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Let’s get straight to the point: Sunscreen should be part of your daily grooming routine year-round. Period. If that sounds a bit blunt, it’s nothing compared to the awful consequences that follow if you decide to skimp on this essential—and potentially lifesaving—skincare product.
Now that we’ve gotten that reality check out of the way, there might be some pertinent questions about sunscreen that you still don’t have definitive answers to, like: What is mineral sunscreen, why should I use it, and which ones are the best on the market?
Best Mineral Sunscreen For Acne-Prone Skin
Kiehl's Super Fluid Daily UV Mineral Defense SPF 50+
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Simply put, the SPF ingredients in mineral sunscreens—like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide—sit on top of the skin and act as physical barriers that stop the sun’s UV rays from harming the skin’s surface, which is why mineral sunscreens are often referred to as sunblock. On the other hand, components in chemical sunscreens—like oxybenzone and octinoxate—absorb UV rays like a sponge before they can damage the skin.
While the Food and Drug Administration has asserted that both mineral and chemical sunscreens are safe and effective, there may be some added benefits to mineral-based sunblock. For one, unlike chemical sunscreens, mineral sunscreens are inherently broad-spectrum, meaning they offer full protection from both UVA and UVB rays. The other pros of mineral sunscreens are that they’re kinder to sensitive skin and also environmentally-friendly. Plus, whereas chemical sunscreens usually require some waiting time before sun exposure, mineral sunscreens offer immediate protection.
Below, we’ve rounded up the 10 best mineral sunscreens for men to slather on all year.
Read more: Best Men's Moisturizers With SPF
Best Mineral Sunscreen For Acne-Prone Skin
Kiehl's Super Fluid Daily UV Mineral Defense SPF 50+
Now 96% Off
Acne sucks, so while we get that it’s tempting to skip sunscreen when your skin is prone to breakouts, rather opt for a lightweight and fragrance-free mineral sunscreen that’s been specifically created to prevent clogged pores.
Read more: Best Acne Spot Treatments
Best Tinted Mineral Sunscreen
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50
This all-mineral tinted face sunscreen is formulated with La Roche-Posay’s own Cell-Ox Shield technology, which means on top of the broad-spectrum protection comes an added dose of antioxidants and a gorgeous glow.
Read more: Best Makeup for Men
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Best Non-Greasy Mineral Sunscreen
Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 50
Shiny face got you down? Not anymore. Neutrogena’s Dry-Touch tech allows for a mineral sunscreen with a grease-free finish. You also won’t find pesky skin-irritants—like phthalates, parabens and dyes—in this lotion.
Read more: Best Toners for Men
Best Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin
Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Face and Body Sunscreen SPF 50
Now 70% Off
Issues related to sensitive skin run the gamut, so a mineral sunscreen that’s hypoallergenic and dermatologist recommended is sure to cover all your bases. This one by Aveeno offers protection for skin that stretches from head to toe.
Read more: Best Zinc Oxide Sunscreens
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Best Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Face Sunscreen SPF 50
The formula in this 100% mineral sunscreen includes three essential ceramides—molecules that keep skin cells intact—to restore the skin’s outermost barrier and keep cells hydrated. In short: A resilient sunscreen with moisture-locking properties.
Read more: Best Moisturizers with SPF
Best Lightweight Mineral Sunscreen
ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+
Boasting a quick-absorbing and ultralight emulsion makes this mineral sunscreen ideal for daily use no matter the time of year. But there’s more—the brand’s DNA Repairsomes formula, which contains photolyase enzymes, tackles existing sun damage.
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Best Water-Resistant Mineral Sunscreen
Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+
Aussies known the outdoors, so when they make sunscreen, they go all out. This broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen is sweat and water resistant for up to 80 minutes. Oh, and the coolest part? The bottle changes color in UV rays to remind you to reapply sunscreen.
Read more: Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens
Best Non-Residue Mineral Sunscreen
Cetaphil Sheer Face and Body Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Mineral sunscreens often get a bad rap for leaving behind visible residue after application. But with Cetaphil’s Micronized Technology—which aids in the even dispersal of minerals when sunscreen is rubbed in—blending becomes effortless.
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Wearing sunscreen is a must, but it’s truly non-negotiable when slathering it on is as easy as a few spritzes. Classic American sunscreen brand Coppertone makes a mineral SPF that really packs a punch, so no more excuses for that summer sunburn.
Best Anti-Blue Light Sunscreen
Avène Solaire UV Mineral Multi-Defense Sunscreen SPF 50+
You might argue that it’s possible to avoid the sun, but good luck sidestepping the damaging effects on your skin from blue light in our tech-dependent society. So, go ahead, grab an all-purpose anti-pollution mineral sunscreen for your face that’s fit for both indoor and outdoor use.
Read more: Best Blue Light Blocking Glasses