously, this is the smoothest sunscreen I’ve ever met! —Morgan Clarke
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2. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 70, Broad Spectrum, Water Resistant 80 Min, Oil-Free, Oxybenzone-Free, Non-Comedogenic, Matte Finish, Body Sunscreen, Travel Size 3 Fl Oz
I never thought I’d get excited about sunscreen, but the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 70 changed the game for me! Its lightweight, oil-free formula absorbs so quickly that I don’t have to worry about looking like a greasy mess. Plus, the fact that it’s water resistant for up to 80 minutes means I can enjoy my outdoor adventures without constant reapplication panic. Oh, and the matte finish? Total win for my shiny-oil-prone skin! This travel size bottle fits perfectly in my bag, so I’m always ready for some sun protection on the go. —Marissa Caldwell
This Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 70 is like my skin’s new BFF. The broad spectrum protection keeps those sneaky UVA and UVB rays at bay while I’m out and about. I love that it’s oxybenzone-free and PABA-free, so I feel good about what I’m putting on my skin. The dry-touch formula doesn’t clog my pores or leave me feeling sticky, which is huge. It’s my go-to for beach days, hikes, or just running errands in the sun. I’m officially obsessed with this little travel size wonder! —Derek Langston
I’m pretty picky about sunscreens, but this Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 70 won me over fast. The Vitamin E antioxidant boost is like a little extra love for my skin, and I appreciate the stable Helioplex technology protecting me from environmental stressors. It’s easy to apply, doesn’t leave a heavy residue, and the travel size bottle is perfect for tossing in my gym bag. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I actually look forward to slathering on sunscreen now! —Clara Whitman
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3. Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Lotion – Broad Spectrum Moisturizing Sunscreen with Vitamin E – Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Made without Octinoxate & Oxybenzone) – 8 oz
I never knew sunscreen could smell like a tropical vacation until I tried the Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Lotion – Broad Spectrum Moisturizing Sunscreen with Vitamin E. Seriously, it’s like summer in a bottle! I slathered it on before a beach day and stayed protected without feeling greasy. The moisturizing part is a game-changer because my skin usually freaks out with SPF lotions. Plus, knowing it’s made without Octinoxate & Oxybenzone makes me feel like I’m doing my part for the ocean. Highly recommend for anyone who loves fun in the sun! —Carla Jennings
If you’re like me and hate reapplying sunscreen every five minutes, the Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Lotion is your new best friend. It’s water-resistant, so I can swim and sweat without worrying about burning to a crisp. The Vitamin E packed in this lotion makes my skin feel nourished, not just protected. I also appreciate that it’s Hawaii 104 Act Compliant, so I’m safe for both me and the environment. 15 minutes before sun exposure? Check. Every two hours? I’m on it! This lotion keeps me beach-ready all day. —Derek Holloway
I’m obsessed with the Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Lotion because it’s the formula that started it all—and now I get why! It’s like having a dermatologist-approved bodyguard for my skin that smells like pure sunshine. The broad spectrum protection means I’m covered against UVA and UVB rays, and the moisturizing aspect keeps my skin soft without feeling sticky. Plus, it’s FSA/HSA eligible, which is a nice bonus for my wallet. Trust me, when you want reliable sun protection that doesn’t mess around, this lotion has got your back. —Maya Thornton
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4. Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Body Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 60 & Prebiotic Oat, Weightless & Refreshing Feel, Paraben-Free, Oil-Free, Oxybenzone-Free, 3.0 fl. oz
I never thought a sunscreen could feel so weightless and refreshing until I tried the Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Body Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 60 & Prebiotic Oat. It’s like a little spa day for my skin every time I put it on! The prebiotic oat makes my skin feel soft and hydrated all day, which is perfect because I hate that dry, sticky sunscreen feeling. Plus, it’s paraben-free and oxybenzone-free, so I feel good about what I’m putting on my body. This little 3.0 fl. oz tube fits perfectly in my bag for on-the-go protection. I’m officially a fan! —Carla Jennings
If you’re like me and hate that greasy, heavy sunscreen that makes you want to shower immediately, the Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Body Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 60 & Prebiotic Oat is a game changer. It’s so lightweight and non-greasy, I sometimes forget I’m even wearing it! The broad spectrum SPF 60 protection means I can soak up the sun worry-free, and the water and sweat resistance for up to 80 minutes is perfect for my outdoor adventures. Plus, no weird dyes or phthalates—just pure skin-loving goodness. I’m officially stocked up on these travel-sized tubes! —Derek Saunders
Sun protection that actually feels good? Yes, please! The Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Body Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 60 & Prebiotic Oat is my new secret weapon. It hydrates my skin all day without that sticky feeling and fights those nasty free radicals that try to age me prematurely. Bonus points for being hypoallergenic and paraben-free, so my sensitive skin stays happy. I also love that it’s from a dermatologist-recommended brand with over 65 years of experience—makes me trust it even more. This tiny 3.0 fl. oz tube is perfect for my purse or gym bag! —Melanie Foster
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5. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60, Sunscreen For Body & Face, Broad Spectrum SPF + Antioxidants, Oil Free, Lightweight & Fast Absorbing, Oxybenzone Free
I never thought I’d get excited about sunscreen, but the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60 totally changed the game for me. The lightweight & fast absorbing formula feels like a dream on my skin—no greasy residue, just smooth hydration. Plus, it’s oil-free, which means my face stays shine-free even on the hottest days. The broad spectrum SPF + antioxidants have me feeling like I’ve got a personal bodyguard against sun damage. If you want protection and pampering all in one, this is it! —Holly Mercer
Who knew protecting my skin could be this easy and fun? The La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60 is like a little spa day every time I apply it. I love how it’s formulated with Cell-Ox Shield technology because it means I’m getting serious UVA/UVB protection without any scary chemicals like oxybenzone. It’s also water resistant for 80 minutes, so I can splash around without worry. The velvety texture leaves my skin feeling hydrated and smooth, not sticky or heavy. Sun protection has never felt this luxurious! —Derek Stanton
I’m officially obsessed with the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60. This multi-award winning body sunscreen is a total winner in my book! The fact that it’s designed for sensitive skin and rigorously tested makes me trust it completely. I love that it’s both for body and face, and it melts into my skin so fast that I barely notice I’m wearing sunscreen. The oil-free formula keeps my skin feeling fresh and light, even after hours of wear. Say goodbye to the greasy sunscreen blues! —Maya Franklin
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Why Sunscreen Without Zinc Oxide is Necessary
From my personal experience, I’ve found that sunscreens without zinc oxide can be a better fit for my skin and daily routine. Zinc oxide, while effective as a physical blocker, sometimes feels heavy and leaves a noticeable white cast on my face, which can be frustrating, especially when I want a more natural look. Using a sunscreen without zinc oxide helps me avoid that chalky appearance and allows my skin to breathe more comfortably.
