Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is one of the most important steps in any skincare routine both from a health and cometic perspective. That’s why choosing the right sunscreen is so vital. Whilst its great that the sunscreen market has exploded in recent years, the amount of choice can be overwhelming. Mineral or physical sunscreens, offer a natural and effective way to protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays. In this guide, we’ll explore how mineral sunscreens work, their key benefits and safety. We’ll also review how to know if you would benefit from a physical sunscreen and how to find the nest one for you.
What Are Mineral Sunscreens?
Mineral (also know as physical) sunscreens use natural minerals as UV filters to protect against sun damage. The two most most common active ingredients in mineral sunscreens are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. This differs from chemical sunscreens which absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. Instead, mineral sunscreens create a physical barrier on the skin’s surface. This barrier reflects, block and scatter UV radiation preventing it from penetrating the skin. As mineral sunscreens remain on the skin’s surface they’re usually gentle even on sensitive or reactive skin. This makes most mineral sunscreens are reef-safe and hence better for marine ecosystems.
How Do Physical Sunscreens Work?
Mineral sunscreens work by creating a protective shield over the skin. There are two main active ingredients ingredients in physical sunscreens and each plays a specific role in sun protection. The two main mineral sunscreen UV filters which are available in regular and nano sized particles are:
- Zinc Oxide: Provides broad-spectrum coverage for effective protection against UVA and UVB rays. It also has anti-inflammatory properties which making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Another benefit is that Zinc oxide can be an effective physical UV filter in sunscreens by itself.
- Titanium Dioxide: Offers strong UVB protection and some UVA protection. It is lightweight making it ideal for creating mineral sunscreens that feel comfortable on the skin. It works better in combination with zinc oxide to provide enhanced broad spectrum protection.
When you apply physical sunscreens, the minerals sit on the surface of the skin. Acting like a mirror, they reflect UV rays away from the skin. The benefit of this is that physical sunscreens start working as soon as you apply them onto your skin.
Benefits of Mineral Sunscreens
Mineral sunscreens offer a host of advantages, making them a preferred choice for many people. Here’s a closer look at their benefits:
- Broad-Spectrum UV Protection: Mineral sunscreens and zinc oxide in particular, have wide coverage across the UV spectrum. This protects your skin from sunburn, premature ageing and long-term damage.
- Gentle on Sensitive & Reactive Skin: As they sit on the skin’s surface and do not absorb, mineral sunscreens are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. This makes them ideal for people with sensitive, acne-prone, rosacea, or eczema-affected skin. Their soothing properties also help calm redness and inflammation, making them a go-to for reactive skin types.
- Safe During Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Mineral sunscreens are safest for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This benefit is because the active ingredients in physical sunscreens are non-toxic and stay on the surface of the skin.
- Immediate Efficacy: Mineral sunscreens provide instant protection upon application. This is particularly useful for busy mornings or when reapplying sunscreen during outdoor activities.
- Good for Acne-Prone Skin: Mineral sunscreens are normally less likely to clog pores and zinc oxide in particular also has some oil absorbing properties.
- Environmentally Friendly: A major benefit of physical sunscreens is they are widely regarded as reef-safe.
- Suitable for All Ages: Mineral sunscreens are gentle and safe for use on babies, children and adults.
- Skin-Calming Benefits: Zinc oxide has anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe irritated or inflamed skin. This makes mineral sunscreens a great choice for post-procedure care after chemical peels, laser or microneedling. They can help reduce redness and irritation.
Downsides & Limitations of Physical Sunscreens
Although mineral sunscreens offer many advantages, they are not without their limitations. Here are some potential downsides to consider when choosing a mineral sunscreen:
- White Cast: A common problem with mineral sunscreens is they leave a white cast. This is most common on darker skin. This occurs because zinc oxide and titanium dioxide particles are naturally opaque and reflective. Modern formulations increasingly include micronised or tinted options to reduce this effect but finding a product that blends seamlessly into your skin may require some trial and error.
- Thicker Texture: Mineral sunscreens tend to have a heavier and thicker consistency compared to chemical sunscreens. While this can be beneficial for dry or sensitive skin, it may feel too heavy or greasy on oily skin.
- Frequent Reapplication Required: Physical sunscreens can rub off more easily, especially during swimming, sweating or physical activity. This means they need more frequent reapplication to maintain effective protection.
- Less Water-Resistant: Although many mineral sunscreens are marketed as water-resistant, they typically don’t perform as well as chemical sunscreens in this area. This makes them less ideal for activities like swimming or intense outdoor sports.
