Summer safety: Why you should be using a mineral sunscreen on your face.

By Alexis Rochester

I just had my annual skincare screening this month, so I thought it would be a good time to share a post about sunscreen.

Sunscreen is a non-negotiable part of any skincare routine, but with so many options on the shelf, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.

I began using mineral sunscreen on my face after having skin cancer removed about 10 years ago.

The downside is that it doesn’t absorb as well and can leave a white cast on the skin.

However, there are great formulations now that allow you to use mineral sunscreen without the white cast.

I use FRÉ (code alexisroch for 25% off) for my face and it’s not greasy and has no white cast which is unusual, and it works great!

I travel with it to the beach, pool or anytime I’m outside.

What is mineral sunscreen?

Mineral sunscreen, also sometimes called physical sunscreen, is a type of sun protection that sits on top of your skin and deflects the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

Unlike chemical sunscreens, which absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, mineral sunscreens use mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to create a physical barrier on your skin’s surface.

This barrier reflects UVA and UVB rays away from your skin, helping to prevent sunburn and premature aging.

Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients like oxybenzone and avobenzone that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin.

When it comes to why mineral sunscreen is better than chemical sunscreen for your face, the answer is simple.

It’s gentler, making it more ideal for those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema.

It’s also reef-safe, and it provides broad spectrum protection, so it can effectively block both UVA and UVB rays.

Alexis Rochester is an investigative chemist, blogger and founder of Chemistry Cachet. She shares science-based skin care, cleaning, gardening and health tips. She was diagnosed with RA at age 10, so she has a passion for pain management tips and research, along with sharing her journey through this disease. When she’s not writing for Chemistry Cachet, she is taking Pilates or Barre classes, and also received her Barre teaching certification this year! She grew up in Stephenville and recently moved back with her daughter, husband and bulldog. You can find her posting pictures and fun stories daily on Instagram. Also look for Chemistry Cachet on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter and LinkedIn.