To us at OhSo Bare, our formulations are everything to us since that’s what makes us so unique. Being a non-toxic brand focusing on delivering 100% natural, organic and non-toxic products - the ingredients we use are meticulously chosen with a specific purpose in mind. That being said, unlike so many other brands on the market, we’re totally transparent about the products you’re putting on your skin. So today, we’re talking about everything you need to know about zinc oxide and why it deserves a place in our non-toxic ingredients lineup.
What Is Zinc Oxide?
If zinc oxide is anything, let's start off by simply putting it straight. Zinc oxide is the powerhouse SPF ingredient that’s safe, natural, and most of all - effective. However, if you didn’t know, when it comes to protecting your skin from the sun, not all suncream ingredients are the same. In fact, most ingredients that you see on your supermarket SPFs can actually be toxic, such as oxybenzone, homosalate and octocrylene amongst other things. Zinc oxide is a mineral suncream ingredient that sits on top of the skin’s surface and deflects UV rays. However, its toxic counterpart oxybenzone is a chemical suncream ingredient that absorbs UV rays - but it’s been linked to hormone disruption, allergic reactions, and environmental damage, especially coral reef bleaching.
But if you're someone who’s conscious about the products they use and reads the label before applying anything to your skin (especially on your face), you've likely come across the ingredient zinc oxide. But what exactly is it, and why is it OhSo Bare’s go-to for non-toxic sun protection?
Zinc oxide is a naturally occurring mineral that’s been used in all types of skincare for a long time, not just in our suncreams. It’s labelled across so many beauty products including items like baby powder, calamine lotion, and nappy creams. As aforementioned, in suncream, it works as a physical (or mineral) UV filter, sitting on the surface of your skin, not penetrating it and deflecting harmful UV rays. Unlike chemical sunscreen ingredients that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, zinc oxide doesn’t penetrate the skin. Meaning it’s naturally gentler, safer, and better suited for sensitive skin and younger children.
Why Do We Use Zinc Oxide At OhSo Bare?
As a non-toxic brand, we strive to only use the best ingredients in our organic formulations, and for us, zinc oxide fits the bill. For peace of mind too, OhSo Bare uses non-nano zinc oxide which means the particles are large enough to sit safely on the surface of your skin rather than being absorbed into the body. This ensures a natural, physical barrier against UV rays without compromising your health or the environment. But why else do we love zinc oxide?
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Zinc oxide is one of the few UV filters in the ingredient market that provides true broad-spectrum protection, shielding you and your little ones from both UVA (ageing) and UVB (burning) rays.
Non-Toxic and Reef-Safe
Many chemical sunscreens contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been linked to coral bleaching and hormone disruption. Zinc oxide, on the other hand, is reef-safe, biodegradable, and kind to both your body and the environment.
Perfect for Sensitive Skin
If you’re prone to irritation, breakouts, or other sensitive skin issues, zinc oxide will be your best friend in the sunshine. It’s non-comedogenic meaning it won’t clog your pores and it has anti-inflammatory benefits, making it ideal for acne-prone or rosacea-prone skin. Alongside our other nourishing and skin-loving ingredients such as organic, grass-fed beef tallow - our creams are also perfect for those with eczema.
It Starts Working Instantly
No waiting around! Because zinc oxide sits on the surface of the skin rather than being absorbed, it provides instant protection as soon as you apply it.
Is Zinc Oxide As Effective As Other UV Blockers?
Just because it’s non-toxic, doesn’t mean it’s not effective. So, to answer the question, yes - zinc oxide is very effective.. In fact, zinc oxide is considered one of the most effective sun filters available which is why we decided to make it part of our OhSo Bare formulations. And unlike other synthetic ingredients that only protect against a portion of the UV spectrum, zinc offers full-spectrum coverage in one single mineral.
Zinc Oxide Suncream White Cast
One of our most asked questions is about whitecasting, but we’re here to debunk that debate! Zinc oxide is known for sometimes leaving a chalky white tint on the skin, especially in traditional formulas. However, we’re a modern non-toxic suncream brand and we already took this into consideration. As well as using non-nano zinc oxide, we also use hydrating botanical infusions and cold-pressed oils to ensure our suncreams sink beautifully into the skin without a harsh white cast.
Nano vs. Non-Nano Zinc Oxide: What is the Difference?
Some suncreams use nano zinc oxide, meaning the particles are small enough to potentially be absorbed into the skin and bloodstream. At OhSo Bare, as you now already know, we choose non-nano zinc oxide because we believe in protection without compromise.
The Takeaway
So amongst many things, here’s the breakdown why zinc oxide deserved a spot on our ingredients list:
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100% mineral and natural
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Safe for sensitive skin, children, and pregnant women
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Reef-safe and eco-friendly
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Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection
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Non-toxic, non-irritating, and effective
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