Ingredient

Non-Nano Zinc Oxide

Positive in 26 products

What is Non-Nano Zinc Oxide?

Non-Nano Zinc Oxide is a mineral compound used primarily in personal care products. It is made by purifying zinc and creating a very fine, non-nano powder that is less likely to penetrate the skin than nano-sized particles.

It is commonly used in sunscreens, skincare, and makeup for its ability to reflect and scatter UV radiation, providing broad-spectrum sun protection. The evidence generally shows that non-nano zinc oxide is safe for topical use and effective as a sunblock.

On labels, 'non-nano' indicates that the particles are larger than 100 nanometers, potentially reducing concerns about absorption into the body through the skin.

Commonly found in: Sunscreen, Skincare, Makeup, Deodorant

Benefits

Provides broad-spectrum UV protection.
Less likely to penetrate the skin compared to nano-particles.

FDA

Non-Nano Zinc Oxide is approved for use as an active ingredient in sunscreens and other topical formulations.

Research

Research supports its effectiveness and safety in topical applications, with no significant concerns about skin penetration.

Vegan

It is an inorganic mineral and is considered vegan-friendly.

Sources: Sunscreen Drug Products for Over-the-Counter Human Use

Scout's take

Benign functional ingredient — low toxicity concern.

More from Scout's analyses

Non-nano zinc oxide is a mineral UV filter that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. It is considered safe for skin contact as it does not penetrate the skin or enter the bloodstream, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

from the analysis of Grounded Beef Tallow Sunscreen Spray SPF 30

Non-nano zinc oxide is a mineral UV filter that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. It is considered safe for skin application and does not penetrate the skin, making it an effective and non-toxic sunblock ingredient.

from the analysis of Van Man's Tallow & Zinc Sunblock SPF 20

The mineral UV filter with the strongest safety profile: non-nano particles stay on the skin's surface as a physical broad-spectrum barrier instead of absorbing, avoiding the systemic-absorption concerns of chemical filters like oxybenzone.

from the analysis of Santa Cruz Paleo Sun Balm