Physical Sunscreens That Don’t Make a Goopy, White Mess
Although you might think a waterproof mascara and a red lip are beauty non-negotiables, the one beauty product you should seriously never (ever!) leave the house without is your SPF. We know, we know. You’ve heard it before, but it’s true. Blocking yourself from the sun’s harmful rays is essential for both keeping your skin youthful and safe. If you’re like us you’ve longed for a physical sunscreen—i.e. sunscreens that contain physical blockers like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide as opposed to chemical blockers—that wasn’t white, sticky, and greasy. Thankfully, formulas have vastly improved and no longer are we forced to relive our childhoods covered in pasty white block. We rounded up six of the best physical sunscreens that simply put, don’t suck!
Paula’s Choice Calm Redness Relief SPF 30 Mineral Moisturizer
A member of Paula’s new Calm Redness Relief line, this find is more like a moisturizer that just happens to have SPF as opposed to a hydrating sunscreen. It’s smooth, non-greasy and still guards your skin against harmful rays all the while providing sensitive, red skin with calming peptides.
Available at
Bare Republic SPF 30 Mineral Face Sunscreen Lotion
This chemical-free SPF is ideal for all skin types and is water resistant for up to 40 minutes, so you can swim (a little!) and sweat (a lot!) without worrying about it. With a light-weight formula, it’s a great option for the outdoor, natural type—who doesn’t want to look drenched in white sunblock!
Available at
Coola Daydream Mineral Primer SPF 30
The makeup obsessed will fall hard for this product. Unlike many mineral sunscreens, which can be very difficult to apply makeup on over, this formula is actually a primer and is designed to prep skin for coverage. Consider us sold.
Available at
Sun Bum Baby Bum Premium Natural Stick SPF 30
Looking for protection for your little one? This handy stick is a 100 percent mineral-based formula that still boasts broad spectrum protection and water resistance. Plus it’s specifically designed for the thin (and oh-so soft!) skin of a babe.
$13, shop.trustthebum.com
Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Physical Defense SPF 30
This 20 percent zinc oxide formula might be a bit more on the “white” side of the physical sunscreen spectrum, but we’re obsessed with it nonetheless. The added antioxidants, sunflower shoot extract, raspberry seed oil, and so much more are all worth the extra time spent rubbing in.
Available at
Susan Posnick Colorflo
Not in the mood for a lotion formula? No problem. This brush-on powder is mineral based and actually offers great coverage in addition to boasting an SPF of 30. We’re already planning on toting this find around all summer.
Available at
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