Zinc Oxide (Non-Nano)
A non-nano mineral sunscreen active that provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, helping defend skin against sunburn and the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation.
Why This Ingredient Matters
Daily exposure to ultraviolet radiation is one of the most significant external contributors to visible skin aging. Two major forms of ultraviolet radiation reach the skin: UVA and UVB.
UVA radiation penetrates more deeply into the skin and contributes to photoaging, including the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and uneven pigmentation. UVB radiation is primarily responsible for sunburn and also contributes to long-term skin damage.
Zinc Oxide is a mineral sunscreen active valued for its ability to provide protection across both the UVA and UVB portions of the ultraviolet spectrum. Unlike many organic sunscreen filters, which provide protection across more specific wavelength ranges, Zinc Oxide offers naturally broad ultraviolet coverage. It works primarily by absorbing ultraviolet radiation, while also reflecting and scattering a portion of it.
Its broad-spectrum capabilities, photostability and established history of use make Zinc Oxide an important ingredient in advanced mineral sunscreen formulations.
Why Formulation Matters
Traditional mineral sunscreens have often been associated with thick textures and a noticeable white cast. However, these characteristics depend significantly on the type of Zinc Oxide used and how it is incorporated into the finished formulation. Particle characteristics, dispersion technology, concentration and compatibility with other ingredients all influence a sunscreen's appearance, texture and protective performance.
Luzern uses a specialized non-nano Zinc Oxide dispersion developed to provide broad-spectrum mineral UV protection with improved transparency. The technology uses micron-sized Zinc Oxide particles designed to minimize visible whiteness while maintaining the mineral's UV-protective properties.
The Zinc Oxide is pre-dispersed in Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, a plant-derived emollient that helps distribute the mineral throughout the formulation and contributes to a smoother application. Carefully selected dispersing ingredients help maintain an even distribution of the Zinc Oxide, supporting formulation stability and a more elegant sensory experience. This approach addresses one of the traditional challenges of mineral sunscreen development: combining effective UV protection with a comfortable, refined finish.
Importantly, the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) and broad-spectrum performance of a sunscreen are determined by testing the complete finished formulation, not simply by the presence or concentration of Zinc Oxide.
Formulation Changes Everything.
How Luzern Uses It
Luzern incorporates non-nano Zinc Oxide into La Défense Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30.
Selected for its broad-spectrum mineral UV protection and advanced dispersion technology, the Zinc Oxide is formulated to help provide effective sun protection while minimizing the heavy, opaque appearance often associated with traditional mineral sunscreens.
The specialized dispersion uses Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride as a carrier, helping distribute the Zinc Oxide throughout the formulation while contributing to a comfortable application.
By combining mineral UV protection with carefully selected supporting ingredients, Luzern seeks to create a sunscreen that is both protective and pleasant to use every day.
La Défense reflects Luzern's philosophy that exceptional skincare is defined not simply by individual ingredients, but by how they are formulated to work together.