Last year, I asked people if they really cared whether they used mineral or chemical sunscreen, and I had 18 Yes, and 24 No. This year, I asked the question again, and I had almost the same number voting, (a few more) but the answer is overwhelmingly no, but a lot of the people who said Yes, said that they NEED mineral because their skin is very sensitive.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
I mean, it’s interesting because I feel like the mineral vs. chemical debate got a lot of hype last year and people were really into trying mineral, but now that we’ve all experience the annoyingly chalky finish, and brands picking and choosing what tint to use, or outright lying about their formulas, maybe we’re just done. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Almost any derm, aesthetician, skincare pro will tell you that the best sunscreen is the one you LIKE to use and can AFFORD to use a lot of. If you’re skimping because it’s pricy, or because it doesn’t work when you put the right amount on, then there’s no point.
All that being said – one of my kids has more sensitive skin that gets a bit irritated with the suncreen, heat, mask, playing outside combo, so on her, I’m using an unfragranced mineral sunscreen and it’s going fine. Mineral sunscreens (look for a high amount of zinc on the label) are generally better for sensitive skins, and if you find that regular suncreen is irritating, then try one of those. I would say do not go for tinted, and just cover up any whiteness with makeup if you have to.
