Navigating the world of sunscreen can feel like wading through a sea of options. Having battled melanoma, sunscreen has become a non-negotiable step in my daily routine. Mineral (or physical) sunscreens provide the best protection and are the gentlest because they reflect damaging rays. They’re called sunblock because they block the rays from absorbing into your skin. Because I have Rosacea, my dermatologist insists that mineral sunscreens are the least irritating to my skin, and I’ve found that to be true. Today, I’m sharing some of the best mineral sunscreens for mature skin, including the ones I can’t live without!
P.S. If you’re looking for more ways to protect your skin from the sun, check out Best Sun Hats to Protect Your Skin and The Best Sun Protective Clothing Brands for Women.
Why Mineral Sunscreen?
Over the years, my criteria for the perfect sunscreen has evolved. At first, I simply looked at the SPF rating. Then, I paid attention to how messy it was to apply and wear. Now, I’m paying attention to how they work, and I’ve come to realize that not all sunscreens are created equal.
Cue the switch to mineral sunscreens. These physical blockers, featuring zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, offer a different approach – forming a barrier against the sun’s rays without seeping into the skin. They do tend to leave a white cast, so you’ll notice that many companies add tints to help them blend in better. If a mineral sunscreen leaves you looking too pasty white, you won’t want to apply enough to give you adequate protection.
If you have more questions about sunscreen, check out these posts:
Best Mineral Sunscreens for Mature Skin
ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+
ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ has become my go-to sunscreen that I use almost every single day. I love the impeccable coverage – the lightweight formula effortlessly glides onto the skin without leaving behind a greasy residue or any white cast. What truly sets this product apart is that it is formulated with “DNA Repairsomes”, which is an enzyme that helps to repair visible sun damage. This is expensive, but it’s far and above many other’s I’ve tried.
MDSolarSciences Mineral Crème SPF 50 Sunscreen
If I’m not using my ISDIN sunscreen on my face, then I’m reaching for this MDSolarSciences spf 50. It has water-resistant, broad-spectrum UV protection that leaves a smooth, matte finish. I carry this stick in my purse and keep one in my car to add extra protection throughout the day.
Colorescience Brush-On Sunscreen Mineral Powder
I’ve been a big fan of Colorscience everything for a very long time. They consistently make reliable, superior products with high SPF that many dermatologists, including mine, recommend. You can add the Sunforgetable Brush-On Sunscreen Mineral powder on top of your makeup any time of day without disturbing it.
Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Mineral Lotion
I’ve been using Australian Gold for years! I love their tinted face sunscreen, but this untinted Australian Gold SPF 50 is perfect for my neck, chest, arms, and back of my hands. As a bonus, this sunscreen is petroleum, sulfate, dye, oil, and BPA-free. It’s full of good-for-your-skin botanicals and has a powder-like dry finish that’s not greasy.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Ultra-Light Fluid Broad Spectrum SPF 50
I know many AWSL readers use and love the La Roche-Posay brand. I also keep this Anthelios mineral sunscreen in my rotation (yes, I have quite a large sunscreen collection), and I like that it’s virtually invisible on the skin! They also sell a tinted version here.
COOLA Organic Mineral Sunscreen & Sunblock Spray
If you prefer a sunscreen spray, check out this one from Coola. It checks all of my boxes since it’s not only fragrance-free and water-resistant but also cruelty-free and vegan. Since it’s a mineral sunscreen, you’ll want to make sure that you rub it in so that it’s applied evenly.
Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36
While I haven’t tried this one from Alastin, I see it being recommended again and again and have heard great things. This product is a tinted moisturizer, so it provides long-lasting hydration and sun protection.
More Mineral Sunscreens for Mature Skin:
What is your favorite sunscreen to use?
