Here Are *All* the Benefits of Switching to a Mineral Sunscreen
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For all derms (and us here at LTG HQ), the *most* important thing about SPF and sunscreen is that you wear one.
The type of sunscreen you use will depend on your daily activities, your skin type, how quickly you burn, how much makeup you wear on a day-to-day basis, and whether you have any skin issues that need to be tackled by your product.
But if you’ve ever visited a dermatologist (or seen so much as one recent Tik Tok beauty video) you may have heard that mineral sunscreen is better than a chemical one.
But is that true and why?
Well, fellow skincare fans and sun worshippers, we’ve got the tea on everything you need to know about mineral sunscreen, right from the mouths of the experts.
Welcome anti-ageing expert Dr Saulis Banionis, board-certified dermatologist and Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Yale New Haven Hospital Dr Deanne Mraz Robinson, and Dermatology Nurse Practitioner and Injectable Specialist Akis Ntonos.
Glow responsibly, guys and gals.
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The difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens
We’ve got the full lowdown on *all* of the benefits of using mineral SPF below.
But first, lets look at the actual difference between mineral (also known as ‘physical’) sunscreen and chemical (also known as ‘synthetic’) sunscreens.
Dr Banionis tell us, “Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, work by sitting on top of the skin and physically blocking or reflecting UV rays, while chemical sunscreens contain ingredients that absorb and chemically react with UV radiation.”
In addition, mineral SPFs absorb UV light and release it as heat, according to The British Skin Foundation.
Mineral SPF does this using minerals (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide). In contrast, chemical SPFs use a chemical reaction (using ingredients like avobenzone, octinoxate and oxybenzone) to protect us.
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The benefits of using a mineral sunscreen
There are lots of potential benefits of mineral sunscreen for some skin types. But remember, the best SPF is the one you’ll actually use so it won’t always be the case for everyone that mineral is best – especially when it comes to the challenges of sunscreen white case.
1. Broad-spectrum protection
“Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical or inorganic sunscreens, are formulated with active ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide,” Dr Banionis tells us.
The benefits? You’ll have, “broad-spectrum protection, shielding the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. This helps prevent sunburn, premature ageing, and reduces the risk of skin cancer,” says Dr Banionis.
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2. No known health risks
Many dermatologists, “prefer mineral SPF based on growing evidence of both its efficacy and the fact that it doesn’t have any negative health effects associated, which is an area of continued study when it comes to the chemical SPFs since those actives are absorbed into the skin to function,” Dr Mraz Robinson tells us.
This is why you’ll sometimes see sunscreens that are labelled as being free from common SPF ingredients like oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate or avobenzone.
“While this systemic absorption may cause no larger issues, some people wish to forgo chemical sunscreens as a result,” Dr Mraz Robinson adds.
3. Immediate protection
Now, we know kids seem to hate sitting and waiting for their sunscreen to absorb. But mineral sunscreen provides immediate protection.
“Because they don’t need to be absorbed into the skin to function there is no waiting period for their effectiveness and these SPFs can work effectively even when applied overtop of sweat and other skincare products that might inhibit the absorption of a chemical SPF,” says Dr Mraz Robinson.
4. Gentle on skin
Mineral sunscreens are often considered to be less likely to cause skin irritation.
“Compared to chemical sunscreens. They are less likely to cause irritation, making them suitable for individuals with sensitive skin, allergies, or conditions like rosacea or eczema,” Dr Banionis confirms.
This also makes the perfect product for those with sensitive skin as well as great for use on children since, “many include skin hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, alongside antioxidants, and emollients that improve how they appear on the skin,” Dr Mraz Robinson tells us.
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5. Consistent protection
Mineral sunscreens are also photostable, “meaning their effectiveness does not degrade when exposed to sunlight. They provide consistent protection over time, unlike some chemical filters that can break down and become less effective,” Dr Banonis assures us. Less time applying sunscreen and more time enjoying the sun? Sounds like a no-brainer to us, tbh.
