Sunscreen is essential for protecting you against sun exposure. While it’s always best to wear sunscreen of any kind, the truth of the matter is that not all formulas are created the same.
Keep reading to learn what FDA’s review actually says about common sunscreen ingredients and how to choose a sunscreen you’ll wear every day.
IS SUNSCREEN SAFE?
Generally speaking, yes, sunscreen is a protective measure everyone should use. You need UV protection every day to prevent you from getting burned and experiencing the side effects of sun damage.
However, there are a number of ingredients—including oxybenzone, octinoxate, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, and avobenzone—commonly found in big-name formulas that FDA has asked for more data on. Some people prefer to skip them while that review continues.
WHAT ARE THE SUNSCREEN INGREDIENTS TO CONSIDER AVOIDING?
Consumers are tasked with navigating through the many options to find the best sunscreen to suit their needs.
Unfortunately, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been working for years to modernize its sunscreen standards. In 2019, it proposed a new rule to update safety and effectiveness requirements.
In 2021, FDA issued a proposed order to update the GRASE (generally recognized as safe and effective) status of 16 active ingredients. In 2026, FDA finalized two parts of that work: it added a new active, bemotrizinol, a broad-spectrum filter FDA found generally recognized as safe and effective at up to 6%, in June, and in September it removed two older actives, PABA and trolamine salicylate, which are rarely used today. The rest of the 2021 proposal is still pending.
“When people hear that FDA wants more data on an ingredient, they often assume it’s been found harmful. That isn’t what it means. It means the evidence isn’t complete yet. I’d rather give people the facts and let them choose, and for sensitive clients, mineral filters have been the simplest answer.” — Alex Lang, Director of Global Education
For now, though, you’ll need to read the labels on every product you pick up to see what ingredients it contains and whether they’re something you’re comfortable using on your body.
Clean beauty fans choose our top-rated sunscreen products for effective, everyday mineral protection.
Sunscreen Ingredients You May Want to Avoid
FDA has proposed that zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are generally recognized as safe and effective. For 12 other filters, FDA has asked for more safety data. That's a request for information, not a finding of harm. Those 12 filters are listed below, along with aminobenzoic acid (PABA) and trolamine salicylate, which FDA removed in 2026:
- Oxybenzone
- Avobenzone
- Homosalate
- Octinoxate
- Octocrylene
- Cinoxate
- Dioxybenzone
- Ensulizole
- Meradimate
- Padimate O
- Sulisobenzone
- Octisalate
- Aminobenzoic acid
- Trolamine salicylate
If you'd rather skip these filters while FDA's review continues, an all-mineral sunscreen is a simple alternative.
We’ll dive deeper into the 14 ingredients mentioned above and discuss some of the possible concerns associated with them.
Oxybenzone
Oxybenzone has long been one of the most common chemical filters in US sunscreens, though many brands have since moved away from it.
Oxybenzone gets attention because it’s readily absorbed by the skin, enters the bloodstream, and circulates throughout the body, at levels above the threshold where FDA asks for more safety testing. FDA has been clear that absorption doesn't mean an ingredient is unsafe, and it continues to recommend sunscreen use. Additionally, when it sheds off our skin and makes its way into the water, it may affect marine life.
Here are some facts about oxybenzone that you may want to consider when sunscreen shopping:
- Some lab and animal studies have raised questions about hormone effects; FDA has asked for more data.
- It may cause allergic skin reactions.
- Hawaii has banned the sale of sunscreens with oxybenzone or octinoxate since January 2021, and Maui County has allowed only mineral sunscreens since October 2022. And it's not just the US — regions across the world are increasingly restricting certain sunscreen chemicals to protect marine ecosystems. See which sunscreen bans are currently in effect globally.
To recap, oxybenzone is absorbed through the skin, has raised hormone questions in lab and animal studies, can cause allergic or photoallergic reactions in some people, and is restricted in Hawaii over concerns for marine life.
Octinoxate
Octinoxate is a UV filter that can be absorbed into the skin. It’s often paired with oxybenzone, and FDA has asked for more safety data on it. Hawaii’s 2021 ban covers octinoxate as well.
