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When you shop for your sunblock, it’s imperative that you choose a formula that ensures continuous coverage and most importantly a product that you enjoy – something that you’re actually going to use. And to be honest, despite being an editor with the privilege of getting access to a gazillion products for testing and reviewing, I’ve often struggled to find the right sunscreen that’s nice to my skin.
So, I dove into some research this month and discovered an influx of articles and reviews from fellow publications as well as a study about mineral sunscreens – I was apparently late to the party because EVERYBODY had moved to mineral sunscreens already. This got me to try a few in the market (because FOMO, you see?). Plus, I just had to see what the hype was all about. Post testing a couple of formulas last week, it’s safe to say that I won’t be moving back to my regular chemical sunscreen anymore. The benefits got me to stay (more on this below). Ahead, details on what they exactly contain, a couple of strong benefits and a few of my personal recommendations that actually work.
What Are Mineral Sunscreens?
Mineral sunscreens – also known as physical sunscreens – are typically powered with minerals like zinc oxide and titanium oxide that provide a protective barrier between your skin and the sun’s rays that help deflect harmful radiations. These sunscreens reflect UV rays, as opposed to chemical sunscreens that absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat that is then released from the skin. A study shows that zinc oxide and titanium dioxide nanoparticles in sunscreens do not penetrate past the outer layer of the skin, which means they are less likely to cause skin irritation as compared to chemical sunscreens.
Benefits Of Mineral Sunscreens
Commonly known as physical blockers, mineral sunscreens are safe to use for children and those with sensitive skin as per a study. They offer full-spectrum protection, easy to apply and no, if applied evenly they do not leave a white cast on your skin. They also provide immediate protection on application – you can slap it on at the last minute (unlike chemical sunscreens that take time to activate). Oh, and they last longer in direct sunlight, which means that you don’t need to worry about the hassle of re-application every few hours.
Top Mineral Sunscreens To Buy
1. The Pink Foundry Matte Moisturising Mineral Sunscreen
First of all, look at that packaging – will you? The product is pretty solid and here’s why. This double-duty sunscreen can be used as a sunblock and a moisturiser. It comes in a creamy, mousse-like texture that melts right into your skin without leaving it greasy or sticky.
2. La Shield Pollution Protect Mineral Sunscreen Gel Spf 50
If you have very sensitive skin, I highly recommend switching to gel-based mineral sunscreen like this tube by La Shield. Designed with a unique pollution defence formula, this bestseller is clinically proven to not only defend your skin’s natural barrier function from micro-particulate pollutants but also boost skin hydration.
3. Clinique Spf 50 Uva/Uvb Mineral Sunscreen Fluid For Face
I currently have this sunscreen in my cabinet and honestly, it’s fantastic. What I really like about this formula is that it looks pretty much invisible on my skin and it’s extremely light enough to be used around my eyes. It is basically comfortable. on my skin. It’s also, paraben-free and has no fragrance (which I appreciate)
4. Qurez Mattifying Spf 30 Mineral Sunscreen With Sea Buckthorn & Aloe Vera
I haven’t tried this product yet but I’ve heard great reviews from my fellow editors. This mineral sunscreen is a harmony of sea buckthorn and plush aloe and it uses in-built physical UV filters to deliver a strong broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection. Also, it doesn't feel heavy or suffocating on the skin.
5. Dr. Sheth's Mineral Sunscreen
Apart from sun protection, Dr. Sheth’s mineral sunscreen protects against blue light radiations. It’s powered with zinc oxide, which is an effective UV blocker. It is non-sticky, leaves no white cast, and is perfect for sensitive skin.
6. The Derma Co Ultra Light Zinc Mineral Sunscreen
Don’t like oily sunscreens? The Derma Co offers a super-light sunscreen that provides prolonged sun protection without any greasiness. With its oil-free formula, the sunscreen blends into your skin for a flawless finish with no white cast.
7. Forest Essentials Sun Fluid Mineral Sunscreen
This bestseller from Forest Essentials is made with tender coconut water, fresh basil leaves, and cooling aloe vera to soothe your skin while shielding it from the harmful UVA/UVB rays of the sun. It also carries the benefits of Ayurveda with Yashada Bhasma, which shields the skin from early signs of ageing.
8. Moody Sensi Soothe Mineral Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++
Get an extra dose of love with this non-comedogenic formula from Moody that is designed to reduce the chance of irritation for reactive or sensitive skin. The ceramides in the formula restore the skin’s barrier, while the rice helps brighten skin by preventing micro-pigmentation.
9. Deconstruct Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 55+ And PA++++
The Deconstruct mineral sunscreen provides sun protection, soothes the skin, prevents tanning and sun-related ageing, and has photostable ingredients that allow for long wear. What more? It leaves behind a flawless tinted matte finish and is waterproof, making it the ideal summer companion.
10. Thank You Farmer Korean Mineral Fluid Age Reef Safe Sunscreen
Get sun protection for the entire family with Korean Thank You Farmer Mineral Sunscreen that is suited to a wide age range of 8 to 80 years old with green-level safe ingredients. It also provides a fresh finish with calming nature-derived ingredients like camelia flower extract, matricaria (Mayweed) flower/leaf extract, and pancratium maritimum (sea daffodil) extract.
Final Thoughts
Mineral sunscreens are a great option for those with sensitive skin as they don’t penetrate the outer layers of the skin, reducing irritation. They also have a lightweight texture for a flawless finish without any white cast. You can also find mineral SPF products with other soothing and skin-nourishing ingredients to further boost the benefits.
