Review (5/5): Not too oily, but it does feel like a film
I've tried to transition from chemical based sun screens to more mineral based. The main issue I ran into was that they're super oily (not what I want on my face all day). I read reviews that this one would absorb better, and (bonus) act like a primer. All of that seems to be true, however 2 complaints. One tactile, and one visual.
Perhaps it's a side effect of the mineral aspect, but I can feel this sunscreen on my skin. Not as an oil slick in the crevasse of my face, but rather as a layer permeated into the surface of my skin. It doesn't simply wash off at the end of the day, and requires a somewhat exfoliating wash. I've been getting away with mild cleansers and a good face cloth wipedown.
Visually, it does blend in with my (super pale) skin after a few minutes wait. However it also catches on any dry patches (forehead, nose, etc.) and looks a little... unpleasant on close inspection. I'm inclined to believe this is an aspect of the primer element. I don't normally wear primer, or foundation. So maybe I'm just uninitiated and this kind of reaction is normal. It's definitely not my favorite thing, but it is relatively minor.
So far it's working, and I feel good about what I'm putting on my skin and it's environmental impact. Those are major pluses in it's favor. :D
*Update*
after revamping my skincare routine I find I like this sunscreen more and more. It was catching on any rough spots on my skin, but with a improved moisturizing routine that hasn't been a problem. Instead I feel like it acts as a light primer and it's more than enough "makeup" to get me through the day. You do still want to be sure to wash it off in the evening. But that's all sunscreens. I like that this not only gives me protection, but also evens out my skin tone and lightly covers any blemishes. It's not a replacement for foundation. But if you're like me and usually go bare face, it feels just a little extra nice.