Our recent post “Five Facts About Sunscreen You Need to Know”, encouraged us to look at sunscreens, and the ingredients in the products we’ve been using, far more critically. We realised that we needed to expand our research to find effective mineral based products which tick all our required boxes. Cruelty free; broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) protection; SPF 30+; antioxidants to boost the sun-protective factor; anti-aging ingredients; hydrating ingredients and preferably a sheer application.
We needed to make sure the products are safe to use and free of potentially harmful chemicals and ingredients. This was NOT an easy task since the majority of beauty companies currently rely heavily on chemicals in sunscreen production. However, we persevered and give you a list of some of our favourite recommendations of mineral-based products.
DAILY FACIAL SUNSCREEN
Colorescience Daily UV Protector SPF30
The Colorescience range of mineral based sun protection products for the face is one of my favourite skin and sun care ranges. Not only because they’re effective and fulfill all of our above mentioned requirements, but because the silky-texture is just amazing. The Colorescience Daily UV Protector SPF30 is a light, non-greasy, water resistant formulation that provides excellent broad spectrum coverage while evening out imperfections. It’s also gentle enough for the most sensitive skin.
Available online at Dermastore for R560. BUY
Juice Beauty SPF30 Oil-Free Moisturiser
Juice Beauty is a leading US-based brand of natural mineral skincare and beauty products, made with certified organic ingredients (and endorsed by Gwyneth Paltrow). This is a non-greasy, broad spectrum SPF 30 moisturiser that hydrates, soothes and protects the skin. Suitable for daily wear, this is ideal for oily, combination, and blemish prone skin types.
Available online at Faithful to Nature for R575. BUY
Badger Everyday SPF 25 Sunscreen Lotion
The Badger Balm mineral sunscreen lotion range meets the highest standards set for safety and efficacy and uses only the safest, purest ingredients. Great for all skin types, this is perfect for the whole family. The natural oils used in this formula make it light, easily absorbed, and it won’t clog your pores.
Available at Faithful to Nature for R350. BUY
CC CREAMS WITH SPF
Juice Beauty Stem Cellular CC Cream SPF 30
BB cream is a primer, sunscreen, skin brightener and anti-ager and CC cream adds colour correction to the multitasking list. The Juice Beauty Stem Cellular CC Cream has a light mousse-like texture that is easily applied and absorbed into the skin, and comes in 5 different shades. (A fan of this product, Gwyneth Paltrow has included it in her Summer Glow Kit on her website, GOOP.)
Available online at Faithful to Nature for R799. BUY
Supergoop! Daily Correct CC Cream SPF 35
The fans of this Supergoop! CC Cream claim to be “obsessed” with this product. It’s a silky CC cream and sun defense formula that covers imperfections and softens the look of fine lines, wrinkles and pores for a flawless finish. Available in 3 shades, it’s on the expensive side but spreads really well, so you can make it last.
Available online from Wantitall for R1415. BUY
TINTED MOISTURISER WITH SPF
Juice Beauty SPF 30 Tinted Mineral Moisturiser
This Juice Beauty best seller, multi-tasks as a foundation and sunscreen providing light glowing coverage with mineral pigments. Designed for all skin types its especially beneficial for normal, dry or mature skin and comes in 4 finishes (sheer, ivory, sand and tan).
Available at Faithful to Nature for R580. BUY
TINTED BRUSH ON SUNSCREEN
Colorescience Sunforgettable Brush-on Sunscreen SPF 30
Back to my Colorescience addiction. I adore this product! Poor Mich has to hear me repeat how much I love it every time I whip it out my bag to reapply. It’s easy and convenient to use and you can toss it into your bag without being concerned about messy spillage. Great for layering, it comes in 4 different colours, is super light and the mattifying finish is perfect for our sweltering summers.
Purchase yours online at Dermastore for R850. BUY
UNSCENTED SUNSCREENS FOR SENSITIVE SKINS
Badger SPF30 Unscented Sunscreen
This is perfect if you have sensitivities or if you just don’t want a heavily scented product. Water resistant for up to 40 minutes, it’s also safe for children of all ages.
Available at Faithful to Nature for R310. BUY
Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen Lotion, Fragrance Free, SPF 30
This ultra-sheer lightweight and hypoallergenic formula is perfect for highly sensitive skins. It contains organic Aloe Vera, Avocado and Jojoba Oil to soothe and moisturise skin and has powerful anti-oxidants, rose hip and green tea, to help prevent premature aging. Perfect for use as a daily moisturiser and under make-up.
Available from Wantitall for R790. BUY
FOR BEACH AND SPORTS
ALL GOOD Sport Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30, Water Resistant
This is an excellent clean, ethical sunscreen range for the entire family. A zinc-oxide based sunscreen that offers SPF 30 UVA/UVB broad spectrum protection and is water resistant (80 minutes). It’s light, not greasy and contains organic green tea, rose hips and buriti oil for repairing damaged skin. It’s also biodegradeable and coral reef friendly.
Available online at Wanitall for R810. BUY
ALL GOOD Sunscreen Butter, SPF 50+
Water resistant for up to 80 minutes, the ALL GOOD Zinc Sunscreen Butter is brilliant for beach, exercise, and any other serious sun exposure. There are only 6 organic ingredients, but this is highly effective, extra-strength, all-weather protection that’s gentle on any skin type.
Available online at Wanitall for R660. BUY
FOR YOUR LIPS
Babo Botanicals SPF 15 Lip Tint Conditioner, Beach Rose
This lovely lip balm smooths, softens and conditions lips adding the perfect tint of color with a high shine. It’s pricey but lasts so is worth the investment.
Available at Wantitall for R465. BUY
The Body Shop Vitamin E Moisture Protect Lip Care SPF15
A more affordable option, this deeply nourishing lip balm with SPF15 is loved for its moisture rich Vitamin E that protects, heals and smooths lips.
Available online at Clicks for R80. BUY
FOR YOUR HANDS
Supergoop! Forever Young Hand Cream with Sea Buckthorn SPF 40
A luxurious formula that protects and nourishes hands with broad-spectrum SPF 40 sunscreen, powerful antioxidants, and skin-nourishing, natural oils.
Available online at Wantitall for R790. BUY
AND SOMETHING FOR LITTLES
ALL GOOD kid’s sunscreen SPF 30
This is totally safe sun protection for kids that feels amazing going on thanks to organic coconut oil which makes it easier to apply than most non-toxic formulas.
Available online at Wantitall for R850. BUY
Remember though that sunscreen should not be your only defense against the sun and it isn’t 100% effective. Wear a hat and sunglasses, find shade, plan around the sun and don’t get burnt!
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