25 Feb
Blog

Chemical Vs. Mineral Sunscreen: What’s The Difference?

You need daily sun protection to keep your skin healthy and looking youthful. But what type of sun protection should you choose? Sun protection generally falls into one of two categories: chemical and mineral (physical). While both provide sun protection, chemical sunscreens and mineral sunscreens differ in their active ingredients, as well as the way they protect against UV radiation. Read on to learn the difference and discover the benefits of a mineral sunscreen.

Chemical Vs. Mineral Sunscreen

Sunscreens are important to protect the skin from the dangers of sun exposure, including sunburn. Sun damage and melanoma. It is also beneficial to minimize the aging effects of UV rays such as fine lines and wrinkles, rough skin, and hyperpigmentation.

Chemical sunscreens are often referred to as "absorbers". Its active ingredients are organic compounds (based on carbon) that absorb UV rays. Through a chemical reaction, these chemical compounds convert UV rays into heat and transfer this heat to the skin.

Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, are "reflectors". Their active ingredients include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which act as physical blockers. These minerals form a protective barrier on the skin and reflect harmful UV rays before they come into contact with the skin's surface.

Chemical or mineral sunscreens infographic

What is zinc oxide?

Mineral sunscreens typically use zinc oxide as a physical sunscreen for UV rays. Yes, the same zinc that your parents put on your nose and cheeks in the 80s. Zinc oxide has come a long way since then and is now found in Lightweight, layerable formulas that offer the same sun protection but have a natural-looking finish. Here's a look at the many benefits of zinc oxide for the skin.

Zinc oxide keeps the skin cool

Unlike chemical sunscreens, which trap UV rays and convert them into heat, zinc oxide keeps the skin cool and lets it breathe. It reflects the heat and energy of the sun's UV rays away from the skin, thus maintaining the skin temperature. For this reason, mineral sunscreen is particularly beneficial in minimizing the skin Inflammation and redness associated with acne, rosacea, and skin sensitivity.

Zinc oxide provides physical sun protection

While zinc itself occurs naturally, zinc oxide is actually created by combining the mineral zinc with oxygen molecules. When these two elements are evaporated and condensed, they form a fine powder that sits on the skin and provides a protective barrier against UVA and UVB rays. In addition to being a physical blocker, zinc oxide acts as a mirror to reflect UV rays before they can penetrate the skin's surface.

Lilikoi Mineral Defense Collection

Supports collagen production

UV radiation is the number one cause of premature aging. Sun damage exposes the skin to harmful free radicals that break down and destroy collagen, a protein important in keeping the skin firm, plump, and elastic. Zinc serves as Co-factor in collagen synthesis by activating protein collagenase. This protein triggers collagen production to build and repair connective tissues like your skin.

Helps in treating acne

Zinc oxide is also beneficial in treating acne-prone skin tones. Studies show that zinc is effective at reducing skin levels Inflammation, inhibits the growth of acne-causing bacteria and regulates the activity of the sebum glands. It also has astringent properties that narrow pores and minimize their appearance.

Mineral sun protection benefits

If you're new to the superpowers of zinc oxide, there are a few more reasons to add a mineral sunscreen to your daily skin care regimen.

Reef friendly

Mineral sunscreens are more environmentally friendly – zinc oxide and titanium dioxide protect the sensitive coral reefs on our planet. They are a preferred choice for beach vacationers and destination travelers visiting seaside resorts.

Suitable for all skin types

Mineral sunscreens are hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. With their anti-inflammatory properties, they are gentle enough for the most sensitive skin types. And they're free of pore-clogging silicone, making them a better option for those who are prone to failure.

Broadband UV protection

Mineral sunscreens reflect both UVB and UVA rays from the surface of the skin. Cause UVB rays Sunburn and uncomfortable symptoms such as redness, dryness and itching. UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin, are responsible for premature aging and play a key role in the development of melanoma.

Which purely mineral sun protection suits you?

Protecting your skin from sun damage is one of the most effective ways to slow down the visible signs of aging and keep your skin looking and feeling healthy. Now that you know the benefits of using mineral sunscreens, you can have ours All SPF mineral moisturizers.

Our range of four unique, daily mineral moisturizers with sun protection factor have been specially developed for the face and neck. Each formula is silicone-free and full of active ingredients to achieve targeted skin benefits and prevent sunburn.

Red Currant Protection Moisturizer SPF 40

This matting The daily moisturizer contains a Youth Shield Antioxidant Complex and SPF 40 mineral protection. This SPF moisturizer provides sun protection and helps with the appearance of wrinkles. Red currant is a source of vitamin C, an antioxidant with added bioflavonoids that improves the appearance of fine lines.

