When good weather arrives, we all start to think of sun protection. But … do you really know what type of filters contains your photoprotector? Is it mineral or synthetic? And how can you know when reading the label?
Today, we clearly explain how to distinguish mineral (physical) solar from a synthetic (chemical), what are its main differences and what regulations say. In the end, we tell you how we do it to Hērbera with our Soleá SPF 30 sunscreen.
What is a mineral solar filter?
A mineral filter, also called physics, acts as a reflective shield on the skin. Its functioning is purely mechanical: it reflects and disperses the rays of the sun and the UVB. The only two ingredients authorized in the European Union as mineral filters are:
- Zinc oxide (zinc oxide)
- Titanium dioxide (titanium dioxide)
Both They are only allowed in cosmetics if they are not in the form of nanoparticles.
And what is a synthetic solar filter?
Synthetic filters (also called organic or chemical) work differently: they absorb UV radiation and transform it into heat, by dissipating it. Some of the most common are:
- Octocrylene
- Ethylhexyl methoxynnamate (also called octtinoxate)
- Avobenzone
- Homalal
- Oxybenzone
These ingredients are the result of a chemical synthesis and, although effective, Some of them have been prohibited On some beaches For its potential environmental impact (for example, in coral reefs) or for possible effects on hormonal health If it is absorbed by significant quantities.
European regulation: What does the regulation say?
In the European Union, all solar filters must be collected in Annex VI of Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 on cosmetic products. In addition, they should be used in authorized concentrations and have security studies that support their use.
For a product to carry a SPF in its labeling, it is recommended to have been tested as a result of the colipaleic methodology (now Cosmetics Europe), in particular through in vivo tests, which evaluate the efficiency of the photoprotector on human skin.
How do you know what type of filter your sunscreen?
Very simple: look at the list of ingredients (INCI). Here you have a little guide:
If you see this in zinc oxide, titanium dioxide. It's a mineral filter.
If you see: octocrylene, avobenzone, ethylhexyl methodoxynnamate, it would be a synthetic, chemical or organic filter.
In addition, if the product is ecological certified (Cosmos, Ecocert …), almost security will only use non -nano mineral filters, because these stamps do not allow conventional chemical filters.
What type of filter uses Herber in Soleá SPF 30?
- In Herbera, we formulate Soleá SPF 30 with non-Nano zinc oxide and no nano titanium dioxide, both safe, effective and authorized mineral filters for certified natural cosmetics.
- Largely protects UVA and UVB rays
- Adapted to sensitive skin and daily use
- It is tested in vivo with a collilipte methodology to ensure that the SPF indicated in the container is real and demonstrable.
- It is respectful of your skin and the environment: without nanoparticles, without silicones, without endocrine disruptors or synthetic perfumes.
You can find out more about Soleá in this full article in our blog
In summary
Not all lots are the same. If you want to choose with the criteria, take a look at the INCI and look for formulas that prioritize your health, efficiency and sustainability have demonstrated.
Your skin deserves a protector who does everything: take care, protect and respect.
