Why Some Sunscreens Leave a White Cast (and What You Can Do About It)

Does this sound familiar? You diligently apply your sunscreen, ready to take on the day, but instead of a seamless finish, you notice a subtle, chalky layer sitting on your skin. While sun protection is non-negotiable, dealing with a stubborn white cast can feel like an unwanted trade-off.

We come bearing good news: You don’t have to choose between effective SPF and a natural finish. That chalky residue is mostly caused by mineral sunscreens, thanks to their active ingredients, but formulas have come a long way. Plus, whether you want a sheer finish, a soft tint or a completely invisible look, there’s a sunscreen that works for you! Let’s break down why white cast happens and which formulas minimize it so you can feel confident in your look while staying protected.

Why Do Some Sunscreens Leave a White Cast?

If your SPF is leaving a white cast on your skin, chances are it’s a mineral sunscreen. Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, two UV filters that physically block and reflect UV rays. These ingredients are naturally white powders, and they sit on top of your skin to create a shield against UV rays.

While mineral SPF is known for being gentle on sensitive skin and offering broad-spectrum protection, it’s impossible for these white particles to be completely invisible. So, if a brand claims its 100% mineral sunscreen is “clear,” proceed with skepticism.

However, advancements in sunscreen technology (like the ones we’ve made at Supergoop!) have made it possible to significantly minimize white cast, creating mineral SPF formulas that blend in much more easily while still delivering trusted protection.

3 Mineral Sunscreens That Can Minimize White Cast

Mineral sunscreens may never be fully invisible, but they don’t have to leave you looking like a lifeguard from the ‘90s. Our mineral SPF collection is filled with formulas made to blend more seamlessly!

1. Mineral Unseen Sunscreen

Meet the sheer mineral version of our iconic Unseen Sunscreen. This weightless, cloud-like lotion provides powerful SPF protection in a scentless, weightless formula. Designed for all skin types, including sensitive skin, Mineral Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 delivers broad spectrum sun protection while doubling as a makeup-gripping primer. The formula blends seamlessly with a natural finish to help minimize the classic mineral white cast. Plus, with 40 minutes of water and sweat resistance, it keeps up with your daily routine — whether you’re at the beach or just out running errands.

2. Mineral Sheerscreen

For those who love a featherlight feel, Mineral Sheerscreen SPF 30 has a satiny, smooth and weightless formula. Plus, it features our innovative SheerMatrix Technology which creates an ultra-lightweight structure to create a uniquely sheer finish and comfortable wear. Sheerscreen also doubles as a makeup primer and provides blue light protection.

3. Mineral Mattescreen

If your skin leans toward the oily side, Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40 is the multitasking mineral SPF you’ve been waiting for. This whipped, airy cream mattifies skin while blurring pores, priming for makeup and delivering expert SPF 40 protection. Created for normal, combination, oily and sensitive skin types, this formula has a tint to help minimize white cast.

How to Prevent White Cast from Sunscreen

There’s no such thing as a totally invisible mineral SPF but the options above will help minimze white cast. However, if you’re looking for a completely clear finish, we’ve got options.

Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50

For those who want zero white cast, our Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50 is the ultimate go-to. This 100% invisible, weightless and scentless gel goes on completely clear to provide broad spectrum SPF 50 protection without leaving a trace. More than just sun protection, this face sunscreen visibly blurs pores, skin clarity¹ for smoother skin and is clinically tested to improve quality of makeup for longer-lasting, all-day wear².

Unseen Sunscreen Stick SPF 40

Need to reapply on the go? Our Unseen Sunscreen Stick SPF 40 brings our fan-favorite formula into a portable, easy-to-use stick. Perfect for tossing in your bag, this velvety, shine-reducing face sunscreen stick glides over makeup with minimal transfer, making reapplication effortless — no rubbing in required.

Say Goodbye to that White Cast with Supergoop!

White cast might be a common sunscreen struggle, but it’s not one you have to put up with. With Supergoop!’s mineral and invisible SPF formulas, you can protect your skin while keeping your skin looking fresh and natural. Whether you opt for a sheer mineral finish, a soft tint or a completely clear sunscreen, there’s an option that fits seamlessly into your routine.

Based on an independent clinical study with 33 women: ¹After using product for 4 weeks, ²8 hours after one application as compared to foundation alone