What is Mineral Sunscreen?

What Is Mineral Sunscreen?

Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, use natural minerals like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to sit on the skin’s surface and physically reflect UV rays rather than absorbing them into the skin. They provide immediate protection, are gentle on the skin, are often recommended for children and those with reactive or sensitive skin and are considered reef-safe, especially when using non-nano particles.

Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens

In contrast to mineral sunscreens, chemical sunscreens are absorbed into the skin, where they convert UV rays into heat through a chemical reaction. Common ingredients include oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, and homosalate—chemicals that have raised concerns due to their potential to disrupt hormones, cause skin sensitivities, and accumulate in the body. Many of these compounds have also been found to damage coral DNA, contribute to bleaching, and disrupt marine ecosystems, prompting bans in several countries due to their toxicity to coral reefs and marine life.

What Is Non-Nano Zinc Oxide?

Non-nano zinc oxide uses larger zinc particles that remain on the skin’s surface, rather than being absorbed into the body. This not only makes it safer for human use, but also for the environment. Because these larger particles are less likely to dissolve in water or be ingested by marine life, they pose a much lower risk to coral reefs and aquatic ecosystems—making non-nano zinc a reef-safe alternative for sun protection.

Choosing Between Mineral and Chemical Sunscreen

When choosing between mineral and chemical sunscreens, it comes down to your personal needs and values. If you have sensitive skin, prefer natural ingredients, or want to minimise your environmental impact—particularly on marine life—mineral sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide are a gentle, effective, and eco-conscious choice. While chemical sunscreens can be lightweight and invisible on the skin, they may contain ingredients linked to health and environmental concerns. Whichever you choose, applying enough sunscreen regularly is key to protecting your skin from sun damage.

We stock Sunly by Attitude, Fierce Nature and Sol de Ibiza mineral sunscreens, all of which use non-nano zinc oxide, check out our Summer Collection to take a look at these as well as other summer essential products.