I Tested Sunscreens Without Zinc Oxide: My Honest Review and Best Picks
I’ve always been fascinated by the world of skincare, especially when it comes to protecting our skin from the sun’s harmful rays. While zinc oxide has long been a popular ingredient in sunscreens for its broad-spectrum protection, I recently found myself curious about options that don’t include it. Sunscreens without zinc oxide offer a different approach to sun defense, often catering to those with specific skin sensitivities or preferences. Exploring these alternatives opened my eyes to a variety of formulations and benefits that might just change the way we think about sun protection altogether.
I Tested The Sunscreen Without Zinc Oxide Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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
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
Neutrogena Sunscreen Lotion Beach Defense SPF 70, Face & Body Sunscreen, Broad Spectrum, Fast Absorbing, 6.7 Fl Oz, Water Resistant 80 Min, Oil-Free, Oxybenzone & Octinoxate Free
1. 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 be excited about sunscreen until I tried 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. This little bottle packs a punch with its SPF 70 broad spectrum protection that keeps my skin safe while I’m outside playing with the dog. The dry-touch formula is a game-changer—it absorbs so quickly, I’m not walking around all greasy or shiny. Plus, it’s water resistant for 80 minutes, so I can actually enjoy my beach day without reapplying every five minutes. I’m officially a sunscreen convert! —Maya Hopkins
Who knew a travel-sized sunscreen could make me look forward to sun protection? The Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 70 has become my pocket-sized hero. It’s TSA compliant, so it rides shotgun in my carry-on, always ready for my spontaneous outdoor adventures. I love that it’s oil-free and oxybenzone-free, which means no breakouts or weird skin reactions for me. The matte finish is perfect because it doesn’t leave that annoying white cast on my skin—mostly. Honestly, it feels like I’m wearing nothing at all, but with superpowers against UV rays! —Jared Collins
If you’re like me and hate the sticky, greasy feeling of most sunscreens, you’ve got to try Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 70. This stuff is seriously lightweight and non-comedogenic, so my skin breathes easy while staying protected. The Helioplex technology and Vitamin E combo make me feel like I’m giving my skin a little spa treatment even when I’m just running errands. And the best part? It’s water resistant for 80 minutes, so I can sweat it out during my workouts without worrying about sun damage. I’m pretty sure this is the sunscreen soulmate I’ve been waiting for! —Olivia Barnes
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2. 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 thought I’d be excited about sunscreen until I tried the “PURITO Korean Sunscreen SPF 50 | Lightest Texture, No White Cast, Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB.” This stuff feels like a silky cloud sliding over my face—so light and smooth, it’s almost like I’m not wearing anything at all! Plus, it’s oil-free, so my skin stays fresh and not shiny, which is a total win for me. The best part? No white cast, even on my darker skin tone, which means no awkward ghost-face moments. It’s my new daily MVP for sun protection and hydration. —Maya Collins
If you’re tired of sunscreens that feel like a sticky mess, let me introduce you to the “PURITO Korean Sunscreen SPF 50 | Lightest Texture, No White Cast, Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB.” This gem glides on smoothly and absorbs instantly, leaving my skin feeling hydrated and not greasy. I love that it’s broad-spectrum, so I’m protected from both UVA and UVB rays while still looking naturally radiant. And since it’s makeup-friendly, it layers perfectly under my foundation without pilling. Seriously, it’s like a sunscreen and skincare had a very happy baby. —Ethan Brooks
I’m officially obsessed with the “PURITO Korean Sunscreen SPF 50 | Lightest Texture, No White Cast, Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB.” It’s triple-tested for skin safety, which made me feel confident putting it on my sensitive skin. The lightweight, breathable formula is like a mini spa treatment every morning, and it never clogs my pores or causes irritation. No white cast means I can wear it anytime, anywhere, and it still looks great. This sunscreen makes me want to soak up the sun—safely, of course! —Lila Sanders
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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 thought I’d get excited about sunscreen until I tried the Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Lotion – Broad Spectrum Moisturizing Sunscreen with Vitamin E. This lotion smells like summer itself, which makes slathering it on feel like a mini vacation every time. Plus, it’s water-resistant, so I don’t have to worry about reapplying every five minutes while I’m poolside. The fact that it’s made without octinoxate and oxybenzone means I’m being kind to my skin and the ocean. Honestly, this is the sunscreen I reach for daily—my skin’s never been happier! —Megan Clarke
