Natural Sunscreen and Zinc Oxide

More than 2 years. 

Hundreds of laboratory hours. 

Too many versions to count. 

A persistent (and perfectionist) cosmetic chemist. 

Ownership putting quality above all else. 

That was the process it took to make the new Absolutely Natural sunscreen. AN was the first 100% natural mineral sunscreen developed and introduced in 1992. The products worked great but had one drawback…they left a white residue on the skin. 

Our goal was to be able to have a 100% natural sunscreen, but make it go on the skin with a sheer finish. Our brilliant formulator, Claudia Lawson, undertook the challenge and succeeded! 

Our new formulations feature 100% natural mineral sunscreen and disperse on the skin resulting in high efficacy sun protection and beautiful, clear skin. Claudia did this using a special micro sized zinc in a dispersion.

Although zinc oxide has been ascribed as the best choice for modern sunscreens, it has a long history. 

The first time zinc was used in sunscreen was in 1926 when Franz Greiter combined the mineral with petroleum for his own personal use. In 2019, the FDA approved both Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide as GRASE (Generally Regarded as Safe and Effective). The popularity of the raw material has soared since then. 

Zinc oxide is known for its ability to provide a physical barrier against both UVA and UVB rays, making it a preferred choice for many, including those with sensitive skin.  

Key Points about Zinc Oxide in Sunscreens: 

Physical Barrier: 

Zinc oxide acts as a physical barrier on the skin's surface, reflecting and scattering UV rays before they can penetrate the skin.  

Broad Spectrum Protection: 

Zinc oxide effectively protects against both UVA and UVB radiation.  

Suitable for Sensitive Skin: 

Many consider zinc oxide to be gentle on the skin and less likely to cause irritation than chemical sunscreens.  

Water Resistance: 

Zinc oxide formulas are often favored for their water resistance, making them suitable for activities like swimming and surfing.  

Other companies have tried to deliver a sheer finish either using smaller amounts of mineral sunscreen and combine it with chemical sunscreens or utilizing nano zinc. 

There are potential problems with nano zinc. It can absorb through the skin and eventually enter the bloodstream. Even small amounts could lead to systemic effects including potential toxicity which can impact cell health. It can also generate free radicals which can lead to cell and DNA damage. 

There’s another problem that is environmental. Nano zinc oxide can harm coral reefs, particularly when it's exposed to sunlight. When exposed to UV light, nano zinc oxide can separate into toxic zinc ions and reactive oxygen species, causing coral bleaching and damaging hard corals.  

The prevalence of spray sunscreens has not been a good thing for humans or the environment. I know they are convenient, especially for young children, but the majority of formulas are using harsh, potentially toxic sunscreens. Inhalation of these products can cause irritation and even cell damage if inhaled deeply. This holds true for nanoparticle Zinc sprays as well.

But that’s the other guys. 

Absolutely Natural’s all natural zinc products in SPF 8, SPF 15, SPF 30, and SPF 50 in lotions as well as our SPF 50 stick have none of those concerns. Our particle size is considered safe for humans and our precious coral reefs. 

In fact, my concern for the bleaching of the reefs is one of the main reasons Absolutely Natural was developed. I started in 1991, (yes, before Google!) researching a safer sunscreen. Along with the help of some extraordinary chemists, we identified all natural ingredients to replace the harmful chemicals prevalent in 1990’s sunscreens.

When we debuted Absolutely Natural in 1992, we were the first reef safe sunscreen. It actually wasn’t much of a topic back then, but now some companies are taking it seriously. Welcome to the party … 30 years after AN! 

Unfortunately, because of the high price point of mineral sunscreens, most companies are still using chemical formulas. Absolutely Natural has been a big advocate for the bans in the Hawaiian Islands. All ,of the islands have banned oxybenzone, octanoate, avobenzone, and octocrylene while Maui has banned all chemical sunscreens.  You are not allowed to bring them on the island nor use them on the beaches.  That is progress. 

So, we have a beautiful sunscreen but additionally, we have gone the extra mile and made the base of the sunscreen a luxurious, ultra rehydrating, creamy lotion.  It is good for your skin while providing the ultimate protection. 

Our sunscreens really are game changers. They provide superior protection, are safe for the environment and are great for your skin. 

We are always evolving at Absolutely Natural. We are already working on a faces only product. As usual, it will have only the best raw materials and superior efficacy. 

Best regards, 

Charley