Daily sunscreen is necessary to keep your skin healthy and youthful. But which type of sunscreen should you choose? Sunscreens usually fall into one of two categories: chemical and mineral (physical). Although both have sunscreen properties, chemical and mineral sunscreens differ in their active ingredients and the way they protect from UV exposure. Read on to learn the difference and discover the benefits of using mineral sunscreen.
Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen | Benefits of mineral sunscreen | Dermatologist-recommended mineral sunscreen
Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens: Key Differences
chemical sunscreen
Sunscreen is essential to protect your skin from the dangers of sun exposure, such as sunburn. Sun damage and melanoma. It also helps minimize the effects of aging caused by UV rays, such as fine lines, wrinkles, sagging skin, and rough skin.
There are two types of sunscreens: mineral sunscreens and chemical sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens are often referred to as “absorbers.” The active ingredient is an organic (carbon-based) compound that absorbs ultraviolet light. Through a chemical reaction, these compounds convert ultraviolet light into heat, which is then released through the skin.
Chemical sunscreens contain one or more of the following ingredients:
- oxybenzone
- octinoxate
- octocrylene
- Avobenzone
- octisalate
- homosalat
Although these active ingredients do a good job of dissipating UV rays, these chemicals are eventually absorbed into the skin.
mineral sunscreen
Mineral sunscreens, known as “reflectors,” act as physical blockers that manually reflect and bounce UV rays away from your skin. Mineral sunscreens are formulated with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as the two main active ingredients. These active ingredients form a protective barrier on the skin, allowing harmful UV rays to be reflected before they make contact with the skin’s surface. Mineral sunscreens physically protect your skin from the sun’s rays, so they provide immediate sun protection when applied. There is no need to wait indoors until the product is completely absorbed.
Great for all skin types, but dermatologist certified. Dr. Markowitz They share with Glamor that mineral sunscreens are especially good for people with acne-prone or sensitive skin. Mineral formulas stay on top of your skin without being absorbed, so they are less likely to clog your pores or cause irritation. Mineral sunscreens are also reef safe, but we’ll discuss their benefits in more detail below.
Main differences between sunscreens
Mineral sunscreens and chemical sunscreens protect your skin from harmful UV rays in different ways. The active ingredients in mineral sunscreens, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, act like a protective shield on the surface of your skin. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, are absorbed by the skin, absorbing and converting UV rays.
For some, the absorption of the active ingredients in chemical sunscreens is alarming.be recent research They discovered that certain active ingredients used in chemical sunscreens can be absorbed into the bloodstream after just one use. These ingredients included oxybenzone and avobenzone. In the press release, F.D.A. director Dr. Janet Woodcock It states that the study showed evidence that the active ingredients were absorbed. Further research is needed. By comparison, zinc oxide and titanium oxide, used in mineral sunscreens, are two ingredients recognized as safe by U.S. law. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
If you want to take a preventative approach when choosing a sunscreen, consider using a mineral sunscreen instead, which creates a physical shield on your skin.
Another major difference is the time it takes for each product to start working. Chemical sunscreens are absorbed and usually take 20 to 30 minutes to take effect. Let’s explore more amazing benefits of mineral sunscreens that you didn’t know about.
Benefits of mineral sunscreen
If you’re still not convinced by the benefits of mineral sunscreen, here are some reasons to add it to your daily skin care routine.
coral reef friendly
Mineral sunscreens may be more environmentally friendly. You may not realize it, but the chemical ingredients (carbon-based organic compounds) in chemical sunscreens, even in low concentrations, can disrupt the ecosystems found in coral reefs in the ocean. Mineral sunscreens are preferred by beachgoers and destination travelers because they avoid these harmful chemicals.
suitable for all skin types
Broad-spectrum UV protection
Mineral sunscreens reflect both UVB and UVA rays from the skin’s surface. UVB rays cause sunburn and other unpleasant symptoms such as redness, dryness, and itching. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin, causing premature aging and play an important role in the development of melanoma (a type of skin cancer).
Dermatologist-recommended mineral sunscreen
Some dermatologists are turning to mineral sunscreens, given that the FDA is conducting more research on the absorption of chemical sunscreen ingredients. ‘The most important thing is to use SPF regularly,’ says dermatologist Loretta Ciraldo, medical doctor To tell Glamour. Whether it’s minerals or chemicals, if you don’t like the texture or smell, you’ll end up not using them.