You can review the concerns that are outlined to determine whether you want to continue using products with octinoxate.
Avobenzone
Avobenzone is typically found in a variety of chemical sunscreens, including lip balms with SPF and baby sunscreen. It’s one of the few UVA filters available in the US, but it isn’t stable on its own. Sunlight can cause it to break down if it doesn’t have another chemical to stabilize it, which reduces its protection. FDA has asked for more safety data on it.
Homosalate
Homosalate is a chemical commonly found in sunscreens and several products containing SPF because it can absorb ultraviolet (UV) rays, effectively preventing them from reaching your skin.
The EU now allows homosalate only in face products (not sprays), at up to 7.34%, as of July 2025. Currently, the FDA allows a homosalate concentration of 15%.
For more information about this rule, read what the European Commission has to say on the matter.
Octocrylene
Octocrylene is a sunscreen additive often used in combination with avobenzone to absorb UV rays. However, octocrylene can also break down, and studies have found it can degrade into benzophenone over time. The EU caps octocrylene at 10%.
According to Yale Medicine, approximately 2,400 sunscreen products have octocrylene in them. Learn more about what they have to say about the potential risks associated with this ingredient.
Cinoxate
Cinoxate prevents the breakdown of other unstable chemicals in sunscreen while also absorbing potent UV rays. FDA has asked for additional safety data on cinoxate.
Dioxybenzone
Dioxybenzone, or Benzophenone-8, is a UV filter that’s rarely used in US sunscreens today. FDA has asked for more safety data on it.
Ensulizole
Ensulizole is a water-soluble UVB filter often used in lighter-feeling formulas. FDA has asked for more safety data on it.
Meradimate
Meradimate (methyl anthranilate) is one of the filters FDA has asked for more data on. It isn't an approved UV filter in the EU.
Additionally, meradimate has been found to be a weak UVA blocker and doesn’t block UVB rays.
Padimate O
Padimate O is a byproduct of para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA)—a once-common sunscreen ingredient that can be poisonous in large amounts and is no longer in use because of allergic dermatitis and photosensitivity issues.
Sulisobenzone
Sulisobenzone (benzophenone-4) is a sunscreen ingredient that can irritate the skin and eyes in some people. FDA has asked for more safety data on it.
Octisalate
Octisalate is a common sunscreen ingredient used to stabilize avobenzone. FDA has asked for additional safety data on octisalate.
Aminobenzoic acid
Aminobenzoic acid (PABA) was once common in sunscreen but is rarely used today. In September 2026, FDA finalized its removal from the sunscreen monograph, effective September 2027.
Trolamine salicylate
Trolamine salicylate has been used in sunscreen due to its ability to absorb UV light. In September 2026, FDA finalized its removal from the sunscreen monograph, effective September 2027.
While the list above can be a bit intimidating, that doesn’t mean you should panic. The first step to finding the right sunscreen for you is recognizing which sunscreen actives you’d prefer to avoid.
When considering which sunscreen ingredients to avoid, it’s also important to note that risks may vary in severity depending on usage. Additionally, some of these ingredients require more research on their safety and efficacy, which is one of the reasons they may be under review.
You can learn more about these ingredients and the potential health risks that may be associated with them by reviewing the concerns highlighted by the FDA.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CHEMICAL AND MINERAL SUNSCREEN?
What sunscreen you choose to use is up to you. Using any sunscreen and making sure you’re protected from UV rays is better than going without. However, if you want to make an informed decision when purchasing sunscreen, here’s what you should know about the differences between chemical and mineral sunscreen.
When comparing mineral vs. chemical sunscreen, you want to consider how they interact with your skin and what they’re made from.
It is commonly understood that chemical sunscreen works like a sponge; the active ingredients are absorbed by the skin, which then convert UV rays to heat. Mineral sunscreen actives stay mostly on the surface of the skin and absorb, and to a lesser extent scatter, UV rays (they’re sometimes called physical sunscreens).
