Non-nano zinc oxide is a naturally occurring mineral used as a physical sunscreen agent, skin protectant, and anti-inflammatory ingredient in skincare and cosmetic formulations. It provides broad-spectrum UV protection by reflecting and scattering UVA and UVB rays. It is commonly used in sunscreens, diaper creams, lotions, balms, and natural deodorants. Unlike nano zinc oxide, which has ultrafine particles that can penetrate the skin, non-nano zinc oxide has larger particles that sit on the skin’s surface, making it a safer choice for natural formulations.
Zinc Oxide
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep in an airtight container to prevent clumping.
Shelf life: Indefinite if stored properly.
Refined (processed for purity and consistent particle size).
Essential in natural sunscreens, skin barrier creams, and anti-inflammatory skincare products due to its broad-spectrum UV protection, soothing, and antibacterial properties.
Fine, white powder, smooth and lightweight when blended properly.
Odourless
Insoluble in water & oils
Can be dispersed in carrier oils, creams, or butters
Compatible with most cosmetic and skincare formulations
Not compatible with acidic ingredients (e.g., Vitamin C, citric acid), as this can reduce its effectiveness
Broad-spectrum UV protection (protects against UVA & UVB rays)
Soothes irritated or inflamed skin (great for eczema, rashes, diaper rash)
Absorbs excess oil, making it useful for mattifying skincare
Provides antibacterial benefits (useful for acne treatments)
pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 7-8.5) – Zinc oxide itself is not highly reactive with water, but when dispersed, it leans slightly alkaline.
Non-nano zinc sits on the skin’s surface rather than being absorbed, making it ideal for barrier protection (e.g., sunscreens and balms).
Sunscreen: 15-25% (higher % for stronger UV protection)
Diaper Rash Cream: 5-20%
Deodorant & Body Powder: 1-5%
Soothing Balms & Creams: 3-10%
Bright white powder
✅ Safe & non-toxic
✅ Effective broad-spectrum sun protection
✅ Soothing for sensitive, irritated, or inflamed skin
✅ Versatile (used in sunscreens, skincare, and healing balms)
❌ Can leave a white cast on the skin (higher concentrations may require tinting)
❌ Insoluble in water & oils (needs proper dispersion techniques)
❌ Can be drying if used excessively
❌ Can be difficult to evenly incorporate into DIY formulations
Shea Butter & Coconut Oil: Offer mild sun protection but are not substitutes for zinc oxide.
Always mix thoroughly to prevent clumping and uneven coverage. Use a high-shear blender or dispersing agent for smooth sunscreen formulations.
Combine with carrier oils and butters for better spreadability. Add iron oxides or natural pigments to reduce the white cast in tinted formulations.
Ensure even application in sunscreen products for maximum effectiveness
For DIY sunscreen: Mix with beeswax, coconut oil, and shea butter for a natural, water-resistant sunscreen.
For baby rash cream: Blend with calendula-infused oil and chamomile essential oil for extra soothing benefits.
For acne treatments: Mix with kaolin clay and aloe vera to reduce inflammation.
For tinted sunscreen: Add cocoa powder or mineral pigments to balance the white cast.
100g-250g for small DIY batches
500g-1kg for bulk formulations