Dr. Hooman Khorasani, MD, Quadruple Board Certified Dermatology A New York City skin cancer surgeon “loves” when people use mineral sunscreens. “I recommend mineral sunscreens for patients with skin irritation, sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, or patients who have undergone energy-requiring procedures in the office,” says Dr. Khorasani. It does not absorb heat from the skin like chemical blockers. Overall, mineral sunscreens are better for your skin and the environment. ”
in Eminence organic skin care, offers mineral sunscreens that are free of harmful ingredients. They use non-nano zinc oxide as a safer option for the skin and the environment. Keep reading to learn more about each sunscreen option.
What is zinc oxide?
Mineral sunscreens typically use zinc oxide as a physical sunscreen against UV rays. Yes, it’s the same zinc your parents plastered on your nose and cheeks in the ’80s. Since then, zinc oxide has come a long way and can now be found in lightweight, buildable formulas that provide the same sun protection benefits but with a natural-looking finish. Here, let’s take a look at the many benefits of zinc oxide for the skin.
Zinc oxide keeps skin cool
Unlike chemical sunscreens, which trap UV rays and convert them into heat, zinc oxide keeps your skin cool and allows it to breathe. It reflects the heat and energy of the sun’s ultraviolet rays away from the skin, maintaining skin temperature. For this reason, mineral sunscreens are especially beneficial in minimizing skin irritation and redness associated with acne, rosacea, and skin sensitivity.
Zinc oxide physically prevents sunburn
Although zinc itself occurs in nature, zinc oxide is actually produced by the combination of mineral zinc and oxygen molecules. When these two elements evaporate and condense, a fine powder is formed that adheres to the skin and provides a protective barrier against UVA and UVB rays. In addition to providing a physical barrier, zinc oxide also acts as a mirror that reflects UV rays before they penetrate the skin’s surface.
Supports collagen production
Exposure to ultraviolet light is the main cause of premature aging. Sun damage exposes your skin to harmful free radicals that break down and destroy collagen, an essential protein that keeps your skin toned, plump, and elastic.Zinc acts as a cofactor collagen Synthesized by activating protein collagenase. This protein triggers the production of collagen to build and repair connective tissue like skin.
Benefits for skin prone to breakouts
Zinc oxide can also help treat breakout-prone skin. Studies have shown that zinc effectively reduces skin inflammation, inhibits the growth of acne-causing bacteria, and regulates sebaceous gland activity. It also has an astringent effect, tightening pores and minimizing skin unevenness.
Which all-mineral sunscreen is right for you?
Protecting your skin from sun damage is one of the most effective ways to slow the visible signs of aging and keep your skin looking and feeling healthy. Now that you know the benefits of using an all-mineral sunscreen, it’s time to explore your sun care options.
Radiant protection SPF liquid
Radiant Protection SPF Fluid is a lightweight liquid sunscreen that minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles (thanks to bakuchiol, a natural retinol alternative) while providing broad-spectrum protection with SPF 30.
Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40
This all-in-one lightweight daily moisturizer is formulated with cacao seed extract, satsuma mandarin peel, and all-mineral protection with SPF 40. If you’re concerned about blue light exposure from sitting in front of electronic devices all day, this moisturizer is for you. This sunscreen is specially formulated to improve the appearance of skin exposed to blue light stress and pollution. Cocoa seed extract contains a blend of cocoa peptides, sugars, and polyphenols that improve the appearance of your skin.
This SPF moisturizer not only improves the visible effects of blue light exposure, but also protects indoors and outdoors from UVA and UVB rays and environmental pollution. Active ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide form a barrier against UV rays, keeping your skin healthy and smooth.
Lilikoi Mineral Defense Sports Sunscreen SPF 30
In addition to an SPF moisturizer, we also recommend Lilikoi Mineral Defense Sports Sunscreen SPF 30 for head-to-toe protection. Easy to apply to face and body, this sports formula is non-greasy and water-resistant for up to 40 minutes.
Bright Skin Moisturizer SPF 40
This daily moisturizer contains a natural hydroquinone alternative and all-mineral protection with SPF 40, as well as a formula that targets the appearance of age spots. Natural hydroquinone alternatives improve dark spots and give you smoother, more even skin.
Want to add mineral sunscreen to your skin care routine? Let us know in the comments below and join the conversation on social media. Experience our all-mineral SPF moisturizers and sunscreens at your local Eminence Organics spa partner.
