Zinc oxide is a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen filter that reflects and absorbs UVA and UVB radiation, while ferric (iron) oxide provides tint and helps block visible light, particularly relevant for pigmentary conditions. Together they are commonly used in tinted mineral sunscreens.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| White cast or visible residue on skin | Common | Cosmetic effect of zinc oxide; iron oxides help reduce this by adding tint |
| Skin dryness or mild irritation | Uncommon | Usually related to formulation rather than the minerals themselves |
| Contact dermatitis or allergic reaction | Rare | Mineral filters are generally considered low-sensitizing |
| Clogged pores or acne flare | Rare | Depends on accompanying vehicle/occlusive ingredients |
| Systemic absorption concerns | Very rare | Topical zinc and iron oxides show negligible absorption in studies |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.