The FDA allows up to 25% zinc oxide in sunscreen formulations. Waxhead uses 25% zinc oxide in our formulations to provide maximum protection while maintaining a spreadable consistency. Lower concentrations (15-20%) may not provide adequate broad-spectrum protection, while higher concentrations become difficult to apply evenly.

Zinc oxide's white appearance is actually a feature, not a bug - it lets you see where you've applied protection. The white color comes from zinc oxide reflecting visible light (while absorbing invisible UV rays). We offer tinted versions using iron oxide or organic cocoa to reduce the white cast while maintaining full protection. For darker skin tones, our tinted options provide more natural coverage.

Zinc oxide provides superior protection because it covers the entire UV spectrum with a single ingredient, works immediately upon application, and doesn't penetrate your skin or create free radicals. Chemical sunscreens require multiple ingredients for broad-spectrum coverage, can cause hormonal disruption, and may damage coral reefs. Zinc oxide is the only sunscreen ingredient FDA-approved for babies under 6 months.

Zinc oxide sunscreen makes an ideal makeup base because it creates a smooth, matte surface that helps makeup adhere better and last longer. Apply your zinc oxide sunscreen first, allow 5-10 minutes for it to set, then apply your regular makeup routine. The mineral barrier helps protect your makeup from breaking down due to UV exposure.

Zinc oxide is completely biodegradable and non-toxic to marine life. Our products contain zero petrochemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other chemicals known to cause coral bleaching and fish feminization. Hawaii, Key West, and many Caribbean destinations have banned chemical sunscreens specifically because zinc oxide alternatives exist. You can swim, snorkel, and dive with confidence using non-nano zinc oxide sunscreen.

Zinc oxide has antimicrobial properties that actually help prevent acne by reducing bacteria that contribute to breakouts. The zinc oxide particles are too large to penetrate pores. However, some carrier ingredients in zinc oxide sunscreens (like certain oils) might affect acne-prone skin. Look for formulations with non-comedogenic ingredients like jojoba oil instead of coconut oil if you have very oily or acne-prone skin.

Waxhead zinc oxide sunscreens are water-resistant for up to 80 minutes - the highest rating allowed by the FDA. This means they maintain their SPF protection for 80 minutes of continuous water exposure or sweating. However, we recommend reapplying after toweling off, after 2 hours regardless of water exposure, or if you notice the sunscreen wearing off.

Zinc oxide is the safest sunscreen option for babies and children because it doesn't penetrate the skin or cause systemic absorption. Unlike chemical sunscreens that can cause allergic reactions, zinc oxide is naturally gentle and non-irritating. All Waxhead sunscreens use food-grade organic ingredients that are safe even if accidentally ingested during application.

Non-nano zinc oxide has particles larger than 100 nanometers, making them too big to penetrate healthy skin or enter your bloodstream. Nano zinc oxide has particles smaller than 100 nanometers and may potentially penetrate skin barriers. Waxhead uses only non-nano zinc oxide with an average particle size of 0.26 microns - over twice the size of the nano threshold for maximum safety.

Zinc oxide is a mineral that never loses its UV-blocking properties, so theoretically it could last indefinitely. The FDA requires 3-year expiration dates mainly because chemical sunscreen ingredients do degrade over time. Our organic inactive ingredients are also resistant to oxidation, and zinc oxide acts as a natural antimicrobial preservative. If you ever feel a Waxhead product has spoiled, we'll replace it.