Chemical vs. mineral sunscreen

Summer, sun, bath time. In addition to swimming trunks, bikini and towel, an important utensil should not be missing in the bathing bag: the sunscreen. The range of products in this area is huge. Packaging, smell or brand name are often decisive when purchasing. The decision-making question should rather be: chemical or mineral sunscreen?

Most sun protection creams contain chemical UV filters. Although these are absorbed quickly, they can be easily spread on the skin and enable higher sun protection factors. But, they always cause allergic reactions or skin irritations. It is also suspected that they pass into the blood and have hormonal or even carcinogenic effects.

That is why more and more natural cosmetics and organic manufacturers are relying on mineral compositions, for example with zinc oxide. These do not penetrate the skin, but lie on the skin like a kind of reflective cover and shield the UV rays. Since the ingredients act on the surface without penetrating the skin, they are considered to be much more tolerable. The effect is purely physical.

Mineral sun protection creams with zinc oxide …

 work immediately, without waiting, as they do not have to move in first.
 are particularly suitable for allergy sufferers
 lie like a kind of protective cover on the skin

There are a few points to consider when using mineral sun protection with zinc oxide:

The creams are not as easy to spread as their chemical alternatives and despite prolonged rubbing, a light whitish film can be seen on the skin.

For people who sweat heavily, it is advisable to apply the cream repeatedly, as it only lies on the skin and does not absorb.

It is difficult for mineral sun protection products to achieve really high sun protection factors. For skin types that are particularly sensitive to the sun, it is therefore advisable to use a combination of mineral and chemical UV protection.

Nanoparticles – a curse and a blessing at the same time

In order to reduce the white paste effect, more and more nano-particles are used in mineral sun protection products. They have a positive effect on the consistency of the cream and the white film on the skin does not appear. Unfortunately, when swallowed or inhaled, nanoparticles can cause health problems. It is assumed, for example, that they can cause benign new tissue formation in the gastrointestinal tract. If the nanoparticles penetrate the skin through small injuries, they can significantly influence the zinc level in the body and trigger cell reactions.

It is therefore best to use certified natural products without nanoparticles when buying mineral sunscreen. Manufacturers are obliged to declare these.