The Ultimate Guide to Mineral Sunscreen: Why It’s Better for Your Skin & the Planet

Protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays is essential for maintaining a youthful, healthy complexion. But not all sunscreens are created equal. If you’re still using chemical sunscreen, it’s time to make the switch to mineral sunscreen—your skin (and the environment) will thank you!

What Is Mineral Sunscreen?

Mineral sunscreen, also known as physical sunscreen, uses natural UV filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to create a protective barrier on the skin. Unlike chemical sunscreens, which absorb into the skin and trigger a chemical reaction to neutralize UV rays, mineral sunscreens physically block and reflect UVA and UVB rays before they can cause damage.

According to an FDA proposal from September 24, 2021, only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are considered GRASE (Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective) for sun protection. This makes mineral sunscreen the safest choice for your skin.

Why Avoid Chemical Sunscreens?

1. Chemical Sunscreens May Disrupt Hormones

Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients like oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and avobenzone, which are currently under FDA review due to concerns about hormonal disruption, increased breast cancer risk, and reproductive issues.

2. Chemical Sunscreens Harm Coral Reefs

Many chemical sunscreen ingredients contribute to coral bleaching and harm marine ecosystems. The environmental impact has been so severe that locations like Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Aruba, Key West, Bonaire, Palau, and parts of Mexico have banned chemical sunscreens to protect their coral reefs.

3. Chemical Sunscreens Can Irritate Skin

Since chemical sunscreens must penetrate the skin to work, they often contain more ingredients than mineral formulas. This increases the risk of skin irritation, breakouts, and allergic reactions, making them unsuitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

The Benefits of Mineral Sunscreen

1. Safe & Gentle for All Skin Types

Dermatologists recommend mineral sunscreen for sensitive, acne-prone, and rosacea-prone skin. Zinc oxide, in particular, is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. Mineral sunscreen is even safe for babies (6 months+), children, and pregnant women.

2. Immediate Sun Protection

Unlike chemical sunscreen, which takes 20-30 minutes to become effective, mineral sunscreen starts working immediately upon application. No waiting—just apply and go!

3. Broad-Spectrum Protection with Zinc Oxide

All sunscreens protect against UVB rays (which cause sunburn), but only broad-spectrum sunscreens protect against UVA rays (which cause premature aging and skin cancer). Zinc oxide is the only FDA-approved mineral filter that provides full UVA + UVB protection.

“Mineral sunscreens provide UVA protection, which is often missing in chemical sunscreens. UVA rays are the primary cause of skin aging and can lead to skin cancer.” — Dermatologist Ahuva Cices

4. Tinted Mineral Sunscreen Protects Against Blue Light

Tinted mineral sunscreens contain iron oxides, which block blue light emitted from phones, computers, and other screens. This added protection makes tinted mineral SPF an excellent choice for preventing hyperpigmentation and melasma.

Why FRÉ Skincare’s Mineral Sunscreens Are the Best

At FRÉ Skincare, we’re committed to clean, reef-safe sun protection that’s effective, lightweight, and skin-friendly. Here’s why our 100% mineral sunscreens stand out:

✔️ Powered by Non-Nano Zinc Oxide – Won’t penetrate the bloodstream. 

✔️ Boosted with Argania Active Complex™ – Fights free radicals and skin aging. 

✔️ Ultra-Lightweight & Blendable – No white cast, silky-smooth finish. 

✔️ Water-Resistant & Hypoallergenic – Ideal for active lifestyles. 

✔️ Dermatologist & Ophthalmologist Tested – Safe for all skin types. 

✔️ EWG-Ranked Clean Ingredients – Free from synthetic fragrances.

Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreen: What’s the Difference?

FRÉ vs. Other Mineral Sunscreens: Why We’re Better

The Bottom Line: Make the Switch to Mineral Sunscreen

If you care about your skin’s health, the environment, and long-term sun protection, mineral sunscreen is the clear winner. It’s the dermatologist-recommended choice for sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, and daily sun protection.

Ready to upgrade your SPF game? Shop FRÉ’s dermatologist-approved mineral sunscreens and experience the safest, most effective sun protection today!