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5 Best Mineral Sunscreens

SUNSCREEN PROMOTION BUY ONE GET ONE HALF OFF - THE BEAUTY DOCTRINE

Why do we need sunscreen?

Prolonged sun exposure causes a multitude of issues that aren't just cosmetic, but can also impact our health. It causes the skin to become more sensitive, reactive, acne prone, dry, thick (leathery) and wrinkled. Skin cancers, and suppressed immune responses have also been linked to molecular changes attributed to sun exposure. This all happens as a result of processes triggered by UVA, UVB and UVC rays. Let's break it all down...
 

UVA: These are the aging rays that penetrate the deepest into the skin causing issues such as melanoma, and breakdown of structural elements such as Collagen and Elastin, speeding up skin aging. There is only one type of sunscreen that is effective against UVA and that is mineral sunscreen containing Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide.

 

UVB: The burning rays, even more damaging than UVA. It has been known that even one bad sunburn can trigger a carcinogen DNA mutation. UVB rays can be absorbed by chemical sunscreens and blocked by mineral sunscreen.

 

UVC: The MOST DANGEROUS of all UV rays. They are naturally filtered by the ozone layer. Sunscreens are ineffective against them, and that is why we don't hear too much about them from cosmetic brands. Considering that the ozone layer is now significantly thinner, with gaps above major metropolitan areas, due to pollution, it is crucial to limit sun exposure. When in the sun, it is advised to wear hats, sun glasses, and loose clothing to help protect your skin.

 

What's Chemical Sunscreen?

This is the most commonly used and preferred by consumers due to the abundance of options and pleasant scents and textures. This is usually in products marketed as sheer, light, easy to blend, etc. It uses synthetic compounds you may recognize as Avobenzone, Oxybenzone, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Homosalate and Octinoxate which absorb sun light and transform UV rays into non-damaging forms of energy. Here is why we aren't fans:
 
  • Chemical sunscreen is unstable and breaks down overtime, therefore requiring penetration enhancers, preservatives, and various other chemicals to protect the formula. They also require more frequent application, which means higher toxic load on the body, increasing susceptibility to photo-allergies and contact dermatitis, with long term use.
  • Chemicals in this type of sunscreen have been found in breast milk and urine after just one use, and detected in blood several weeks after application.
  • They can be inhaled (sprays) or ingested (lip balms) possibly causing lung and organ damage.
  • Not enough studies have been conducted to determine safety, levels of sensitivity and hormonal disruption.
  • One of the most commonly used ingredient in these sunscreens is Oxybenzone. An FDA study found its levels 438 times above cutoff for systemic exposure (according to EWG.org). Oxybenzone has been found to cause skin allergies and disrupt hormonal balance. According to CDC-collected exposure data, adolescent boys with high Oxybenzone measurements showed low testosterone levels.
  • Avobenzone, also commonly used in Chemical Sunscreens. This compound breaks down easily under the sun, which warrants the use of stabilizers in the formula, increasing the toxic load on the skin and body. It has also been found to be quite high on the rate of skin allergy.
  • Study results continue to be mixed on chemical sunscreens but many have shown side effects such as lower sperm count, sperm abnormalities and alterations to the reproductive thyroid hormones in animal studies on mice exposed to Oxybenzone and Octinoxate.

At the Beauty Doctrine we are ruled by common sense, and while many cosmetic companies hide behind the fact that not enough studies have been done on humans to definitively prove the dangerous side effects of chemical sunscreens, continuing to promote potentially harmful products detrimental to human health, we feel that waiting for all the confirmations is a dangerous strategy. We choose to err on the side of safety, and strongly caution against any products containing Oxybenzone, Avobenzone or Octinoxate.

 

Something to think about:

 

You may want to pause for a moment and consider the main reason you want to use a sunscreen. If that reason is preventing skin cancer, then please think about all the other chemicals, found in sunscreens, that have been linked to breast cancer, ovarian cancer, liver cancer, etc... Not to sound alarming, but you don't want to substitute one cancer for another. Please refer to this article for more information on harmful cosmetic ingredients that have been linked to cancer and other serious health problems. 

What's Mineral Sunscreen?

