Should Your Sunscreen Have Zinc?
We love when patients ask for our top skincare recommendation and our answer is always the same: sunscreen. But not just any sunscreen—medical-grade mineral-based sunscreen.
If you’ve been wondering whether zinc in sunscreen is worth the hype, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Emily Kirby explains why this mineral ingredient has earned its place as the gold standard in sun protection.
What Makes Zinc Oxide Special?
Zinc oxide is a physical (or mineral) sun block ingredient that works differently from chemical sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them to heat. Zinc oxide sits on top of your skin and reflects harmful rays away from your face. Think of it as a protective shield that blocks UV damage.
Zinc oxide provides immediate broad-spectrum protection (meaning it protects you from UVA and UVB rays). This is crucial to skin health because:
- UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and cause premature aging, wrinkles, and sun spots
- UVB rays cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer risks
Many chemical sunscreens only protect against one type of UV ray.
Zinc vs. Chemical Sunscreens
| Zinc Oxide Sun block | Chemical Sunscreen |
| Works immediately upon application | Requires 20-30 minutes to become effective |
| Provides broad-spectrum protection | May only protect against UVA or UVB |
| Less likely to cause skin irritation | Can cause allergic reactions or sensitivity |
| Safe for sensitive skin and children | May not be suitable for all skin types |
Why Medical-Grade Sun Block Makes a Difference
Not all zinc sunscreens are created equal. Medical-grade sun block formulations offer several advantages over drugstore options:
Superior Zinc Concentration and Quality
Medical-grade skincare brands use higher concentrations of micronized zinc oxide to provide better coverage without the heavy, white residue that older zinc formulations were known for. Micronized zinc oxide particles are refined to spread more evenly and feel lighter on your skin.
Enhanced Stability
Zinc oxide in medical-grade formulations maintains its protective properties longer in the bottle and on your skin for more reliable protection throughout the day.
Better Skin Compatibility
Medical-grade zinc oxide sunscreens are formulated to work well under makeup and with other skincare products. They are also less likely to cause irritation or breakouts and are suitable for sensitive skin types.
The Colorescience Advantage
At Kalos, our Fort Worth medical spa, we recommend Colorescience® sunscreens because of their effective zinc-based sun protection. These products offer several unique benefits:
- Brush-on application options that make reapplication effortless (even over makeup)
- Tinted options that provide coverage while protecting
- Lightweight formulas that do not feel heavy or greasy
- Water-resistant protection for exercise and the Texas heat
Choose a zinc-based sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. While SPF 15 blocks about 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks 97%. The difference becomes significant with daily use over time.
“I cannot say enough great things about Kirby Plastic Surgery and Kalos Med Spa! From start to finish, they have been absolutely amazing. My surgery results turned out better than I could have imagined, and the entire team made me feel comfortable and confident throughout the process. The med spa side is just as incredible, they take such great care of my skin with customized regimens, and my Dysport treatments are always perfect. The whole staff is so warm, knowledgeable, and welcoming. I truly love all the girls in the office. If you’re looking for a place that combines skill, professionalism, and genuine care, this is it. Highly recommend.”
The Long-Term Investment in Your Skin
Consistent use of quality zinc sunscreen is one of the most effective anti-aging strategies. Patients who prioritize sun protection in their 20s, 30s, and 40s come to us with significantly less sun damage, fewer age spots, and better skin texture than those who skip or are inconsistent with SPF.
While professional skin treatments for sun damage address these imperfections, prevention with medical-grade sunscreen is always more effective (and more affordable) than correction.
Medical-Grade Skincare in Fort Worth
Our team of licensed medical skincare professionals at Kalos Medical Spa evaluates your skin type, lifestyle, and concerns to recommend the most appropriate medical-grade skincare products and zinc sunscreen for your needs. Call or text 817-292-4200 to schedule a consultation. Your future self will thank you for the protection you provide today.
