New Zinc Oxide Form Reduces Whitening in Sunscreen, Benefits Darker Skin Tones

UCLA researchers develop a tetrapod-shaped zinc oxide that minimizes the white cast in mineral sunscreens.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Researchers at UCLA Health Sciences have developed a new form of zinc oxide that promises to reduce the white cast often associated with mineral sunscreens. This innovation could significantly improve cosmetic acceptance, particularly among individuals with darker skin tones, and ultimately boost consistent sunscreen use - a critical factor in preventing skin cancer.

Why it matters

Mineral sunscreens utilizing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are often recommended for sensitive skin, but the noticeable white or grayish residue left on the skin, known as the 'white cast', is particularly problematic for people with darker complexions. This contributes to lower rates of regular sunscreen application and later-stage skin cancer diagnoses, even though melanoma is less common in individuals with darker skin.

The details

The UCLA team's breakthrough lies in the shape of the zinc oxide particles. Instead of the conventional, nearly spherical nanoparticles, they've created microscopic, four-armed structures called 'tetrapods'. These tetrapods effectively protect against harmful UV radiation while minimizing the white cast. The tetrapod structure, created through a patented high-temperature flame process, prevents the clumping that causes light scattering and the white cast. Testing revealed that sunscreen formulations using tetrapod-shaped zinc oxide achieved a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of approximately 30, comparable to existing mineral sunscreens, and demonstrated improved stability over time.

  • The research was published in ACS Materials Letters in 2026.

The players

UCLA Health Sciences

The research team that developed the new tetrapod-shaped zinc oxide for sunscreen formulations.

AJ Addae

The first author of the study published in ACS Materials Letters.

Professor Paul S. Weiss

The senior author of the study and a professor at UCLA.

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What they’re saying

“If an improvement in the appearance of sunscreens leads to more regular use, it can have real impacts on skin cancer prevention.”

— Professor Paul S. Weiss

What’s next

The UCLA team is now collaborating with the UCLA Health Department of Dermatology to investigate how these particles interact with the skin microbiome and to move the technology closer to clinical application. Further research is needed before commercialization.

The takeaway

This new form of zinc oxide has the potential to significantly improve the cosmetic acceptance of mineral sunscreens, particularly among individuals with darker skin tones. By reducing the white cast, it could lead to increased and more consistent sunscreen use, which is crucial for skin cancer prevention.