Mineral SPF is different to synthetic SPF – how to make the most of it

Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, are very different from synthetic (chemical) sunscreens in both texture and application. If you’re used to the lightweight feel of synthetic SPFs, switching to mineral sunscreen might take a little getting used to. But once you understand how to apply it properly, you'll find that mineral SPF offers incredible skin protection – without the downsides of synthetic sunscreens.

One common misconception is that our SPF is a moisturiser with added sunscreen, but this is not the case.

Supernatural SPF50+ is categorised as a primary sunscreen, rigorously formulated and tested to protect your skin from UV damage. While it contains nourishing ingredients like ceramides and plant oils, it’s not intended to replace your moisturiser.

To get the most effective protection and hydration, we recommend using a light, water-based moisturiser underneath your SPF. This way, you’ll enjoy the benefits of both products without compromising on the efficacy of your sunscreen. If you use mineral SPF on its own without a moisturiser, you may not get the full hydration needed to prevent dryness or a white cast.

At first, mineral SPF can feel different. You might notice it takes more effort to apply or feels heavier than the synthetic alternatives. But with the right approach, it’s easy to adjust. Here are a few tips and instructions to help you love your mineral SPF:

1. Hydrate before you apply

Mineral sunscreen works best on hydrated skin. Applying it to dry skin can result in a white cast, which is harder to blend out. Start with a light, water-based moisturiser that’ll create the perfect base for your SPF.

We highly recommend Diem Vitamin C Pigment-Correcting Water Cream or Baptise Hyaluronic H₂O Ultra-Hydrating Water Gel for this step.

Allow your moisturiser to settle for a minute or two before applying your SPF. This ensures that your skin is properly prepped and hydrated, which helps with absorption and blending.

2. Warm up the product

Before you apply your mineral SPF, take a moment to warm the product between your fingertips. This helps to soften the formula, making it easier to spread evenly across your skin. Gently massage it into your face and neck using circular motions to ensure thorough absorption.

3. Don't overdo oils

While nourishing oils are a great addition to your skincare routine, using too many oil-based products at once can make it harder for your mineral SPF to settle. Consider saving any oil-rich serums or moisturisers for evening use, and opt for lighter, water-based products during the day.

4. Wait a minute before applying makeup

After applying your mineral sunscreen, it’s important to let it settle on your skin for a minute or two before applying makeup. This allows the SPF to fully absorb, ensuring that you get maximum protection and that your makeup applies smoothly on top.

If you prefer a no-makeup look with a matte finish, you can set your mineral SPF with a translucent powder. This will help mattify your skin without compromising protection.

At Antipodes, we use zinc oxide in our mineral sunscreen because of its exceptional ability to protect the skin from both UVA and UVB rays.

One of the key benefits of zinc oxide is that it is non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin types, unlike some synthetic sunscreens, which can cause irritation or breakouts in certain individuals.

Zinc oxide is also gentle on the environment, unlike chemical filters found in synthetic sunscreens, which can harm marine life when washed off in water. Additionally, zinc oxide has soothing properties, which helps to calm the skin and reduce inflammation, making it ideal for those with delicate or reactive skin.

By choosing zinc oxide, we’re prioritising effective, physical sun protection and a safer, more natural approach to skincare.

While mineral sunscreen might take a bit of extra effort in terms of application, it offers so many benefits beyond sun protection. Supernatural SPF50+ Ceramide Silk Facial Sunscreen is gentle on the skin and packed with nourishing ingredients like ceramides and plant oils. These help to keep your skin hydrated and healthy throughout the day.

With the right application techniques, mineral SPF can become a daily skincare staple you’ll love. Remember, it may feel a little different at first, but with time and practice, you’ll master the art of applying it perfectly.