Best Mineral Sunscreens IMO + Why I Only Use Zinc Oxide

[@MilusiaTok]

For me, all sunscreens are safe and no ingredients should be demonized. The most important thing is that people use them. It's funny because I see people with lots pf tatoos, which are toxic, yes, but they debate over toxicty in cosmetics. I myself use both types. I have sensitive skin and "chemical" spfs of my choice have never hurt me.

[@natalienetanya7401]

I love Zinc Oxide. It feels calming and nourishing. I use Eucerin Sensitive Mineral Zinc Oxide Protection 50. It's 24% Zinc Oxide and you can get it at the drugstore relatively cheap!

[@thehonestchannel]

Thanks for the tip!

[@chariots8x230]

Can you please also do a video on ‘Korean mineral sunscreen superstars’ for sensitive skin?

[@nbart5726]

Please take a look at SOS SPF 50! It's moisturising, specifically made for sensitive skin and doesn't have a white cast.

[@thehonestchannel]

Sounds great!

[@annadiciero]

Definitely go for a tinted block that contains oxides...they protect from visible and purple light!

[@annalinstrum8558]

EXCELLENT VIDEO! Just the information I need at this time of year. Thanks so much 🙏

[@thehonestchannel]

Always lovely to see your name pop up here! ❤️❤️

[@hw4607]

Thank you for sharing this info with us !! I was recently told about Ulta MD UV Clear mineral sunscreen. Just wondering if you have any experience with it ?

[@thehonestchannel]

I haven’t tried it personally but I do know it has a great many fans. Alongside zinc oxide it also contains the chemical sunscreen octinoxate.

[@hw4607]

@@thehonestchannel Oh so it's not pure mineral sunscreen type then. Glad I ask you. Thank you !

[@manymoms920]

Claire I was looking at the ingredients today for the boots no 7 spf 50 face lotion, their recent launch, the one with the new peptides in it. There are two chemical blocks in there for uva and uvb. They use filters that have been around since the 1970s. No rocket science there. Which begs the question, surely we’d know about the issues by now ? We are putting topicals on our faces with far less history, in more weird combinations than ever. Why are we fixated on chemical sunscreen ? It’s to me not rational. Some of the people who get upset about these chemicals are probably sitting down and eating ultra processed food. Side note I’ve used boots baby sun cream with a foundation drop product before now or bronzer drop if I wanted to use mineral eg face wash dry or irritated

[@EnergyFlows2u]

I make my own... I mix non nano zinc oxide with raspberry seed oil.. Then top with a skin tint to take away the white cast.. Works for me

[@Florida_Mollie]

I’m looking into color science sunscreen tinted formula. Have you tried?

[@thehonestchannel]

I haven't I'm afraid.

[@lisapetrison-beautyreviews]

I'd like to suggest that you read a 2023 article in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology focusing on sunscreen boosters by a team of Harvard dermatologist researchers, called "Sunscreens: Misconceptions and Misinformation." This topic also has been covered by a Bloomberg reporter named Anna Edney and by an Australian chemistry Ph.D. who has a KZbin channel called Lab Muffin.

[@thehonestchannel]

Hi. I had read an article by Harvard researchers on this and I think I've represented the balanced view which is chemical sunscreen ingredients are considered generally safe by most experts in the doses involved in sunscreen application but that concerns have been raised and the FDA has called for more safety data from the industry.

[@lisapetrison-beautyreviews]

@@thehonestchannel The article that I am referring to discusses the sunscreen boosters butyloctyl salicylate (BOS) and ethyl ferulate, which are added to mineral sunscreens (including some of the ones that you mention) to increase the SPF. These researchers did a study on these and are asserting that these are actually just chemical sunscreens that have never been submitted for regulatory approval - that is, that they absorb UV light in the way that chemical sunscreens do; that they protect against just UVB (and not UVA1) in the way that almost all chemical sunscreens do; and that they are absorbed into the system in the way that chemical sunscreens are. The chemical structure of BOS is extremely similar to that of octisalate, which is why that one has been a subject of particular attention. My own experience is that these "sunscreen boosters" (apparently actually more properly classified as unapproved chemical sunscreens) have been consistently irritating to my skin in the way that other chemical sunscreens have been, and that i do better when I choose mineral sunscreens that do not contain these boosters. So I thought that this is a topic that you in particular would be interested in looking into.

[@lisapetrison-beautyreviews]

I can't give a link because KZbin will delete it, but here is the PubMed reference number: 37054947

[@thehonestchannel]

I just read it there and I'd seen a reference to it while I was pulling this video together. It's a real can of worms, but the presence of the zinc oxide or titanium dioxide should limit the absorption. It's clear more investigation is needed into the whole arena of chemicals in sunscreens that's for sure. I use an oil serum underneath my mineral sunscreen as another layer and I like that you can layer mineral sunscreens on top of other products. Interesting that you notice increased sensitivity where these additional ingredients are present. Thanks for flagging this.

[@lisapetrison-beautyreviews]

@@thehonestchannel Oh good, I'm glad you have looked at this. I sent you an email with some additional links.

