Neutrogena Purescreen+ Tinted Mineral Face Sunscreen Medium Deep 1.1 fl oz
Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This sunscreen features mineral UV filters, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which are considered safe and effective for broad-spectrum protection. The formulation includes beneficial ingredients like tocopheryl acetate, a form of Vitamin E, which provides antioxidant benefits. However, the presence of phenoxyethanol as a preservative, while generally safe in low concentrations, can cause irritation for some individuals, slightly impacting the overall score.
Key ingredients 23
Zinc OxideGood
Zinc Oxide is a mineral sunscreen agent known for its broad-spectrum UV protection. It is considered safe and effective in cream and lotion forms. It is less likely to cause skin irritation compared to chemical sunscreens.
Risks
May leave a white cast on the skin, especially in higher concentrations.
Benefits
Offers excellent protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Tocopheryl AcetateGood
Tocopheryl Acetate is a form of Vitamin E, known for its antioxidant properties. It helps to protect the skin from free radical damage and is considered beneficial in skincare. It is widely used and considered safe in cosmetics.
Risks
Rarely, it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Provides antioxidant protection and supports skin health.
Iron OxidesGood
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
Benefits
Provides color and coverage in cosmetic formulations.
Titanium DioxideNeutral
Titanium Dioxide is a mineral sunscreen agent that provides broad-spectrum UV protection. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics. However, its effectiveness can be reduced if not properly formulated.
Risks
Inhalation of nanoparticles can be a concern, though this is less relevant in cream formulations.
Benefits
Provides effective physical UV protection without chemical filters.
WaterNeutral
Water is commonly used as a solvent in cosmetic formulations. It helps to dissolve other ingredients and provides a base for the product. It is generally safe and non-irritating.
Benefits
Acts as a solvent and helps in the application of the product.
IsohexadecaneNeutral
Isohexadecane is a synthetic ingredient used as an emollient and texture enhancer. It provides a silky feel and helps in the even application of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Improves the texture and spreadability of the product.
Dicaprylyl CarbonateNeutral
Dicaprylyl Carbonate is an emollient that provides a light, non-greasy feel. It enhances the spreadability of the product and is generally well-tolerated. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
Rarely, it may cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Contributes to a smooth application and pleasant skin feel.
Isopropyl PalmitateNeutral
Isopropyl Palmitate is an emollient that helps to soften and smooth the skin. It is derived from palm oil and is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics. It enhances the spreadability of the product.
Risks
Can potentially clog pores in acne-prone skin.
Benefits
Improves skin texture and product application.
Isononyl IsononanoateNeutral
Isononyl Isononanoate is an emollient that provides a light, non-greasy feel. It is used to improve the texture and spreadability of cosmetic products. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Enhances the sensory feel and application of the product.
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 DimethiconeNeutral
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone is a silicone-based surfactant and emulsifier. It helps to stabilize formulations and improve texture. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Improves product stability and application.
C12-15 Alkyl BenzoateNeutral
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is an emollient that provides a silky feel and enhances product spreadability. It is commonly used in sunscreens and is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture of the product.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Contributes to a smooth application and pleasant skin feel.
Sodium ChlorideNeutral
Sodium Chloride, or table salt, is used as a thickening agent in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and stability of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
Excessive use may lead to skin dryness.
Benefits
Enhances product viscosity and stability.
Polyhydroxystearic AcidNeutral
Polyhydroxystearic Acid is used as an emulsifier and thickening agent in cosmetics. It helps to stabilize formulations and improve texture. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Improves product stability and application.
TriethoxycaprylylsilaneNeutral
Triethoxycaprylylsilane is a silicone-based ingredient used as a surface treatment for pigments. It helps to improve the dispersion and stability of pigments in formulations. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Enhances pigment dispersion and product stability.
Sorbitan SesquioleateNeutral
Sorbitan Sesquioleate is an emulsifier used to stabilize formulations. It helps to blend oil and water components in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Improves product stability and texture.
EthylhexylglycerinNeutral
Ethylhexylglycerin is used as a preservative and skin conditioning agent. It enhances the efficacy of other preservatives and is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It is generally well-tolerated.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Improves preservation and provides skin conditioning benefits.
DimethiconolNeutral
Dimethiconol is a silicone-based polymer used for its conditioning and smoothing properties. It forms a protective barrier on the skin, reducing moisture loss. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause build-up on the skin with prolonged use.
Benefits
Provides a silky, smooth texture and helps retain moisture.
Aluminum HydroxideNeutral
Aluminum Hydroxide is used as a thickening agent and opacifier in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and appearance of the product. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Benefits
Enhances product texture and appearance.
Dimethicone CrosspolymerNeutral
Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a silicone-based ingredient used to improve texture and spreadability. It provides a smooth, silky feel and is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It helps to enhance the sensory experience of the product.
Risks
May cause build-up on the skin with prolonged use.
Benefits
Improves texture and provides a silky feel.
Stearic AcidNeutral
Stearic Acid is a fatty acid used as an emulsifier and thickening agent. It helps to stabilize formulations and improve texture. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Improves product stability and texture.
Xanthan GumNeutral
Xanthan Gum is a natural thickening agent used to stabilize formulations. It helps to improve the texture and consistency of the product. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Benefits
Enhances product viscosity and stability.
DimethiconeBad
Occlusive silicone film-former — flagged under clean-beauty doctrine.
Risks
May cause build-up on the skin with prolonged use.
Benefits
Provides a silky, smooth texture and helps retain moisture.
PhenoxyethanolBad
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetics. It is effective but can cause irritation in some individuals. It is considered safe in low concentrations but has raised concerns about potential toxicity.
Risks
May cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Provides effective preservation against microbial contamination.
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