Safe Sunscreen Recommendation

Q: Is mineral sunscreen better for sensitive or post-procedure skin?

Yes. Mineral sunscreens are less likely to irritate the skin because they don’t absorb deeply and are usually fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. They’re ideal after facials, peels, microneedling, or laser treatments.

Q: Do mineral sunscreens leave a white cast?

Older mineral formulas often left a white cast, but the sunscreens we carry—like SkinBetter, Avene, and Alastin—are modern, sheer, and blend seamlessly with most skin tones.

Q: Can I wear tinted mineral sunscreen instead of foundation?

Yes. The Avene Tinted Compact and SkinBetter TONE SMART Compact offer light coverage and excellent UV protection. They’re a great multitasking option for summer or low-maintenance routines.

Q: Do your sunscreens contain oxybenzone or avobenzone?

No. The sunscreens we carry are free from chemical filters like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate. We only offer products that meet our safety, sensitivity, and effectiveness standards.

June 2, 2025

The Truth About Sunscreen

Sunscreen Isn’t Optional—But Not All Sunscreens Are Created Equal

If you’ve seen the headlines lately, you might be wondering: Can sunscreen really be harmful?

Unfortunately, some products have raised red flags. That’s why at Fountain of Youth, I only carry sunscreen brands that are clinically tested, dermatologist-approved, and truly trustworthy. These are the formulas I personally use—and confidently recommend to my patients.

What's the Concern with Certain Sunscreen Ingredients?

We’ve learned that many popular sunscreens rely on chemical UV filters like:

- - Oxybenzone
  - Avobenzone
  - Octinoxate

These ingredients can be absorbed into the bloodstream and have been linked to hormonal disruption, increased skin sensitivity, and photoreactivity—meaning they can break down when exposed to sunlight.

Some aerosol products have also tested positive for benzene, a known carcinogen, prompting multiple recalls and raising concern throughout the dermatology and medical community.

Even the FDA has called for further research into the long-term safety of these chemical filters, leaving many people unsure about what to trust.

Why Ingredients Matter, And What We Recommend Instead

We choose mineral-based sunscreens that use:

Zinc Oxide
Titanium Dioxide

These sit on the skin’s surface and physically block UV rays, rather than being absorbed. That makes them ideal for:

Post-treatment skin
Melasma-prone skin
Sensitive or reactive skin
Daily use—even for children

They’re also non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and less likely to cause irritation—a better choice for anyone who wants clean, effective protection.

Why These SPFs Are Our Go-To Favorites

SkinBetter SunBetter Line

Includes Sheer SPF 70 Lotion, TONE SMART SPF 68 Compact & Stick SPF 56
If you’ve ever skipped sunscreen because it felt heavy, greasy, or left a white cast—this line will change your mind.

100% mineral-based for gentle, powerful protection
Lightweight and smooth—perfect under makeup
Clinically tested and loved by patients with sensitive, post-procedure skin

New: SkinBetter’s Even Intensive Correcting Serum
Finally—real results for stubborn discoloration and dark spots. This powerful serum combines two advanced biotechnologies, b.r.y.t.e.r. and TAP, to visibly improve skin clarity and tone in as little as 8 weeks.

b.r.y.t.e.r.: Targets deep, persistent discoloration and uses AHAs to gently resurface for brighter skin
TAP: Neutralizes internal free radicals to reduce the visible effects of oxidative stress, like dark spots and uneven tone
Clinically proven to brighten and even skin tone with continued use
Perfect for anyone struggling with stubborn hyperpigmentation or dark marks

Discover what your skincare routine’s been missing—ask us about SkinBetter’s Even Intensive today.

Learn more about what SkinBetter says about their b.r.y.t.e.r. technology.

Avene Tinted Compact

A beautiful blend of sun protection and lightweight coverage—ideal for makeup-free days.

Subtle tint that blends seamlessly into most skin tones
Soothing and safe for rosacea-prone or reactive skin
Compact and portable—great for touch-ups on the go

Alastin SilkShield SPF 30

Feels like skincare and sunscreen in one. If your skin is dry, irritated, or healing, this is what I’d reach for.

Antioxidant-rich to fight inflammation and free radicals
Silky, breathable texture
Specifically designed for post-procedure and mature skin

Special Offer: Free Tote with Purchase!

Buy any sunscreen and receive a limited-edition summer tote bag—free!
It’s our way of helping you protect your skin and look good doing it.

FAQ Safe Sunscreen & Skin Protection

What does “broad-spectrum” mean in sunscreen?

Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. It’s essential for preventing skin cancer, premature aging, and pigmentation issues like melasma.

What’s the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen?

Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to physically block UV rays at the skin’s surface. Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin and convert UV rays into heat. Mineral formulas are often safer for sensitive skin and post-treatment healing.

Is mineral sunscreen better for sensitive or post-procedure skin?

Yes! Mineral sunscreens are less likely to irritate the skin because they don’t absorb deeply and are usually fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. They’re ideal after facials, peels, microneedling, or laser treatments.

Do mineral sunscreens leave a white cast?

The older ones did—but not the ones we carry. Brands like SkinBetter, Avene, and Alastin offer modern formulas that are sheer, blendable, and work beautifully under makeup or on bare skin.

What SPF should I be using daily?

We recommend at least SPF 30 for everyday wear, and SPF 50+ for extended sun exposure or after aesthetic treatments. All of our featured sunscreens meet or exceed these standards.

Can I wear tinted mineral sunscreen instead of foundation?

Absolutely. The Avene Tinted Compact and SkinBetter TONE SMART Compact offer light coverage with excellent UV protection. They’re a great multitasking option for summer or low-maintenance routines.

What is the best sunscreen for melasma or pigmentation concerns?

Mineral sunscreens are preferred for melasma because they physically block UV rays without triggering inflammation. Pairing SPF with a correcting serum like SkinBetter EVEN can improve tone while protecting against new damage.

Do your sunscreens contain oxybenzone or avobenzone?

No. The sunscreens we offer are free from chemical filters like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate. We only stock products that meet our safety, sensitivity, and effectiveness standards.

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