Not all sunscreens are created equal—and we are here to tell you why. Which sunscreen offers more protection against the harmful UV rays of the sun—chemical or mineral?
Chemical sunscreens contain several ingredients—they primarily constitute chemicals that promote absorption of the harmful UV rays. Synthetic or chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin and counter the harmful effect of UV radiation. Some of the common ingredients of chemical sunscreen are homosalate, methoxycinnamate, PABAs, oxybenzone and octocrylene.
On the other hand, mineral sunscreens are made of titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide—these ingredients eliminate UV rays by scattering or reflecting them before they can get absorbed by your skin. These minerals create a thin shield on the skin that deflects the damaging rays of the sun. Unlike chemical sunscreens, the mineral alternatives do not penetrate the skin and are therefore considered a better option for your skin. Check out seven reasons why you should replace your chemical sunscreen with a mineral alternative.
Zinc oxide is an excellent ingredient for the skin. This active ingredient can be found in numerous skin care formulations like acne treatments and nappy rash creams and also helps treat wounds and burns. Zinc oxide has an antibacterial formula—and serves as a building block that helps repair skin. Therefore, a sunscreen with zinc oxide can protect your skin from sun damage and actively repair your skin. On the other hand, chemical sunscreens offer no added skin benefits.
Synthetic sunscreens get absorbed in the body, and many researchers have found traces of harsh chemicals in blood and urine samples. Oxybenzone is one such harmful chemical that causes allergies, cell damage and hormone disruption. However, the minerals present in mineral sunscreens do not pose any health hazard.
Mineral sunscreens are not made of harsh chemicals, and since the natural ingredients do not penetrate our skin, they are considered a safer alternative for people with sensitive skin. It does not cause skin irritation and inflammation.
Particularly, titanium dioxide is a safe ingredient for cosmetics—non-irritating and ideal for sensitive skin. In addition, zinc oxide serves as an anti-irritant and an incredible skin protector.
Mineral sunscreens protect the skin against the sun’s UVA—as well as— UVB rays—the two types of UV radiation that harm our skin. To ensure more protection, choose a mineral sunscreen which is labeled as “broad spectrum” or “full spectrum” protection.
Harsh chemical sunscreens can clog the pores since they get absorbed into the skin. If you have acne-prone skin, opt for a mineral sunscreen which is labeled as “non-comedogenic”— meaning it will not clog your pores.
We all hate to sit after applying chemical sunscreens, waiting for it to get absorbed into our skin. But mineral sunscreens offer instant protection because they don’t need to get absorbed into our skin to ensure protection—there is no waiting time—and work effectively even when slathered over other skincare products or sweat.
Mineral sunscreens are photostable—which implies—their potency does not diminish when exposed to sunlight. They offer consistent protection, unlike chemical sunscreens that break down after some time—and become less effective.
Without a doubt—mineral sunscreens are an excellent weapon for fighting sun-induced dark spots and aging.
