Is Zinc Oxide Sunscreen Safe for Your Skin: Pros and Cons

Zinc oxide has a lengthy history of use in skincare that dates back to antiquity. The Egyptians included zinc in their therapeutic ointments. Zinc oxide paste was widely used to treat skin disorders in the nineteenth century. It is now widely recognized for its remarkable sun-protective properties and is a key ingredient in many sunscreens. Hence, you will see a hype around zinc oxide sunscreen.

Although it may not be the most glamorous tool in your skincare arsenal, did you know that sunscreen is the most crucial anti-aging treatment you can buy? Sun exposure, also known as photo-aging, is responsible for about 80-90% of visible indicators of aging, but the good news is that it is controllable.

You can protect your skin from dangerous UV rays that cause signs of aging and skin damage such as fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, elastin depletion, loss of flexibility, and rough texture by using sunscreen daily.

Zinc Oxide Sunscreen

Zinc oxide is a mineral sunblock that provides UVA and UVB protection. It reduces possible sun damage by sitting on the top of the skin and dispersing and reflecting UV rays.

Zinc oxide sunscreen is frequently promoted as a more natural alternative to sunscreens that contain chemicals. In fact, it is one of just two sunscreen chemicals considered safe and effective by the FDA, the other being titanium dioxide.

The nanoparticles in zinc oxide spf have prompted some concerns, including their ability to be absorbed into the skin. There is no evidence that nanoparticles of zinc oxide can penetrate the skin’s epidermis, according to a 2018 study reported in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. However, confusions create a fear for consumers leading to nuisance around whether to use sunscreens with zinc oxide or not.

Let’s follow up with the pros and cons of the zinc oxide sunscreens and decide for yourself whether you want to give it a try.

Pros of Zinc Oxide Sunscreen

1. Blocks UVA and UVB Rays Completely

It’s a frequent misperception that all sunscreen chemicals offer UVA and UVB protection. Because SPF values are based solely on UVB rays, your chemical sunscreen might not safeguard you from UVA rays, which play a significant role in premature skin aging.

Zinc oxide sunscreen can shield you from UVB as well as UVA radiation, lowering your risk of both sunburn and wrinkles. Simply put, it can help you avoid cancer and wrinkles.

2. Guaranteed Results

Unlike chemical sun protection products, you can put zinc oxide sunscreen on your skin and immediately go outside in the sun.

This is because zinc oxide sunscreen is a tactile blocker, which means it sits on top of the skin and provides an instant barrier that shields against UV radiation.

3. Safe for Sensitive Skin

One of the most significant advantages of utilizing zinc oxide sunscreen is that it is generally beneficial to persons with sensitive skin.

Indeed, zinc oxide is frequently used as a topical therapy for minor skin irritations. A zinc oxide sunscreen may be the most effective option for sun protection if you have eczema or other inflammatory skin disease.

Cons of Zinc Oxide Sunscreen

1. No White Cast

One of the most aggravating aspects of zinc oxide sunscreen is that it frequently leaves a white cast on the skin. Zinc oxide sunscreens are frequently visible, as opposed to chemical sunscreens, which blend into the skin and hence make excellent SPF moisturizers.

2. Not Environmental-Friendly

Concerns about man-made nanoparticles extend beyond the human skin’s epidermal barrier. There is some indication that the manufactured nanoparticles in zinc oxide sunscreen may affect the environment.

3. Not Always 100% Mineral-Based

Consumers should be informed that not all zinc oxide sunscreens are chemical-free. Some sunscreen manufacturers integrate sunscreen chemicals into their mineral-based lotions, such as avobenzone or octocrylene, which might cause misunderstanding. If you desire a chemical-free formula, carefully study the ingredients label.

Finally

As you can see, there are numerous reasons why wearing zinc oxide sunscreen might be advantageous.

However, if you find yourself skipping your zinc oxide sunscreen because of the bothersome white cast it leaves behind, it may be wiser to continue with a chemical sunscreen. Always consult your dermatologist while switching products in case your skin reacts to it.

Zinc Oxide Sunscreen FAQ’s-