Chemical free sunscreen: what should you use?

What does "chemical free" sunscreen mean?

Mineral sunscreen uses metal oxides as its UV filters. These are chemical substances too, but sunscreen terminology separates mineral filters from the filters called "chemical." Read the Active Ingredients section to identify the type, rather than relying on the front of the bottle. The label's protection claims matter more than a promise to have somehow opted out of chemistry.13

Mineral sunscreen protects primarily by absorbing ultraviolet radiation, not simply by bouncing it away. Chemical sunscreen also absorbs UV radiation. Mineral sunscreen can reflect some light as well. All three sunscreen types can provide effective protection when the formula meets the protection requirements.13

What is the best chemical free sunscreen?

Start with the protection level, then narrow the choice by your skin's needs. SPF describes protection against sunburn, mainly from UVB rays. Broad spectrum means protection against both UVA and UVB rays. A mineral ingredient name alone is not a substitute for checking those claims on the finished sunscreen.13

Once you have found a mineral sunscreen with the three essentials, use these details to choose:

• For sensitive skin, look for a sensitive skin label and avoid fragrance, parabens and oxybenzone.
• For skin that stings or burns with sunscreen, choose only mineral active ingredients and avoid fragrance.
• For rosacea, choose only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as the active filters.
• For oily or acne prone skin, look for "noncomedogenic" or "won't clog pores."
• For dry skin, look for "moisturizing" or "dry skin" on the label.
• For darker skin tones or an obvious white cast, consider a tinted sunscreen that matches your skin tone.
• For the eye area, a sunscreen stick can help prevent sunscreen from dripping into your eyes; it still needs the same protection essentials.

What should you expect from mineral sunscreen?

Some mineral formulas leave a visible white residue. Smaller mineral particles can reduce that residue and make application easier. Concerns about potential harm from nanoparticles have been raised, but adverse effects have not been demonstrated; the established benefits of sun protection outweigh those theoretical risks.3

Tinted sunscreen can reduce white cast and help protect against visible light, which can worsen dark spots. Regular sunscreen use also reduces the risk of sunburn, skin cancer and premature skin aging. The purpose is protection during exposure, rather than a treatment course that you finish after a few weeks.2

How do you use mineral sunscreen?

1. 1Apply sunscreen before going outside. Make it a daily habit when the UV index is forecast to reach 3 or higher.
2. 2Cover all skin that clothing leaves exposed. Apply enough to form a substantial, even layer; using too little means you can miss the protection indicated by the SPF.
3. 3Reapply every 2 hours outdoors, even when your skin stays dry.
4. 4During swimming or sweating, follow the label's water resistance limit of 40 or 80 minutes. Reapply after toweling off.
5. 5Use shade and protective clothing alongside sunscreen. No sunscreen blocks all UV radiation.

What if sunscreen causes a rash?

Stop using a sunscreen that triggers a rash and seek medical assessment, especially if the reaction follows sun exposure. Some sunscreen ingredients and fragrances can cause photocontact dermatitis, an inflammatory reaction caused by a substance interacting with light. An itchy rash mainly on exposed skin can be a photoallergic reaction; a painful, burning reaction can resemble an exaggerated sunburn. Neither pattern is enough to diagnose yourself.4

A dermatologist can use photopatch testing to investigate a sunscreen photoallergy. Mineral sunscreen is an alternative for people with a chemical sunscreen photoallergy, but identifying and avoiding the actual trigger matters. Fragrances and some medicines can also contribute to reactions involving sunlight.4

Can kids use chemical free sunscreen?

Children aged 6 months and older can use mineral sunscreen. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are less likely to irritate infants' and toddlers' sensitive skin. The word "baby" is not an FDA defined sunscreen category.1

For babies aged 6 months and older, use plenty of sunscreen with SPF at least 30 and protection against both UVA and UVB. Reapply every 2 hours and immediately after swimming or sweating. Keep children in shade where possible, with lightweight clothing, sunglasses and a hat that protects the head, ears and neck. Sunscreen does not replace those measures.5

Babies under 6 months should stay out of direct sunlight; sunscreen is not recommended for this age group. Use a pushchair parasol or sunshade outdoors, not a blanket over the pram, which can cause overheating. Check regularly that your baby is not getting too hot, and avoid dressing them in too many layers.5

Does mineral mean reef safe?

The term "reef safe" has no FDA definition, so those two words are not a marine biology report. The effects of sunscreen ingredients on reefs remain uncertain. Some destinations restrict particular sunscreen filters and generally prefer mineral sunscreen; check current local rules rather than treating a marketing claim as permission.13