Is Zinc Oxide Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Zinc Oxide is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (uv filters).
INCI name ZINC OXIDE. Also called ZnO. CAS 1314-13-2.
Other names: ZnO, CI 77947, Zinci Oxidi
Is Zinc Oxide banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Neutrogena Sheer Zinc SPF 50, Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen SPF 30+, Aveeno Baby Natural Protection SPF 50, Burt's Bees Baby Bee SPF 30 |
| CAS number | 1314-13-2 |
What is Zinc Oxide?
Zinc oxide is an inorganic mineral UV filter and skin protectant that provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection by reflecting and scattering UV radiation. It is also an FDA-approved OTC active for diaper rash, minor skin irritation, and sunburn treatment.
Why is Zinc Oxide used in personal-care products?
Used as a broad-spectrum (UVA + UVB) mineral sunscreen active, skin protectant (in diaper creams), and as a cosmetic colorant (CI 77947). Preferred in mineral-only sunscreens and baby sunscreens for its gentle, non-irritating profile.
Is Zinc Oxide dangerous? Documented risks
Bulk zinc oxide used in traditional formulations has an excellent safety record. The primary concern is nanoparticle zinc oxide (nano-ZnO) used in transparent sunscreen formulations: the EU has reviewed nano-ZnO and found it safe for use in non-spray sunscreens (SCCS opinion 2022), but restricted it in spray products due to inhalation risk. Nano-ZnO does not penetrate intact skin. Zinc oxide is non-carcinogenic, non-hormone-disrupting, and reef-safer than chemical filters.
Products that may contain Zinc Oxide
How to avoid Zinc Oxide: safer alternatives
Titanium dioxide as a complementary mineral filter (UVB/short UVA only); mineral-chemical hybrids for lightweight formulations.
Frequently asked questions about Zinc Oxide
Is zinc oxide a physical or chemical sunscreen?
Zinc oxide is a physical (mineral) sunscreen. It works by reflecting and scattering UV light rather than absorbing it chemically. 'Mineral' is the more accurate modern term.
Is nano zinc oxide safe?
The EU SCCS reviewed nanoparticle zinc oxide in 2022 and confirmed it safe in non-spray sunscreen products (skin-applied). It does not penetrate intact skin. Inhalation of nano-ZnO (e.g., from sprays) is a concern, hence its restriction in spray form in the EU.
Is zinc oxide reef-safe?
Non-nano zinc oxide is generally considered reef-safe. Nano-ZnO may have some marine toxicity concerns at high concentrations, though this is less studied. Non-nano zinc oxide remains the reef-safe mineral sunscreen of choice.
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Sources
- SCCS Opinion on Zinc Oxide (nano) in Sunscreens 2022 — EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety
- FDA OTC Sunscreen Monograph — Zinc Oxide — U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- EWG Skin Deep: Zinc Oxide — Environmental Working Group
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.