How To Remove Mineral Sunscreen

I think it’s safe to say that mineral sunscreen is having a major moment this summer. I, for one, am happy to see this! Not only is it better for your skin, it’s better for our world’s oceans. If you want to know some of my favorite mineral sunscreens, be sure to check out my Ultimate Guide to Reef Safe Sunscreen. 

If you’ve used mineral sunscreens before, then you know the “all white, all over” feeling that comes with applying many of them. I firmly believe it helps to better protect you from the sun, because the dang stuff just doesn’t budge, but it can sometimes be annoying when you’re showering a realize — you still kind of have a white “film” on you. Today I’m sharing my best tips for how to remove mineral sunscreen…

How To Remove Mineral Sunscreen

To be clear — there is nothing wrong with the mineral sunscreen lingering! It’s just that you don’t always want it on you post-beach or pool. I totally get it! 

If you’re trying to remove mineral sunscreen while you’re still at the beach, the best trick I’ve found are the Costco baby wipes. We already use these wipes to clean off the dogs’ paws (they’re unscented which we love!) and they work really well for wiping off the mineral sunscreen from your hands when you’re ready to eat or need to use your phone. 

How To Remove Mineral Sunscreen

Now let’s talk about removing the mineral sunscreen from the rest of your body once you get in the shower or bath! I will never forget the first time I used mineral sunscreen and I kept trying to rub in the lotion post-shower, only to realize it was still the sunscreen sitting on my skin. 

The key to getting it off everywhere is a heavy duty exfoliator — either product or a textured sponge/loofah. I start by lathering my entire body with regular soap, then I put a bit of sugar scrub (I made it myself easily in my kitchen!) in my palms and rub it all over in a circular motion wherever I applied sunscreen. I rinse it all off together and voila! Clean skin! 

No time for sugar scrubs? Here’s an affordable body exfoliator. 

Also to note, if you’re heading straight from the beach to happy hour, I always plant myself at the shoreline and do a little sand exfoliation, followed by rinsing in the ocean. Works like a charm!

I know the “all white, all over” look isn’t a great one, but it’s such a small price to pay for sunscreen without toxic chemicals. I’ve found that using smaller amounts minimizes the white film look and makes it a bit easier to rub in. I hope these tips were helpful! Which mineral sunscreen is your favorite?