Mineral sunscreens: How they differ from chemical sunscreens

How does mineral sunscreen work?

Mineral sunscreens work on the principle of physical reflection. The mineral particles of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide act as effective physical blockers of both UVA and UVB rays due to their natural properties. They form a protective layer on the skin that reflects or scatters sunlight rather than allowing it to penetrate the skin. As a result, a significant proportion of harmful UV rays are kept away from the skin.

In contrast, sunscreens with organic-chemical filters contain carbon compounds such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene or avobenzone. These compounds absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. Skin irritation and other allergic reactions can occur as chemical UV filters and their by-products penetrate deeper into the skin.

*Zinc oxide is often the main ingredient in mineral sunscreens. It is a white, fine powder consisting of zinc and oxygen with the ability to reflect and scatter ultraviolet (UV) rays. In non-nano size zinc oxide, such as used in our Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen, the particles are not small enough to penetrate the skin.

The benefits of mineral sun care

Safe

Mineral sunscreens provide reliable and effective broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. High SPF (SPF 30 or SPF 50) and broad spectrum sunscreens help to minimize both short and long term damage from UV rays and maintain skin health.

*UVA rays have a longer wavelength and penetrate deeper into the skin than UVB rays. They are present all year round, even on cloudy days, and can penetrate glass. UVA rays contribute to premature skin ageing and pigmentation by affecting collagen and elastin production and causing oxidative damage. They are a major cause of sun allergies and play a significant role in the development of skin cancer. UVB rays have a shorter wavelength and do not penetrate the skin as deeply as UVA rays. They are more intense on sunny days and during the summer months and are the main cause of sunburn, but also contribute to skin cancer.

Well tolerated

Compared to chemical UV filters, which can be irritating or allergenic, mineral sunscreens contain minimal irritating ingredients and are ideal for all skin types, including sensitive and children’s skin. Mineral sunscreens remain on the surface of the skin without penetrating it. In addition, zinc oxide helps to soothe skin irritations.

Photostable

Zinc oxide is more photostable than organic-chemical UV filters. This means that it retains its effectiveness over a longer period of time, even when exposed to sunlight. It’s important to note that any type of sunscreen should be applied liberally several times a day, especially after swimming, towel drying and sweating, to maintain safe and lasting protection.

Powerful

Mineral sunscreens work as soon as they are applied to the skin. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, typically take 15 to 30 minutes to penetrate the skin and become effective.

Transparent

Mineral sunscreens used to have a reputation for leaving a white film on the skin and feeling heavy and greasy. Fortunately, this is no longer the case. Thanks to special manufacturing processes, transparent zinc oxide is now available, and formulations have improved significantly in recent years. Our purely mineral sunscreen with a lightly tinted formula is easy to apply, absorbs quickly and provides a unique skin feel without the traditional white cast.

Environmentally friendly

By using a mineral sunscreen, you are not only protecting your skin, but also our environment. With no risk of harmful ingredients leaching into the environment and waterways, mineral sunscreens are the greener choice.