Face Prime & Protect SPF 40 Non-tinted
Face Prime & Protect SPF 40 Non-tinted
Product Description
A sheer 100% mineral SPF 40 by Cotz Skincare that doubles as a makeup primer. A silicone-rich blend of Titanium Dioxide 8% and Zinc Oxide 3.8% reflects UVA/UVB rays while blurring pores into a smooth, weightless matte finish. Fragrance-free, oil-free and reef-friendly, the non-tinted formula is designed for fair-to-light skin tones and sensitive skin that reacts to chemical sunscreens.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Broad-Spectrum Mineral Defense
Titanium Dioxide 8% and Zinc Oxide 3.8% physically reflect both UVA and UVB rays, and the formula is photostable so it won't break down in sunlight.
Primer + SPF in One Step
A silicone elastomer base blurs the look of pores and fine lines, creating a smooth canvas that helps makeup apply evenly and last longer.
Reef-Friendly & Clean
Free of oxybenzone, octinoxate and all chemical UV filters. Vegan, cruelty-free and made without parabens, oils, gluten or phthalates.
Built for Sensitive Skin
Fragrance-free and preservative-free with low irritation potential, which is why mineral formulas like this are favored after facials and procedures.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Uses only mineral filters (Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide) which sit on the skin's surface. No chemical UV filters, retinoids, salicylic acid or hydroquinone.
Silicone-based with no fatty acids, esters or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Independently flagged as fungal-acne safe by ingredient databases.
As the final step, it can be applied over morning vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol (PM-applied) or acid routines without compatibility issues.
Rated LOW for cancer, allergies/immunotoxicity and developmental/reproductive toxicity, with moderate notes only on use restrictions and UVA/UVB balance.
The non-tinted version is designed for fair-to-light skin. Medium-to-deep tones may see a faint cast; the tinted (iron oxide) version is a better match.
For external use only. Do not apply to broken skin, keep out of eyes, and stop use if a rash occurs.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
βοΈ Titanium Dioxide 8% Proven
One of two FDA-recognized physical (inorganic) sunscreen actives. It forms a mineral barrier on the skin that reflects and scatters UV light rather than absorbing it, providing strong UVB and short-UVA protection.
- Function: Broad-spectrum UV filter and primary SPF contributor.
- Tolerability: Rarely irritates even sensitive or reactive skin and eyes.
π‘οΈ Zinc Oxide 3.8% Proven
The second mineral active, valued for the widest UVA coverage of any single filter. Paired with Titanium Dioxide it rounds out true broad-spectrum protection across the UVA and UVB range and adds mild soothing properties.
- Function: Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB filter; calming on irritated skin.
- Synergy: Complements Titanium Dioxide to balance the full UV spectrum.
π Silicone Elastomer Complex Base Promising
A blend of Dimethicone, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclohexasiloxane and Dimethiconol creates the lightweight, blurring "primer" feel and a quick powdery-matte dry-down.
- Function: Spreads the mineral film evenly; blurs pores and fine lines.
- Wear: Helps the SPF layer sit smoothly under makeup without pilling for most users.
βͺ Alumina β Promising
A mineral-derived viscosity controller used to coat and stabilize the Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide particles, improving dispersion and reducing the white-cast effect.
- Function: Stabilizer and texture enhancer for the mineral pigments.
π§· Methicone Dispersants β Promising
Lauryl PEG/PPG-18/18 Methicone, Hydrogen Dimethicone and PEG-10 Dimethicone act as wetting and dispersing agents that keep the minerals uniformly suspended for an even, streak-free finish.
- Function: Emulsify and disperse the mineral actives across the skin.
12 ingredients
Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide 8%, Zinc Oxide 3.8%. Inactive Ingredients: Alumina, Cyclohexasiloxane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dimethiconol, Lauryl PEG/PPG-18/18 Methicone, Hydrogen Dimethicone, PEG-10 Dimethicone.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Always the last skincare step in the morning. Let your moisturizer absorb first, then apply this as your SPF and primer β makeup goes on top.
π How to Use
Shake the tube
Shake well before use to evenly distribute the mineral pigments for a consistent finish.
Apply two finger-lengths
Dispense roughly two finger-lengths of product to cover the face and neck for true SPF 40 protection.
Blend evenly
Smooth across skin until you reach a uniform, blurred matte finish. Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure.
Wear solo or prime
Stop here for a no-makeup look, or layer foundation on top β it acts as a grip primer.
Reapply
Reapply every 2 hours and after 80 minutes of swimming, sweating or towel-drying.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have fair-to-light skin and want a no-cast mineral SPF
- You react to chemical sunscreens or have sensitive, reactive skin
- You have oily or combination skin and want a matte, primer-like finish
- You want one product that protects and grips makeup
- You're pregnant, breastfeeding or want a reef-friendly clean formula
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have medium-to-deep skin (choose the tinted iron-oxide version)
- You have very dry skin that needs a dewy, hydrating finish
- You dislike a silicone "slip" feel on the skin
- You want a large-format or body-sized tube for the price
- You need SPF 50+ for extended, direct sun exposure
π― Skin Type Compatibility
The silicone base dries down matte and helps control shine without feeling heavy.
