Mineral Sunscreen Application Tips

Repeat the process to layer on the recommended amount of sunscreen.

Autumn Blum, the founder of Stream2Sea, shows you how to properly apply our tinted and original reef safer, mineral based sunscreen.

Here’s another video on how to apply mineral sunscreens on your face and body in 3 simple steps!

Finally, here's how to apply our SPF 40 Mineral Sunscreen in a tin!

Mineral Sunscreens are different…

Chemical sunscreens absorb into your skin to disperse UV rays, but those chemicals can also be harmful to your body and the environment. Current research shows that benzophenones and cinnamates, common in chemical sunscreens, are contributing factors in coral reef decline.

That's one of several reasons to switch from a traditional chemical-based sunscreen to a non-nano mineral option. However, when people make that switch, they often over-apply the product or don't spread it correctly. Then they think it's too whitening, or that it doesn't work as well.

People may also feel that because mineral sunscreen containers are smaller, they're getting less for their money. But it actually takes far less mineral sunscreen to cover the same area than a traditional chemical-based formula.

Why do I look so white?

You've probably over-applied. Work in small sections. Start with a pea- to dime-size amount, dot all over a section of skin, then rub it in well. Applied correctly, you'll see just a sheen on your skin, and any whitening will fade quickly.

Why can’t I get it even?

If your skin is dry, apply moisturizer first (like our Squalane), then your mineral sunscreen. This helps it spread evenly. Using the Pea, Dot & Rub technique and working section by section, most people get even coverage without excessive whitening.

Does it have to be white?

White is the new green! The sheen is actually a perfect indicator to know the product is protecting you. It’s also a great way to be able to see when it’s time to reapply, particularly for parents monitoring children’s exposure time or those going in and out of the water.

Is it greasy?

Stream2Sea sunscreen is 100% non-nano mineral actives and water-based, so we don't rely on heavy oils that can clog pores and feel greasy. That means it takes a little more work to spread, but the trade-off is worth it.

Will I burn even if it is SPF 30?

The most common cause of sunscreen failure isn't the SPF number, it's not using enough product or not reapplying often enough. The FDA recommends reapplying at least every two hours, more if you're swimming or sweating. Very high SPFs offer only marginally better UVB protection (the rays that cause sunburn) than lower ones, even though many people assume a higher number means much better protection.

What if I don’t want to look white?

Try Stream2Sea's Every Day, Stick, or Balm sunscreens. They offer the same protection, are formulated to be safer for coral and fish. We also offer tinted sunscreens that come in a neutral tint that blends into most skin tones.