Mineral sunscreens generally have two primary active ingredients: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. The FDA has proposed GRASE status for sunscreens containing only these active ingredients.
On the other hand, chemical formulas use a variety of organic filters, some of which can be absorbed through the skin.
As we mentioned above, concerns have been raised over the years regarding some of these chemicals, and FDA has asked for more data on many of these ingredients.
In particular, chemical spray formulas are not recommended for the following reasons:
- Spray application is less effective than lotion, potentially resulting in missed spots and sunburns.
- FDA has asked for more data on spray sunscreens, including inhalation, and advises never spraying directly on the face. Several aerosol sunscreens were voluntarily recalled in 2021-2022 after benzene, a contaminant rather than a sunscreen ingredient, was detected.
- Many spray sunscreens contain flammable ingredients, such as alcohol, and the FDA advises consumers to stay away from open flames if used, even after the initial application.
WHAT ARE MINERAL SUNSCREEN INGREDIENTS?
Protecting yourself from the sun is essential. If you prefer mineral filters, here’s what to look for.
Shop all-mineral SPF from Colorescience, made only with all-mineral sunscreen actives that you can feel good about using.
The active ingredients in our mineral sunscreens are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
Zinc oxide
Zinc oxide provides broad-spectrum protection against UVB and both short- and long-wave UVA rays. It’s often described as the broadest-spectrum single UV filter available in the US. It's widely used in formulas for sensitive skin. Zinc also has a long history in soothing skincare, from diaper creams to post-procedure care. Even with bemotrizinol now on the market, zinc oxide is one of only two actives FDA has proposed as generally recognized as safe and effective, and it’s the filter we build our formulas around. Our patented EnviroScreen® Technology coats zinc oxide and titanium dioxide and pairs them with antioxidants and iron oxides to help defend against UVA/UVB rays, blue (HEV) light, infrared radiation, and pollution.
Titanium Dioxide
This mineral is non-comedogenic and very gentle on sensitive skin. Titanium dioxide is especially effective against UVB and short-wave UVA rays, and it’s often paired with zinc oxide for broader coverage.
Colorescience also offers a number of skincare treatments and mineral cosmetics packed with all-mineral sunscreen ingredients, which makes it effortless to protect your delicate complexion, prevent the signs of aging, and look radiant every day.
Clean, mineral-based face sunscreen with SPF 50 uses zinc oxide instead of chemical filters.
WHAT SUNSCREEN SHOULD YOU AVOID?
When it comes to deciding which sunscreens to avoid, you’ll want to do your research on the ingredients above and decide whether you’re comfortable using them.
As mentioned earlier, many sunscreens contain filters that FDA has asked for more data on.
There are sunscreens on the market that may contain one or more ingredients pending FDA research as an active ingredient in their formulas. Active ingredients are the components that provide a sunscreen’s UV protection.
If you see the chemicals mentioned above listed as an active ingredient, you might want to consider other options. Of course, it’s important to mention that any sunscreen is always better than no sunscreen.
Shop sunscreen FSA eligible formulas designed to provide gentle, broad-spectrum protection for all skin types.
Sunscreen ingredients and the environment
NOAA lists oxybenzone and octinoxate among sunscreen chemicals that can harm marine life, though the National Academies (2022) noted that real-world reef risk still needs more study. Hawaii has banned the sale of sunscreens with oxybenzone or octinoxate since 2021. Key West passed a similar ban, but Florida state law blocked it before it took effect.
A common concern among daily sunscreen users is whether consistent SPF use affects vitamin D production. Read what the research says.
Choosing sunscreen ingredients for sensitive skin
“After years of working with post-procedure and reactive skin, I learned that the best sunscreen is the one someone will wear every day without stinging or breakouts. For a lot of sensitive skin, zinc oxide checks that box, which is why it’s where I usually start. New filters like bemotrizinol are good news for the category, but for me, zinc is still the gold standard.” — Alex Lang, Director of Global Education
Some sunscreen ingredients can worsen symptoms of certain skin conditions, causing painful flare-ups, stinging, and itchy skin. Ingredients that can cause adverse skin reactions include alcohol, fragrances, preservatives, and chemical filters, such as oxybenzone and avobenzone. Colorescience's all-mineral sunscreens use only zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as active ingredients, which is why they’re often a good fit for sensitive skin.
