The FDA says the only sunscreen ingredients that they know for certain are safe are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, also known as the two main active ingredients found in mineral sunscreens. They work by sitting on top of the skin and reflecting the sun’s rays. Mineral sunscreens that use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are also coral-reef safe, as their particle sizes are much bigger than oxybenzone and cannot be ingested by corals.
Because mineral sunscreen doesn’t penetrate the skin, its only real downside is the trademark white cast sunscreen is famous for. But hey, I’d rather look like a ghost on the beach knowing my skin is protected.
TIP 1: Look for tinted mineral sunscreens or apply sunscreen underneath your makeup.
TIP 2: A lot of natural sunscreens use coconut oil which can leave your skin looking and feeling greasy. It’s also not ideal to use coconut oil on acne-prone skin as it can clog your pores, so look for coconut oil-free natural sunscreens.
Do you have a favourite mineral sunscreen? Share your recommendations below!