Blurs the T-zone while staying comfortable on drier areas; great makeup base.
Fragrance-, preservative- and chemical-filter-free with low irritation potential.
Oil-free, low comedogenic and fungal-acne safe; remove thoroughly to avoid silicone buildup.
Matte finish can read flat on very dry skin; pair with a richer moisturizer underneath.
π Results Timeline
Blurred, matte canvas
Pores and fine lines look softened the moment it dries down, with active UV protection 15 minutes after application.
90% noticedSmoother makeup wear
Foundation grips and lasts longer through the day, and shine is better controlled in the T-zone.
78% noticedConsistent daily protection
Regular use supports prevention of sunburn and UV-driven signs of aging like fine lines and dark spots.
70% noticedLong-term sun defense
Daily broad-spectrum use helps decrease the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging when paired with other sun measures.
Dermatologist-backedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Truly matte, non-greasy finish that controls shine
- Works beautifully as a pore-blurring makeup primer
- Gentle and non-stinging for sensitive, reactive skin
- 100% mineral, reef-friendly and free of common irritants
- Photostable, water-resistant and dermatologist-friendly
β Criticized
- White cast on medium-to-deep skin (non-tinted)
- Small 1.5 oz tube can run out quickly with full coverage
- Matte finish can look flat on very dry skin
- Silicone slip isn't to everyone's preference
- Premium price for the size compared to drugstore SPF
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Made by the same parent company (Fallene) with the same 8% Titanium Dioxide / 3.8% Zinc Oxide and silicone-primer base. Pricier and larger (1.75 oz), but essentially a sister formula.
Drugstore-priced 100% mineral option with added ceramides and a more hydrating finish. Less primer-like blur and a lower SPF, but far cheaper per ounce.
Higher SPF 50 mineral filter with antioxidants and a more serum-like feel. Less matte and less "primer" focused, but a strong sensitive-skin alternative.
Tinted 100% mineral formula with a larger 3.0 oz tube that suits a wider range of skin tones. More coverage and color, but no true non-tinted match and a higher price.
π Comparison with Competitors
Cotz Face Prime & Protect SPF 40 (Featured)
$31.00TIZO 2 Non-Tinted SPF 40
~$41EltaMD UV Physical SPF 41
~$48La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral SPF 50
~$35π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening; check the carton for the printed expiration date.
Protect from excessive heat and direct sun; store in a cool, dry place.
1.5 oz squeeze tube β shake before each use to mix the mineral pigments.
Yes β TSA-approved at 1.5 oz, well under the 3.4 oz carry-on liquid limit.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. It relies only on mineral filters (Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide), which stay on the skin's surface, and contains no chemical UV filters, retinoids, salicylic acid or hydroquinone. Mineral sunscreens are generally considered the safest choice during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but always confirm with your doctor.
Yes. The formula is silicone- and mineral-based with no fatty acids, esters or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast, and it has been independently flagged as fungal-acne safe by ingredient-analysis databases.
Yes. As the final morning step, it layers over vitamin C, niacinamide or acid treatments without interfering with them. Daytime SPF is especially important alongside retinol and exfoliating acids, which can increase sun sensitivity β just apply your actives first and let them absorb.
It performs best on oily, combination and sensitive skin thanks to its matte, primer-like finish. It's also well suited to acne-prone skin (oil-free, low comedogenic). Very dry skin may prefer a more hydrating SPF, and medium-to-deep tones should look at the tinted version.
The blurring, matte effect is immediate, and UV protection is active about 15 minutes after applying. Smoother, longer-lasting makeup wear is typically noticed within the first week, while the anti-aging and sun-damage prevention benefits build over months of consistent daily use.
It's always the last step of your morning routine β after cleanser, any serums and moisturizer. Apply it as your SPF and primer, then follow with makeup if desired. Reapply every two hours of sun exposure.
It has a low comedogenic rating (about 1/5). It's oil-free, and both the mineral filters and silicones used are generally considered non-comedogenic. As with any silicone-based product, cleanse thoroughly at night to avoid buildup.
Plan to use it within about 12 months of opening, and don't use it past the printed expiration date on the carton β sunscreen actives lose effectiveness over time. Store away from heat and direct sun to preserve the formula.
Verdict: Cotz Face Prime & Protect SPF 40 Non-Tinted is one of the most reliable 2-in-1 mineral SPF primers for fair-to-light, oily and sensitive skin. The 8% Titanium Dioxide / 3.8% Zinc Oxide pairing delivers genuine broad-spectrum protection in a clean, reef-friendly, fragrance-free formula that blurs pores and grips makeup like a dedicated primer. The main trade-offs are a possible white cast on deeper tones (where the tinted version is the better pick) and a small tube for the price. If you want a fuss-free, derm-friendly mineral sunscreen that also preps your face, it earns its spot.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Titanium Dioxide
Uv Absorber, Sunscreen Agent, Opacifying, Cosmetic Colorant, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 2 |
Zinc Oxide
Skin Protecting, Sunscreen Agent, Cosmetic Colorant
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 0 |
Alumina
Absorbent, Abrasive
|
|
|
| 2 |
Cyclohexasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Cyclopentasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|