Why You Should Only Use Mineral Sun Creams

05-08-2022 | Posted in: Blogs, Products

Mineral sun creams have long been heralded as the more effective way to protect your skin from the sun. And it’s no wonder why – the ingredients in mineral sun creams sit on the surface of your skin and act as a filter, rather than being absorbed into your skin. This means that they provide a physical barrier between your skin and the sun’s harmful rays. But have you ever wondered what minerals make mineral sun cream effective? How is it different to traditional sunscreens? Wonder no more! In this Vie Aesthetics blog, we’ll explore the benefits of using mineral sunscreens and teach you how to choose the right one for your needs. So read on and learn all about this amazing type of sunscreen!

What minerals make mineral sun cream effective? How is it different to traditional sun creams?

The difference between mineral sun creams and traditional sun creams is the list of ingredients. Mineral sun creams are a more effective way of protecting your skin because the ingredients sit on the surface of your skin and act as a filter as opposed to being absorbed into your skin.

Traditional sun creams (commonly known as chemical SPFs) provide a filter which is made up of small particles that are absorbed into the skin. Mineral sun creams or as they are also called, physical sun creams typically contain ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide which are not absorbed into the skin and have an excellent safety record. Mineral sun creams have filters that are not toxic to humans.

How does it compare to traditional sun creams in terms of protecting the skin?

Traditional sun creams protect against sun exposure by breaking down UV rays through chemical reactions. This means the UV rays are not absorbed into your skin but the chemicals of the sun cream are. Active ingredients such as Oxybenzone, Avobenzone, Octinoxate are effective in causing these chemical reactions.

Mineral sun creams, however, act as a physical barrier deflecting the harmful rays from your skin. The sun cream is not absorbed into your skin but sits on the surface acting as a physical filter.

mineral su creams

Apply Regularly

How can You avoid being left with a white cast on the skin? 

You may have read that mineral sun cream can oftentimes leave a white cast on the skin. This is due to the fact that the product is not absorbed into the skin but sits on top of it. To avoid this, you can use mineral sun creams that have tints and also use mineral powder SPFs, which can be re-applied over your make-up. (See products mentioned below.)

Why might someone choose a mineral sun cream over a traditional sun cream?

In order for your skin to benefit from the protection of a traditional sun cream, your skin must first absorb the chemicals that break down the UV rays. Most chemical (traditional) sunscreen filters are made up of small particles that are absorbed into the skin. Examples include Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, -MBC, Octocrylene and Homosalate. These chemicals can irritate your skin and cause some discomfort, especially if you have sensitive skin. Some of these particles have even been found in plasma and urine.

Dozens of studies in the last decade have examined the potential health hazards of small molecule sunscreen chemicals, including skin irritation or allergy, hormone disruption and skin damage that occurs when sunlight interacts with sunscreen chemicals (EWG: Environmental Working Group, 2015). Many of these chemicals are known or suspected as hormone disruptors, allergens and carcinogens.

By contrast, the ingredients in physical (mineral) sun creams, are natural and very rarely cause reactions, as they sit on the skin’s surface. They contain large particles of ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that safely remain within the stratum corneum (outer dead layer of skin).

Does mineral sun cream work well across skin types? For example, will it work well for oily skin tones or for those with sensitive skin?

Mineral sun creams are made up of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, both natural active ingredients making mineral sun creams perfect for use on sensitive skin. In addition, zinc oxide is an anti-inflammatory and calming agent. This means that the use of mineral sun creams can actually help soothe conditions such as eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, melasma and acne.

Is there anyone who shouldn’t use mineral sun creams?

The natural ingredients mean that mineral sun creams are suitable for the majority of people. Chemical sun creams can be irritating for people with sensitive skin and may not be the best SPF choice for mothers who want to breast-feed, because the absorption of chemicals. Mineral sun creams are natural and effective products for sun protection.

However, it is important to mention that in 2019 the FDA proposed additional tests and regulations for powder and spray sun creams to ensure that no nanoparticles of Titanium Dioxide are released to protect the lungs. Studies have shown that titanium dioxide may be a possible form of human carcinogen when inhaled.

Does mineral sunscreen expire more quickly than traditional sun creams?

All sun creams have an expiration date of around 2-3 years (as advised by the FDA). Mineral sun creams tend to have a longer shelf life than traditional chemical sun creams because the ingredients are naturally more stable, in comparison to chemical sun creams, which contain a variety of chemicals and in some cases added stabilisers.

Do you have any recommended or preferred mineral sun creams?

I would recommend three hero products with SPF:

AlumierMD Versatile tint SPF 40

AlumierMD Versatile tint SPF 40

This is a silky and sheer mineral sun cream that provides powerful broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. The combination of UV protection and moisture with Vitamin E, as well as the free radical quenching antioxidants make for a perfect combination. In addition, the fact that it is tinted means you can save time by using this as your daily foundation!

ZO Skin Health Sunscreen + Powder Broad-Spectrum SPF 30

This one is powered by Triple-Spectrum Protection® and exclusive ZO® antioxidant technology. It offers protection against UVA and UVB rays and HEV light (commonly known at Blue Light, emitted from the sun and electronic devices). The powder formula is hydrating and absorbs the skin’s surface oil which minimises shine. This sun cream offers slight coverage but can also be applied over your makeup and re-applied throughout the day.

Mesoestetic Mesoprotech Antiaging Facial Sun Mist SPF 50+

This is another top candidate mineral sun non-comedogenic (non-pore blocking) cream that protects your collagen with its pro-47 formula, and has an antioxidant protective action from Vitamin E. It has a super high SPF, which means you will be ultra-protected. It very easy to apply – a fine, fresh & ultra-light textured mist and it can be re-applied on top of makeup.