You might have heard endless reminders from family members, friends, or your dermatologist to always put on sunscreen before heading outdoors.
But what kind of sunscreen should you use? And how long does it last?
When it comes to sunscreen, mineral sunscreens can be a great choice as they provide long-lasting protection against harmful UV rays while still being gentle on the skin. They are also made with natural ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
What is mineral sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreens reflect the sun's rays away from your skin. They’re ideal for those with sensitive skin, as they’re less likely to cause irritation. They won't break down as quickly when exposed to the sun, so you can enjoy your time outdoors without having to worry about reapplying every hour or so. And – because they don't rely on chemicals to work – they’re also less likely to sting if they come into contact with your eyes.
When shopping for mineral sunscreen, look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide products. These ingredients provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. So if you're looking for a sunscreen that will give you all-day protection, mineral sunscreen is the way to go.
How often should I reapply mineral sunscreen?
When using mineral sunscreen it’s essential to remember a few tips:
- Always apply sunscreen before going outside to give the sunscreen time to absorb into your skin properly.
- Reapply sunscreen if you are sweating a lot.
- Don't forget to apply sunscreen to often-forgotten areas like your ears, nose, and feet.
- Make sure to pack a hat and sunglasses to further protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your time in the sun while keeping your skin safe.
What is the difference between mineral and non-mineral sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreen works by sitting on top of the skin and deflecting or scattering the sun’s rays.
On the other hand, non-mineral (chemical) sunscreen is absorbed into the skin, where it absorbs the sun’s rays and then converts them into heat, which is dispelled from the skin.
Each type of sunscreen has its pros and cons. Mineral sunscreen is often considered to be more natural and gentle on the skin, as it’s less likely to cause irritation or skin reactions.
Chemical sunscreen is typically easier to apply evenly and can provide longer-lasting protection. However, some people may find it irritating to the skin, and it can be harder to find a chemical sunscreen that does not contain potentially harmful ingredients.
When choosing a sunscreen, consider your own needs and preferences. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to opt for a mineral sunscreen. If you’re looking for a sunscreen that will provide long-lasting protection, you may want to choose a chemical sunscreen. Whichever type of sunscreen you choose, be sure to apply it liberally and evenly to all exposed areas of the skin.
Which type of sunscreen needs to be applied most often?
Sunscreen is a topical cream, lotion, or spray applied to the skin to protect it from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
UV radiation can cause skin cancer, sunburns, and other skin damage. Sunscreens come in two types: chemical and physical.
Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing the UV radiation and then converting it into heat. Physical sunscreens work by reflecting UV radiation.
Chemical sunscreens need to be applied more often than physical sunscreens because they can break down over time and lose their ability to protect the skin. Physical (mineral) sunscreens usually last longer on the skin.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends applying sunscreen every day, even when it's not sunny outside. Sunscreen should be applied to all exposed body areas, including the face, ears, neck, chest, and hands.
How to choose a good mineral sunscreen
When looking for a good mineral sunscreen, you'll want to consider the following:
The ingredients
Ensure that the sunscreen contains only minerals as well as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide with no chemicals. Chemicals can be harmful to your skin and health.
The SPF
The SPF (sun protection factor) measures how well the sunscreen will protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays. Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Consistency
Sunscreen should be applied evenly and not feel thick or overly greasy, which can cause a white film to be left behind on your skin, which easily rubs off onto clothing or furniture.
What are the benefits of mineral sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreens have several advantages over traditional chemical sunscreens. They are less likely to irritate the skin, making them an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin.
They also offer broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, which means they can shield you from the sun's harmful rays. Furthermore, mineral sunscreens are long-lasting and do not contain chemicals that could be harmful to your health.
Mineral sunscreens are a great option if you want a sunscreen that is both safe and effective.
Tips on using mineral sunscreen every day
Here are some tips on how to use mineral sunscreen for everyday use:
- Apply sunscreen every day, regardless of the weather. Even if it’s cloudy outside, up to 80% of the sun’s harmful UV radiation can still reach your skin.
- Choose a mineral sunscreen that contains natural ingredients. These ingredients work to reflect and scatter the sun’s rays, providing better protection against harmful UV radiation.
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside. This will give the sunscreen time to absorb into your skin and provide optimal protection.
- Make sure to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
How long does mineral sunscreen last?
Sunscreen is a vital part of any summer routine, however, several factors can affect how long mineral sunscreen lasts. These include:
The formulation
Sunscreen formulations can affect how long the sunscreen lasts on the skin. For example, if a sunscreen is cream-based, it will usually last longer on the skin than a spray-on sunscreen.
Skin type
Some people have oily skin while others have dry skin. Oily skin absorbs mineral sunscreens more quickly than dry skin, meaning that the sunscreen will wear off more quickly and need to be reapplied more frequently.
Weather conditions
Sun, heat, and humidity affect how long mineral sunscreen lasts on the skin. Sun increases the rate at which sunscreen wears off, while heat and humidity make it harder for sunscreen to stay on the skin.
Environmental factors can also affect how long mineral sunscreen lasts on the skin. For example, if you are out in the sun and there is a lot of wind, the sunscreen will be blown away from your skin more quickly.
Sweat
Sweat can also cause mineral sunscreen to wear off more quickly, so it’s worth bearing this in mind if you’re planning to practice cardio-heavy sports or be active for a long period of time.
In general, though, expect it to last for two to four hours. If you are in the sun all day, make sure to bring your mineral sunscreen with you to keep your skin protected.
Australian Gold mineral sunscreen
Are you looking for a mineral sunscreen that is gentle on your skin? Australian Gold’s Botanical SPF 30 and Botanical SPF 50 mineral lotions have got you covered.
Our non-chemical sunscreen lotions are made with native Australian botanical ingredients, delivering powerful UVA and UVB protection. They are also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making them ideal for a day at the beach or pool.
Australian botanical ingredients give it a refreshingly clean powdery feel that leaves your skin soft and silky. So why wait? Get out there and enjoy the sun – safely protected by Australian Gold.