More Than SPF: A Fresh Guide to Sunscreen That Actually Works

July 24, 2025

We all know we should wear sunscreen—but with so many options out there, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Mineral or chemical? SPF 30 or 50? What does “broad spectrum” even mean? In this guide, we’ll break it down simply. From ingredients to SPF numbers to how sunscreen fits into a more holistic approach to skin health—here’s everything you actually need to know

1. What Makes a Good Sunscreen?

A good sunscreen does more than just block the sun. It protects your skin from both UVA rays (which cause aging) and UVB rays (which cause burning), feels good to wear, and includes ingredients that care for your skin.

The best formulas are made with non-nano zinc oxide, a mineral UV filter that physically reflects rays off the skin. But that’s not all—what’s around the zinc matters too. Think plant-based oils, botanical extracts, and antioxidants that help the formula melt into your skin while nourishing, calming, and hydrating it.

2. How Much Does a Good Sunscreen Cost?

Prices vary widely, and that’s usually because of the ingredients. Clean, safe UV filters and skin-friendly botanicals often come at a slightly higher price—but that cost reflects real benefits for your skin’s health and comfort, and even for the environment.

3. UVA vs. UVB: What’s the Difference?

UVA rays penetrate deeper and are mainly responsible for skin aging, fine lines, and long-term cellular damage.

UVB rays are more intense and cause visible burns and redness.

A quality sunscreen will protect against both—this is what’s called broad-spectrum protection.

4. Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens: What’s the Difference?

There are two main types of sunscreen:

Mineral (or physical) sunscreens use natural filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These sit on top of your skin and reflect UV rays. They’re usually gentler on sensitive skin, safer for marine life, and less likely to cause irritation. They’re also reef-safe by nature and ideal for everyday wear.

Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and transform them into heat. Some older chemical filters can be irritating or harmful to coral reefs, which has led to a rise in bans on certain ingredients.

5. But here’s the nuance: not all chemical filters are bad.

Take the Mist and Oil from Le Rub, for example. These are chemical sunscreens, but they’re made with a modern blend of safe, photostable UV filters. They’re lightweight, elegant, and effective—perfect if you’re looking for invisible, skin-loving protection in a format that feels as good as it works.

6. What's the difference between SPF30 & SPF50

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and refers to how well a product protects your skin from UVB rays. Here’s a quick guide:

SPF 15 blocks about 93% of UVB rays

SPF 30 blocks about 97%

SPF 50 blocks around 98%

That extra 1% matters in certain conditions—like high altitudes, intense sun, or very fair skin—but what matters even more is this: The best sunscreen is the one you’ll actually wear. Every day. Generously. And reapplied often.

7. Why We Love the Everyday Sunscreen from Le Rub?

We’re big fans of SPF 30 mineral sunscreens, especially for oily or combination skin.

- Lightweight and breathable

- Less greasy and more comfortable

- Built to hold up in heat, humidity, and everyday life

- Packed with plant-powered ingredients that care for your skin

They’re proof that sunscreen doesn’t have to feel heavy or chalky. It can be soft, smooth, nourishing—and invisible.

8. How to apply sunscreen:

Face: Use ¼ to ½ teaspoon to cover your whole face — ears and neck included! Apply generously as the last step in your skincare (before makeup if you wear it). Warm it up between your fingers first for a smoother blend. Reapply every 2 hours, especially if you're out in the sun or sweating.

Yes, you can mix it with foundation or layer over your day cream, but this may lower the SPF — so stay sun-smart and reapply often!

Body: Heading outside? Slather it on before the sun finds you. Use enough to cover all exposed skin and reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming or sweating. Warm it up in your hands first — your skin will thank you.

Bonus tip: No sunscreen blocks 100% of UV rays — so pair it with shade, hats, and sunnies for full-on sun protection!