[@kiwi14863]

My favourite mineral sunscreen is Dr Dennis Gross all physical ultimate defense SPF 50 it's not the cheapest but its lightweight yet hydrating, not tacky/sticky and water resistant. I've been hesitant to use the aveeno calm + restore sunscreen because tinted sunscreens never usually blend in well with my complexion but it seems to blend in very well for you so I think I'll give it a go 😁 what's your favourite way to reapply sunscreen?

[@thehonestchannel]

I was just watching someone talking about the Dr Dennis Gross moisturizer on Instagram. I must give the spf a try some time. On an average day in the UK I just apply sunscreen in the morning and that's it unless I'm going to be out in the sun a lot. Usually I do my walking in the morning. But on very sunny days I find myself just patting some more on over make-up and I can always dust with a little of the powdered foundation if needed.

[@kiwi14863]

@@thehonestchannel Oh cool well if you ever try it I hope you like it! There is also another sunscreen I like by Colorescience the total protection no-show mineral SPF 50 that's good too but more so for autumn/winter cos it is pretty hydrating. Why do you think chemical sunscreens are so dominant in the UK and Europe? It feels a little unfair that we don't have as many options for mineral sunscreens 🤔

[@greycat7773]

Mine too!!! I have it on the Tinted Day Cream, SPF 40. I got it a a great price per oz through QVC

[@trinabernice2304]

I have tried so many mineral sunscreens and nothing compares to Ava Isa serum. It’s from a Canadian company and it is absolutely brilliant. 25% zinc oxide(non nano I believe) and yet goes on practically invisible and is so hydrating. Check out their research, The Sunscreen Company. I spent years and tons of money trying to find “the one” when it comes to mineral sunscreen.

[@am1156]

So annoying that we have such a limited selection of mineral sunscreens in Europe. They are either too expensive (to used the way they should, amount and frequency) or the wrong colour for my complexion. Even European brands like Avene sell excellent mineral sunscreens exclusively in the US!

[@thehonestchannel]

That is frustrating.

[@MarcyStuart5x5]

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but bergamot oil makes skin photo sensitive. It is recommended that sunlight should be avoided for at least 12 hours after applying it. If anyone has any information to the contrary, please let me know as it's a pleasant addition to skincare. I appreciate all the advice you've shared with us; it's pricey to try so many sunscreens only to leave them sitting in a drawer till they expire when they don't live up to expectations.

[@thehonestchannel]

It's an interesting one. I'll check in with Bluelene on this because their founder Dr Kan Cao is usually very on the ball with the various properties of her ingredients. I believe how the bergamot oil is treated is key and if it's bergaptene-free or furocoumarin-free then it's not phototoxic.

[@thehonestchannel]

I heard back from Bluelene, so just to confirm they use sweet orange (Aurantium Bergamia - Bergamot - Fruit Oil) derived from the peel of Citrus aurantium dulcis, which does not typically contain furocoumarins and doesn't have the same photosensitizing effects associated with furocoumarin-containing citrus oils.

[@MarcyStuart5x5]

@@thehonestchannel That's good to know! I appreciate that you checked it out. I saw your original video, and after looking at the ingredient listing, I've been hesitant try the sunscreen. Thank you so much for this! 🙂

[@rburlaro]

Thank you for the useful video. Unfortunately, Aveeno with spf 30 is not available in Romania.😢

[@thehonestchannel]

That's frustrating. Hopefully there is another good option there for you.

[@I_come_out_after_dark]

Can you make a vid on green light therapy for hyperpigmentation 😊

[@thehonestchannel]

I've made a note of this. If I can find some good evidence I'll definitely take a look at it on the channel : )

[@I_come_out_after_dark]

@@thehonestchannel Okay great thank you! 😇

[@julieellis6793]

What about those who get skin cancer in areas where the sun doesn’t get to?

[@jillpotts7472]

im trying to use sunscreen when ill be outside in the sun, but i don't most days

[@awetewtewtewawetwetw500]

Are you applying the right amount? I think you could improve the application technique. I recommend Dr sam’s video. She recommends dotting 13 times before blending

[@thehonestchannel]

I was potentially being a little more frugal than usual as I was filming myself applying multiple sunscreens and washing them off in between. 13 dots does sound more than I'd usually apply but I will be sure to use it more generously when I go on holiday to sunny California soon!

[@am1156]

@@thehonestchannel The 13 dots doesn't mean that you use more product, just that you distribute your normal amount (of anything, including moisturisers) into 13 dots so that it's easier to blend out and be sure that it is distributed over the whole face equally.

[@s.a.m2124]

Zinc oxide is an astringent/ absorbs oil. Ok if u have oil to spare but I’m too dry. Can do zinc spf in an oily base for 1 application but drying cannot be counteracted by spf oils as the effect grows upon reapplication. Also thick layers are hard to remove requiring deeper cleaning which further strips skin. Tried Korean chemical but most have drying emulsifiers. Hard to find a dry skin spf. Black girl facial spf in tube is the most moisturizing but it’s only spf 30 and has the weakest UVA filter ever. Recommendations from dry skin people?

