Nowadays, we are increasingly aware of the impact of our consumption habits, both on our health and on the planet. Therefore, if you have considered using a biodegradable sunscreen, you are on the right track! The sun can be very aggressive on the skin, and protecting it properly is essential at any time of the year.
However, not all sunscreens are the same. Some are more or less skin-friendly or environmentally friendly. This is where the composition of sunscreens with sun filters comes into play.
Throughout this article, we will discuss the presence of aluminum in physical sun filters and the convenience of using an alternative to this toxic agent.
What type of sun filter is best?
Although it is often unknown, there are actually many different types of sunscreens. The most respectful of the environment and our skin are those that contain a physical sun filter, i.e., biodegradable sunscreens
This is characterized by being composed of mineral substances and by acting very effectively: they reflect sunlight, preventing harmful radiation and UV and UVA rays from reaching the dermis. These filters are not absorbed; they simply act by reflecting UV rays.
On the other hand, we have chemical filters, present in conventional sunscreens (found in many supermarkets and even pharmacies). Their biggest drawback is that they contain endocrine disruptors and nanoparticles that can alter our organism.
Some of the most common ingredients in the formulation of these sunscreens are usually: Methyl-benzylidene camphor (4-MBC), benzophenone-3 (Bp-3), oxybenzone, octyl-dimethyl-PABA (OD-PABA), diethyl phthalate homosalate (HMS), octyl-methoxycinnamate (OMC). This is what you will usually find in the ingredient list, known as INCI.
Therefore, what is the best option if we want to protect our skin and be respectful of the flora and fauna around us? At Maminat, we firmly believe in using a biodegradable sunscreen, and here's why:
- They are highly effective: They effectively protect against solar radiation, preventing the skin from suffering damage from sun exposure, no matter how strong the sun is.
- They are very gentle on sensitive skin: This is why they are recommended for children under three years old, people with scars, with intolerances, or who, in general, want to avoid any kind of skin irritation. In fact, pregnant women and babies are prohibited from using chemical sun filters, which should make us think that they are not beneficial for our bodies.
Why choose Maminat's physical filter sunscreen?
Maminat's sunscreen uses natural mineral sun protection filters, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, to create a protective barrier. Since it is made with minerals and does not contain nanoparticles, neither titanium dioxide nor zinc oxide are harmful to our skin or the environment.
It is very important for you to know that we use them without nanoparticles, so we are talking about two components that are very beneficial for your body.
In addition, Maminat SPF 50 sunscreen is ideal if you are looking for high-quality protection for all family members, from the youngest to the oldest.
You should know that, unlike many nanoparticle-free sunscreens, Maminat's sunscreen will not leave your skin white, as we have worked with various vegetable and mineral pigments to avoid this effect. That's why in our INCI you will find the word MICA, which gives a slight tone to the skin.
What is the difference between aluminum and alumina?
If you have looked at the composition of our sunscreen, you have probably noticed an ingredient called "alumina." At Maminat, we want to make it clear that "aluminum" and "alumina" are not the same.
Many physical sunscreens include aluminum among their main ingredients. It is a metallic chemical element that, in some cases, exhibits certain levels of toxicity.
Furthermore, aluminum production requires a lot of electrical energy, which increases the carbon footprint of products containing it as an ingredient. Similarly, it is not a biodegradable element, as it causes damage to nature, especially in aquatic environments and forests.
However, in the case of Maminat's physical filter sunscreen, we replace aluminum with alumina, a type of crude aluminum that, being naturally present on the planet, does not require as much energy for its production as aluminum.
Alumina is aluminum hydroxide and is a natural and safe component for cosmetic use. It is added to the sunscreen along with titanium dioxide (sun filter) because it prevents titanium dioxide from clumping and ensures it disperses evenly when the product is applied.
Additionally, alumina is completely skin-friendly and not harmful to the environment. In short, it is a much more recommendable option when the goal is to buy filters belonging to natural cosmetics.
