What is a mineral sunscreen?
Sunscreens can be separated into two categories; physical (or mineral) and chemical. According to Cinzia, “Zinc oxide is a micro-fine mineral that offers broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays.” Mineral sunscreens are safer, better for the skin and also help to protect against blue light (or high-energy visible light) which is emitted from electronic devices.
What is the difference between UVA and UVB rays?
UVA and UVB rays affect the skin in different ways. Cinzia says, “While UVB rays affect the skin’s top layer (they’re the ones that cause sunburn and skin cancer), UVA rays penetrate the skin much deeper, causing direct damage to the cells that keep the skin healthy, plump, hydrated.”
What does sun damage do to the skin?
“Sun damage is responsible for 90% of visible ageing,” Cinzia explains (we’re getting technical here), “UVA rays cause the fibroblast cells to erode, stopping them from producing collagen, elastin or hydration, and damages the melanocyte cells, making them overproduce pigment”. In layman’s terms, that means wrinkles, dehydration, poor texture, uneven skin tone and sunspots.
How important is using a sunscreen?
Put simply, its the most important part of your skincare routine. According to Cinzia, “Every other skincare ingredient is used to reverse the effects of ageing, but zinc oxide can prevent that damage in the first place”. She jokes, “if you’re using other ingredients like retinol or Vitamin C to stimulate collagen production but not protecting yourself from the sun, you’re wasting your money”.
Why choose mineral over chemical?
“Zinc oxide protects the skin by sitting on top of it and physically blocking the sun, Chemical formulas penetrate the skin which can cause congestion and irritation” Cinzia explains. This is especially important for use on the face or if the skin is sensitive. “Mineral sunscreens tend to have increased photostability, meaning they retain their integrity when exposed to light”, she continues “oh, and they’re reef-safe”.
Do mineral sunscreens look chalky on the skin?
In the past, yes, but science has come a long way. “The minerals are micronized to be so fine, mineral sunscreens no longer leave a chalky-white residue”, Cinzia says. Even on darker skin tones, they can be used without leaving a white or ashy cast.
How do you reverse the damage already caused?
Cinzia suggests that the best way to reverse existing damage is to apply SPF daily from now on, “that way there’s no further damage which means your body can work to repair those cells underneath”. And the same applies to other skin conditions, “if you have rosacea, for example, using sunscreen allows your body to work on repairing itself rather than dealing with constant trauma from the sun”.
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FAQs
What are the key benefits of using a mineral sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreens provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays and protect your skin from blue light emitted by electronic devices. They are generally safer, better for sensitive skin, and do not contribute to congestion or irritation. Mineral sunscreens are also reef-safe and maintain their integrity in sunlight due to increased photostability.
Why is applying sunscreen considered the most important skincare step?
Applying sunscreen is the most important part of your skincare routine because it helps prevent sun damage, which causes up to 90% of visible ageing. Other skincare ingredients work to reverse damage, but sunscreen with zinc oxide stops that damage before it starts. Without sun protection, your efforts with other products may be less effective.
How do UVA and UVB rays affect your skin differently?
UVB rays impact the top layer of your skin, causing sunburn and possibly skin cancer. UVA rays penetrate deeper, damaging the cells that maintain your skin’s health, plumpness, and hydration. Regular exposure leads to accelerated ageing and increased pigmentation.
Can mineral sunscreen be used on darker skin tones without looking chalky?
Yes, modern mineral sunscreens are micronized so they no longer leave a chalky-white residue, even on darker skin tones. Advances in formulation mean you can apply them without worrying about an ashy cast, making them suitable for all skin types and tones.
How can you help your skin recover from sun damage you already have?
The best way to support your skin’s recovery is to start using SPF daily so no further damage occurs. This allows your skin to repair existing damage naturally, as your body can focus on healing without facing ongoing harm from sun exposure. The same approach applies if you have skin conditions like rosacea.