Picture this: you’re heading out for a sunny adventure–maybe a beach escapade, conquering the trails, or a scenic bike ride. You put on your sunscreen and conquer the day. But have you ever paused and wondered if you’re using the right kind of sunscreen?
In a tropical country like the Philippines, protecting your skin isn’t just a beauty thing but a must. PAGASA often reports extreme UV index levels that can be harmful for the unprotected skin. Yet, studies show that while many are aware of sun protection, only about 46.1% practice it . (Oops!)
With so many sunscreens out there, how do you know which one gives better protection? Let’s dive into the two known types of sunscreens–chemical and mineral–and how they make waves.
Breaking it down: chemical vs mineral sunscreens
Not all sunscreen lets you wear a (safe) cape, so how do you choose which one’s best for you? Let’s break it down.
The first type is chemical sunscreen, often favored because it’s lightweight and easy to apply. It typically works by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat, which is then released from your skin.
But wait! Since what’s in your sunscreen matters, too, make sure to peek at the label and ditch what’s not good for you. Some chemical sunscreens may have ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate that can be absorbed into the bloodstream and have been linked to hormone disruption and allergic reaction. Top tropical destinations like Hawaii , Palau , and Thailand have said “NO” to sunscreens with these ingredients as they are harmful to aquatic life. There’s also avobenzone, another common ingredient known to block UVA rays, that breaks down when exposed to sunlight, which could contribute to skin sensitivity.
Meanwhile, mineral sunscreens like Human Nature’s Natural Mineral Sunscreen, work differently. Rather than absorbing UV rays, they sit like an invisible shield, forming a protective barrier that physically blocks UV rays from causing damage. The best part? They immediately start working after you apply them.
Mineral sunscreens typically contain natural ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide–both recognized as “safe and effective” by the US FDA2. These ingredients provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, keeping your skin safe from sunburn and long-term damage.
With its immediate protection and safer ingredients, mineral sunscreen is a great option for those looking for a safer, and more reef-friendly choice.
Sunscreen checklist: how to select the right mineral sunscreen
1. Higher SPF
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) shows how well a sunscreen blocks UVB a.k.a “burning” rays. And with higher SPF comes greater protection. Human Nature’s Natural Mineral Sunscreen features SPF 60–one of the highest SPF ratings–that blocks 98% of harmful UVB rays. So, whether you’re at the beach or simply doing an outdoor task, SPF 60 ensures you get superior sun defense.
2. PA++++ protection
SPF is great for blocking UVB rays, but how about UVA aka “aging” rays? These sneaky rays can cause deeper and long-term skin damage. Good thing, Human Nature’s Natural Mineral Sunscreen is equipped with PA++++, offering the highest defense against UVA rays while also providing strong protection against UVB.
3. Safe for the skin and seas
It’s important that the sunscreen you choose is as safe on your skin as it is on the environment. Human Nature’s Natural Mineral Sunscreen is not only 100% natural and free from harmful chemicals but also reef-safe, so whether you’re free diving or swimming by the shore, you can be at peace and at ease knowing that it brings no harm to marine life, too.
Sun care without compromise
When it comes to sun protection, mineral sunscreens are a great option for those looking for a safer and more environmentally friendly choice. Human Nature’s Natural Mineral Sunscreen checks all the boxes for you–offering high SPF, broad-spectrum defense, and a safe formula that gives your skin its well-deserved protection, without compromise.
In a consumer panel test, 9 out of 10 found Human Nature’s Natural Mineral Sunscreen perfect for outdoor activities, while 8 out of 10 loved its absorbability and feel on skin, noting that it stayed long on their skin and provided superior protection against sunburn and irritation – proving it’s made for real-life adventures.
Now, what are you waiting for? Put on your Natural Mineral Sunscreen and own your summer with sun-ready confidence!