Mineral and chemical sunscreen creams have a common goal - to protect our skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun.
Let's take a closer look together at how mineral and chemical creams differ from each other.
Mineral sunscreen creams
Composition: Mineral sunscreen creams contain mineral ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium oxide. These minerals work by settling on the skin surface and reflecting or dispersing UV rays away from the skin.
Protection: Mineral sunscreen creams provide broad-spectrum protection, which means they protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
Safety: Mineral sunscreen creams are generally considered safe and are less likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. They are also suitable for people with very sensitive skin.
Environmental impact: Mineral sunscreen creams are often considered more eco-friendly because they do not contain chemicals that can harm marine life or coral reefs.
Use: Mineral sunscreen creams can leave a white cast on the skin due to the nature of mineral ingredients. However, newer formulations are trying to address this issue. However, for small children, white marks can serve as a helpful tool - you can see exactly where the cream still needs to be applied.
Chemical sunscreen creams
Composition: Chemical sunscreen creams contain organic compounds such as avobenzone, oxybenzone or octyinoxate. These compounds work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat, which is then released from the skin.
Protection: Chemical sunscreen creams likewise provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Aesthetically pleasing: Chemical sunscreen creams tend to have a lighter consistency and are often aesthetically more pleasing because they absorb well into the skin and do not leave white marks.
Sensitivity: Sensitive skin may react to some ingredients with an allergic reaction or irritation.
Environmental impact: Some ingredients in chemical sunscreen creams, such as oxybenzone and octyinoxate, are linked to harmful effects on coral reefs and marine life. Many countries and regions have banned or restricted the use of these ingredients to protect the environment.
At Natureal, we care about our planet - which is why our range includes exclusively only products that are coral friendly.
Using SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is very important for several reasons:
Protection against skin cancer: Long-term exposure to UV rays from the sun can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. SPF helps prevent this damage by reducing the amount of UV radiation that reaches the skin.
Prevention of sunburn: Sunburn is not just painful. Far from it. It also significantly increases the risk of skin cancer. SPF helps prevent sunburn by blocking or absorbing UV rays. Once again - SPF protects your skin.
Skin aging: UV radiation is a major factor in premature skin aging, including wrinkles, fine lines and age spots. Regular use of SPF can slow down the aging process and keep the skin youthful.
Protection from UV-related health problems: UV radiation can also cause eye damage, including cataracts. Using SPF on exposed areas of skin reduces the risk of eye problems related to UV radiation.
Skin health: Protecting the skin from UV damage helps maintain its health and integrity, prevents various skin problems and maintains an even skin tone.
The choice between mineral and chemical sunscreen creams depends on individual preferences, skin type and specific needs. However, what remains the most important decision in choosing SPF is to use SPF!
Think about your skin's health, choose a sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection (don't hesitate, go straight for SPF50.