The Protected Face

I'm following up on my last post about sunscreen. First, I have to admit that I haven't chucked my old non-mineral sunscreens in the trash, and in fact, I've actually bought more. Here's the deal: Mineral formulas—even that expensive brand I blogged about buying—are just plain hard to rub in. And on a squirmy, impatient toddler, that's a pain. I've compromised by using mineral formulas in the morning (or the first application of the day) and then carrying around a bottle of Neutrogena Waterguard Kids Sunblock Mist SPF 70+. No, it probably wouldn't pass the EWG's sunscreen test. But at least I know my kid is protected.

I'm also not using any chalky sunscreen formula on my face—but that's because, happily, I've found what I think are some great alternatives. I'm loving my new 100% Pure Pomegranate Antioxidant Hydration SPF 20. It's a lightweight-yet-creamy moisturizer that's 100% natural and vegan. As the name implies, there are no chemicals, fragrances, or preservatives in the ingredients list. My only complaint is that the SPF level isn't higher.

To rectify that, I'm also using Bare Escentuals' bareMinerals SPF 30 Natural Sunscreen. It's a powdered mineral sunscreen (micronized titanium dioxide, to be specific) that comes in a handy spill-proof tube with a built-in, twist-up brush. It comes in three shades (light, medium, and tan) and has basically replaced loose powder in my makeup bag.