Micronised zinc oxide is a finely milled inorganic sunscreen agent that provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection by reflecting, scattering, and absorbing ultraviolet radiation. It is widely used in sun-protection and mineral-based skincare formulations.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
White cast or residue on skin | Common | Even micronised grades can leave a visible film, especially on darker skin tones. |
Mild dryness or skin tightness | Uncommon | Occasionally reported due to the formulation base or absorbent particle properties. |
Contact irritation or stinging | Rare | Zinc oxide is generally well tolerated; irritation is usually linked to other formulation components. |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | True allergy to zinc oxide is uncommon; most reactions trace to coatings, fragrances, or preservatives. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.