6. Environmentally friendly
They’re environmentally friendly to coral reefs and marine life!
The “active ingredients in mineral sunscreens are generally considered safe for the environment. They do not contribute to coral bleaching or other harmful effects on aquatic life, making mineral sunscreens a more eco-friendly choice,” says Dr Banionis – This is a *serious* bonus.
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The downsides of mineral sunscreen
Now you’ve heard all of the great things about mineral sunscreen, but there are some downsides – sigh.
However, the great news is Dr Banionis assures us that the downsides, “may not apply to all mineral sunscreens, as formulations can vary across brands and products.”
“Many manufacturers have been actively improving the texture and appearance of mineral sunscreens to address these concerns. When selecting a sunscreen, consider your skin type, preferences, and consult with a dermatologist for personalised recommendations,” he adds.
White cast
The most obvious downside of mineral sunscreen is that they can leave a slight cast. This is because they, “contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients. This can be especially noticeable on darker skin tones, and some people find it aesthetically undesirable,” according to Dr Banionis.
If you’re really concerned about white cast though there are also plenty of sunscreens that contain tint, and with a variety of shades too.
Dr Mraz Robinson recommends MDSolarSciences Mineral BB Creme 50, which comes in three shades.
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Thicker texture
The thicker texture that mineral sunscreens tend to have, Dr Banionis tells us, has a “more pasty consistency. This can make them harder to spread and may leave a heavier feeling on the skin. However, many manufacturers have worked to develop mineral sunscreens with improved textures and easy application.”
“Although mineral sunscreens are generally non-comedogenic, meaning they are less likely to clog pores, some individuals with oily or acne-prone skin may find that mineral sunscreens contribute to congestion or breakouts,” he adds.
But don’t worry. “This varies from person to person, and many mineral sunscreens are formulated to minimise this issue,” he explains.
Lower protection
Mineral sunscreens provide effective protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. However, Dr Banionis tells us, “some studies suggest that the protection offered by mineral sunscreens against UVA rays, which can cause long-term skin damage and ageing, may be slightly lower compared to certain chemical filters.
“Nevertheless, most mineral sunscreens still provide sufficient UVA protection, and choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF can help mitigate this concern,” he adds.
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What skin types should use mineral sunscreens?
Ntonos tells us that mineral sunscreen is generally useful for, “gentle and suited for delicate skin. They have a lower risk of allergic responses, provide instant protection after application, and are photostable and long-lasting. Although they may leave a little white cast on the skin, mineral sunscreens are safe for use on people of all ages, including newborns and children,” he adds.
Basically, they can be used on every member of your family, which is also cost-effective.
Mineral SPFs are also, “a great choice for sensitive skin types as they aren’t absorbed into the skin to function and are less likely to trigger irritation,” says Dr Mraz Robinson.
Dr Banionis adds that, “they have a lower risk of triggering acne breakouts or clogging pores, making them suitable for acne-prone or oily skin.”
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The takeaway
Research, derms and scientists have made it clear that wearing SPF is a must for those who want to look after their skin and prevent premature ageing, lines, and wrinkles – come rain or shine, baby!
Now you’ve got the full lowdown on what mineral SPFs are, whether they have a slight advantage over chemical sunscreens for your particular skin type, the downsides and how you can fix them, as well as being armed with expert top picks – what are you waiting for?
Get *glowing* (responsibly!)
Meet the experts
Dr Saulis Banionis is board certified by The American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine and was trained extensively in aesthetic and regenerative medicine to become an expert in anti-ageing medicine, which he practices at PB Antiaging. He has also worked as a Medical Expert for the Florida Board of Medicine.
Dr Deanne Mraz Robinson, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist, the CMO of North America’s number 1 aesthetics brand Ideal Image, and an Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Yale New Haven Hospital.
Akis Ntonos, FNP-C, is a Dermatology Nurse Practitioner and Injectable Specialist, (a.k.a. Facial Architect) and co-founder of Aion Aesthetics, New York’s premier injectables clinic.
Get Glowing!
