Best mineral sunscreen without Phenoxyyethanol is not as easy as you may think, and that’s because Phenoxyethanol is a very common ingredient that is found in a wide range of skincare products. From skin moisturizers all the way to makeup and sunscreen products. But, why avoid sunscreen or skincare products with Phenoxyethanol in the first place?
Phenoxyethanol in large quantities is very harmful to the skin as it is known to cause skin irritations and blisters. It is even more dangerous to nursing mothers as well as infants.
With myths and misinformation about scientific benefits growing day by day, In this article, I will be looking at why choosing the top best mineral sunscreen products that do not contain Phenoxyethanol is key. But first, let’s look into the benefits of using a mineral sunscreen
Why Use Mineral Sunscreen
Not all sunscreens are made equal. Actually there are two main types of sunscreen, which are mineral and chemical sunscreens, and these are very different from each other.
What is a Chemical Sunscreen?
Chemical sunscreen products works by absorbing into your skin in order to neutralize the damaging effect of ultraviolet radiation. Examples of these ingredients are octocrylene, homosalate, methoxycinnamates and PABAs.
Besides the ingredients, it can be a little challenging to pick out a chemical sunscreen, mainly because that isn’t indicated on the label. Typically, you will see things like “sun filter technology”. But, if nothing has been indicated on the label that suggests that the product is a mineral sunscreen, then it is probably a chemical sunscreen.
What is a Mineral Sun Screen?
Just to be clear, when we speak of mineral sunscreens, we are mainly talking about those sunscreens that use ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to protect you from the sun. These minerals are known to form a thin shield on your skin that protects you from the sun’s harmful rays.
So, what Are The Benefits Of Mineral Sun Screen?
Here’s a look at the top benefits of using a mineral sunscreen as opposed to a chemical sunscreen product.
1) Protection is immediate
These sunscreen act as a reflective barrier from the sun’s UV rays so it gives you an immediate protection as soon as you apply it. As such, you won’t have to wait for some time before the product start protecting you.
For synthetic sunscreens, however, the protection can take up to 30 minutes to work properly. This is because they first have to be absorbed into the skin.
2) Some Mineral Sunscreens Can Be Applied Over Makeup
Normally, you are supposed to apply sunscreen every two to four hours. So imagine having the need to apply a sunscreen when you have the perfect makeup. That won’t work, right?
But, if you select a pressed powder-form of mineral sunscreen, you will be able to apply it over foundation and reapply as frequently as you prefer.
3) Mineral Sun Screens Don’t Irritate or Clog Your Skin
According to dermatologists, mineral sunscreens are less irritating for sensitive or problem skin. Also, these types of sunscreens are more suitable for babies.You will also be glad to know that mineral sunscreens are less likely to lead to contact dermatitis or aggravate acne.
Much of these characteristics come because, rather than being absorbed into the skin, mineral sunscreens actually sit on the skin. So, they are less likely to provoke any skin reaction.
Top 10 Best Mineral Sunscreens That Don’t Contain Phenoxyethanol
Having looked at the difference between synthetic and mineral sunscreens, here’s a list of the best mineral sunscreens that don’t have Phenoxyethanol.
Here we go…
1 CyberDerm Simply Zinc Sun Whip SPF 30
The first product on our list is the CyberDerm Simply zinc Whip. It is known to be the best mineral sunscreen out there and number 1 on our list for a couple of reasons.
First of all, the product features a certified-organic zinc in a hydrating olive oil base. When you apply the product, it will absorb quickly into the skin without leaving any residues, leaving you with a smooth, clean finish.
Also, the product comes with tetrapeptides for extra anti-aging benefits. These go a long way to keep you looking younger.
2 Juice Beauty SPF 30 Oil-Free Moisturizer
Formulated with a 20% concentration of Zinc oxide, the Juice Beauty SPF 30 Oil-Free Moisturizer is a great product that works for all skin types.
Besides that, this product comes with all kinds of antioxidants and vitamins that work on keeping your skin healthy.
Because it contains non-nano zinc, it takes a while for the product to fuse into the skin. So, you may need to give it sometime. The best way is to apply a powder on top, that’s if you want to mattify your skin. Overall, Juice Beauty products smell absolutely incredible, and this product is no exception.
