Looking for a natural sunscreen that works and is kind to the planet? Then zinc oxide sunscreen is a great choice. In this blog we explain what zinc oxide is, how it works on the skin and why more and more people are choosing mineral sunscreen. We also look at the pros and cons of this natural ingredient and share tips for dry skin. That way you head into summer well protected and well informed.
Are you looking for a sustainable sunscreen for the summer? Then you've surely come across zinc oxide sunscreen in your search. But what exactly is zinc oxide? What does zinc oxide do to your skin? And how does mineral sunscreen work? In this blog we take a closer look at the ingredient list of our mineral sunscreen and round up the most frequently asked questions for you. That way you know exactly what you're putting on your body. And together, this summer too, we take another small step towards planet-friendly living!
Zinc oxide is the ingredient that protects you from the sun in most mineral sunscreens. It's a mineral that occurs naturally, but it can also be made synthetically. It has many active properties, which makes it a common ingredient in cosmetics and pharmaceutical products. The mineral zinc oxide acts as a broad-spectrum UV filter, which is how zinc oxide sunscreen protects you against UVA and UVB rays. So you prevent sunburn and help counter skin ageing.
What does zinc oxide do to your skin?
Let us tell you all about zinc oxide in natural sunscreen. Zinc oxide is widely used: it protects the skin and has a mild drying effect, which is why it's also used in other pharmaceutical products, such as:
- Sunscreen: zinc oxide particles stay on the surface of the skin and act as a physical filter against UV rays. It's the active ingredient in most mineral sunscreens.
- Cold sores: zinc oxide is also used to treat cold sores. It helps dry out the skin and relieves pain and itching. Pharmacies sell zinc oxide paste, oil or lotion for this.
- Eczema: for weeping eczema, zinc oxide lotion, paste, oil or zinc oxide ointment helps dry out the skin a little. It also helps cool the skin and quickly reduces itching. Your doctor can prescribe it.
Tip for dry skin So zinc oxide can have a slightly drying effect. If your skin feels drier after using mineral sunscreen, use a nice body lotion or gentle day cream with hydrating ingredients. That way you can enjoy the sunshine and let your own skin glow too.
How does mineral sunscreen work?
Eco-friendly: When chemical sunscreen ends up in the water, its harmful substances end up there too. When zinc oxide sunscreen gets into the water, the zinc oxide slowly dissolves and, through a natural process, turns into zinc ions. Zinc ions also occur naturally in the sea, so natural sunscreen doesn't add any harmful chemicals. It does increase the level of zinc ions in the sea, and some studies suggest this could have a negative effect on marine life. However, the contribution of mineral sunscreen is probably negligible compared with that of industry. And for now, it's the most eco-friendly and safest choice.
For your own skin too:
The mineral sunscreen contains non-nano zinc oxide particles. Particles at nano level are small enough to be absorbed by the skin, and you don't want that. The zinc oxide particles are non-nano, so they stay on the skin. This way they form a physical barrier that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
Why choose mineral sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreen, or zinc oxide sunscreen, has several advantages over traditional sunscreen.