These days, the name of the sun protection game is mineral sunscreen. But what’s behind the sudden stratospheric takeoff? And is there still a place for chemical-based formulas?
Featured Experts
- Janine Hopkins, MD is a board-certified dermatologist with practices in Southlake, TX and Monroe, LA
- Daniel Schlessinger, MD is a board-certified dermatologist based in Omaha, NE
- Joel Schlessinger, MD is a board-certified dermatologist based in Omaha, NE
- Michelle Henry, MD is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York
Why Mineral Sunscreen Is Taking Off
“Yes, I’ve definitely seen an increase in interest in mineral sunscreens over the past year,” explains Southlake, TX dermatologist Janine Hopkins, MD. “And given how much skin sensitivity we’re seeing right now, those formulas are what I recommend to help keep skin from reacting. You want to look for a mineral sunscreen that prioritizes clean, safe ingredients alongside the actives.”
And formulas that prioritize safety are part of a larger trend towards a more conscious approach to sun protection.
“Yes, I think there is absolutely a trend to mineral sunscreens due to the newer regulations for physical sunscreens in Hawaii, Key West and other places,” adds Omaha, NE dermatologist Daniel Schlessinger, MD. “These rules have been put in place due to concern for the reef, but the bigger impetus in favor of mineral based sunscreens is the desire to avoid any chemicals possible.”
Mineral sunscreens are also the sun protection of choice for pregnant and nursing women.
“I only recommend mineral sunscreen for my pregnant patients,” explains New York dermatologist Michelle Henry, MD. “There just isn’t a lot of data available on how chemical sunscreens impact pregnant women, and the uncertainty is what concerns me as a dermatologist. I’d rather proceed with caution, and titanium dioxide and zinc are ingredients that we know are not being absorbed during pregnancy.”
Do chemical sunscreens have a place in sun care?
For the most part, experts are behind the shift from chemical to mineral SPF formulas. That said, there are times when a chemical sunscreen may be your best choice, specifically if you’re not reapplying consistently.
“Chemical sunscreens work better than physical sunscreens, ounce for ounce and hour by hour,” explains Omaha, NE dermatologist Joel Schlessinger, MD. “There is a huge benefit to chemical sunscreens when you get in the water or are at altitude for longer periods of time. This doesn’t mean that physical sunscreens can’t manage, but they require more attention and frequent reapplication in order to achieve the same level of protection.”
The Mineral Sunscreens Leading the Charge
