Skip to Content

Effective Sun Protection

Who doesn't love the sun? Summer days seem endless, we dine outdoors, and we all enjoy the warmth, light, and vitamin D. The sun is beautiful but can also cause damage. Applying effective UV protection almost daily is therefore very important.

UVA and UVB: What Do These Sun Rays Really Do?

The sun emits two types of ultraviolet rays: UVA and UVB. UVB burns the outer layers of the skin and stimulates pigment production, causing us to tan (remember 'B' for burning and browning). UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and break down collagen and elastin, leading to premature aging. Both types of rays increase the risk of skin cancer.

Clouds and Windows: Not Reliable UV Blockers

Did you know that harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can damage your DNA even through clouds and windows? UVB rays can reflect off surfaces like sand, water, and walls, while UVA rays penetrate through clouds and windows. Up to 80% of UV radiation can pass through clouds, even when we're in the shade. That's why it's important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.

Blue Light

Blue light, with wavelengths between 380 and 500 nanometers, comes from the sun and devices like smartphones and LED lighting. It can be harmful to the skin by:

  • Causing oxidative stress and damaging skin cells.
  • Promoting hyperpigmentation and causing dark spots.
  • Breaking down collagen, leading to wrinkles and loss of firmness.
  • Triggering inflammatory responses, resulting in redness and irritation.

Protection such as sunscreen and limited screen time is therefore important.

How Often Should I Apply Sunscreen?

Probably more often than you think. Sunscreen should be reapplied every few hours (+/- 2 to 3 hours). Reapply immediately after swimming, heavy sweating, or towel drying, even if the sunscreen is water resistant. For your face and neck, about 2 finger lengths (half a teaspoon) per area are needed, and for your body, about 25 ml (a filled shot glass).

What Is Important When Choosing a Sunscreen?

When choosing a sunscreen, there are several factors to consider to ensure your skin is well protected:

​1. Broad-Spectrum Protection

​Ensure the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to aging and skin cancer, while UVB rays are responsible for sunburn.

​2. SPF (Sun Protection Factor)

​Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays. For people with fair skin or during prolonged sun exposure, a higher SPF may be desirable.

​3. Water Resistance

​If you plan to swim or engage in intense physical activity, choose a water-resistant sunscreen. Check for the 'water resistant' designation and the duration of protection (40 or 80 minutes).

​4. Skin Type

    • Sensitive Skin: Choose a fragrance-free and alcohol-free sunscreen, and look for mineral UV filters like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
    • Oily or Acne-Prone Skin: Use an oil-free or non-comedogenic sunscreen to prevent clogged pores.
    • Dry Skin: Choose a moisturizing sunscreen with extra hydrating ingredients.

​5. Ingredients

    • Mineral Filters: Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide physical protection and are suitable for sensitive skin types.
    • Chemical Filters: Ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, and octocrylene absorb UV rays. Be mindful of any allergies or sensitivities.

​6. Specific Features

    • For Children: Use a sunscreen specially formulated for kids, which is often gentler on the skin.
    • Anti-Aging: Some sunscreens contain antioxidants and other anti-aging ingredients..

Considering these factors will help you choose a sunscreen that is effective and meets your specific skin needs.

Mineral or Chemical Sunscreen?

Mineral and chemical sunscreens both provide sun protection but have different benefits and properties. Here are some advantages of mineral sunscreens over chemical sunscreens:

  • Mineral sunscreens work immediately upon application because they form a physical barrier on the skin that reflects UV rays.
  • Mineral sunscreens, typically containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are less irritating and therefore better suited for sensitive skin or skin conditions like rosacea and eczema..
  • Because mineral sunscreens do not contain chemical filters, the risk of allergic reactions and skin irritation is lower..
  • Chemical UV filters such as oxybenzone and octinoxate are harmful to coral reefs and marine ecosystems. Mineral sunscreens are often reef-safe and have less impact on the environment.
  • Mineral filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide naturally provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays..
  • ​Some chemical filters may have hormone-disrupting effects. Mineral UV filters do not have this property, making them a safer option for long-term use.



TINGE MINERAL SUN CREAM

As pharmacists at Tinge, we have developed a mineral sunscreen with SPF30 and SPF50+ for safe, broad-spectrum protection against harmful UV rays and blue light, allowing you to enjoy the sun worry-free. Tinge mineral sun cream SPF30 blocks 97% and Tinge mineral sun cream SPF50+ blocks 98% (no sunscreen blocks 100%). 

We deliberately chose a non-nano mineral sunscreen due to increasing concerns about chemical filters and their toxic impact on the environment. Mineral filters, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, sit on your skin and reflect UV rays. Tinge opts for non-nano particles, which remain on the skin's surface, minimizing potential health risks and environmental damage. They provide effective protection against both UVA and UVB rays without being absorbed into your skin. This reduces the risk of allergic reactions and skin irritation and is safer for the environment as it does not disrupt coral reefs. 

Oxybenzone (chemical filter) was found in the urine of 97 percent of the 2,500 people tested by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2008. Further studies have also detected this chemical in breast milk. In contrast, non-nano zinc oxide, considered safe by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration), never enters the bloodstream.

What Makes Our Mineral Sunscreens Unique?

  • Protection against UVA, UVB, and blue light! 
  • Water-resistant
  • Suitable for babies, children, and adults
  • 100% mineral filters and 96.3% natural ingredients
  • Pleasant scent (hypoallergenic)
  • Dermatologically tested and approved
  • Without parabens, mineral oils, or silicones
  • Ocean- and coral reef-safe
  • Contains Astaxanthin (super antioxidant)
  • Hydrates with the addition of aloe vera
  • Vegan

IMPORTANT! We have conducted extensive SPF tests in vivo, and these can always be requested. With Tinge mineral sun cream, you can be sure of effective sun protection.​


 SHOP THE TINGE MINERALE ZONNECRÈMES