Mineral Sunscreen vs. Chemical: What Your Skin Really Needs

Let’s Talk Sunscreen: What Your Skin Actually Needs

As a holistic esthetician, I’ve seen it all- the glowing skin, the sensitivity flare-ups, the ingredient confusion, and the skincare myths that just won’t quit.

But one of the biggest heartbreaks I see every summer?

🌞 Women unknowingly using chemical sunscreens that disrupt their skin and sometimes, their whole system.

I’m not here to shame or scare. I’m here to gently shed light on what many brands don’t tell you -and to guide you toward sun care that supports your glow without compromise.

What They Don’t Tell You About Chemical Sunscreens

Chemical sunscreen filters like:

• Oxybenzone

• Avobenzone

• Octinoxate

• Homosalate

• Octocrylene

...may absorb into the bloodstream within hours of application. Some are known hormone disruptors and are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Others can trigger redness, stinging, or irritation- especially in sensitive or acne-prone skin.

✨ Save this list for when you're shopping or share it with your skin bestie.

What Your Skin Really Needs Instead

Let’s keep it simple, radiant, and safe:

🌿 Mineral sunscreens (also called physical sunscreens) use non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to reflect UV rays rather than absorb them. They sit gently on the skin’s surface.

My mineral go-tos:

✔ Calm inflammation✔ Offer broad-spectrum protection (UVA + UVB)✔ Are reef-safe and gentle for all ages

And yes, they’ve come a long way since the ghosty white formulas of the past.

My Mineral Sunscreen Trifecta 🌞 (For Daily Use)

In both my facials and seasonal Skin Ritual Boxes, I layer sun care like a ritual:

1. Anit-inflammatory Hydrosol Layer- Chamomile or calendula to calm and prep

2. Antioxidant Serum- Vitamin C or rosehip to support collagen and reduce oxidative stress

3. Mineral SPF- Non-nano zinc oxide to protect and soothe

This combo supports your barrier, prevents premature aging, and protects without irritation.

Let’s Upgrade Your SPF Together

I only use mineral SPF in my facials and in my Skin Ritual Boxes because your glow shouldn’t come at a cost.

🌿 Want help choosing the right one for your skin?DM me “SPF” on Instagram and I’ll match you with a sunscreen that aligns with your skin’s needs and your values.

Or… stay tuned for the next Skin Ritual Box - that will offer your skin just what it is needing for the coming season...hand picked by a holistic esthetician.

Here’s to nourishing protection,and skin that feels held, not harmed.

XO

Erika Marie 🌹