Ingredients
Every Ingredient, Explained
We use fewer ingredients than almost any brand in the space.
Every one of them is here for a reason. Here's what's in each product — and why.
What it does: Reflects and scatters UV radiation. The only single mineral sunscreen ingredient that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Why non-nano: Non-nano zinc particles are too large to absorb into your skin. They sit on the surface, do their job, and wash off — no soaking into your bloodstream.
What it does: A lightweight emollient that occurs naturally in human skin lipids. Reduces transepidermal water loss for non-greasy hydration.
Why Neossance®: Third-generation squalane derived from Bonsucro-certified sugarcane via biotech fermentation. 99% hydrocarbons, ECOCert-approved, more oxidatively stable than olive squalane, and ~50x more land-efficient. Vegan and cruelty-free.
What it does: A plant-derived emollient that gives the formula its silky, easy-to-spread feel. Helps zinc glide on without the thick, pasty mineral-sunscreen texture.
What it does: Derived from coconut and glycerin. A gentle emollient that softens skin and helps the formula spread evenly without clogging pores.
What it does: Coats the zinc particles so they stay evenly suspended in the formula. Without it, mineral sunscreens separate and protection becomes uneven.
What it does: A fatty acid that helps bind the formula together and keeps it stable over time. Also contributes to a smooth skin feel.
What it does: A naturally occurring phospholipid (often sourced from soy or sunflower) that supports the skin's natural moisture barrier and helps the formula absorb evenly.
What it does: Derived from castor oil and glycerin, this plant-based emulsifier keeps the oil and active ingredients evenly blended. A gentler alternative to synthetic emulsifiers like PEGs.
What it does: A powerful natural antioxidant that protects skin from free-radical damage caused by UV exposure. Also extends shelf life without synthetic preservatives.
What it does: Plant-based antioxidant that pairs with Vitamin E to keep the formula fresh. Has natural antimicrobial properties — eliminating the need for synthetic preservatives like parabens.
What it does: Reflects and scatters UV radiation. The only single mineral sunscreen ingredient that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Why non-nano: Non-nano zinc particles are too large to absorb into your skin. They sit on the surface, do their job, and wash off — no soaking into your bloodstream.
Plus visible light protection: Combined with iron oxides, this formula also helps protect against blue light from screens and visible light that can trigger hyperpigmentation.
What it does: Sourced from El Dorado Springs in California — a clean, mineral-rich water source. Forms the lightweight, breathable base that makes Tinted Armor easier to layer under makeup or wear alone.
What it does: Certified organic olive oil rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K. Conditions skin, supports the moisture barrier, and adds slip without feeling heavy.
What it does: A lightweight moisturizer that absorbs cleanly without clogging pores. Technically a liquid wax (not an oil) with a structure similar to human sebum, which is why it absorbs so well.
What it does: A humectant that pulls moisture from the air into the skin, keeping it hydrated throughout the day. One of the most well-studied and gentle hydrators in skincare.
What it does: Cold-pressed from the African shea tree, shea butter is rich in fatty acids and vitamins A and E. Calms irritation, locks in moisture, and supports the skin barrier.
What it does: A powerful natural antioxidant that protects skin from free-radical damage caused by UV exposure. Also helps preserve the formula without synthetic preservatives.
What it does: Derived from the leaves of the candelilla shrub native to Mexico, this is a 100% plant-based wax (and a vegan alternative to beeswax). Gives the formula its smooth, balm-like texture and helps the tint glide on evenly.
What they do: Naturally occurring mineral pigments — red (CI 77491), yellow (CI 77492), and black (CI 77499). Combined in different ratios to create our 6 shades: Oat, Almond, Maple, Cinnamon, Cocoa, and Espresso.
Bonus protection: Iron oxides also block visible light and blue light from screens — adding a layer of protection that pure UV sunscreens can't offer.
Squalane
Neossance®, sugarcane-derived · 100% of the formula
That's it. One ingredient. No fillers, no preservatives, no fragrance, no water. Just pure squalane — a lightweight emollient that occurs naturally in human skin lipids.
Squalane is non-comedogenic, odorless, and absorbs without leaving a greasy residue. It helps reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL), keeping skin hydrated overnight.
Why Neossance® specifically: Squalane has historically come from three sources — shark liver, olive oil, or sugarcane fermentation. Neossance® is the third-generation, sugarcane-derived version produced through biotech fermentation. It's 99% hydrocarbons (higher purity than olive squalane), more oxidatively stable, and ECOCert-approved. One hectare of sugarcane yields ~2,500kg of squalane vs. ~50kg from olive oil — making it the most efficient and sustainable source available.
Certifications: ECOCert · USDA Certified 100% Biobased · Bonsucro-certified renewable sugarcane · Non-GMO · Vegan · Cruelty-free.