Choosing sunscreen during pregnancy
It’s always important to wear sunscreen, especially when pregnant, since you can be more prone to brown spots and melasma. Many people prefer mineral sunscreen during pregnancy. Check with your OB or dermatologist about any product questions.
HOW TO CHOOSE A DAILY SUNSCREEN
With so many options, choosing a sunscreen can feel overwhelming. Here are a few key points to help you choose the best sunscreen for you:
- If you prefer mineral filters, look for zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as the only actives.
- Protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays with a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
- Choose a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
- Make sure the sunscreen is water-resistant if you’re planning on swimming, sweat easily, or will be participating in a water-related activity.
At Colorescience, we carry an array of mineral sunscreens that are specifically made with various lifestyles and skin types in mind. Whether you want foundations with SPF, a Total Protection™ Face Shield, or the sheerest-of-the-sheer option for invisible coverage, Colorescience has you covered. Plus, all Colorescience mineral sunscreens are cruelty-free, formulated without oxybenzone and octinoxate*, and are made with zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide actives.
HOW TO SAFELY PROTECT YOUR SKIN
Understanding what’s in your sunscreen is the first step towards protecting the health of your skin, but don’t stop there. Keep your complexion glowing by following these sun protection tips:
- Read labels to see which active ingredients a product uses.
- If you use a spray, don’t spray it directly on your face or breathe it in; lotions are easier to apply evenly.
- Shop sunscreen formulas that are gentle on skin (and on the environment).
- Verify your sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Aim to apply a minimum of SPF 30 every day, no matter what.
- Apply sunscreen liberally and evenly 15 minutes before sun exposure.
- Reapply every 2 hours or sooner if in contact with water or sweat.
- Cover your skin with shade or long-sleeve clothing.
- Plan around the sun and limit your exposure at its peak height between 10 AM – 2 PM.
Beyond UV protection, advanced mineral formulas also defend against infrared radiation and pollution — learn about InfraGuard, the specialty ingredient powering that next-level protection.
Not only can sunscreen help you block the sun’s rays and take care of your skin this summer—and all year long—but it can also help prevent visible signs of sun-related aging.
FIND YOUR FAVORITE NEW MINERAL SUNSCREEN
Wearing sunscreen every day is important and the easiest way to stick with it is choosing a formula you actually like wearing. If you prefer mineral filters, look for zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients. Check out our selection of mineral sunscreens to find options with all-mineral actives and antioxidants that will nourish your skin while protecting it from the sun.
*Colorescience mineral sunscreens meet Hawaii’s law banning the sale of sunscreens that contain oxybenzone or octinoxate.
If you're have sensitive skin, browse our collection of sunscreen for sensitive skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does sunscreen have alcohol in it?
Some chemical spray sunscreens contain flammable ingredients like alcohol, prompting FDA warnings about avoiding open flames even after application. Mineral lotions are a common alternative; check the inactive ingredients list if you’d rather avoid alcohol.
What ingredient in sunscreen burns eyes?
Chemical filters such as avobenzone and sulisobenzone can sting if sunscreen runs into your eyes, and alcohol and fragrance can add to the irritation. Many people find mineral formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide less likely to sting.
Are sunscreens toxic?
FDA continues to recommend sunscreen as part of sun protection. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide have been proposed as generally recognized as safe and effective (GRASE), and in June 2026 FDA finalized GRASE status for a new filter, bemotrizinol. For 12 other filters, FDA has asked for more data.
Is homosalate safe in sunscreen?
The US currently allows homosalate at up to 15%. The EU allows it only in face products, at up to 7.34%. FDA has asked for more data on it.
Do dermatologists prefer chemical or mineral sunscreen?
Both are effective when used as directed. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which FDA has proposed as GRASE, stay mostly on the skin's surface and are often a good fit for sensitive skin.
Last updated: October 19, 2026