This refers to products containing Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide. They are very stable ingredients that aren't absorbed by the skin, therefore deemed safer and less likely to cause allergic reactions. They work by absorbing sun rays as well as forming a shield deflecting UV rays away from the skin. Few if any particles have been shown to penetrate the skin. You may find Zinc in many products advertised for sensitive skin and diaper rash creams. It provides healing and protective properties. The level of protection depends on the percentages of zinc in the formula, which can go up to 25%. Bare in mind that the higher the percentage, the whiter and thicker the cream will be. We spent a great deal of time testing formulas and reading reviews on zinc-based sunscreens. Most negative reviews have to do with texture, difficulty blending, and a white cast. This is where personal choice comes in. You would have to make a decision on wether you want to sacrifice health for beauty & ease, or the reverse!

 

How to select a 'better' sunscreen?

Now that we've narrowed down ingredients to try and avoid, as well as identified better options for sunscreen, let's delve a bit deeper and offer a few options to help guide your choices. In making the below recommendations, we looked at full ingredient lists, not just actives. We also considered textures and user reviews across multiple platforms. But first, a few additional helpful notes:
  • Prior to applying sunscreen, make sure your skin is well-hydrated. Hydrated skin can tolerate the sun better and may sustain less damage.
  • Opt for skincare products with ingredients that have natural sun protection, although low in some cases, but helpful. The more the merrier! Carrot Seed Oil is said to have an equivalent of SPF30+. Red Raspberry Seed Oil contains SPF25+. Almond Oil, Coconut Oil and Shea Butter all have sunscreen of 5. You want these ingredients to be high on the list in order to have a levels enough to provide protection. We still recommend following with mineral sunscreen to ensure a broad spectrum protection.
  • The higher the SPF, the better. Ensure you have at least a broad spectrum SPF 30.  Reapply often, especially after swimming and perspiration.

 

What are the best mineral sunscreens?

1-BloomEffects Tulip Dew Sunscreen Serum SPF 50

This moisturizing, lightweight solution offers efficient everyday protection from environmental irritants like UVA and UVB radiation, pollution, blue light, and free radicals. Offering you everyday protection and leaving your skin with a dewy glow, you won't regret slathering this healthy sunscreen head to toe, and pass it around...

2- Odacité Sheer Sunscreen SPF 50 Mineral Drops

Lightweight, invisible, anti-aging mineral sunscreen with featured ingredients, Niacinamide, Green tea, and Zinc Oxide.This sunscreen works wonders for every skin type, particularly mature skin as the mineral drops protect against aging and dark spots and dangerous UVB rays. 

3- Earth Harbor Eclipse Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF30

A plant-based, lightweight formulation that's suitable for normal to oily skin types. We love the added touch of green tea and macro algae that help protect the skin from free radical damage. Sensitive skin & kids' safe!

4- Salt & Stone Natural Mineral Sunscreen Lotion Water Resistant SPF 30

Beautifully formulated to be easily bendable and light-weight. Packed with skincare ingredients such as Ashwagandha, Hyaluronic Acid and Green Tea Leaf Extract. Beyond that, it uses non-nano Zinc which makes it one of the safest sunscreens one can use. A winner on many levels, including value. A mere $18.     


5- Kari Gran Sunscreen SPF 30

Kari Gran Sunscreen is a Beauty Doctrine favorite! Its simple, hydrating and effective formulation can be worn on its own or over a light serum. A natural sunscreen that does double duty: providing broad-spectrum mineral protection against the sun’s harmful rays while moisturizing skin with naturally derived organic oils.

 

 

 If you have any helpful tips to share with our community, please don't hesitate to share in the comment below. Also, please subscribe to our email list here to stay informed on all things health & beauty, and check with us often. We will continue to grow this list as we shuffle through all the products out there. Please leave a comment with any questions. We LOVE to help!

Be well. Be safe. Be beautiful!

 

The Beauty Doctrine's List of Best products and supplement recommendations.

 

Disclaimer:
As a blogger, my content may include affiliate links from advertisers. I may earn a small commission from actions readers take on these links such as a purchase, or subscribe. All my recommendations are based on my own research and personal trust in the products that I share. I am not a doctor or nutritionist. Please consult with your practitioner prior to using any products recommended.

 

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Tika

Looking good sunscreen for melasma and pigmentations

Tika 15/08/2021
Sandy

What do you think about black girl sunscreen for dark people chemical wise? Is it safe to use? Thank you for your time.

Sandy 05/07/2021
Adwa

Hey, what do you think of ‘Shseido urban environment- oil free’

Adwa 22/06/2021

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LEARN THE REAL REASONS WHY YOU AGE AND HOW TO REVERSE IT! 

THE ULTIMATE SKIN CARE MASTERY COURSE IS NOW LAUNCHED!

TEACH ME PLZ

BEAUTY IS HEALTH!