What is Mineral-Based SPF? 

 

With the summer months approaching, restocking on SPF products is once again in tow. Many of us stick to big, brand-name formulas that are tried and true within the sun care industry. But, should we be taking a closer look at the SPF products we are putting on our skin? 

Mineral-based sunscreens, or ‘physical sunscreens’, are the route less traveled by some. But, they are classed as the healthier choice compared to other sunscreen SPF products on the market, making it among some of the best natural sunscreen Canada has to offer. Hence why they are beginning to gain popularity in the mainstream media and cosmetic industry.

 

How are chemical-based SPF products different from mineral-based?

 

According to Franciscan Health, “both mineral and chemical sunscreens are approved for protecting your skin from damaging UV light.” But, which one is best for your individual preference? Let’s find out. 

Many of the name-brand SPF products we use are chemical-based which usually guarantees that they often have a light, tropical scent, are non-greasy, and moisturize. While all of this is great to have in your chosen sunscreen, this is not the most natural and efficient route to take when trying to protect your skin.

Chemical-based sunscreenshttps://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/report/the-trouble-with-sunscreen-chemicals/ often contain oxybenzone, cinoxate, and homosalate (harmful chemicals that leach into the body) and take at least 30 minutes to work. Meanwhile, mineral only sunscreen products rely on zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are recognized by the FDA as “safe and effective” when it comes to sun protection, and provide both UVA/UVB protection upon application.

The other difference between the two sunscreen types is the consistency. While chemical-based sunscreens are often lotion-like and absorb into the skin’s layers, mineral-based SPF is often thicker, and known to sit on top of the skin to absorb and act as a barrier to the sun’s rays.

This does not affect the SPF functionality of either product, but many people are becoming increasingly aware and concerned about putting unwanted chemicals into the body.

 

Mineral Sunscreen Benefits

 

Although it is safer to use mineral based sunscreens because of the risks associated with chemical based sun filters, there are many other benefits to using this type of SPF protection. One of the big upsides of mineral sunscreen is that it is safe for women who are pregnant or nursing, and is also safe for children over the age of six months old to use. For children under the age of 6 months, consult a physician. 

Mineral-based sunscreen is also guaranteed to be gentle on the skin due to the lack of irritating chemicals, making it a convenient sunscreen for sensitive skin types. For those that are dealing with sensitive skin and want to have SPF protection as well as illuminated skin, a glycolic Overnight Face Peel can help to address sun damage and smooth the complexion. 

But, the most important benefit of using mineral-based SPF is its ability to provide broad spectrum protection from the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. Broad Spectrum protection means that both UVA and UVB rays are blocked by application of the product.  

What’s more, the mineral sunscreens provided by LASPA are vegan, cruelty-free, made from 100% naturally sourced and certified organic ingredients, are biodegradable, hypoallergenic, and are clinically tested and approved by Health Canada. What more could you ask from your next SPF product?

 

Types of Mineral-Based SPF Products

 

Many mineral-based SPF sunscreens can be bought in SPF 30 and SPF 20 strengths with broad-spectrum coverage offered. As noted in many LASPA reviews, the LASPA Moisturizing Mineral Sunscreen SPF30 and the LASPA Daily Sun Protection Mineral Sunscreen SPF20  are loved for their effectiveness and the lack of harmful chemicals. 

As one user summarized on BeautySense, “Once you apply the sunscreen, your skin takes on a beautiful silky feel which is lovely. But most importantly, the product works.”

Mineral-based SPF products also come in tinted options such as the LASPA SPF 20 Fluid Matte Foundation. This versatile formula offers protection from the sun while being made for all skin types and tones in a vegan, fragrance free, and cruelty-free formula. 

Finally, if you are in the market for an SPF product for kids, the LASPA SPF50 Ultra Sunscreen Stick is perfect for on-the-go applications to the face, hands, or even feet all while being pocket sized for portability and convenience. 

Glycolic Peel Treatments

 

Mineral based SPF formulas should be used after AHAs or professional glycolic peels that exfoliate and illuminate the skin. Some of the most effective mineral SPF product pairings include using a LASPA 10% Glycolic Peel Overnight Treatment, that can be used to moisturize the skin, brighten the complexion, and quickly melt away dead skin cells, followed in the morning by a LASPA SPF30 Mineral Sunscreen in preparation for your day. The LASPA Glycolic Acid Peel Kit ,  can help improve the appearance of the skin in as little as 5-7 days when used as directed. This treatment is also an effective route if you are looking to balance out the pH levels of the skin while fighting free radicals. 

But, be aware that using glycolic acid products without proper suncare can leave you exposed to unwanted UV rays. Be on top of that sun care routine!

 

Use Safe and Chemical-Free SPF Products

For safer, healthier skin, there is no better option than a mineral-based SPF sunscreen from LASPA that protects your skin from ultraviolet rays without the use of harsh chemicals. The brand believes in providing skincare that is safe for all age groups, skin types, and sensitivities without compromising on effectiveness or sun protection. 

What’s more, LASPA’s belief in making their products clean, cruelty-free, and thoroughly tested is more than enough reason to trust this brand with you and your family’s SPF protection. 

With the summer months approaching and many days outside to be had, rest assured that the only thing you should be worrying about is making this summer count. 

Want to learn some great tips on how to enjoy the great outdoors this upcoming summer while still protecting your skin? We invite you to sign up for the LASPA Newsletter where you will receive timely and expert information around sun care, the benefits of using naturally derived beauty products as well as special promotions that are happening throughout the year.