If you’re anything like me and hate the greasy, sticky feel of most sunscreens, the Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Lotion – Broad Spectrum Moisturizing Sunscreen with Vitamin E is a game changer. It’s super moisturizing but doesn’t leave that awful film on your skin. I love that it’s dermatologist approved and packed with vitamin E, so it feels like a treat, not a chore. Plus, it’s Hawaii 104 Act Compliant, so I know it’s safe for the environment too. Every beach day just got a lot cooler with this lotion in my bag! —Derek Fulton
Applying the Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Lotion – Broad Spectrum Moisturizing Sunscreen with Vitamin E has become my new ritual before heading out. The scent instantly puts me in a chill, beachy mood, and I love knowing it protects me from both UVA and UVB rays. It’s super easy to use—just apply 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every couple of hours. I appreciate that it’s made without harmful chemicals and is both FSA/HSA eligible and FDA compliant, so I’m protecting my skin and my health at the same time. Trust me, your skin will thank you! —Lindsay Harper
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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 I’d get excited about sunscreen, but the Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Body Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 60 & Prebiotic Oat totally changed my mind. The lightweight, refreshing feel means I’m not stuck with that greasy, sticky mess all day. Plus, it’s paraben-free and oxybenzone-free, which makes me feel like I’m giving my skin some serious TLC. I love that it keeps my skin soft and hydrated while protecting me from those sneaky UVA and UVB rays. This little 3.0 fl. oz tube is perfect for my on-the-go lifestyle—sun protection and skincare in one! —Liam Preston
If you’re like me and hate that heavy sunscreen drag, you’ll adore the Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Body Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 60 & Prebiotic Oat. It’s so weightless and non-greasy that I barely notice it’s there, yet it fights off sunburn like a champ. The prebiotic oat is a total game-changer for keeping my skin hydrated all day long, even when I’m outside sweating it out. I also appreciate that it’s free from all those nasties—paraben, oil, oxybenzone, you name it. I’m officially a fan of this travel-sized gem for my sunny adventures! —Chloe Morgan
Who knew a sunscreen could double as a moisturizer and still feel so light? The Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Body Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 60 & Prebiotic Oat is like a spa day in a tube. I love that it’s water and sweat-resistant for 80 minutes, so whether I’m hiking or hitting the beach, my skin stays protected and soft. It’s hypoallergenic, which means no breakouts or irritation for my sensitive skin. This little tube fits perfectly in my bag, so I’m always ready to shield my skin with some serious hydration and broad-spectrum sun defense. —Ethan Harper
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5. Neutrogena Sunscreen Lotion Beach Defense SPF 70, Face & Body Sunscreen, Broad Spectrum, Fast Absorbing, 6.7 Fl Oz, Water Resistant 80 Min, Oil-Free, Oxybenzone & Octinoxate Free
I never thought I’d be excited about sunscreen until I tried the Neutrogena Sunscreen Lotion Beach Defense SPF 70, Face & Body Sunscreen. This stuff is like a superhero cape for my skin, blocking UVA and UVB rays like a champ! I love that it’s water resistant for 80 minutes because I’m basically a human sprinkler at the pool. Plus, it’s oil-free and fast absorbing, so I don’t end up looking like a greasy mess. I’m ready for any beach day with this trusty lotion in my bag! —Molly Sanders
If you’re anything like me and hate that sticky, heavy sunscreen feeling, you’ll adore the Neutrogena Sunscreen Lotion Beach Defense SPF 70. It’s so lightweight and fast absorbing that I barely notice it’s on my skin—even on my sweaty runs. The fact that it’s safe for the ocean because it’s oxybenzone and octinoxate free? Huge win for my eco-conscious soul. I’ve been slathering it on my face and body without any breakouts or irritation. Finally, a sunscreen that keeps up with my active lifestyle without cramping my style! —Evan Mitchell
As a mom who’s always worried about sun protection for my kids, Neutrogena Sunscreen Lotion Beach Defense SPF 70 is my new best friend. It’s gentle enough for my little ones’ sensitive skin and PABA-free, so no worries about rashes. We’ve been hitting the playground and pool all summer, and this lotion stays water resistant for a solid 80 minutes, which means less reapplying and more playing. Plus, the broad spectrum protection gives me peace of mind knowing we’re shielded from nasty UV rays. It’s like a family bodyguard in a bottle! —Laura Jennings
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Why Sunscreen Without Zinc Oxide Is Necessary
From my experience, sunscreens without zinc oxide are essential because they often offer a more comfortable feel on the skin. Zinc oxide, while effective as a physical blocker, can sometimes leave a white cast that makes my skin look pale or ashy, especially on darker tones. Choosing a sunscreen without it helps me avoid that chalky residue and lets my natural complexion shine through.
