Let’s get one thing straight: using any sunscreen is way better than using none. But if you’ve ever stood in a Target aisle staring at labels wondering what the difference is between chemical and mineral sunscreens—or which one is “better”—this blog’s for you. We’re breaking down the basics of both, sharing why daily SPF matters (yes, even if you’re not at the beach), and giving you the lowdown on why we developed our mineral sunscreen line specifically for people who hate wearing sunscreen. Spoiler: it doesn’t feel like you’re wearing anything at all.
First Things First: Just Wear Sunscreen
Let's not overcomplicate the most important takeaway here: some sunscreen is better than no sunscreen. Period.
Whether you're pulling an all-dayer at a music festival, commuting to class, or WFH next to a sunny window, your skin is being exposed to UV rays. Over time, that exposure adds up to premature aging, dark spots, and more serious stuff like skin cancer.
So if you’re stressing over choosing the “perfect” sunscreen and that’s keeping you from wearing any at all—stop right there. The most important move you can make is just starting to use SPF every day. Make it part of your routine like brushing your teeth or doom-scrolling TikTok in bed. That said…if you’re here because you do want to get it right and make this a habit that sticks, let's talk about the two main types of sunscreen: chemical and mineral.
Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreen: The Basics
Here’s a quick breakdown of what sets them apart:
Chemical Sunscreen
- How it works: Absorbs into your skin and then absorbs UV rays, converting them into heat and releasing them from the body.
- Common ingredients: Avobenzone, oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate.
- Texture & feel: Usually more sheer and easier to blend.
Mineral (a.k.a Physical) Sunscreen
- How it works: Sits on top of your skin and blocks UV rays like a shield, does absorb some UV light
- Common ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide.
- Texture & feel: Historically chalkier or thicker—though we’re here to change that.
- The science is real for both. Dermatologists recommend both. But each has its pros, cons, and vibes depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and preferences.
So Which One Is Better?
Here’s the truth: there’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer. But since we’re here, let’s break it down in a way that makes sense for everyone.
- If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin: Mineral sunscreen is usually the gentler option. It’s less likely to clog pores or cause irritation.
- If you want something invisible and weightless: Chemical sunscreens often win here—but new mineral formulas (👋 hi, ours) are catching up fast.
- If you care about the environment: Some chemical ingredients (like oxybenzone and octinoxate) have been flagged for potential harm to marine ecosystems. Mineral sunscreens are generally considered reef-safe.
- If you want something you’ll actually wear every day: Whichever feels good on your skin and fits your routine is the one you should reach for.
So yeah, we’re a little biased toward mineral sunscreens—and not just because we make them.
Why We Made Our Mineral Sunscreen Line
We weren’t trying to reinvent the wheel—we just wanted to make a sunscreen that people would actually want to wear.
No weird stickiness. No chalky ghost face. No greasy forehead at 11AM on a random Tuesday. Just a clean, dermatologist-developed formula that melts into your skin and disappears faster than last night’s hookup.
We know sunscreen has a bad rep, and we get it. That’s why every formula we created is:
- Non-sticky
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Starts working instantly
- Made for daily wear (yes, even if the sun isn’t out!)
We also kept it mineral because we wanted a sunscreen that checks the boxes for sensitive skin, environmental safety, and long-term use.
And yeah, we’re proud of it.
The Bottom Line: Build SPF Into Your Routine
Here’s the thing no one told us in high school: sunscreen isn’t just for the beach. It’s for every single day.
Think of it like a health habit. You’re not brushing your teeth only on days you eat candy, right? Sunscreen works the same way. The more consistent you are, the better the long-term payoff: fewer wrinkles, more even skin tone, lower risk of skin cancer. All the good stuff.
If you’re not used to wearing SPF daily, try these tips:
- Keep it near your toothbrush or moisturizer so you remember every morning.
- Use a formula that feels good on your skin—you’re more likely to stick with it.
- Don’t forget spots like your ears, neck, and hands.
- Reapply every two hours if you’re out in the sun (especially if sweating or swimming).
- We know this one can be the most annoying, so at the very least start small and reapply during meal times.
Closing Thought:
You only get one face. You might as well protect it. So start small, stay consistent, and maybe switch to a mineral sunscreen that doesn’t suck.