Few people know that there are two types of sunscreen that protect the skin from the sun: mineral sunscreen and chemical sunscreen. But what’s the difference?
Sunbathing without sun protection? This is now unthinkable for most people, and with good reason. But according to which criteria do we actually choose our sunscreen? Sure, it should smell good, absorb quickly and be waterproof. Above all, we choose according to the sun protection factor. Another criterion is usually ignored: the mode of action of the cream. Most sun protection products on the market use chemical filters that bundle the UV light and direct it into the skin as heat rays. However, this can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Most people do not know that there is an alternative to these chemical sunscreens, namely physical or mineral sun protection.
Mineral sun protection as an alternative
Mineral-based sun creams work with mineral micro-pigments, which are applied to the skin as a wafer-thin layer and reflect UV rays like a mirror. These mineral particles are, for example, titanium dioxide, which acts against UV-B rays, and zinc oxide, against UV-A rays. Unlike the chemical agents, the ingredients here are not absorbed by the skin and are therefore more compatible .
Another advantage: Since mineral sunscreen does not have to be absorbed into the skin in order to bond with the skin’s fat, it provides immediate protection.
And another practical advantage: mineral sun protection can be used repeatedly on the same day. The duration of the sun protection can thus be extended as required.
However, it is important that the mineral sunscreen is sufficiently dosed and applied again after sport or swimming.
In natural cosmetics, there have been mineral sunscreens that work through micropigments for a long time. However, the first generation of natural creams left an unsightly whitish film on the skin. With newer products up to a sun protection factor of 30, this undesirable side effect is a thing of the past, with a sun protection factor of over 30 it cannot be completely avoided due to the higher concentration of pigments. (Source: fem.com)