- Limited Choice of Formulations: Although you can find physical sunscreens in creams, lotions, powders ad makeup, there’s not as much choice as chemical ones. Mineral sunscreens are less commonly available in novel forms such as sprays or ultra-light fluids.
- Potential for Flaking or Pilling: When layered over skincare products or under makeup, some mineral sunscreens may pill or flake.
How to Use Mineral Sunscreens
Not all mineral sunscreens are created equal, so it’s important to start by finding one that suits your skin type and needs. For oily or acne-prone skin, look for lightweight mattifying formulations. If you have dry or sensitive skin, opt for creamier options enriched with hydrating ingredients like glycerin or ceramides. For those with medium to deep skin tones, tinted versions can help reduce the white cast that mineral sunscreens sometimes leave behind. Once you’ve found the right product for you, here our top tips to get the most benefits for your skin:
- Apply Generously: Mineral sunscreens need to create an even, physical barrier on your skin to be effective. Use at least a teaspoon for your face and two tablespoons for your body. Don’t forget to cover commonly missed areas like your ears, neck and the back of your hands.
- Reapply Frequently: To maintain protection, reapply your sunscreen every two hours. This is particularly important after swimming, sweating or drying off with a towel as these activities can remove the protective layer.
- Use as the Final Step: Sunscreen should always be the last step in your skincare routine. This will ensure it forms an uninterrupted layer on your skin.
- Try Tinted Formulas: If you’re worried about a white cast or need to use makeup, a tinted mineral sunscreen may be of benefit. These may blend more naturally with your skin tone and leave a subtle even finish.
Types of Physical Sunscreen Products
Mineral sunscreens come in various forms each with its own benefits. Below are the most commonly available forms of physical sunscreens:
- Creams & Lotions: These are the most widely available and are easy to apply evenly across the face and body. They are best suited for normal to dry skin types and are ideal for daily use. Creams and lotions often include nourishing ingredients to lock in moisture and prevent dryness.
- Gels & Fluids: Perfect for oily or acne-prone skin, gels and fluids offer a lightweight texture that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy finish. These are also a great choice for humid climates or for use as a base under makeup.
- Tinted: These are most useful for anyone looking to avoid a white cast. They’re a great two-in-one option for light coverage and can often replace foundation for a natural radiant look.
- Sticks: Compact and easy to carry, stick sunscreens are great for on-the-go touch-ups. They can also more easily target tricky areas like the nose, ears or lips.
- Powders: Mineral sunscreen powders are perfect for those with oily skin or anyone looking for a convenient way to reapply sunscreen over makeup.
- Sprays: These are ideal for covering larger areas of the body or hard-to-reach spots like the back. However, they require careful application to ensure even coverage. Rubbing in after spraying is essential to avoid streaks. Avoid spraying directly on the face and instead spray onto hands for application to prevent inhalation.
Safety of Mineral Sunscreens
These sunscreens are widely regarded as one of the safest options for sun protection particularly for sensitive skin. An additional benefit is that physical sunscreens are also safe to use on children and during pregnancy. Both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide UV filters have been extensively studied. However, as with any skincare product, there are some considerations and potential side effects to keep in mind. Possible side effects can include irritation and allergic reaction so you should always do a patch test before use.
Although the safety of traditional mineral sunscreens is widely accepted, the use of nano-sized zinc oxide and titanium dioxide in some formulations has sparked debate. These nano preparations are popular as they give mineral sunscreens a lighter texture and reduce white cast. However there are concerns about potential skin absorption and environmental impact. Even though most research shows that nano particles primarily remain on the skin’s surface when there is damage, more studies are needed to confirm this. So far regulatory bodies like the SCCS and TGA have deemed them safe for topical use provided they are not inhaled. This is because inhaling these particles in large quantities may injure the lungs. To avoid this, creams or lotions are recommended over aerosols.
Environment-wise, nano particles of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide have been shown in some studies to potentially affect coral reefs and marine life. To minimise harm, it’s best to choose sunscreens specifically marketed as reef-safe and free from harmful additives.
Mineral sunscreens offer an excellent balance of safety, benefits and environmental friendliness. Their broad-spectrum coverage is gentle for use across all ages and most skin types. There are also a growing number of product options to help you find the best formula for you to enjoy the benefits of mineral sunscreens.
At City Skin clinic, we are obssessive about personalised skincare. Our virtual skin clinic offers safe and effective custom skin and hair loss treatments. Where appropriate our doctors use ingredients such Tretinoin and Hydroquinone to treat skin conditions like acne, hyperpigmentation, melasma and skin ageing. The journey towards great skin starts here.
