Key's Solar RX Sunblock

I have tried so many different sunscreens, in search of the perfect one for me, that it's ridiculous. I prefer physical sunscreens (as opposed to chemical sunscreens), which use titanium dioxide, zinc or both. Common problems with physical sunscreens include greasiness, tackiness, agglomeration (where the sunscreen clumps as you apply it), shininess and white casts. I'm sure there are more but I can't think of any more at the moment. For now I've settled on Key's Solar RX as one of my main sunscreens/sunblocks because it's natural with a decent SPF, not greasy, minimally tacky, and leaves a slight white tint on my fair/pale skin. It's not perfect, but it's the best one I've tried so far (in terms of SPF, ingredients and the extent of negative qualities), and I've tried A LOT (more sunscreen reviews to come). My greatest problem with this sunblock is that it contains nano zinc-oxide and there's a lot of controversy surrounding nano particles because they're believed to be small enough to be absorbed into the bloodstream, rendering them a potential organ system toxin. The reason why nano zinc-oxide is used, is to minimize the white cast kabuki mask effect. However, the research seems to indicate that as long as the skin is intact, nano zinc-oxide does not pose a threat. The research appears to be inconclusive though.

Keys Solar RX has a thick (but easily spreadable) creamy consistency and an herbal smell to it. At first I disliked the scent, but now, after using it regularly, I barely even notice it.


Ingredients: Nano zinc-oxide, purified water, shea butter, avocado fruit oil, carrot seed oil, black seed oil, vegetable glycerin USP, Keys vegetable wax (red palm), blood orange, clary sage, rosemary extract.

Overall, the downsides about this sunblock include the concern of nano zinc-oxide, the tackiness, feeling of heaviness, and shiny appearance. I don't like that it makes my face shiny-looking, so I'm starting to just use it on my cheeks and other areas that need more protection; as for the rest of my face, I'm using an SPF 15 which I will review later on.