Cell-Ox Shield® technology features 100% mineral UV filters, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, for broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen protection plus powerful antioxidant protection with senna alata, a tropical leaf extract known to defend skin cells against damaging free radicals that can accelerate skin aging Consider technology-based or micro-sized formulas. Many people, especially those with darker skin tones, are turned off by the white cast that some mineral sunscreens leave behind. However, there’s a method you can use to gauge a sunscreen’s blending ability. Under a sunscreen’s formula, look for words like “technology” or “micro-sized,” Dr. David says. They mean the ingredients have been turned into “ultra-fine nanoparticles that make the sunscreen less opaque but are just as effective,” she explains. “These formulas blend into the skin much better and don’t leave behind a chalky look.” Keep in mind that each sunscreen tube is very small, so you won’t get more than a use or two out of each, but they are a great way to test out the different formulas that La Roche-Posay has to offer. La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Correct SPF 70 Daily Face Sunscreen contains La Roche-Posay’s Cellox-B3 Shield technology plus niacinamide to help correct uneven skin tone, fine lines, and uneven skin texture.

Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV SPF 30 is a La Roche-Posay’s beloved Double Repair Face Moisturizer with added sunscreen protection. Butyloctyl salicylate is a solvent and active ingredient that helps boost the SPF rating of sunscreens. Niacinamide is an all-star multi-tasking ingredient that also reduces the look of pores, boosts collagen production for firmer-looking skin, calms redness and inflammation, and strengthens the skin barrier. Perhaps that is because all the chemical La Roche-Posay sunscreens that I tried are oxybenzone and octinoxate-free.

All of the chemical sunscreens that I tried had that chemical sunscreen scent, but it was not overwhelming, and only one of the chemical sunscreens caused my skin to break out (see below).

To ensure you are protected from harmful sunbeams at all times, choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and then keep these things in mind when you’re specifically looking for a mineral-based formula in the sunscreen aisle.La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50 with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide is a 100% mineral sunscreen that was developed for sensitive skin. Oil-free face sunscreen provides broad spectrum SPF 50 protection. Mineral sunscreen for face has a non-whitening, fast-absorbing texture that leaves a matte finish on skin. La Roche-Posay anti-aging facial sunscreen is formulated with Cell-Ox Shield® technology: broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with antioxidants. Mineral face sunscreen is water resistant (40 minutes), dermatologist tested for safety, oil-free/non-comedogenic, paraben-free, oxybenzone-free, and octinoxate free. Although underrated, mineral sunscreens (or mineral SPFs) are often applauded for their ability to shield our skin from the harmful UV rays, and deservedly so. Compared to their chemical counterparts, mineral sunscreens tend tend to feature a much more gentle formula, making it perfectly suitable for sensitive complexions. Not to mention, they also offer broad spectrum protection, aimed to deflect blue light, UVB and UVA rays (which may cause pigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles and the breakdown of collagen). Many experts feel that mineral sunscreens are safer than chemical formulations, says Angela Casey, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and skin cancer specialist at the Center for Surgical Dermatology in Ohio. Both types are approved for use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but last year, the FDA called for more research to look into the safety of specific chemical sunscreen ingredients being absorbed into the skin. Mineral sunscreens don’t come with that same baggage. Overall, I thought the best chemical face sunscreen was La Roche-Posay Anthelios Light Fluid Sunscreen SPF 60. It has a lightweight consistency that is comfortable on my skin and didn’t irritate my skin at all. Apply your sunscreen as the last step of your skin care routine, and your skin will thank you for it years from now!