Can an invisible mineral sunscreen exist? By nature, mineral SPF is made up of tiny white powders…and you just can’t make them invisible. In today’s chemistry lesson, we’ll tell you more.
Invisible mineral sunscreen simply doesn’t exist.
If you’re passionate about 100% mineral SPF, then you probably know that many formulas leave behind a not-so-fun white cast, and here’s why… By definition, mineral actives — zinc oxide and titanium dioxide — are white powders, making them impossible to go on clear. That being said, there are ways to make them better, and we’re all about that, so read on to find out more….
How to reduce the white tint from mineral sunscreens…
Now that you know that there’s no such thing as a completely invisible mineral SPF, we’ll give you a bit more insight into how you can work with a lab to lessen their chalky white cast.
In our mineral sunscreens designed for daily use (Mattescreen, Zincscreen and Bright-Eyed), we’ve incorporated a Mineral Blend Technology that helps the mineral particles blend more easily on skin, minimizing white cast. The Mineral Blend Technology allows for the white particles in the 100% mineral formula to blend in much better, as well as add skin-benefitting effects. In Zincscreen and Bright-Eyed, the Mineral Blend Technology works to help brighten skin, while the Mineral Blend Technology in Mattescreen helps mattify skin.
Another way to reduce cast is to make the particles smaller and smaller so when they are spread on the skin they are harder to see. When they are below 100 nanometers, they are called nano-particles, which have been deemed safe and effective by the FDA.
One thing to keep in mind is that no matter how small they become, they are still little white particles so — especially if you have a darker skin tone — you may still see some level of cast. We’ll be always pushing to see if we can do better, but we feel it’s always good to know what you are getting into at the best detail possible.
Some other good things to keep in mind…
First, if you’re using a mineral product that is labeled “invisible zinc,” then chances are strong it’s actually a hybrid formula that uses both chemical and mineral actives, or it’s just mis-marketed altogether and the word “invisible” is just code for something along the lines of “lightweight.”
And another friendly PSA: If your mineral product is coming out clear, then that means that the actives have separated, so you should shake it well and try again. Or quite frankly, probably throw the entire thing away since the product is likely not formulated properly or you got a bad batch. You simply won’t be getting any sun protection with a 100% mineral sunscreen that appears to be clear — you’ll only be getting the rest of the formula since those little white guys have sunk to the bottom!
