Zinc Oxide Sun Balm

Mineral Sunblock

Zinc oxide in a beeswax balm, without chemical UV filters.

$7.00

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Made without

Our Mineral Sunblock is built on zinc oxide, the mineral that sits on top of the skin and reflects and scatters UV light. Beeswax gives the balm staying power on active days, and carrot seed essential oil gives it a warm, earthy scent.

It contains no oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene or homosalate. Reapply often, especially after swimming, sweating or toweling off, and pair it with shade, hats and protective clothing.

Ingredients

Zinc oxide, Beeswax, Plant oils, Carrot seed essential oil.

How to use

Apply generously to exposed skin before sun exposure. Reapply at least every two hours and after swimming, sweating or toweling.

Good to know

Handmade in small batches, so color and scent can vary slightly from batch to batch. Patch test any new product, and stop use if irritation occurs. For external use only.

Zinc oxide in a simple beeswax balm

Our Mineral Sunblock is a short, readable list: zinc oxide, beeswax, plant oils and carrot seed essential oil. It is a balm rather than a lotion, so it has no water and no need for synthetic preservatives. It contains no chemical UV filters at all. Think of it as one part of a sun plan that also includes shade, hats, protective clothing and regular reapplication.

A note on sunscreen rules

In the United States, sunscreen rules are set by the FDA, which regulates sunscreens as over the counter drugs and controls how protection is tested and labeled. We describe this balm only by its ingredients, and we do not make protection level or water resistance claims for it. If you need a product labeled for a specific level of protection, choose one that carries that FDA labeling.

What each ingredient does

Zinc oxide

Zinc oxide is a mineral that sits on top of the skin and reflects and scatters UV light. It is one of only two mineral filters, along with titanium dioxide, that the FDA has proposed as generally recognized as safe and effective. Our guide to mineral versus chemical sunscreen explains how the two types differ.

Beeswax

Beeswax gives the balm body and helps it stay where you put it during active days.

Plant oils

Plant oils make the zinc spreadable and keep the balm from feeling dry and chalky.

Carrot seed essential oil

Carrot seed oil gives the balm a warm, earthy scent. It is included for scent only.

What we leave out

No oxybenzone or octinoxate, chemical filters under ongoing review.
No octocrylene or homosalate.
No synthetic fragrance and no parabens.

Who it is for

People who prefer mineral ingredients and want to avoid chemical UV filters: gardeners, ranchers, anglers, and anyone who likes a balm for the nose, ears, cheeks and the back of the neck. For babies under six months, keep them out of the sun and ask your pediatrician about sun care.

How to get the most from it

Apply generously to all exposed skin before going outside, and work it in until evenly spread. Reapply at least every two hours, and right away after swimming, sweating or toweling off. Seek shade during midday hours when the sun is strongest. A balm is one layer of protection, not a reason to stay out longer.

Questions about Mineral Sunblock

Is zinc oxide safe for sensitive skin?

Zinc oxide is generally well tolerated and is often suggested for sensitive skin because it sits on the surface rather than being a chemical filter. Any product can still bother someone, so patch test first. If you have a skin condition, a dermatologist can recommend sun care that suits you.

How often should I reapply mineral sunscreen?

Reapply at least every two hours, and immediately after swimming, sweating heavily or toweling off. Mineral products can rub off with activity, so reapplying matters just as much as with chemical sunscreens. Pair it with shade, a hat and protective clothing.

What is the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen?

Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which sit on top of the skin and reflect and scatter UV light. Chemical sunscreens use filters like oxybenzone and avobenzone that absorb UV light. In the US, the FDA regulates both and sets the rules for testing and labeling.

Why does mineral sunscreen leave a white cast?

Zinc oxide is a white mineral, and the same quality that lets it reflect light can leave a pale tint on skin. Rubbing it in well and applying in thin layers helps. Some people simply accept a little white on the nose and ears as a sign it is there.

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