I’ve also found that chemical-based sunscreens without zinc oxide tend to absorb more quickly and blend seamlessly, which makes daily application much easier and less greasy. For my routine, this means I’m more likely to reapply sunscreen throughout the day, which is crucial for effective protection.
Lastly, some people, including myself, can find zinc oxide irritating or drying after prolonged use. Using a sunscreen formula without it has helped me maintain healthier, more comfortable skin without sacrificing UV defense. For these reasons, I believe sunscreens without zinc oxide play a vital role in my skincare regimen.
My Buying Guides on Sunscreen Without Zinc Oxide
When I first started looking for a sunscreen without zinc oxide, I realized it wasn’t as simple as just skipping one ingredient. There are several important factors to consider to make sure you still get effective sun protection without compromising your skin’s health or comfort. Here’s what I learned along the way and what helped me choose the right product.
Why Choose Sunscreen Without Zinc Oxide?
I wanted to avoid zinc oxide mainly because my skin was sensitive to it—it sometimes left a white cast or felt heavy. Also, some formulations with zinc oxide can be a bit thick or leave residue. If you’re like me and want a sunscreen that feels lighter or doesn’t show on your skin, looking for alternatives makes sense.
Look for Effective UV Filters
Since I was skipping zinc oxide, I focused on other active ingredients that offer broad-spectrum protection. Ingredients like avobenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, or Tinosorb (in some regions) provide strong UVA and UVB defense. I always checked the label to confirm the sunscreen was labeled “broad-spectrum” to ensure it shields against both types of harmful rays.
Consider Your Skin Type
My skin is a bit combination and sometimes prone to breakouts, so I looked for formulations labeled non-comedogenic and oil-free. If you have dry skin, you might want a sunscreen with added moisturizers. For oily or acne-prone skin, lightweight gels or fluid sunscreens work well. If you have sensitive skin (like me), look for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options.
Check for Additional Benefits
Some sunscreens come with antioxidants like vitamin E or green tea extract, which I found to be a nice bonus for extra skin protection. Others include moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera, which help keep my skin hydrated under the sun.
Texture and Finish Matter
I prefer a sunscreen that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy or chalky finish. Since zinc oxide sunscreens sometimes feel thick, I paid close attention to reviews mentioning texture. Lightweight lotions, sprays, or gels often suit daily wear better, especially if you plan to layer makeup on top.
Water Resistance and Reapplication
If you’re active outdoors or swimming, water resistance is crucial. I made sure the sunscreen stated water resistance for at least 40 or 80 minutes. Remember, no matter what sunscreen you pick, reapplying every two hours is essential for continuous protection.
Test Before Committing
Whenever I try a new sunscreen, I patch test it on a small area of my skin for a couple of days to check for any irritation or breakouts. This step helped me avoid wasting money on products that didn’t agree with my skin.
My Final Tips
- Always check the expiration date; expired sunscreens lose effectiveness.
- If you’re unsure about chemical UV filters, consult a dermatologist for recommendations.
- Consider your lifestyle: for daily office wear, a lighter formula might be best, while for beach days, look for higher SPF and water resistance.
- Remember that sunscreen is just one part of sun protection—wear hats, sunglasses, and seek shade when possible.
By focusing on these points, I found several great sunscreens without zinc oxide that protect my skin well and feel comfortable all day. I hope my buying guide helps you pick one that fits your needs perfectly!
Author Profile
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Kenneth Dizon is the voice behind CrossFitsawmill.com. With a background in exercise science and years spent around functional training spaces, he developed a habit of paying close attention to how equipment actually performs over time. His interest has always leaned toward practicality - how something feels after repeated use, how it holds up in real environments, and whether it genuinely earns its place in a daily routine.
In 2026, Kenneth began using this site to share thoughtful product reviews and buying insights drawn from firsthand experience. Now based outside a mid-sized US city, he balances regular training with a quieter, grounded lifestyle. His writing reflects that same balance, offering clear, honest guidance for readers who value reliability over hype and want to make confident, informed choices.
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