Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen - Which is the Best Choice?
Exploring the important question of 'mineral vs chemical sunscreen - which is best for skin?', we'll compare both choices, sharing our understanding of the place that gentle, effective botanical-based protection can play in a complete sun care protocol.
Mineral Vs. Chemical Sunscreen: Which is the Best Choice?
Mineral sunscreens are formulated with natural sun blockers, including the ingredients zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These types of sunscreens sit on top of the skin and act as physical barriers that deflect UVA and UVB rays from the surface. Mineral sunscreen is often preferred for its immediate effectiveness and its minimal absorption into the skin.
Chemically formulated sunscreens, on the other hand, work differently. Unlike their mineral counterparts, applying chemical sunscreens on top of the skin allows them to absorb UV rays, rather than deflect them.
When UV rays are absorbed into the skin, active ingredients, including oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, and octocrylene, work to convert the harmful UV energy into heat.
These types of sunscreens can be troublesome for some skin types, as the chemical reaction may lead to irritation.
The chemical sunscreens including oxybenzone in their formulas have also raised environmental concerns when they end up in waterways, particularly regarding their impact on coral reefs.
While we all appreciate the protective qualities of sunscreen to slow signs of aging and to help protect against skin cancer, it’s also important to note that many sunscreens, including mineral formulas, can draw moisture away from the skin.
In nature, plants have developed their own ways to perfectly guard themselves from the sun’s rays, utilizing protective antioxidants and their own UV-absorbing mechanisms.
Following nature’s blueprint, we embrace the efficacy of botanicals in our formulas to gently counter the sun’s effects. Rather than adding sunscreen to our formulas, our blends are enriched with nourishing plant butters, protective oils, and uniquely protective natural lotus leaf wax.
These botanical ingredients are time-honored remedies that provide a light layer of UV protection, nurturing the skin rather than depleting it. Our blends promise the gently protective, hydrating and rejuvenating benefits of nature’s own sun defenses.
These formulas are designed to work in harmony with sunscreens and physical sunblocks, offering a holistic approach to skin care. When choosing a sunscreen, we suggest mineral formulations, the tried and true zinc-oxide based blends, as the preferred choice between mineral and chemical sunscreens.
While we generally want the active ingredients in skincare to really settle into the skin, sunscreen is the exception, and sitting on top of the skin, rather than absorbing like a chemical formula, makes mineral sunscreen a good option.
When choosing a sunscreen be mindful that the formula complements the skin's natural characteristics. Mineral sunscreen is more supportive of sensitive and acne prone skin than chemical sunscreen, which may lead to sensitivity reactions or exacerbate acne by clogging pores. If you plan on swimming, be sure to choose a water resistant formula.
For deeper skin tones, the common challenge is finding a mineral sunscreen that blends seamlessly without leaving a pasty or ashen residue. Often it can take a few trials to find find the ideal match for your skin.
Protecting your skin from the sun is more than just the choice of sunscreen; it includes preparing and supporting the recovery following a day outdoors.
To prepare for a day enjoying the sunshine, start by moisturizing with Celestial Rose Crème or your favorite moisturizing crème, then wait 30 minutes before applying sunscreen. This allows the skin to absorb the moisturizer's benefits completely to help counter the dehydrating effects of sunscreen. Let the application of sunscreen be the final step in your morning routine before a day outside.
Rely on long sleeved tops, sarongs, big sunglasses and hats, even chic parasols to feel confident your skin is well protected. Sun protection also means seeking shade or heading indoors during the hottest part of the day, especially in summer.
After a long day in the sun, it's important to cleanse, soothe and replenish the skin. Thoroughly removing sunscreen is just as important as applying it, and Purifying Cleansing Gel will whisk away any residue while beautifully preparing your skin to receive calming and rehydrating Roman Chamomile Tonic. So gentle for skin, the soothing and restorative qualities of this light floral water also soothe the mind; a relaxing way to end a day in the sunshine.
Finally, rely on Spontaneous Recovery Crème to nourish sun-depleted skin. The formula’s treasured natural remedies, including Buriti Fruit Oil and Iris Root,deeply rehydrate the complexion.
Adopting a complete sun care protocol allows each of us to enjoy the delicious warmth of a sunny day, feeling confident that our skin is protected and nurtured.
Also in Journal
