Sunscreens with zinc oxide

Given that many of us want to avoid chemical sunscreens and are concerned about the safety aspects of titanium dioxide, we have been asked to round up a few zinc oxide ray protectors. Even zinc oxide has its share of controversy - there are worries about whether micronized versions can be absorbed by the skin. Until I get better intelligence on this, I am going with the Environmental Working Group. in 2006, the EWG reviewed a stack of the available literature and concluded that nano zinc was not absorbed by the skin and is, therefore, safe to use.

Epicuren Zinc Oxide SPF20 ($37.50). Epicuren takes an interesting approach to sun protection. It uses enzymes to protect the skin and bearberry extract to inhibit melanin precursors. It uses organic ingredients where it can and there isn't a nasty chemical in sight (not even as a preservative). Actually, for those that want a moisturizer with sunscreen combo, this is a good option as there are good anti-agers here such as collagen amino acids and niacin. I also like the inclusion of vitamin D, which we get naturally from sun exposure but, due to urban living and copious sunscreen slathering, three in four Americans are deficient in.

Pratima Neem Rose Face Sunscreen SPF30 ($21). This was recommended by a reader when we announced our sun protection challenge and could become one of my new best friends. Made by an ayurvedic spa, it uses organic ingredients that live up to the Pratima philospophy that whatever we apply to our skin should be good enough to eat. You might get more than you bargained for with the inclusion of shatavari, a Himalyan plant whose name means 'she of 100 husbands'. It is, however, a potent antioxidant (source). Brahmi is a marsh plant that is supposed to stimulate hair and nail growth. Pratimaskincare.com

DermaQuest ZinClear SPF30 ($51.50). This includes some interesting botanicals. Imperata Cylindrica, also known as cogongrass, is an antioxidant and an astringent. Meanwhile, arabidopsis (a delicate flowering plant related to cabbage and mustard) extract may be able to repair DNA (source). Add in a handful of vitamins, and this sunscreen is nourishing as well as protecting. A tad expensive, but better than most of the sunblocks that you are likely to find at your local pharmacy.