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Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Sunscreen Face Lotion - SPF 50 Versus Invisible Zinc Sheer Defence Tinted Moisturiser SPF 50 - Light

Sunscreen
Sunscreen
American Brand United States
Australian Brand Australia

Updated on October 29, 2024

Overview

What they are

These products are both sunscreens. They have a total of 3 ingredients in common

Cool Features

They both contain SPF

Suited For

They're both likely to be good for fighting acne

Free From

They both do not contain any oils, parabens or sulfates

We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that needs an update? Let us know.

Ingredient Info

Click any item below to learn more and see relevant ingredients

About this product

About this product

At a glance

Click on any of the items below to learn more

Key Ingredients

Benefits

Concerns

Key Ingredients

Benefits

Concerns

Ingredients Side-by-side

found in both products

Ingredients Explained

These ingredients are found in both products.

Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.

Cosmetic Colorant, Skin Protecting, UV Absorber

Zinc Oxide is a mineral broad-spectrum UV filter; it is the broadest UVA and UVB reflector approved by the FDA. While it is most commonly man-made for cosmetics, it can naturally occur in zincite, a rare mineral.

Today, traditional and nano-sized zinc oxide can be found in beauty products. Nano-sized zinc oxide can enhance a product's UV protection. While it is not believed to have a negative effect on skin, nano-zinc oxide may be harmful to coral reefs - though the verdict is not entirely out on this one.

Zinc Oxide also has antibacterial and calming properties. It is not water soluble.

Zinc has been used throughout history as an ingredient in paint and medicine. An Indian text from 500BC is believed to list zinc oxide as a salve for open wound. The Ancient Greek physician Dioscorides has also mentioned the use of zinc as an ointment in 1AD.

Learn more about Zinc Oxide
Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning

Caprylyl Glycol is a humectant and emollient, meaning it attracts and preserves moisture.

It is a common ingredient in many products, especially those designed to hydrate skin. The primary benefits are retaining moisture, skin softening, and promoting a healthy skin barrier.

Though Caprylyl Glycol is an alcohol derived from fatty acids, it is not the kind that can dry out skin.

This ingredient is also used as a preservative to extend the life of products. It has slight antimicrobial properties.

Learn more about Caprylyl Glycol
Preservative

Phenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose.

It's often used in formulations along with Caprylyl Glycol to preserve the shelf life of products.

When to use

46 Routines
98% use in am
2% use in pm
96% use every day
When to use See routines that use it ->
6 Routines
100% use in am
0% use in pm
100% use every day

Reviews

Here's what our community thinks

Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Sunscreen Face Lotion - SPF 50 24 ingredients

2.0 /5
from 2 ratings
Socks's avatar

Socks

27 days ago
Review

This WOULD be good, but it leaves a massive white cast and you have to reapply every two hours, oof.

Invisible Zinc Sheer Defence Tinted Moisturiser SPF 50 5 ingredients

1.5 /5
from 2 ratings
Irritating (2) Broke Me Out (1) Drying (1)
sam20033's avatar

sam20033

14 days ago
Review

Ruined my skin and broke me out severely. PLEASE stay clear of this product

#drying
#broke me out
#irritating
#heavy
colleenleoniewilson's avatar
Review

I wanted to love this as mineral sunscreens are meant to be great for rosacea. unfortunately it sets off a reaction and my skin tingles and burns upon application. Great texture and colour but beware if you have sensitive skin.

#irritating