Is sunscreen already a regular part of your daily routine? Research is clear: sunscreen must be applied in all seasons and in all weather conditions to prevent premature skin aging and skin cancer.
When using sunscreen, many people have experienced unpleasant consistencies, blemishes or skin irritations. Choosing the right sunscreen for you is crucial for your skin's health. Wearing UV protection is essential, however.
Let's take a closer look at what the differences are and which sun protection you feel most comfortable with:
Basically, there are two types: mineral (natural) and synthetic (chemical) sunscreen. Both ingredients are protective and can be found in various sunscreen formulations.
Mineral sunscreen: Uses two main active ingredients to protect the skin from harmful UV rays: the natural minerals zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients work in the upper layers of the skin, where they absorb and partially reflect and scatter harmful UV rays. These active ingredients are also often described as a physical barrier on the surface of the skin. Mineral sunscreen works immediately after application and offers protection without penetrating the skin.
Synthetic Sunscreen: A variety of organic compounds are used to protect the skin from harmful UV rays. There are over 30 synthetic sunscreens that penetrate the upper layers of the skin. There, they work primarily by absorbing UV radiation and converting it into heat. This heat is then released by the skin, "deactivating" the UV rays and protecting the skin from damage. Common synthetic sunscreens include oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, and avobenzone. These are often referred to as "chemical sunscreens."
+ Benefits at a glance
+ Mineral |
+ Synthetic |
+ Skin-friendliness: Often less irritating and better tolerated by sensitive skin. + Broad protection: Provides protection from both UVB and UVA rays. + Environmental friendliness: Usually more environmentally friendly as it is less harmful to marine ecosystems. + Longer protection effect: Remains stable and offers longer lasting protection because it is not degraded by light. + Greater water and sweat resistance: Is not water-soluble and remains effective longer when in contact with water and sweat. + No absorption into the bloodstream: Remains on the surface of the skin and does not enter the bloodstream. |
+ Light texture: Often has a light, non-greasy consistency that feels comfortable on the skin and can be worn well under makeup. + Cosmetic elegance: generally does not leave a white film on the skin, making it particularly suitable for daily use and for all skin tones. + Easy to apply: The liquid or gel-like consistency can be applied easily and evenly. |
When looking for the right sun protection, personal preferences and individual skin needs should be taken into account. Ultimately, regular application and following the application instructions are crucial to effectively protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
- Disadvantages at a glance
- Mineral | - Synthetic |
- Whitening residues: Whitish film that may remain on the skin, especially at higher SPF values. - Thick consistency: Tends to be thicker in consistency and can be harder to apply. |
- Potentially irritating: May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive skin. It is important to check the ingredients - Environmental impact : Certain chemical filters, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, are suspected of damaging coral reefs and other marine habitats. These substances can accumulate in water bodies and have negative effects. - Not biodegradable: Many synthetic filters are not biodegradable and can remain in the environment where they can be ingested by marine life. - Possible systemic absorption: Some studies have found evidence that certain chemical filters can enter the bloodstream. Although this has only been observed in a few filters, it is a concern for some consumers. |
These substances can accumulate in water bodies and have negative effects there.
What is the difference between UVA and UVB rays?
UVA and UVB rays are both types of ultraviolet radiation emitted by the sun. The main difference between them is their wavelength and their effect on the skin.
UVA radiation has a longer wavelength and penetrates deeper into the skin. It is mainly responsible for premature skin aging because it damages collagen fibers and causes wrinkles. UVA rays are constant all year round and can penetrate through window panes.
UVB radiation has a shorter wavelength and does not penetrate the deeper layers of the skin. It is mainly responsible for sunburn and plays a major role in the development of skin cancer. UVB rays are more present in summer and at higher altitudes.
The durability, correct application and amount of your sunscreen
Are you not sure whether you can continue to use your sunscreen from last year? First, check the best-before date on the cream's packaging. Then you should also look at the texture and examine whether it feels more watery or grainy. The smell and color will also tell you whether the sunscreen should be replaced. Once opened, the cream should generally last until the expiration date. However, note that long and intense exposure to sunlight and heat (e.g. on the beach, pool or in the car) can also affect the shelf life of your sunscreen.
Regardless of the weather, UV rays have a negative effect on your skin all year round. Therefore, sun protection factor should have a permanent place in your daily routine.
Generally, it is recommended to reapply sunscreen approximately every two hours, especially after swimming, sweating or towel drying. In cases of intense sun exposure, sunscreen may need to be applied even more frequently. The amount that should be used is recommended as "a finger's length" per body part. This means that you should apply enough to evenly cover all of the skin, following the instructions on the packaging to achieve the stated level of protection.
application of mineral sunscreen
- Exposure time: They provide immediate protection after application
- Skin compatibility: They have almost no risk of skin irritation and do not penetrate the upper layers of the skin
- Water resistance: They have a higher water and sweat resistance because they are not water-soluble
- No yellow stains: They rarely leave yellow stains on clothes
Are mineral sunscreens really better for the environment?
Mineral sunscreens are often considered a more environmentally friendly option because they don't contain chemical ingredients that can be potentially harmful to coral reefs and other marine habitats. With mineral filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, fewer harmful chemicals are released into the environment, especially into bodies of water when people go swimming or sunscreen is washed off. Still, it's important to note that even mineral sunscreens can have an impact on the environment when used in large amounts.
About the ingredients titanium dioxide and zinc oxide in mineral sunscreen
Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are common mineral sunscreens that reflect and scatter UV rays to protect the skin. There are concerns that nanoscale particles could penetrate the skin and be absorbed systemically. Although studies mostly show that they stay on the surface of the skin, uncertainties remain, especially in damaged skin.
Titanium dioxide in our HEJ ORGANIC products
The form of titanium dioxide used in our products is a mineral coating on the skin. These particles are not nano-sized and therefore do not penetrate the skin, which is associated with the health concerns mentioned. We follow all developments in research and the qualities available on the market and, based on studies and quality tests, have decided on the combination of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide as the best quality for our product, our skin and our application.
Nano particles must be labelled according to the Cosmetics Regulation and must have the addition “Nano” in the product’s Inci.
Do you feel enlightened about mineral sun protection? Discover our SPF range here .
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