What’s The Difference Between Mineral And Chemical Sunscreen?
Ready to become a sunscreen master? Let’s debunk some common myths about mineral and chemical sunscreens, as well as explore their health and environmental benefits. By the time you’re done reading this post, you’ll have all of your questions answered!
Is it true that mineral sunscreen reflects, and chemical sunscreen absorbs?
For years, cosmetic chemists, formulators, and even dermatologists thought that mineral sunscreens simply reflected UV rays while chemical sunscreens absorbed them.
However, a 2015 study proved this belief wrong by revealing that BOTH minerals and chemicals have the capacity to both reflect AND absorb ultraviolet radiation. Zinc oxide and Titanium dioxide (commonly regarded as “mineral” filters) are actually capable of absorbing up to 95% of UV rays! This has revolutionized how we see sunscreen today – providing unprecedented protection for our skin from harmful solar radiation.
To sum it up, mineral and chemical sunscreens are equally effective at protecting skin from UV rays, as they both absorb the radiation and convert it to heat.
Is Mineral Sunscreen cleaner and more natural?
Despite being extracted from minerals, Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide found in mineral sunscreens are heavily processed through chemical treatments to render them suitable for cosmetic use. As such, the particles become synthetic-chemical blends that can no longer be deemed natural or non-toxic—inaccurate labeling of “all-natural”, “clean” or “non-toxic” is thus misleading.
Does Chemical Sunscreen enter your bloodstream?
In 2020, the FDA conducted research that revealed six approved chemical filters in people’s blood after merely one application of sunscreen. This news caused mass confusion and fear in society; however, they failed to take into consideration that the FDA still recommended wearing sunscreen with their findings present. There is no proof indicating this trace amount of filter chemicals is dangerous or hazardous in any way – chemical sunblock remains safe and effective for use.
This pivotal discovery should encourage the US FDA to approve more advanced sunscreen filters that provide greater benefits, such as no white cast and fewer irritations. Ultimately, it’s important to remember that we mustn’t allow fear of chemical traces in our bloodstream to deter us from wearing a product with so many positive impacts, like sunscreen!
Is Chemical Sunscreen harmful to marine life and the environment?
The belief that chemical sunscreens harm the environment, particularly marine life, became more widespread after Hawaii banned two such UV filters – Oxybenzone and Octinoxate. Yet further research has revealed a sobering truth: Zinc Oxide (found in mineral sunscreen) also contributes to coral bleaching; thus making both types of sun protection equally liable for their damaging effects on our aquatic ecosystems.
Despite what current research suggests, the use of both mineral and chemical sunscreens can still contribute to coral reef bleaching. But more importantly, climate change, higher sea temperatures, acidifying waters, rising sea levels, and other environmental changes play a much larger role in putting our marine life in danger.
In short: sunscreen might be an issue, but it’s far from being the major culprit when it comes to this concerning problem we are facing today.
Ultimately, the ideal sunscreen choice is one that you’re eager to use! Both chemical and mineral sunscreens have advantages as well as drawbacks.
Consequently, selecting the right sunscreen for your skin type is essential to protect yourself from damaging UV rays.