3 Belly Buttons & Babies Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
Ranked in first place on the EWG list, the Belly Buttons & Babies Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 has everything you can ever ask for in a sunscreen.
I know that the product was made for babies, but is also works for adult skin as well. After all, who cares if it is made for babies? This product has is known for its ability to dry down completely and leave you with a grease-less and fragrance-free finish.
4 Celtic Complexion Chemical Free Organic Sunscreen SPF 32
Featuring an 86 percent certified organic ingredients, this next product is a game changer. The 4Celtic Complexion Chemical Free Organic Sunscreen comes with an SPF 32, which is very effective in protecting you from the sun’s harmful rays.
The product also incorporates vegetable glycerin, certified organic Shea butter and Eldorado Springs Artesian Water, all of which are added to attract and retain moisture on your skin.
5 MDSolarSciences Mineral Tinted creme Broad Spectrum SPF 30 UVA-UVB Sunscreen
If you’re looking for a product that will help tone down redness and reduce the appearance of your imperfections while providing safe UV protection, this could be your answer.
However, the product does come with silicone, which is a bummer. Despite that, it is a great sunscreen that leaves a greaseless and flawless finish to keep you protected and looking great all day.
6 Badger Sport Sunscreen Stick SPF 35
This next product has so many perfect reviews. Unlike other sunscreen products, the Badger Sport Sunscreen Stick SPF 35 has a super-clean ingredients list.
Some of the best ingredients are Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Theobroma Cacao (Organic Cocoa) Butter as well as and Non-Nano Uncoated Zinc Oxide 22.5%, not forgetting Tocopherol (Sunflower Vitamin E).
Also, this sunscreen comes in a small container, allowing you to carry it with you in your purse for sun-protection emergencies. It never gets better than that.
7 DeVita Natural Skin Care Solar Protective Moisturizer SPF 30
The next product is the DeVita Natural Skin Care Solar Protective Moisturizer SPF 30. This sunscreen is considered to be a 2 in 1 moisturizer.
It is a lightweight sunscreen, which gets absorbed into the skin very easily. Thanks to the zinc in a soothing aloe Vera, glycerin and coconut oil base.
However, there have been a few reports of pilling with this product. Pilling is a very common issue that occurs when you add makeup on top of it. So this is probably best for people who don’t need to wear much (or any) makeup.
8 Suntegrity “5 in 1” Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen SPF 30
On 8th place, we have the Suntegrity “5 in 1” Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen. This product comes with an SPF of 30, which goes a long way to protect you from the sun’s UV rays.
Also, it does contain some sunflower and pomegranate seed oils, even though they’re pretty far down the list.
In addition to that, the Suntegrity “5 in 1” sunscreen features five tints, from Fair to Deep Bronze, and it gives you a lot of coverage. So you can use it as a primer.
9 Lavanila The Healthy Sun Screen SPF 40 Face Cream
Featuring an SPF of 40, the Healthy Sun Screen SPF 40 Face Cream by Lavanila may be the best product yet. It gives you the maximum UV protection that you can ask for. It also contains Shea butter, palm and jojoba oils, which work to keep your skin hydrated, so would be ideal for drier skin.
10 Banana Boat Natural Reflect Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
The last product on our list is the Banana Boat Natural Reflect Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50. With some of the highest SPFs, it is an ideal product for the beachside during the hottest summer.
Unlike most sunscreen products, this one is perfect for adults and Kids. In fact, it also comes in Baby versions.
Besides its UV protection, the sunscreen also contains Zinc Oxide (4%), Water and Glycerin, which keep your skin hydrated throughout.
Final Words
There are so many mineral sunscreens out there that you can choose from, and most of these don’t contain Phenoxyethanol and are ideal for all skin types. Overall, you will be doing your skin a huge favor if you switch from synthetic sunscreen to mineral sunscreen.
Before you buy any product, though, be sure to check the ingredients list. Oh and don’t forget: if a product label hasn’t indicated that it is a mineral sunscreen, then it is definitely a synthetic sunscreen.