Sunscreen is my number one secret to happy skin. I never leave the house without it on. It not only protects your skin but if used correctly, it can form a solid base for a subtle glow. Sunscreens work in many ways but the two most common are via physical and chemical blockers.
What’s the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens?
Mineral sunscreens are the ones containing zinc oxide and titanium oxide. These are naturally occurring ingredients however most are synthesized in a lab. These work in the same way as physical blockers and simply reflect the UV rays away from the skin. Mineral sunscreens are usually a favourite in the cleaner beauty space as they are better for the environment. However, they tend to be heavier and can leave a white cast. Additionally, they aren’t always the best choice for acne-prone skin.
Chemical sunscreens are your chemical blockers. As previously mentioned, they absorb the UV rays and dissipate them before they can penetrate the skin. Some ingredients have been given a bad rap as endocrine disrupters due to their ability to enter the bloodstream, however this hasn’t been proven. A pro with chemical sunscreens is that they are usually a lighter, non-greasy formula which means they bode well under make-up and are less likely to cause breakouts.
I generally opt for chemical sunscreens as I have skin that tends to break out. Most of the formulas these days are free from nasties – you just need to know where to look. However, there are a few mineral/physical sunscreens that I advocate but the choice is always up to you.
My favourite physical sunscreens:
Ren Clean Screen Mineral SPF 30 Mattifying Face Sunscreen
This sunscreen is a goodie for that summer vacay. If you’re going mostly make-up free, this formula will set the tone for the day by slightly mattifying your skin whilst protecting it. Think of it as a priming SPF that prepares you for a long day by the pool or at the beach. Use my Planet Organic code ‘MORGAN15’ to get 15% off your order.
Drunk Elephant Umbra Tinte Physical Daily Defense SPF 30
You know I am a fan of Drunk Elephant. I am a hard lover of all their products and their sunblock doesn’t come short. Umbra Tinte has a sheer, glowy tint just as the name suggests, which seems to blend with most skin types. I like to wear it when I am headed out for a summery evening in the city. Double the protection and double the glow.
Heliocare Mineral Tolerance Fluid
Heliocare is somewhat the holy grail of sunscreens. It’s recommended by plenty of dermatologists for its non-comedogenic properties and efficacy. This is their only mineral sunscreen for those who are more conscious about what they put on their skin. However, their duo blend of a chemical and physical sunscreen is my firm favourite.
My favourite chemical suncreens:
Shangpree Phyto Essence UV Sunscreen SPF 50+
This sunscreen is the one I use daily. Introduced to me by UNDONE store, this formula is lightweight and provides highly effective SPF50+ PA++++ (broad spectrum) protection against skin-damaging UVA and UVB rays. Its formula is mainly plant-based and is free from parabens, mineral oil, oxybenzone, and octinoxate. Not only does it protect, but it soothes with ingredients like aloe vera and brightens with magnolia and peony. Sounds like a winning combo, right? Use my code UNDONEXMORGAN to receive 10% off your order!
La Roche Posay Fluid SPF 50
This is one of my favourite sunscreens to keep on my 24/7. It is affordable, easy to apply and has a slim design that can fit into any handbag. It’s also the one I seem to opt for if I’ve gone somewhere and forgotten sunscreen. La Roche Posay is a universal brand that can be found in almost any pharmacy or drugstore. It’s lightweight, leaves zero white cast and gives a nice glow under makeup.
Heliocare Gel Cream
As mentioned before, Heliocare sunscreens are a solid fave. Their gel formula is available in a tinted and untinted formula, however, their tinted one is my ultimate hack to glowy summer skin without the heaviness of foundation. It’s lightweight, non-greasy and makes the skin look plumped and prepped.
Ultimately, what goes on your skin is always a personal choice. My favourite may be your least but please, do not forgo sun protection! It’s my number one rule and tip for protecting your skin and ensuring it gets the love and care it deserves.
