If you’re choosing a sunscreen for you and your family, you’ve got two options: mineral and chemical. But when it comes to safety, we recommend mineral sunscreen every single time. And we’re not the only ones. Zinc oxide, the mineral ingredient of mineral sunscreen, and titanium dioxide are the only sunscreen ingredients labeled as “Generally Regarding As Safe & Effective (GRASE) by the FDA. What you might not know is that zinc oxide is an actual physical barrier, sitting on top of the skin and scattering, reflecting or absorbing harmful UVA and UVB rays, as opposed to chemical sunscreens with potentially harmful ingredients that are being absorbed by your body.
What is Non-Nano Zinc?
When it comes to the size of minerals used in sunscreen, they can show up in two different ways: in nano form (particles smaller than 100 nanometers), or non-nano form (particles bigger than 100 nanometers). And when it comes to mineral sunscreen, size matters. That’s because the properties of the particle can change, becoming less stable and more chemically reactive. And a particle that minute can penetrate cell walls, breach the blood-brain barrier, and slip into the lungs. Plus, the smaller the particle, the more it reacts to UV radiation, forming free radicals — essentially cellular waste that can build up and cause damage over time. So, the bigger the particle, the better, at least when it comes to sunscreen. In this case, we want the mineral to do its job: sit on the skin and protect it — not potentially get absorbed into the skin.
What About Clear Mineral Sunscreens?
Non-nano mineral sunscreens work well because they show up white — which reflects all the visible wavelengths in the color spectrum. And while the light white cast might be a small inconvenience, it makes knowing when to reapply your sunscreen a cinch. When it comes to sheer or clear mineral sunscreens, it’s most likely made with nano particles, which appear to clump together and make absorption less likely. But unfortunately, nano particles are unpredictable.
Why Choose Earth Mama Non-Nano Mineral Sunscreens
Earth Mama Mineral Sunscreens are made with non-nano zinc and with sensitive skin in mind. They’re safe and effective for the whole family, with UVA/UVB SPF 40 protection. Whether you’re looking for a mineral sunscreen lotion or stick, or a tinted mineral sunscreen lotion or stick, we’ve got you covered.
