Each type of sunscreen—chemical and mineral—has pros and cons. Chemical sunscreen goes on clear and has a pleasant consistency, but it's generally not recommended for pregnant people or young children. Mineral sunscreen is suitable for sensitive skin and inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and rosacea, but some formulas can leave behind a white cast. Both help protect your skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays, so choose the one you like best.
Applying sunscreen daily is important but so is removing it. Some mineral sunscreens, however, are stubborn. Here's how to remove mineral sunscreen at the end of the day to prevent clogged pores and skin irritation.
Why Is Mineral Sunscreen Hard to Remove?
Mineral sunscreen can require more effort to remove than chemical sunscreen because of its active ingredients, texture, and, in some cases, water resistance.
Mineral sunscreens are powered by Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, or both. These mineral filters are designed to sit on top of the skin rather than sink into it. They cling to skin, which gives them staying power.
Mineral sunscreen's active ingredients also affect the formula's texture. While chemical sunscreen is lightweight and blends easily, mineral sunscreen may have a thicker consistency that takes longer to rub in. Because of this, it can also be more stubborn when you try to remove it.
Finally, some mineral sunscreens are water-resistant, designed to stick to the skin when you swim or sweat. This can make them more difficult to wash off.
Do You Need to Remove Mineral Sunscreen?
Sunscreen is designed to protect your skin from UV rays and other light sources for up to two hours at a time. When you no longer need it, it's important to remove it.
Leaving sunscreen on the skin for long periods can contribute to clogged pores, especially if the formula contains pore-clogging ingredients, like oils. Using a noncomedogenic formula can help reduce the risk of breakouts. However, it's still beneficial to remove sunscreen so it doesn't build up on your skin and trap sweat and sebum underneath.
Leaving sunscreen on overnight can also increase the risk of skin irritation, even if you don't have sensitive skin.
Removing sunscreen before your nighttime routine supports your skin's natural repair process, too. Your skin enters repair mode while you sleep. This is why evening is prime time to use skin care products like restorative moisturizers and overnight face masks— which you should apply to freshly washed skin. Sunscreen residue can interfere with skin care ingredient absorption and healthy skin regeneration.
How to Remove Mineral Sunscreen
Regardless of the formula, sunscreen isn't designed to be worn overnight. However, mineral sunscreen can be especially tricky to remove since it's formulated to sit on top of the skin. Here's how to remove mineral sunscreen using five different methods.
1. Oil Cleanser
If your sunscreen contains oil or you're using a water-resistant formula, you may need an oil cleanser to do the job. Oil dissolves oil, so a two-in-one product like EltaMD Oil-in-Gel Cleanser can lift and melt away stubborn sunscreen residue (and long-wear makeup!) effortlessly. This formula is noncomedogenic, so it's suitable for acne-prone skin.
2. Foaming Cleanser
Foaming cleansers contain surfactants to effectively remove the most stubborn sunscreen with a rich, satisfying lather. If you have sensitive skin, opt for a gentle foaming cleanser free from fragrances, dyes, and parabens. EltaMD Skin Recovery Amino Acid Foaming Cleanser is equipped to tackle sunscreen buildup while strengthening the skin barrier with amino acids.
3. Double Cleansing
Sometimes the best cleanser to remove mineral sunscreen isn't a product but a method. Double cleansing is a two-step process that involves washing your face twice—once with an oil-based cleanser and then with a water-based cleanser. Oil-based formulas are most effective at breaking down sunscreen, and following up with an additional cleanser ensures nothing is left behind.
4. Micellar Water
Micellar water (a.k.a. cleansing water) is often used as a makeup remover, so it can likely handle your sunscreen, too. For super stubborn or water-resistant mineral formulas, use it with your usual cleanser to get the job done.
5. Makeup Remover
If you're on the go or need something quick and convenient, try a makeup remover solution or wipes. Just keep in mind this isn't a substitute for cleansing. Removers and wipes can leave some residue behind, so follow up with a cleanser later to ensure your face is totally prepped and ready for bed.
Fresh, Clean Skin for the Win
If applying sunscreen is an essential part of your morning routine, removing it is an essential part of your evening routine. When the sun is no longer shining and you're not exposed to other light sources, such as blue light, it's time to remove your sunscreen and proceed with your nightly skin care regimen. So, take the time to learn how to remove mineral sunscreen. With the right cleanser, it only takes a few minutes to wash off stubborn sunscreen and make room for your other skin care products. Enter healthy, radiant skin.
Lacey Muinos Lacey is a Southern California-based freelance writer who combines her passions—fitness, health, and a vegan lifestyle—with her work to help readers feel and be their best. Her work has been featured in Healthline, Livestrong, Verywell Fit, Eat This Not That, KinderBeauty, and more. View all posts
Lacey Muinos
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