Tropical Vanilla Day Cream SPF 40

Sometimes scents can take us to a dream destination, and that Tropical Vanilla Day Cream SPF 40 does just that with its fresh, tropical scent. This purely mineral sunscreen contains vanilla, shea butter and SPF 40, all mineral sunscreens to revitalize the skin and prevent sunburn. Shea butter is a moisturizing ingredient that is high in triglycerides and fatty acids. This makes the cream an effective emollient for skin that needs more moisture.

Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizing Cream SPF 40

This all-in-one lightweight every day The moisturizer is made from Cocoa Seed Extract, Satsuma Mandarin Peel, and SPF 40, all of which protect minerals to improve the appearance of skin exposed to blue light stress and pollution. If you've been exposed to blue light in front of electronic devices all day, this moisturizer is for you. Cocoa seed extract is included in this formulation, a blend of cocoa peptides, saccharides and polyphenols to improve the appearance of skin exposed to blue light stress.

Bright Skin Moisturizer SPF 40

This lightening daily moisturizer contains a Natural hydroquinone alternative and SPF 40 all mineral protection. This SPF formula targets the appearance of dark spots and prevents sunburn. The natural hydroquinone alternative will help fade the appearance of dark spots and create a smooth, even complexion.

Learn more about our mineral SPF moisturizers and how to use them in this video:

(embed) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HkVMaiUeToY (/ embed)

In addition to our SPF moisturizers, we recommend our Lilikoi Mineral Defense Sport Sunscreen SPF 30 for protection from head to toe. This easy-to-use sports formula for the face and body is non-greasy and water-resistant for up to 40 minutes.

Do you add mineral or chemical sunscreens to your skin care regimen? Let us know in the comments below and join the conversation on social media. Experience our mineral SPF moisturizers and Lilikoi Mineral Defense Sport Sunscreen SPF 30 at an Eminence Organics Spa partner near you.

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Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizing Cream SPF 40

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Red Currant Protection Moisturizer SPF 40

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This post was originally published in April 2019 and has been updated for accuracy and completeness. .

04 Jan
Blog

The Benefits of Sunscreen: Why Do I Need To Wear SPF Every Day?

What other product than sunscreen will protect us from sun damage, reduce our risk of skin cancer, prevent the early appearance of wrinkles and work immediately after use? It's the best kept beauty secret that actually isn't a secret. Many of us already know that when we tan happily on the beach in Costa Rica, we need SPF. However, if you want your skin to look radiant and healthy over the long term, you need to wear sunscreen every day as well. Here are the reasons why:

Why do i need SPF? The benefits of sunscreen

Sunscreen protects your skin and reduces the risk of developing skin cancer and skin cancer. Using SPF in conjunction with other sunscreen behaviors – such as wearing dark clothing and sunglasses – will reduce the harmful effects of sun exposure. In fact, the Skin Cancer Foundation claims that using sunscreens with an SPF of 15 reduces your chances of developing squamous cell carcinoma by 40% and your risk of melanoma (the deadliest skin cancer) by 50%.

2. Protect from sunburn

Did you know that sunlight is actually made up of two types of harmful rays, UVA and UVB rays? UVA rays (also used in tanning booths) are mainly associated with long-term skin damage like the Formation of wrinkles and are also linked to some skin cancers. However, it is UVB rays that are responsible for sunburn and are believed to be the cause of most skin cancers. Sunburns are not only painful, they are directly linked to the most deadly cancers. According to Healthline, “Even a single sunburn can increase a person's risk of skin cancer. This is because when the skin absorbs ultraviolet radiation from sunlight it can damage the genetic material in the skin cells. “Fortunately, sunscreen protects the skin from UV rays by absorbing, reflecting or scattering sunlight.

3. Avoid inflammation and redness

Too much time in the sun leads to sunburn, severe reddening of the skin, and inflammation of the skin. According to Medical News Today: "The sun's ultraviolet rays damage the skin, which turns red when the body circulates more blood to the affected area to repair the damage."

4. Prevent wrinkles and fine lines from appearing early

When it comes to developing wrinkles, fine lines, and crow's feet, sunscreen is one of the most effective prevention formulas. Prolonged contact with UVA rays will age your skin prematurely and leads to loss of collagen and skin elasticity. In fact, approximately up to 90% of the visible signs of aging are caused by sun damage. By incorporating SPF into your daily skin care regimen, you are preventing the early signs of aging with minimal effort.

5. Avoid blotchy skin and hyperpigmentation

Uneven skin pigmentation (or hyperpigmentation) refers to parts of the skin that discolor or darken in an inconsistent manner. This can be hereditary, but it can also be caused by exposure to sunlight. Blotchy skin or dark spots can appear on the face, hands, and other parts of the body that are regularly exposed to the sun.

The good news? There is an easy way to prevent dark spots (as well as sunburn, wrinkles, and skin cancer). – and the solution wears sun protection in rain or shine, not just in summer.

