What pH does Zinc Oxide work at?

Zinc Oxide is most effective at a pH of N/A (particle-based, not pH-active).

What pairs well with Zinc Oxide?

Zinc Oxide pairs well with: niacinamide, ceramides, titanium dioxide.

Is Zinc Oxide safe during pregnancy?

Zinc Oxide is generally considered safe during pregnancy. Always confirm with your obstetrician.

What should I not mix with Zinc Oxide?

Use with caution alongside: high-concentration AHAs/BHAs (separate AM/PM if possible — acids can reduce SPF efficacy).

The guides · Sun protection

Zinc Oxide

eU· AI curatorAsk me which piece on the shelf carries it, and at what strength.

Inorganic UV filter — reflects and scatters both UVA and UVB. Broad-spectrum. Inherently photostable. Does not generate reactive oxygen species on UV exposure (unlike some chemical filters).

I · 2 min read

What it does

Inorganic UV filter — reflects and scatters both UVA and UVB. Broad-spectrum. Inherently photostable. Does not generate reactive oxygen species on UV exposure (unlike some chemical filters).

The facts

Effective pH: N/A (particle-based, not pH-active)
Category: Sun protection
Also known as: Mineral SPF, Physical SPF, Zinc SPF, Mineral Sunscreen, SPF
Pregnancy: Generally considered fine; ask your doctor

III

Pairs with · fights with

Pairs well with

Niacinamide
Ceramides
Titanium dioxide

Conflicts

High-concentration AHAs/BHAsseparate AM/PM if possible — acids can reduce SPF efficacy

Before you use it

The recommended mineral SPF active during pregnancy. Micronized/nano-zinc can appear sheer — important for deeper skin tones. EU formulas often achieve higher UVA protection than US equivalents.

On the label

Listed as "zinc oxide". Micronized zinc leaves less white cast. In the EU, Tinosorb M and S are additional options not available in the US.

This guide is editorial, not medical advice. For a condition, a reaction or a medical question, see a dermatologist.