In skincare, the challenge is to pick your priorities unless you have a key sunscreen in place which is essential for good skin health. Its stand-out feature is how it prevents skin cancer and premature aging which include discoloration and wrinkles. Dermatologists recommend daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen that has SPF 30 or higher constantly. This way it offers comprehensive protection while supporting overall good skin health.
However, when it comes to the best mineral sunscreen for body, what type should it be? Mineral sunscreen is one option that can be explored. To help you decide if it’s the right fit for you, we’ll answer some key questions, including:
● How to define a mineral sunscreen?
● How does it work?
● One thing that needs to be taken into consideration thoroughly is whether mineral sunscreen is ideal for a sensitive skin type or not!
● Is mineral sunscreen a good choice for people who engage in ocean swimming?
● Do mineral sunscreens have any cons?
● Which ingredients to look for in it?
What is mineral sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreen, also known as a physical sunscreen, is a product that creates a physical barrier on the skin’s surface and belongs to the category of sun protection products. Unlike chemical sunscreens which absorb UV rays, mineral sunscreens block the radiated sunlight away from the skin.
Mainly, they can have substances like zinc oxide as an active ingredient. Others are designed to incorporate both mineral and chemical protectors in a single product to provide full coverage of UV rays.
How does it work?
Mineral body sunscreen, particularly those with SPF 30 or in excess, benefits the users by defending them against both UVA and UVB rays. Reapplying, about every two hours or more after sun exposure, helps to keep the sunscreen at its full function.
Although it may take more effort to guarantee a complete protection, the mineral-based sunscreens are ideal for those with allergies or those who want natural alternatives to chemical-based sunscreens
Whether mineral sunscreen is ideal for a sensitive skin type or not?
Sensitive skin users are encouraged to apply body butter lotion or physical sunscreens with zinc oxide ingredients, which seem to be safer than chemical formulations since their application can cause skin irritation or allergies. Contrary to chemical sunscreen that absorbs the skin, the mineral counterpart behaves as a physical barrier, therefore, it is highly unlikely for allergies.
They are commonly presented as water-resistant broad spectrum, non-chemical and non-irritant, leading to lower skin sensitivity as well. Make sure to buy sunscreen at the more premium option and look for those labeled as non chemical SPF 50 and PA ++++ for high UVA and UVB protection.
These features make certain that harsh chemicals like oxybenzone are not used, the skin is protected gently with the focus on comfort and skin health of those affected by this skin type.
Is mineral sunscreen a good choice for people who engage in ocean swimming?
Consumers prefer mineral sunscreen during ocean swimming as it is reef safe. That is to say mineral sunscreen is the best choice when going into the ocean. Chemical sunscreen ingredients such as oxybenzone, octocrylene, octinoxate have a potential effect on coral reefs and marine life therefore some of the states by a law passes restrictions on their use.
Mineral sunscreens, being free of these substances, prove to be the environmentally friendly protection against the sun. Although there is still controversy on this issue, some sunscreen users trust mineral-based ones and thus guarantee 100% reef-safe sun care and environmental concerns.
Do mineral sunscreens have any cons?
Mineral body sunscreen products that usually consist of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide have long been known by its tales of heavy texture and white cast on the skin. Nonetheless, the formulation has really progressed so they no longer look and feel terrible but they are really good. The dermatologists are looking at the development of a mineral sunscreen that offers a more enjoyable alternative, casting less white color.
Although some level of inconvenience comes with mineral sunscreens, they are praised especially as the safest solution for people with sensitive skin too. Even children and pregnant women may use it. But still it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist before starting applying this product. It’s because not all mineral sunscreens are packed with safe ingredients.
It’s best to look for a brand that offers safe and effective physical sunscreens. Although it will take more time to absorb them, the assurance for the sensitive population they bring surpasses those protections, making them the best.
Which ingredients to look for in a mineral sunscreen?
Look for sunscreens that use minerals as their key ingredients that include ferulic acid, zinc oxide, and botanical extracts such as chamomile, lavender, and aloe vera.
● Zinc oxide gives a physical barrier against both UVA and UVB rays as well as preventing sunburn and aging by reducing the risk of premature skin aging.
● Ferulic acid has been found to be a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from the harmful influences of the external environment and preserves moisture balance.
● Natural ingredients in plant extracts such as chamomile, lavender, and aloe vera offers more than skincare advantages e.g. soothing irritation and providing hydration which collectively promote skin health and youthful look.
If you are searching for the best mineral sunscreen for body or body butter lotion, you can look for the above described ingredients in a product. If it has the combination of these ingredients, you can buy it. Make sure you follow the instructions mentioned on the product label to get the best out of it.
