You’ve been asking, so we called in one of Miranda’s favorite experts to answer all of your hard-hitting questions about our new Silky Sun Drops Sunscreen Serum and other hot questions surrounding safe suncare. With insights from Dr. Jessica Wu, Beverly Hills Dermatologist and author of Feed Your Face, you’ll discover how this new launch promises to revolutionize your daily sun protection ritual, organically.
Let’s talk about the Silky Sun Drops SPF 30+ Serum.
This serum is packed with antioxidant-rich botanicals that nourish the skin while protecting it from UVA/UVB rays, environmental stressors, and visible signs of aging. It provides a healthier, all-day glow without white-cast residue. “A mineral sunscreen is made from natural zinc oxide or titanium dioxide,” explains Dr. Wu, “A chemical sunscreen contains ingredients that absorb UV rays, but in the process, these ingredients are also absorbed into the skin rather than staying on top of the skin. This is why I recommend mineral sunscreens for my patients who have sensitive skin or want to minimize their exposure to sunscreen chemicals.”
What is the difference between a regular SPF and Silky Sun Drops SPF Serum?
“An SPF Serum gives you sun protection in a lightweight formula that goes on without stickiness,” Dr. Wu explains. “Makeup sits nicely over [a serum], unlike many sunscreen creams that can ball up under makeup.”
Is this new SPF Serum as effective as a regular SPF?
Yes! This is a broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen serum that defends against both UVA and UVB rays using 100% mineral non-nano zinc oxide and raspberry seed oil, which is known to naturally protect against the sun. It has the same SPF 30 level of protection as other sunscreens. “SPF Serums are held to the same standard of testing as regular SPF creams,” Dr. Wu explains. “As with any SPF, it’s important to reapply to get the best-continued protection.”
What is mineral broad-spectrum sunscreen?
“Mineral sunscreen is made with zinc and/or titanium dioxide minerals which sit on top of your skin and reflect UV rays,” Dr. Wu explains. “Other types of sunscreens – chemical sunscreen, that is – absorb into your skin. “Broad spectrum” means it protects against both UVA (aging, skin cancer rays) as well as UVB (burning) rays.”
Why an SPF 30 vs. SPF 50?
“SPF stands for “Sun Protection Factor”,” Dr. Wu explains. “This number tells you how much longer you could stay outside without burning, compared to not wearing any. For example, SPF 2 means you could stay out twice as long (20 minutes vs. 10 minutes), while SPF 30 means you could stay out 30 times as long. But keep in mind that these numbers are measured in a lab, using a large amount of sunscreen, usually more than the average person uses. So in real life, an SPF 30 may only give you 2 times protection since many people don’t apply enough, or it rubs off or sweats off.” So what’s the real difference? “The most important thing to know is that SPF 30 gives you 97% protection against UVB (burning) rays (pretty good protection!),” Dr. Wu confirms. “SPF 50 gives you 98% protection (only a little more). More important than the higher SPF is reapplying sunscreen every 2-3 hours – it rubs off and migrates, so make sure you stay protected!
How is the product beneficial for the skin?
- Protects the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays
- Boosted with antioxidants to strengthen and protect against environmental damage
- Packed with antioxidant-rich botanicals to nourish and hydrate the skin
- Prevents visible signs of aging
- Nourishes and replenishes the skin.
How often should I reapply?
Reapply at least every two hours and apply more frequently if you’re exposed to water or sweat. You can reapply on top of your makeup as needed throughout the day without worrying about any white cast residue.
Can I apply it with a daytime moisturizer, or can it be used instead of one?
Although the Silky Sun Drops deliver hydrating benefits, they are not designed to replace your moisturizer. We recommend applying Silky Sun Drops Sunscreen Serum after your daytime moisturizer and before makeup. Many Silky Sun Drops fans love to also reapply over makeup to add extra protection and glow.
Sunscreen often makes me break out. Is this suitable for blemish-prone / acne-prone skin?
“For my patients with oily or acne-prone skin, I recommend a lightweight lotion or serum formula, like the Silky Sun Drops,” Dr. Wu says. “Avoid thick” creams or balms, which have bigger particles, waxes, and oils that can clog pores.” Another thing to note: Some sunscreen “breakouts” are actually rashes that develop from chemical sunscreen ingredients,” Dr. Wu reveals. “Especially the higher SPF ones.”
