There’s been a lot of talk about mineral sunscreen lately, including how it works and what it looks like. So as the Experts in SPF™, we're stepping in to do some mineral myth-busting and give you the sheer truth about mineral (aka physical) SPF.
1. Mineral SPF is always thick, white and pasty
Busted: While this may have been true in the past, science has evolved and mineral sunscreens can now be just as feel-good as other options! For example, we expertly formulated our whipped and airy Mineral Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 to seamlessly blend with a sheer finish to minimize white cast.
2. Mineral sunscreen can be invisible
Busted: Absolutely not! This is pure marketing. While we mentioned above that mineral sunscreens can be lightweight and blendable, they can never be 100% invisible. This is because they’re made with mineral actives, which are white powders that sit on top of the skin and work as a physical shield to block UV rays.
3. All mineral SPF is good and all chemical SPF is bad
Busted: Nope! A "good" SPF is one that protects against UVA and UVB rays, offers at least SPF 30 and is the right fit for you! For example, mineral sunscreen might be a great choice for you if you have sensitive skin, whereas a chemical one may be a better option if you're searching for a 100% invisible finish. Put simply, the best SPF is the one you want to wear.
4. Mineral sunscreen is natural, so that’s why it’s better
Busted: No SPF is “natural.” All SPF actives — mineral or chemical — are made in a lab, ensuring the products’ safety and efficacy.
5. Mineral sunscreen is more effective
Busted: When made correctly, both chemical and mineral SPF are highly and equally efficacious when it comes to their protection claims.
6. Mineral deflects rays while chemical absorbs them
Busted: Both mineral and chemical SPF protect your skin by absorbing the sun’s rays. Chemical SPF absorbs 100% of UV rays, while mineral SPF absorbs ~95% of UV rays and reflects back ~5%.
