Why Choose A Mineral Sunscreen?

During the winter months we are all huddled by the fire, wrapped up warm, but as soon as summer arrives and the sun appears we are straight outside with our skin bare to the sun.

After months of little or no sun exposure, our skin can burn quickly in the summer heat. That’s why choosing the right sun cream matters, should you use a conventional sunscreen or a mineral sunscreen made with natural and organic ingredients.

First let’s explore how the rays from the sun may harm your skin.

UVA stands for Ultraviolet A rays which are long wave radiation lengths from the sun that accounts for around 95% of the UV radiation reaching Earth.  These rays penetrate deep into the skin causing collagen and elastin fibres to break down and may cause premature skin ageing.  An easy way to remember is the A in UVA stands for Ageing.

UVB stands for Ultraviolet B rays which are shorter wave lengths and easily burns the top layer of the skin causing the skin to burn and may blister.  UVB may also be the cause of DNA cellular damage and may lead to melanoma.   Easy to remember B in UVB stands for Burning.

What Does SPF Mean

SPF stands for sun protection factor; this indicates how well a sunscreen protects against UVB radiation. The most common SPFs are 15, 30 and 50. 

• SPF15 blocks out approximately 93% of UVB rays
  
• SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays
• SPF 50 blocks roughly 98% of UVB rays

Higher SPF numbers provide slightly more protection against UVB, although no sunscreen provides 100% protection.

It’s also important to remember that when choosing an effective sunscreen, it should protect your skin from the harmful UVA and UVB sun rays, so look for a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection.  Also, SPF isn’t an indication of how long you can safely stay in the sun, as this also depends on your skin type and tone. Sunscreen should be applied generously and regularly, particularly after swimming, sweating or towelling.

What is the difference between Chemical and Mineral Sunscreens.

There are two main types of UV filters used in sunscreens:  chemical filters and mineral filters.

Chemical Sunscreen

Chemical sunscreens use UV filters such as avobenzone, octinoxate, octisalate and homosalate which offer broad protection against UVA and UVB rays. When applying chemical sunscreen these filters soak into the upper layers of your skin and absorb UV radiation and convert it into a small amount of harmless heat, which is then released from the skin. This is why you usually must allow 15 to 20 minutes for the sunscreen to absorb into your skin before you head out in the sun. Some people with sensitive skin may find certain sunscreen formulations irritating, although this varies from person to person. Chemical sunscreens can also contain a small amount of natural skincare ingredients, so it’s always worth checking the complete ingredient list.

Mineral Sunscreen

Mineral Sunscreens use natural mineral UV filters like Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide which offer broad protection against UVA and UVB rays. These mineral filters sit directly on the skin, forming a protective layer to reflect UVA and UVB rays like a mirror reflects light, helping to prevent the UV rays reaching the deeper layers of the skin.  These natural sunscreens are effective immediately after application, no need to wait before having fun in the sun. The natural and organic ingredients found in mineral sunscreens give moisturising and skin caring benefits and are less likely to cause irritation to sensitive and acne-prone skin. 

Why Choose a Natural or Organic Mineral Sunscreen?

One of the many reasons people choose a natural mineral sunscreen is because it sits on top of the skin forming a barrier which may help to calm and soothe irritated skin. Mineral sunscreens give immediate protection and combine gentle skincare moisturising ingredients with effective sun protection.  Depending on the formulation, natural and organic sunscreens may contain nourishing ingredients such as plant oils, botanical extracts and moisturising ingredients to help keep skin feeling soft and comfortable. Mineral sunscreens can also be a good option for people who prefer to avoid certain chemical UV filters.

Our Collection of Natural and Organic Mineral Sunscreens

Organii SPF50 Sun Milk gives high sun protection and does not contain any fragrance. The natural and organic formula is suitable for the whole family including babies and those with sensitive skin.

Organii SPF30 Sun Lotion gives medium sun protection and is suitable for both children and adults.

Organii SPF15 Anti-Ageing Face Cream gives medium sun protection with anti-ageing ingredients. 

At All Natural Me, our 100% mineral sunscreens are effective against UVA and UVB rays and to get the protection needed, you must apply the mineral sunscreen as the instructions recommend.

Discover our collection of natural and organic mineral sunscreens at All Natural Me and find the right sun protection for your skin.