3 Common Mineral Sunscreen Myths

Mineral versus chemical sunscreen has been a heavily debated topic in recent years. Backed by research and evidence, active chemical SPF ingredient culprits like oxybenzone and octinoxate have finally been caught red handed. These ingredients have been found to cause mass degradation of our coral reefs, wiping out our ocean’s biodiversity, and not to mention the skin damage risk. The list goes on. 

Thankfully, trusty though under appreciated mineral products have been looming in the background, waiting for their big break. And now is the time. Safer for skin and the environment, these products are the perfect alternative to the chemical based sunscreens we once fan-girled over. With key all-natural ingredients zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, mineral products protect our skin against UVB and UVA radiation, keeping us free from scorching burns and unwelcomed sun-spots. 

Unfortunately, though, not everyone is convinced that mineral sunscreen is their best shot at maintaining healthy and youthful looking skin. There are a few myths clouding their image. The biggest one centers around the application process. 

Before assuming that coating your skin with mineral based sunscreens will leave you looking like a ghost, take a look at the difference between proper and improper application. Here is a quick three step mini lesson on how to apply your favorite mineral product! 

Mineral sunscreen can feel like an investment compared to chemical sunscreen. However, a little goes a long way and lasts a long time. When squeezing out some mineral product, the lotion may feel thick in consistency. Rather than absorbing into the skin like dangerous chemical based sunscreens, these ones sit on top, shielding us from harmful UV rays. You only need about a pea-sized amount for hours worth of protection. A little truly goes a long way with mineral. The same amount of mineral sunscreen will give you twice as much coverage.

When we see people rub thick globs of mineral SPF on their bodies, we cringe. Whereas chemical sunscreen works by absorbing into your skin and requires more for coverage, mineral or physical sunscreen sits on top of your skin and requires much less. An easy hack is to apply mineral sunscreens like a layer of concealer. Squirt a small amount onto your index finger and create dots on hot-spot areas like your temples and cheeks. Use this same method to cover the rest of your skin as well. 

The 15 minute rule actually is the wait time for the chemicals in your sunscreen to penetrate your skin and create a chemical reaction (yikes). After you have covered your face and body with light, small dots of mineral product, begin to gradually blend these dots and spread the cream. This will ensure that the sunscreen spreads out evenly, leaving you free of blotchy white areas. While it may take a few more minutes to blend, you’ll still be ahead when you can go directly into the sun with mineral SPF.

It can be hard to make a switch between products especially when the internet feeds us with assumptions and misinformation on the daily. We can combat those myths by educating ourselves with fact based information and in-depth research. Mineral products are here to stay for every season. They work with every outfit and for any occasion. Now it is time to learn how to wear it!