[@thehonestchannel]

I have drier skin now I'm in my 50s and I find if I use my facial oil under the sunscreen, which you can do with mineral sunscreens, it just sits nicely on top and isn't drying at all.

[@lindseycassini1560]

I have oily skin and even though I find mineral spfs to be very drying as the day go on, that is the main reason I find myself not reaching for mineral sunscreens.

[@Adhara740]

I was on board with methylene blue but, they have not proven that it gets down into the dermis to where it needs to go.. it’s just like any other skin cream that gets caught in the skin matrix.

[@thehonestchannel]

Not sure if you saw my interview with Dr Kan Cao but I've linked to it in the description. We discuss this from 05:23

[@happymouse442]

I remember one of my relatives was deadly scared of sun. Wearing gloves during driving to prevent hands, always carrying umbrella, and avoid sunshine like plaque. Well... I didn't notice she was aging better than anyone else AT ALL..... I don't wear sunscreen (unless whole day in the sun), and want to live my life outdoor, enjoying sunshine and activities, not on clock to apply it every 2-3 hours, on top of dirt and sweat etc.. lol.... Also I don't trust chemicals in the sunscreen in general. It's ok to age when getting old. Oh btw, all these obsessions remind me of a bunch of Draculas hunching down in a cave... sorry :)))

[@am1156]

First of all, the majority of the damage is done at an early age, maybe she started too late. Secondly, what is true regarding ONE person's aging, doesn't apply to the human species as a whole. This is of course true for anything. People saying, MY uncle is 102 and he smoked and drank every day of his life, doesn't mean that is true for everyone.

[@happymouse442]

@@am1156 Yah everyone is different. I am just pointing out that sunscreen is a bit too much these days. Also how do you know that all the components in the sunscreen is not harmful in the very long term? I mean, they say you need to wear sunscreens almost 24/7, day and night, indoor and outdoor, only except sleeping, to prevent natural aging process? My common sense says NO. Yes you need to protect from the strong sun, however I believe that modest exposure to the Sun (without sunscreen) is healthy, especially when the sun is weak in the morning or evening. We humans are animals and evolved as some activities under the sun is normal. My philosophy is to follow the nature and live as nature intended.

[@sammallory4773]

You may be okay with aging, but what about getting cancer? My mom would garden outside without sun protection and eventually got skin cancer- and she was lucky she caught it when she did. But now she has to go to the dermatologist 2x a year and have an entire body check for moles. And this was a city that was 7000 ft in elevation, so that dermatologist office was filled with people getting biopsies constantly.

[@watashiwamillo]

@@sammallory4773 sorry to hear about your Mom. But great that she caught it early. Being/ living at 7000 ft is considered high altitude, therefore higher risk of skin cancer unfortunately. So people who live in these areas need to be especially sun vigilant.

[@happymouse442]

@@sammallory4773 Like I mentioned before, definitely we need sun protection under strong sun. I wear hats and/or sunscreen when I garden or outside for a long time and avoid mid day. My point is, almost all these KZbin videos advocate wearing sun protection day and night, even indoors or artificial lighting situation. So what would sunscreen do to skin when wearing all the time? There is a paper about it's affecting endocrine system as well. That may cause other kinds of health issues. Who knows. For cancers, I haven't seen so many skin cancers at all until recently. I am 55, and when I was younger, skin cancer was rarity and at that time, almost no one was wearing sunscreen like these days. Anyways I am just saying.

[@frolleinm9485]

Please note that the EU banned Titanium Oxide in food in 2022.

[@thehonestchannel]

Yes, it’s still deemed to be safe in sunscreen. I tend to avoid using sprays though which can be inhaled.

[@anaana-ze8rd]

Why don't they simply use rice flour as a sun blocker? I've seen the documentary where farmers in Asia slap some rice flour all over their face to protect them from tanning an sun burns. Works fine for them!

[@thehonestchannel]

I can imagine there might be quite a lot of casting with that but it's an interesting thought!

[@ccaselli7]

Thats interesting ,tho might be a bit drying fir the skin.

[@anaana-ze8rd]

@@ccaselli7 Well it can't be more drying than Zinc oxide in mineral sunscreens. I personally don't like chemical sunscreens, they burn my eyes and there's too much controversy around them. If it were me, I'd also replace talc in makeup with rice. IMO, the reason they don't do it is a simple money grab. The prices of SPFs are ridiculous- especially those pushed by YT derms.

[@cally2895]

Those essential oils in the first sunscreen are photo sensitive to everyone - either low or high grade irritation. You’ve lost me on this one.

[@thehonestchannel]

I've responded to another comment re this. Bluelene say the oils have been tested for photosensitivity and fall well within the IFRA standards. The bergamot is derived from the peel of citrus aurantium dulcis, and doesn't typically contain furocoumarins (which is what would cause the photosensitivity).

[@MilusiaTok]

And it's only 21spf...by the way, I couldn't find it anywhere.