Mineral spf vs. chemical spf

The summer sun beckons us all outdoors to enjoy its warmth fully. But before you expose yourself to the sun's rays, it's crucial to protect your skin properly. Sunscreen to the rescue! Did you know there's a significant difference between the sun protection factor (spf) of mineral and chemical sunscreen? Read on to discover the many health benefits of using mineral spf.

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What is the difference between a mineral and a chemical spf?

To understand how mineral and chemical sunscreens work, examining their ingredients is crucial. Mineral spf, also known as physical spf, uses minerals like zinc oxide to reflect UV rays from the skin's surface before they can cause any damage. In contrast, chemical spf employs active chemicals such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, and octocrylene. These substances absorb UV rays and convert them into harmless heat. See the difference? And yet, that's not the only benefit of mineral spf has to offer...

broad spectrum protection:

Mineral spf often provides broader protection against both UVA and UVB rays, whereas chemical spf often only offers effective protection against one or the other.

immediate effect:

Mineral sunscreens begin working immediately upon application. In contrast, chemical sunscreens require about 20 minutes to be absorbed into the skin before they start providing protection.

less chance of skin irritation:

People with sensitive skin often prefer mineral of physical spf because its formula is much gentler on the skin compared to those of chemical sunscreens. As a result, there is a significantly lower risk of skin irritation.

environmentally friendly:

Mineral spf is kinder to marine life in our seas and oceans. It does not contain chemicals that are harmful to coral reefs and other aquatic organisms. Therefore, our Solar Shield SPF 30 can, without hesitation, be called reef-friendly.

What rays does mineral spf protect against?

Several invisible dangers lurk in the glorious glow of the sun. To protect your skin from these harmful rays, understanding how they work and how both mineral and chemical sunscreens protect your skin is essential.

UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, causing premature aging and wrinkles by breaking down the DNA in cells where elastin and collagen are produced. UVA rays are constant throughout the day and can penetrate glass. Mineral spf reflects UVA rays from the skin's surface, preventing them from causing damage. Chemical spf absorbs UVA rays in the upper layers of the skin.

UVB rays, responsible for sunburn and a key factor in the development of skin cancer, are stronger during the summer months and peak sunlight hours (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.). Mineral spf reflects UVB rays, while chemical spf absorbs and converts them into less harmful, subcutaneous heat.

UVC rays are largely absorbed by the ozone layer, so, fortunately, sunscreen does not need to block this dangerous radiation.

Infrared radiation is the heat we feel from the sun. Although less known than UVA and UVB rays, infrared rays penetrate deep into the skin and can cause damage with prolonged exposure, such as accelerated skin aging. This occurs due to the production of free radicals and the stimulated breakdown of collagen, leading to wrinkles and skin sagging. Mineral spf reflects infrared radiation, whereas chemical spf does not offer protection against this.

Protect your skin with the broad-spectrum protection offered by mineral spf.

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