Having recently done a ton of research and making the switch to mineral sunscreen myself, it was only fitting to write a post on the topic (see previous sunscreen post here). Funnily enough, my entire understanding of sunscreen was basically limited to the IDEA of sunscreen, the protection it gives our skin from all types of radiation and of course, the anti aging benefits. But nothing in depth about what is actually better in terms of ingredients. Of course, over the years I have seen the term ‘mineral sunscreen’ float around but I never really paid attention to anything other than the number of SPF protection. Nowadays though, with the avalanche of clean skincare products, it finally prompted me to take a deeper look into what the actual differences in sunscreen ingredients so here we go!
What is Mineral Sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreen, also known as physical or chemical free sunscreen essentially sits on the surface of the skin, rather than being absorbed by it to provide the UV radiation protection. The ingredients in mineral sunscreen act like a barrier which shield the skin from all the bad elements of the sun.
Chemical sunscreens (which are of course much more popular and overflowing on our skincare shelves) house ingredients that actually absorb the UV rays to an extent as a form of protection. Although there is not a crazy amount of anti chemical sunscreen movement, the ingredient lists have pushed me to wonder how much bad stuff would be getting absorbed by my skin. This is especially even more important since in recent years I have been over active in lathering it on as a part of my anti aging regime. With all the chemical heavy ingredients, the reason for the switch to mineral sunscreen is basically: why bother taking a risk?
Why are Chemical Sunscreens Popular than Mineral Sunscreens?
The main reason in the popularity points for chemical sunscreens over mineral sunscreen is the ingredients allowing the products to go on smoother, lighter and not leave that white ashy look that we all fuss to get rid off before we head out in the sun. But again, the catch here becomes the ingredients that allow your skin to absorb all these sketchy ingredients in the first place. With more and more brands launching mineral sun care, the quality is getting increasingly excellent and this particular factor for choosing chemicals is going down each year.
The Mineral Sunscreen Ingredients
The main two ingredients in mineral sun care products are Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. Both of these are perfectly safe and FDA approved ingredients that are not absorbed by your delicate skin. They actually sit on TOP of your skin, acting as a natural barrier and deflecting harmful rays from the sun.
A Note on Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
Interestingly enough, another thing to keep an eye out for when picking out a sunscreen product is the label for ‘Broad Spectrum’. This is because, as it turns out, many of this products will offer UVA protection but NOT UVB which is also a very important aspect to be aware of. Both UVA and UVB are contributors to cancer which makes it very important to be aware and pick the right labelled product for you.
Picking Out a Mineral Sunscreen
You really dont have to break the bank for getting a good mineral and chemical free sunscreen. From drugstore brands like Neutrogena (see my pick here) jumping on the mineral sunscreen bandwagon to more expensive options with Skinceuticals, you can get the perfect one for you. My personal favourite pick is the La Roche Posay Mineral Anthelios Sunscreen. It goes on like an absolute dream, the tinted version blends perfectly and leaves zero white ashy finish behind.
MY FAVORITE MINERAL SUNSCREEN FINDS
All opinions are my own. Not Sponsored.
