If we explore the world of SPF more closely, we come across terms such as chemical, mineral and physical sunscreens. What is the difference between them? And is one of them better than the others?
To mess with your heads just a bit more, let’s bring some clarity to the exact names used for sunscreens.
A mineral sunscreen, also called a physical sunscreen, could also be referred to as an inorganic sunscreen due to its zinc oxide- or titanium dioxide-based contents. The second group of protective sunscreens, based on carbon chains and other chemical compounds, are organic sunscreens, also called chemical sunscreens.
Sunscreen prevents the sun’s UV rays from penetrating deep into the skin and damaging our skin cells. The SPF components absorb radiation and convert it into small amounts of energy, mostly heat. It’s not a dramatic amount which would affect your body’s overall temperature. There’s a much greater risk of overheating if we remain exposed to direct sun for a longer period of time. So remember to stay in the shade as much as possible in the summer.
Chemical UV filters absorb and convert 100% of the radiation in this way, whilst physical ones also have the ability to reflect around 5-10% of the UV back (like a mirror) from the surface of the skin. A mineral sunscreen handles the remaining radiation in the same way as a chemical sunscreen.
You can only get the desired level of sun protection (i.e. SPF 20, 30, 50, etc.) if you apply a sufficient amount of the product. Trust me, it’s probably more than you thought it would be. You should use 2mg of the product per cm2 of skin. Imagine, for instance, the average amount of moisturiser you normally apply. That’s definitely not enough. :)
For simplicity, I use my index and middle fingers as a measuring tool. I apply SPF cream all along their length and apply this amount to the whole of my face, including the eye area and the ears. If I need to protect my neck from the sun as well, I add another “finger” of cream. I also never skimp on the amount I use when applying SPF to my body.
What are the characteristics of UV filters, and which one is better for me?
Chemical (organic) UV filters
Notino tips for chemical SPF:
Physical (mineral/inorganic) UV filters
Notino tips for mineral SPF.
What’s the verdict?
It is impossible to objectively determine which type of SPF sunscreen is significantly better or worse. When choosing a sunscreen, you need to be guided primarily by your needs, preferences and skin type. The only right UV sunscreen is one that you are comfortable with and are happy to use regularly.
1.How long after application do chemical and mineral sunscreens start working?
In terms of how quickly they start working, there’s no significant difference in the sunscreen types. Both work from the moment they are absorbed into the skin, which can take different lengths of time for different products, e.g. up to 20 minutes. If you wear makeup, you can increase the reliability of the sun protection on your face if you wait until the sunscreen is fully absorbed before putting on your makeup.
2. Is it enough to apply SPF during your morning routine for all-day protection?
Repeated application of sun protection is the key to all-day, quality UV protection. This applies to both types of sunscreen. Both gradually evaporate, wipe off or wash off of your face and body. If you are exposed to the sun all day (even in the car), you should ideally apply SPF every 2 hours, or always before going out in the sun. If you are wearing makeup, incorporate the SPF over your makeup at least with a sponge, or use a thicker layer of powder/cushion foundation with SPF protection.
3. Can the zinc nanoparticles in physical sunscreens penetrate our skin?
Due to their size, the nanoparticles of these elements cannot penetrate the deeper layers of the skin unless applied to injured skin (burns, abrasions).
4. How do I know how much SPF I need?
You can only get the desired level of sun protection (i.e. SPF 20, 30, 50, etc.) if you apply a sufficient amount of the product. Trust me, it’s probably more than you thought it would be. You should use 2mg of the product per cm2 of skin. Imagine, for instance, the average amount of moisturiser you normally apply. That’s definitely not enough. :)
For simplicity, I use my index and middle fingers as a measuring tool. I apply SPF cream all along their length and apply this amount to the whole of my face, including the eye area and the ears. If I need to protect my neck from the sun as well, I add another “finger” of cream. I also never skimp on the amount I use when applying SPF to my body.
5. Do sunscreens harm coral reefs?
We are still waiting for an extended scientific study to confirm whether sunscreens cause permanent damage to coral reefs on a large scale. The biggest risk factors for coral are climate change, rising sea temperatures, global water pollution and mass fishing.
However, if you are planning to pack a chemical-based SPF lotion for your holiday this year, check to see if your destination is on the list of countries that have banned the use of these products (or ingredients in them) in their seas as a precautionary measure. If you are concerned about protecting nature, choose a mineral protection sunscreen.