A mother smiles as her children watch an activity out of the view of the camera.

WHY CHOOSE MINERAL
SUNSCREEN?

Not sure what all the hype is about?
We’ll break it down for you.

Getting to know mineral sunscreen

When you don’t understand all the ingredients, choosing a sunscreen may seem daunting. But it doesn’t have to be! This handy guide is intended to shed a little light on mineral sunscreens to make your decision a little easier.

MINERAL VS. ORGANIC SUNSCREEN

Let’s start with the basics. There are two types of sunscreens: mineral sunscreen and organic sunscreen (also referred to as regular or chemical sunscreen). The main difference between the two is that mineral sunscreen uses physical UV (ultra-violet) filters, while organic sunscreen uses organic UV filters.

Mineral UV filters made of zinc oxide reflect and scatter UV rays. Organic UV filters made of carbon compounds absorb UV rays. Both help protect against the sun's damaging rays.

HOW DO UV FILTERS WORK?

UV filters are the active ingredients in sunscreen that protect you from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. Mineral and organic UV filters do this in two different ways:

Mineral UV filters are primarily made up of zinc oxide, which reflects and scatters the sun’s harmful rays. While organic UV filters are made up of carbon-containing compounds, which absorb UV light and convert it into trace amounts of heat.

Neither UV filters are absorbed by the skin, and both are safe and effective against both UVA and UVB rays.

8 REASONS TO TRY MINERAL SUNSCREEN

Once you understand that both organic and mineral sunscreens provide equal broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) protection, you can explore the benefits of our mineral sunscreens:

1. GENTLE ON SKIN

One of the main reasons zinc oxide sunscreens are so popular is because they go on gentle without irritating sensitive skin.

2. IDEAL FOR BABIES 6 mo +

Our Mineral Sunscreen* Lotion Pure & Simple Baby is made specifically to shield baby-sensitive skin, so they can enjoy a little fun in the sun too.

3. GREAT FOR KIDS

Let your kids run wild with the peace of mind that their skin is protected with our Mineral Sunscreen* Pure & Simple Kids.

4. HYPOALLERGENIC

With no oxybenzone, PABA, parabens, phthalates, alcohol, dyes or fragrances.

5. MOISTURIZING FORMULA

Our Mineral Sunscreen* Lotion Pure & Simple is a fragrance-free formula that moisturizes for 24 hours while it protects your skin from sunburns.

6. MADE FOR FACES

Our Mineral Sunscreen* Lotion Pure & Simple Face is designed to moisturize, helps to prevent signs of aging, and protect faces without clogging pores.

7. WATER RESISTANT

Make a splash without worrying about reapplying. Our mineral sunscreen* is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

8. NEW! SPRAY ON

Be among the first to enjoy the convenience of our new Mineral Sunscreen* Pure & Simple Sprays. They go on quick and easy – just spray!

It’s important to note that regular sunscreens can share many of the characteristics of mineral sunscreen above. The main distinction is that mineral sunscreens are gentler on delicate skin.

MINERAL SUNSCREEN’S KEY INGREDIENT

As we’ve mentioned, the main active ingredient in mineral-based sunscreen is zinc oxide. What you may not know is that it’s a naturally sourced mineral that plays a crucial role in your body’s natural processes, including nutrition, the strength of your immune system and your skin’s ability to heal.

Mineral sunscreens are also often referred to as “physical” sunscreens because the zinc oxide sits on top of the skin and physically blocks and reflects the sun’s rays. Coppertone’s selection of Pure & Simple Mineral Sunscreen* Lotions (adult, kids, baby, face, sport, spray) offers a protection from zinc oxide as the active ingredient.

WHICH UV FILTERS DOES COPPERTONE USE?

While many Coppertone sunscreens use a combination of organic and mineral UV filters to defend against the sun’s rays, zinc oxide filters can also be used on their own.

For example, Coppertone Mineral Sunscreen* Pure & Simple offers full broad-spectrum coverage using only zinc oxide filters. Or, if you’re planning to work up a sweat, Coppertone Sport Mineral Sunscreen* is another great option, perfect for outdoor activities.

In the end, it comes down to your preferences and personal needs. We hope you learned a little something about mineral sunscreens. If you or your kids have sensitive skin, you might want to give them a try. Now get out there and enjoy the sunshine!

* Protection from zinc oxide as the active ingredient. Use as directed.