Sunscreen has always been a non-negotiable in my skincare routine, but let’s be honest—it’s not always easy to find the perfect formula. Some leave a dreaded white cast, others feel greasy, and then there are the ones that pill under makeup (ugh). So, when I got my hands on Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Mineral Milk Sunscreen SPF 30, I was both excited and skeptical. Could this be the game-changing sunscreen my skin had been waiting for?
As someone who spends a lot of time outdoors and is always on the lookout for a sunscreen that does more than just sun protection, I had high hopes for this product. I wanted something lightweight, non-greasy, and effective at keeping my skin both hydrated and shielded from harmful UV rays. After 25 days of consistent use, I have thoughts. Here’s everything you need to know about this viral SPF.
First Impressions: Love at First Drop?
The first thing I noticed? The texture. It’s lightweight, silky, and almost serum-like, which was a pleasant surprise for a mineral sunscreen. Unlike traditional SPF formulas that tend to be thick and pasty, this one felt effortless to apply. A few drops glided smoothly over my skin without any of that dreaded dragging effect.
Another plus? No overwhelming scent. Many sunscreens have that strong, unmistakable SPF smell, but ShadeDrops has a barely-there fragrance that disappears within seconds. It’s subtle, fresh, and not at all overpowering.
The Wear Test: Does It Hold Up?
From day one, I was impressed. This sunscreen melted into my skin without leaving a white cast (hallelujah!). It has a natural, slightly dewy finish, making my complexion look fresh rather than greasy. On no-makeup days, my skin had that healthy glow without looking like I dunked my face in oil.
Under makeup? Even better. Unlike many mineral sunscreens that tend to pill or make foundation patchy, ShadeDrops acts like a smoothing primer. My makeup applied seamlessly on top—no separation, no streaks, just flawless coverage.
And let’s talk about hydration. Thanks to squalane and shea butter extract, my skin felt nourished all day long. There was no midday dryness or tightness, even in air-conditioned environments. It kept my face feeling plump, soft, and protected throughout the day.
Get this for your makeup arsenal
The Real Test: Sun Protection & Skin Benefits
Let’s be real—the true test of a sunscreen is its ability to shield your skin from UV damage. Living in a city where the sun is practically a year-round guest, I’m extra cautious about sun exposure. Over the past 25 days, I’ve spent time outdoors, gone on long walks, and even had a few beach days. The verdict? No sunburns, no irritation, no redness.
✔️ Zinc Oxide (9.4%): A gentle yet powerful mineral UV filter that protects without irritating my sensitive skin.
✔️ Antioxidants (Vitamin E & Ethyl Ferulate): These helped fight free radicals, keeping my skin looking fresh and youthful.
✔️ Squalane & Shea Butter Extract: Perfect for keeping my skin soft, plump, and well-hydrated throughout the day.
This sunscreen doesn’t just protect—it enhances. My complexion looks brighter, smoother, and more even-toned compared to when I started using it.
How to Get the Best Results
To truly get the most out of ShadeDrops, here’s what worked best for me:
🔹 Shake well before use—this ensures the formula blends evenly.
🔹 Apply generously—a nickel-sized amount does the trick.
🔹 Let it set for a minute before layering on makeup.
🔹 Reapply every 2 hours (especially if you’re outside for long periods).
Final Thoughts: Will I Repurchase?
After 25 days, I can confidently say YES. This reef-friendly, lightweight, and hydrating sunscreen has earned a permanent spot in my routine. It’s rare to find a mineral SPF that feels this good on the skin, works beautifully under makeup, and actually delivers skin benefits beyond just sun protection.
For $36, it’s a solid investment in healthy, glowing skin—and knowing it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and housed in recyclable packaging just makes it even better.
👉 Shop Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Mineral Milk Sunscreen SPF 30 Here
If you’re on the hunt for an SPF that does it all, trust me—this one’s worth every drop. 😉
#SummerFridays #MineralSunscreen #GlowFromWithin #CleanBeauty #SPFEssentials
