Mineral Sunscreens: Rub It In, Rub It In!

It's midsummer and by this time (if you're smart about your skincare) you've slathered yourself with an array of products to protect yourself from dangerous UVA and UVB rays. But not all sunscreens are alike. Those with sensitive or acne-prone skin often turn to mineral-based sunscreens to reduce breakouts and irritation.

While these products may be less harsh in terms of irritants, if you're not prepared you may end up looking like you're ready for a role in Kabuki theatre or your local mime troupe. Often times these products go on thick and white, requiring a certain amount of determination to blend into your skin, especially if you have darker skin tones.

But the effort can be worth it. According to the skincare experts at Kiehl's Since 1851, "chemical sunscreen filters defend the skin against UV damage by absorbing UV rays before they penetrate the surface of the skin. Conversely, mineral sunscreen filters protect the skin by forming a barrier that deflects UV rays."

Due to this barrier, you also may find yourself feeling overheated if you're extremely active in the sun. The best advice is to have a few different products on hand depending on your need, but most importantly - always make sure you have protection... of the SPF variety!

EDGE highlights some of our favorite brands:

Kiehl's Fluid Dermatologist Solutions Super Fluid UV Mineral Defence Broad Spectrum SPF 50+

The product name is a mouthful, but in true Kiehl's fashion, it delivers high-quality protection from the sun's damaging rays. Lightly tinted to enhance natural skin tones, the sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection and is infused with Vitamin E, which helps to fight the effects of damaging free radicals.

Fragrance- and paraben-free, the liquid sunscreen goes on smooth, but for those not accustomed to tinted skincare products, be prepared for stained hand towels. You might want to consider switching your bathroom scheme to beige this summer!

Kiehl's Fluid Dermatologist Solutions Super Fluid UV Mineral Defence Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ 1.7 fl. oz./$38

Jersey Shore Cosmetics

While New Jersey's most famous housewife might be Teresa Giudice, its classiest and possibly most entrepreneurial is Jersey Shore Cosmetics founder Jacquelyn Foster Quattro. The family-owned and operated company produces a range of products that are free of petrochemicals, parabens and toxins. They're also PETA-certified and cruelty-free.

Our go-to from the collection is the Anti-Aging SPF 35 Sunscreen. Be prepared, though, this goes on thick but is a sturdy product to throw in your beach bag for a day in the sun. It's suggested that you reapply every two hours, but for easy touch-ups to your nose, ears, or back of neck, consider the Anti-Aging SPF 30 Sunscreen Stick for quick applications.

Anti-Aging SPF 35 Sunscreen 2 oz./$40
Anti-Aging SPF 30 Sunscreen stick $22

Supergoop! Skin Soothing Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40

CEO and Founder Holly E. Thaggard was inspired to launch Supergoop! after a close friend was diagnosed with melanoma. "We also recognize that traditional sunscreen is the farthest thing from 'feels good.'" Thaggard states on the company's website. "So, we strive to create products that you actually want to put on. Lightweight and easy to apply, never goopy. And formulated with only the highest quality ingredients, always free from any controversial ones."

This skin soothing sunscreen is made with olive polyphenols, which makes the product super silky. You can layer it under favorite moisturizer or foundation and it'll still do the trick. For a bonus, we also recommend Supergoop! Fusion Lip Balm with SPF 30 in acai or mint fusion. Keep those lips moist and protected this summer!

Skin Soothing Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40 2.4 fl. oz./$28
Fusion Lip Balm with SPF 30 .5 fl. oz/$9.50