Zinc oxide in skincare
A mineral substance that can be used as a UV filter in sunscreen.
What is zinc oxide?
A mineral substance that can be used as a UV filter in sunscreen. On the ingredient list, you can find the name Zinc Oxide. The dictionary uses both the common name and the INCI name, so you can compare the explanation with the packaging.
What does zinc oxide do for skin and the product?
Contributes to sun protection in a tested sun care product.
UV filters are included in formulations tested for sun protection. The finished sunscreen's SPF and UVA protection tell you more than the name of a single filter. Ordinary balm does not replace sunscreen.
Zinc oxide on a list is not in itself evidence of SPF. Use a tested sunscreen.
How to read the ingredient list
Look at the product's purpose and overall composition. Position on the list does not tell you the exact concentration used or how your skin will react. One substance can serve several purposes in the same product.
Questions about zinc oxide
What does zinc oxide do in skincare?
Contributes to sun protection in a tested sun care product.
What should I know about zinc oxide?
Zinc oxide on a list is not in itself evidence of SPF. Use a tested sunscreen.
Related ingredients
About sources and ingredient names
The European Commission's CosIng database is a reference for cosmetic ingredient names and functions. An entry does not constitute approval of all uses or evidence of a particular product effect.
DermNet: functions of moisturising care · DermNet: cosmetic formulations