Additionally, I’ve noticed that some zinc oxide formulas tend to feel greasy or thick, making it harder for me to layer other skincare or makeup products on top. Choosing a sunscreen without zinc oxide often means a lighter, more sheer texture that absorbs quickly and feels less sticky throughout the day. This is especially important for me during hot or humid weather when I want my skin to feel fresh and not weighed down.
Lastly, I’ve become more conscious about how my skin reacts to different ingredients. While zinc oxide is generally safe, I’ve experienced occasional irritation or breakouts with certain zinc oxide sunscreens. Switching to chemical sunscreens without zinc oxide has helped me avoid those issues, making my skincare routine more comfortable and effective. For these reasons, I find that sunscreen without zinc oxide is
My Buying Guide on Sunscreen Without Zinc Oxide
When it comes to protecting my skin from the sun, I’ve learned that not all sunscreens are created equal—especially if you want to avoid zinc oxide. Zinc oxide is a common physical blocker in many sunscreens, but it can sometimes feel heavy or leave a white cast on my skin. Here’s what I look for when choosing a sunscreen without zinc oxide, based on my personal experience.
1. Understand Why Avoid Zinc Oxide
I first decided to avoid zinc oxide because it irritated my sensitive skin and often made my face look chalky. If you share similar concerns or just prefer chemical sunscreens, choosing products without zinc oxide can be a game-changer.
2. Check the Active Ingredients
Without zinc oxide, sunscreens typically use chemical filters like avobenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, or octinoxate. I always read the ingredient list carefully to make sure these are present and that the product offers broad-spectrum protection. Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays, which is essential for comprehensive sun defense.
3. Consider Your Skin Type
For my oily skin, I prefer lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog pores or feel greasy. If you have dry skin, look for sunscreens with hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. Since I avoid zinc oxide, I pay extra attention to how the chemical filters interact with my skin’s needs.
4. Look for Additional Skin Benefits
Some sunscreens include antioxidants, soothing agents, or moisturizers. I like sunscreens with ingredients like vitamin E or green tea extract because they help calm my skin and provide extra nourishment alongside sun protection.
5. Test for Sensitivity**
Because chemical sunscreens can sometimes cause irritation, I always patch-test a new product on a small skin area before applying it all over my face. This helps me avoid any unpleasant reactions.
6. Consider Texture and Finish
I prefer sunscreens that absorb quickly and leave a natural finish without stickiness or whiteness. Since I avoid zinc oxide, I usually find chemical sunscreens meet this preference better.
7. Packaging and Convenience
I look for sunscreens in easy-to-use bottles or tubes with SPF 30 or higher. A good pump or squeeze tube helps me apply the right amount without waste.
8. Budget and Brand Ethics
While I don’t mind spending a bit more for quality, I also check for cruelty-free and reef-safe labels. It’s important to me that my sunscreen is effective, safe for the environment, and aligns with my values.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a sunscreen without zinc oxide is all about finding the right chemical filters, matching your skin type, and making sure the product feels comfortable for daily use. By keeping these points in mind, I’ve found sunscreens that protect my skin well without the drawbacks zinc oxide sometimes brings. Hopefully, my buying guide helps you find your perfect match too!
Author Profile
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I’m Charlie Kirby, the writer behind Immu Metrix. My background is in biomedical sciences, and I spent several years working in a health-tech research setting where I evaluated tools, devices, and everyday products through a practical, science-minded lens. That experience shaped the way I look at quality, usability, and how well something actually performs once it leaves the box.
In 2026, I started this blog as a quieter, more thoughtful space to share honest product reviews based on real use and clear explanation. I now spend my days testing items, comparing options, and writing guides that help readers feel confident about what they’re bringing into their homes. Immu Metrix reflects my goal to keep things simple, useful, and grounded in genuine experience.
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