I’ve always hated sunscreen—the feeling, the texture, the time it takes to apply. But then I moved to Southeast Asia, started surfing, and it became non-negotiable.
That’s also when I started paying closer attention to the sunscreen debate bubbling up on social media. Is traditional sunscreen toxic? Is natural actually better—or even effective? Should we be wearing it at all?
There’s a lot of conflicting information out there, and more than a little fear-mongering. Like most things these days, it’s hard to know who—or what—to trust.
At LAKE+MAIN, we get it. In fact, we’re extra tuned in right now because (spoiler alert) we’re working on formulating a natural sunscreen of our own.
And, like everything we do, we’re taking the long way: diving deep into the research, questioning the status quo, and making sure we can stand behind every ingredient we include.
Here’s what we’ve learned so far—and what you need to know before the next SPF panic post lands on your feed.
Why Sunscreen Matters—Despite the Drama
No one needs a reminder that UV radiation is linked to premature aging, dark spots, and—most importantly—skin cancer. But what we are learning is that daily protection (yes, even on cloudy days or while working near a window) is what really makes the difference.
Slathering on SPF 100 twice a year for your beach vacation won’t cut it. Like most things in skincare, consistency wins. That means the best sunscreen is one you like enough to actually wear every single day.
Sure, there are legitimate concerns about some sunscreen ingredients. But that doesn’t mean all sunscreen is unsafe—or that we should stop using it altogether.
The Two Main Types of Sunscreen: Mineral vs. Chemical
At a high level, sunscreen falls into two main categories: mineral and chemical.
Mineral Sunscreen (Physical Blockers)
Mineral sunscreens use active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to form a physical barrier on the skin. They don’t absorb UV rays—instead, they reflect them.
Because of this, mineral formulas offer broad-spectrum, immediate protection and are often a better choice for sensitive or reactive skin. The downside? They’ve earned a reputation for being chalky and leaving a white cast (picture a lifeguard in a cheesy 80’s movie).
That said, modern formulations are much more wearable—and we’re hoping to add a next-gen version to the mix soon.
Chemical Sunscreens
Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin. They’re often easier to apply, absorb quickly, and don’t leave a white cast—making them a go-to for many people.
The issue lies in the ingredient list. Many chemical sunscreens use compounds like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and homosalate—which have been linked to environmental harm (especially to marine life and coral reefs), skin irritation, and potential hormone disruption.
Some people go so far as to say chemical sunscreens cause cancer—but there’s currently no evidence to support that. Still, if you have sensitive skin or you’re swimming in natural bodies of water, switching to mineral might be the safer, more ethical move.
What “Clean” Sunscreen Gets Right—and Wrong
“Clean” sunscreen typically refers to products that are mineral-based, fragrance-free, and formulated without controversial ingredients. But it’s important to note: the term “clean” is unregulated. There’s no universal standard, and skincare brands aren’t obligated to prove their product meets any safety or sustainability threshold just because they use the word.
While clean sunscreens can be gentler on your skin, they also come with trade-offs. If you’ve ever wrestled with thick zinc or struggled to remove stubborn white residue, you know how annoying that experience can be.
And here’s the key truth: the best sunscreen is the one you’ll wear consistently. If your “clean” SPF feels like a chore, you’re less likely to reach for it daily—rendering all that clean goodness pretty useless.
Clean isn’t effective if it discourages regular use. (That’s why we’re taking our time to create a formula that feels, looks, and smells amazing—without compromise.)
What to Look For in a Safe, Effective Sunscreen
Here’s your cheat sheet:
✅ Broad-spectrum protection (UVA + UVB)
✅ SPF 30 or higher for daily wear
✅ Non-nano zinc oxide if going mineral (safer for reefs and avoids particle inhalation)
✅ Fragrance-free or minimal essential oils for sensitive skin
✅ Reef-safe if swimming in oceans or lakes
✅ Tested for photo-stability so it doesn’t break down in sunlight
✅ Wearable texture you enjoy applying—because that’s what keeps you consistent
Making Empowered Choices For Your Skin
If you’re feeling confused, you’re not alone. Sunscreen isn’t evil—but the skincare industry has some catching up to do when it comes to transparency, education, and formulation.
At LAKE+MAIN, we’re working on a better way forward: a sunscreen that’s natural, effective, reef-safe, and—above all—wearable. Until it’s ready, we’ll keep helping you navigate the noise with facts over fear.
Stay tuned. And in the meantime, wear your SPF. Your skin will thank you.
