What is mineral sunscreen?
Whether you're taking a walk in the park or lounging on a tropical beach, you are exposed to the sun's harmful rays. While some sun exposure is good for us - it provides Vitamin D and boosts serotonin (the feel-good hormone) - too much sun can cause burns and lead to skin damage. The easiest way to avoid excessive sun exposure is to cover up and limit the time you spend in the sun; but let's face it, who wants to go all summer without a golden glow?
The next best solution, then, is to limit potential damage by using sunscreen, as it provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays. We all know how important it is to use sunscreen - according to scientists, 80% of visible aging is caused by sun damage. Yet few realize that not all sunscreen is the same.
Everything you need to know about mineral sunscreens:
What does mineral sunscreen mean?
Mineral sunscreens can only contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide; these are the only ingredients that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) deems safe and effective. Although they are still produced chemically in a laboratory, just like chemical sunscreens, mineral sunscreens are gentle on the skin and provide longer-lasting sun protection.
How does mineral sunscreen work?
Mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide and titanium oxide and work by forming a physical barrier on the skin that reflects the sun's rays.
To be effective, they must be applied evenly to the skin. In contrast, chemical sunscreens - the most common type - create a barrier against UVA and UVB radiation through a chemical process. Mineral sunscreens also provide protection against UVA and UVB rays, but they often use fewer ingredients, making them more suitable for those with sensitive skin or those looking for conscious skincare.
4 benefits of mineral sunscreens
Mineral sunscreen is good for you and the planet. Here's why:
1. They work immediately
Mineral sunscreens protect you from the sun directly, unlike chemical sunscreens, which can take up to 20 minutes to absorb and be effective.
2. They can be suitable for sensitive skin
Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide can be a good choice for those with sensitive skin.
3. Planet-friendly
When it comes to sun care, you shouldn't have to choose between a product that works well and one that's good for the planet. And because chemical sunscreens contain many, well, chemicals, they aren't good for the environment. The main culprits are oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are proven to cause severe damage to marine environments, such as coral reefs - these are not used in sustainable sunscreens that use mineral ingredients.
4. Better for your skin
Many mineral sunscreens now also contain skin-beneficial oils and antioxidants, so they are actively good for your skin.
Debunking myths about mineral sunscreens
Read on to find out the facts about mineral sunscreens that debunk the top myths.
1. They all leave a white cast
Although mineral sunscreens used to have a bad reputation for leaving a white cast on your skin, times have luckily changed. Nowadays, brands are committed to ensuring mineral SPF doesn't leave a pasty white shade on your face. But if you're still worried about that, it's a good idea to let it soak into your skin a bit before applying makeup for a more natural look.
2. They don't work as well
False! Mineral sunscreens work just as well as their chemical counterparts - in fact, thanks to the physical barrier they provide, they are effective right away.
3. Mineral oil
Although it sounds like it should be, mineral oil is generally not an ingredient in mineral sunscreens. This is because it is actually a highly processed form of petroleum, which is often used in things like baby oil and Vaseline.
How to apply mineral sunscreen
In general, you can apply mineral sunscreens just like you would chemical sunscreens.
1. Make sure your skin is completely clean and dry.
2. Apply small dots of sunscreen to the entire area being covered, then rub in gently.
3. Is your skin still whitish? Keep rubbing.
4. Let it absorb for 15 minutes before applying any makeup.
5. Reapply every two hours.
Traditional mineral sunscreens left a white residue on the skin due to their light-reflecting properties.
However, with advances in technology, zinc and titanium oxide particles are now much smaller, which means they are no longer visible.
This means that new mineral sunscreens are transparent but still provide effective protection against UVA and UVB rays. For peace of mind, however, mineral sunscreens designed for children leave a thin white layer after application, so it is visible where the sunscreen has been applied.
Disadvantages of mineral sunscreens
Some mineral sunscreens need to be reapplied more often than chemical sunscreens when swimming or sweating, as they wash off more easily.
The final word
Protecting your skin is the most important thing, whichever sunscreen you choose. Look for a high SPF value (which protects the skin from burning and skin-damaging UVB rays) and an UVA or Star rating (which protects the skin from skin-aging UVA rays). And remember, it is important to cover up and stay out of the sun during the strongest hours, between 11 am and 3 pm.
Vitamins for sunbathing: Holland & Barrett vitamins
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3790843/
https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2019/08/04/747648291/confused-about-sunscreen-ingredients-heres-what-we-ve-learned
https://www.britishskinfoundation.org.uk/blog/sunscreen-explained
https://www.britishskinfoundation.org.uk/blog/sunscreen-explained
https://www.skincancer.org/prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen/choosing
https://haereticus-lab.org/oxybenzone-2/
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