Franchesca Hashim on Redefining Suncare for Everyone

When Franchesca Hashim talks about sunscreen, there's a spark in her voice that's infectious. As the CEO and co-founder of Good Weather Skin, she's on a mission to transform one of the most utilitarian steps in our skincare routines into something we actually look forward to. We caught up with Franchesca to discuss her journey from Bay Area native to beauty entrepreneur, the unique challenges of formulating mineral sunscreen that works for everyone, and why she believes luxury in suncare goes far beyond premium packaging. What emerges is the story of a founder who refuses to accept "good enough" when it comes to sun protection—and the innovative brand that's rewriting the rules of what sunscreen can be.

What called you to make something new in Suncare?

We really started Good Weather Skin because we wanted to experience something different with mineral sunscreen. A product experience that actually felt pleasurable and indulgent to use—not like a chore. The more we explored, the more excited we became about creating something new.

How did your paths cross with Alexandra—and what shaped the decision to build Good Weather together?

Alexandra and I previously worked together and had the special connection of becoming fast friends as well. Beyond both of these connections, Alexandra had previously written a book on clean beauty (No More Dirty Looks), so she had always been my go-to for skincare recommendations. We're also just the right balance of yin and yang, which balances our partnership out in all the right places.

So many sunscreens claim to be “for all” and fall short. How did you approach formulating something truly inclusive?

As a Black woman, it was important to create an experience that not just worked for me but also for my family and friends. There was no version of the world where we considered creating something that didn't create a better experience for more people—there are enough products already out there that don't meet the mark, so we weren't trying to create another one.

What are some of the biggest misconceptions you come across around mineral sun protection—especially when it comes to melanin-rich skin?

I actually think there's less education on why people choose mineral (zinc-based) vs. chemical products. Zinc oxide can be more effective for those with sensitive skin or eyes during application versus some of the leading chemical filters. The reputation around mineral sunscreen leaving a white cast is valid—it's hard to create a mineral sunscreen that doesn't leave a cast since zinc oxide is a white powder built to stay on top of the skin. So you have to counterbalance this by using various emollients that aid with spreadability, and there's always a trade-off in doing so.

If Good Weather Skin were a place—not a product—what would we see, feel, and hear when we arrived?

It would be an infinity pool, beachside, with Steve Lacy & Solange playing and a martini in hand, and everything would feel like pleasure.

What do you hope someone feels—emotionally and physically—the first time they use Good Weather Skin?

Suncare should feel like skincare. It should feel as indulgent, beautiful, and part of your rituals in the same space as the rest of your skincare routine. Sunscreen shouldn't feel like the vitamin you don't want to take.

Where do you go, or what do you do, when you need to return to yourself?

I'm born and raised in the Bay Area in California, so I'm very lucky to be surrounded by water. I will always gravitate to a bay, beach, lake—anywhere where the body of water and the world feels infinite.

Beyond sun protection, what’s your favorite step in your skincare ritual?

Washing my face! Top-tier experience in both the morning or night... or really whenever I feel like it.

What does true luxury in sun care mean to you—especially in contrast to what’s out there?

Luxury in suncare is about intentionality. For far too long, suncare was often thought of in the functional space, and it's like "you get what you get, don't throw a fit," which turned a lot of people off sunscreen. Luxury means all parts are considered with the end experience in mind. From ingredients you can trust to packaging you're proud to display—it all should feel intentional.

What can we expect next from Good Weather Skin?

We have a Glow variation of The One coming very soon!

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As our conversation winds down, it's clear that Franchesca's approach to Good Weather Skin mirrors her personal philosophy: intentionality in every detail, pleasure in daily rituals, and an unwavering commitment to creating products that work for everyone. With their Glow variation on the horizon and a growing community of suncare converts, Good Weather Skin is proving that when it comes to protection, we don't have to choose between efficacy and indulgence. Sometimes, the best innovations come from simply refusing to settle—and Franchesca's vision for suncare that feels as luxurious as it is essential is one we're excited to watch unfold.

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