Happy Summer Solstice! Now that it’s officially summer it’s time to talk about sunscreen.
It’s a confusing topic and unfortunately, there are some harmful products on the market, but this guide will help clarify some common misconceptions and help you enjoy more (worry-free) time outside!
Chemical vs Mineral Sunscreen … what’s the difference?
According to the Environmental Working Group, more than half of all sunscreens on the market contain harmful chemicals! This is especially alarming since chemical sunscreens (along with all the toxins found in them) get absorbed into your skin and ultimately your bloodstream, which can wreak havoc on your body.
As the name implies, mineral sunscreens are made with minerals. The active ingredient used in these sunscreens is zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide, which is a much safer option! These minerals sit on top of your skin and form a protective barrier from both UVA and UVB rays.
Mineral sunscreen is also great for people with sensitive skin because they won’t cause breakouts or reactions since they aren’t actually absorbed into your skin.
How Important is SPF?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, which is the length of time a sunscreen will protect your skin from burning. If your skin would burn after 20 minutes without sunscreen, then an SPF of 15 allows an exposure time of 15 times longer before burning. This would mean 5 hours!
It’s important to know that SPF rating only applies to UVB rays as those are the ones that cause sunburns. Protection from UVA rays are equally important though as these are the rays that cause wrinkles and cancer.
When buying a sunscreen you want to make sure it’s “Broad Spectrum” as this means it provides protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
TOP 5 MINERAL SUNSCREENS FOR 2019:
See below for a list of safe mineral sunscreens to use this summer. We’ve chosen a range of price points, each with its own benefit.
This is a light formula that doesn’t go on white and chalky and is great for full body coverage. Coola also makes an amazing mineral face sunscreen and the tinted version is great under makeup!
Consonant is an awesome Canadian based company that sells 100% natural, fragrance-free, skincare products. Their philosophy is that you can have it all when it comes to skincare and you shouldn’t have to choose between having good skin or healthy products. They offer a sunscreen that contains both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, but also includes plant derivatives to prevent it from turning white, so this is an excellent option for your face.
This sunscreen provides sheer coverage that’s non-greasy. It delivers broad spectrum protection against harmful UVA & UVB rays while providing potent antioxidants to help fight free radical and oxidative damage. It also helps deliver moisture to minimize fine lines and wrinkles.
This is a new product offered by Coppertone. It’s formulated with zinc oxide and free of the harmful chemicals often found in the traditional sunscreens. It uses 100% natural botanicals to provide hydration to the skin and is water resistant. Great for the whole body. There’s also a kids version!
Live Clean’s mineral sunscreen provides excellent protection during physical activity. It’s water resistant so won’t come off with sweat. They also offer a convenient spray version, sunscreen specially formulated for kids, and one for your face.
Enjoy the sunshine and vitamin D!