What causes the annoying white-cast from sunscreens – beauty expert weighs in.
Franchesca Villar, Beauty Editor at Cosmetify, has weighed in on the importance of broad-spectrum protection and what to look out for when you want to avoid sunscreen white cast.
What actually causes sunscreen white cast?
To understand white cast, you need to first be aware of the types of sunscreen:
- Mineral/Physical sunscreen: this type of sunscreen creates a physical barrier on top of your skin that reflects and scatters UV rays. The common active ingredients in mineral sunscreens are either Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide.
- Chemical Sunscreens: this type of sunscreen works by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat, which is then released from the skin.
- Hybrid Sunscreens: these are a blend of chemical and mineral sunscreen.
Chemical sunscreens do not leave a white cast as they absorb directly into the skin, unlike mineral sunscreens.
As mentioned earlier, mineral sunscreens contain Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide – white pigments that sit on the skin’s surface and cause the white cast effect.
This can be particularly problematic for people with darker skin tones, as the white cast is often more noticeable. However, some mineral sunscreens are now specifically formulated for melanin-rich skin. These newer options are tinted to reduce the appearance of a white cast and often include iron oxide, which helps neutralise the white cast.
Here are some factors you should consider when purchasing SPF
Broad-Spectrum Protection
The term ‘broad-spectrum’ is widely used, but what does it really mean? Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays. In contrast, sunscreens without this label only protect against UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn.
UVA rays are particularly harmful as they penetrate deeper into the skin, contributing to premature ageing and increasing the risk of skin cancer. This is why it’s essential to choose a sunscreen that offers protection against both.
Example: Eucerin Oil Control Sun Gel-Cream Dry Touch SPF 50+ provides broad-spectrum protection and is specifically designed for oily and acne-prone skin.
Skin Considerations
It’s important to select an SPF that suits your skin type and concerns to avoid triggering breakouts or irritation.
- Sensitive skin: A mineral sunscreen like The INKEY List SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen is a good option. It offers broad-spectrum protection, is formulated with zinc oxide, and includes a low-level, non-cosmetic tint to minimise white cast, making it suitable for all skin tones.
- Oily or acne-prone skin: Some sunscreens can make skin appear greasy. If this is a concern, opt for a mattifying formula like Bioderma Photoderm High Protection AKN Mat Correcting & Mattifying Fluid SPF 30. This lightweight sunscreen helps control shine and keeps pores clear.
SPF Factor
Sunscreen is an added expense, so you’ll want to ensure you’re getting effective protection. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures protection against UVB rays – the rays that cause sunburn. To guarantee UVA protection, always choose a broad-spectrum product.
The general rule is; the higher the SPF, the higher the UVB protection. However, no sunscreen can block UV rays completely, and the difference in protection between higher factors is relatively small:
- SPF 15 blocks around 93% of UVB rays
- SPF 30 blocks around 97%
- SPF 50 blocks around 98%
- SPF 100 blocks around 99%
Example: Beauty of Joseon Rice Sunscreen With Rice Water & Prebiotic Complex SPF 50+ offers one of the highest levels of protection with its SPF 50+ rating.
Water Resistance
Water-resistant SPF is vital if you’re swimming, sweating, or spending extended time outdoors, as it prevents sunscreen from washing off and leaving your skin exposed to harmful UV rays.
Without water resistance, you risk sunburn, premature ageing, and increased skin cancer risk. However, it’s important to note that water-resistant doesn’t mean waterproof, application is still necessary, especially after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
Example: Sun Bum SPF 50 Face Lotion is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it ideal for outdoor activities.