6. Stop the DNA damage

Scientific studies have shown that sunlight causes DNA damage and can trigger skin carcinogenesis and photoaging. Studies say: “Many of the harmful effects on human health that result from exposure to the sun are linked to a chain of events that begin with the formation of DNA damage. These lesions can lead to inflammatory and immunosuppressive processes in the epithelial tissue as well as accelerated aging and tumor development. "

Obviously, sun exposure can have profound effects, possibly causing premature aging, skin cancer, and many other skin changes. If you think you can avoid the sun's rays in winter or in the office, you might be surprised to find out these next few situations when you should still be wearing SPF.

if you have to wear spf

5 surprising situations you need to wear SPF

1. Inside

If you spend all day indoors, UVA light can still reach you by penetrating window glass. If you spend the day in a room with sunlight coming through the windows, you will get a similar amount of UVA rays as you would outside.

2. At great heights

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation UVB rays can cause sun damage and sunburn, even if you are on a ski vacation rather than a beach vacation. Snow reflects up to 80% of the sun's harmful rays. The next time you're on the slopes, apply sunscreen to the exposed parts of your face to protect yourself from the increased UV exposure from the reflection.

3. In winter

The ozone layer is the part of the atmosphere that absorbs solar radiation. During the winter months, the ozone layer thins, so you have less protection from the sun's rays. The The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends applying SPF all over your body before getting dressed. At the very least, they recommend putting sunscreen on easy-to-forget areas like your ears, neck, or scalp.

4. On cloudy days

The The Skin Cancer Foundation also states that even when it is cloudy, up to 80% of the sun's UV radiation reaches the earth. Unfortunately, this means that outside activity on a cloudy day can still damage your skin.

5. With light clothing

You would assume that all clothing protects us from sun damage, but some lightweight fabrics like silk, crepe, or cotton let light through. The lighter the color of the garment, the more likely it is that sunlight will hit the skin. For example a white cotton t-shirt protects only with the equivalence of SPF 5! Wear dark, thick fabrics for more protection. Synthetic and semi-synthetic fibers such as polyester or rayon as well as heavy, tightly woven fabrics such as wool, denim or cord offer the best defense.

two women smile on the ski slope

Which sun protection factor is best for everyday use?

When choosing a sunscreen, look for the phrase "broad spectrum". This description signals that the formula protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Next, check your Sun Protection Factor (SPF), which rates the sunscreen's effectiveness in blocking UV rays. For your best defense, choose sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.

Our range of four unique full minerals SPF moisturizers are specifically designed for the face and neck. Each formula is silicone-free and full of natural, organic botanicals and active ingredients to achieve targeted skin benefits and protect you from sun damage every day.

Our purely mineral SPF formulas are:

  • Perfect for everyday use
  • Made from zinc oxide for all mineral SPF protection
  • Silicone free

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Red Currant Protection Moisturizer SPF 40

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Tropical Vanilla Day Cream SPF 40

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1. Tropical Vanilla Day Cream SPF 40

With a fresh tropical vanilla scent, this day cream is formulated with shea butter, vanilla and all mineral SPF 40 protectants to revitalize the skin and prevent sunburn. It's even suitable for all skin types.

2. Red Currant Protection Moisturizer SPF 40

For normal to combination skin types, this mattifying daily moisturizer protects against the visible signs of aging and can prevent sunburn and control oil production. It comes complete with Youth Shield Antioxidant Complex and microencapsulated tea tree oil as well as SPF 40 all mineral protection to prevent sunburn.

3. Bright Skin Moisturizer SPF 40

This daily moisturizer is complete with Natural hydroquinone alternative and Swiss alpine plant extracts with SPF 40 all mineral protection. This effective formula targets the appearance of hyperpigmentation and prevents sunburn. If you have normal to combination skin, this sun protection factor is just right for you.

4. Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40

This lightweight all-in-one moisturizer for everyday use is made from cocoa seed extract and Satsuma mandarin peel. With the mineral protection SPF 40, this moisturizing cream improves the appearance of the skin that is exposed to blue light stress and pollution.

5. Lilikoi Mineral Defense Sports Sunscreen

If you're looking for more than just an SPF moisturizer for your daily sun protection, Our all-mineral range includes the Lilikoi Mineral Defense Sport sunscreen and lip balm to protect from head to toe. Reach for this waterproof sports sunscreen to keep your face and body protected during your favorite outdoor activities. Perfect for all skin types. For best results, reapply after 40 minutes of swimming or sweating.

6. Rose hip & lemongrass lip balm

Moisturize, soften and protect your lips with this moisturizing SPF lip balm. It's all natural SPF 15 lip balm protects dry lips from harmful UV radiation, while soothing rose hip oil relieves dryness and rejuvenating lavender restores softness. Dry, weather-tanned lips are perfectly hydrated and protected from future damage.

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Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizing Cream SPF 40

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Bright Skin Moisturizer SPF 40

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Are you ready to incorporate SPF into your daily skin care routine? Contact your preferred Eminence Organics spa partner and find out which SPF mineral moisturizer is best for you.