The New Meaning of “Clean” in Mineral Sunscreen
Many “clean” or “natural” sunscreens are formulated with synthetic petrochemical boosters. Here’s what you need to know.
The New Meaning of “Clean” in Mineral Sunscreen
Many “clean” or “natural” sunscreens are formulated with synthetic petrochemical boosters. Here’s what you need to know.
Non-nano zinc is the gold standard in sun protection. Providing a natural, broad-spectrum defense, this reef-safe ultraviolet filter is recommended globally by dermatologists and other skin experts for its unquestionable protective benefits and soothing effect on sensitive and acne-prone skin.
But while most zinc-based sunscreens are positioned as "clean," a closer look at their ingredients often reveals a different story. Many formulas, claiming to be ”clean” or "natural", rely on synthetic petrochemical boosters; ingredients that are increasingly scrutinized for their potential endocrine-disrupting and bioaccumulative effects, and proven irritation on more sensitive skin. Beyond potential inflammation, long-term exposure to these fossil fuel-derived ingredients is scientifically linked to potentially serious, long-term health conditions.
What are synthetic petrochemical boosters?
Petrochemical dispersants blend a synthetic surfactant with a petroleum-based solvent in large industrial tanks, using the same chemical principles behind what is used to clean up oil spills. Formulated for intense cleaning, this chemical booster, when used in skin care, can strip the skin of its natural protective oils. Petroleum-derived solvents also commonly leave trace amounts of hydrocarbons within final ingredient forms, leading to irritation and, with long-term exposure, other issues, including chronic skin conditions.
So, why are petrochemical boosters used widely in the industry?
They are inexpensive, improve spreadability, and diminish white cast—but they are a shortcut, not a solution. This reliance on petrochemical ingredients compromises product integrity by introducing synthetic compounds not naturally compatible or adaptable to the skin, often exacerbating skin sensitivity or irritation. With roughly 80% of ingredients in conventional skin care derived from petrochemicals, the broader industry trend favors cost-efficiency and convenience over long term skin health.
Common petrochemical dispersants, silicones, or silicone solvents that brands lean on to enhance the application experience include:
- Butyloctyl Salicylate
A petrochemical booster that can penetrate skin, raising concerns about bioaccumulation and hormone disruption. - Ethylhexyl Methoxycrylene
A synthetic UV stabilizer linked to persistence in the environment and potential endocrine-disrupting effects. - Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate
A petrochemical-derived stabilizer with limited safety data, raising concerns about long-term exposure and skin sensitivity. - Isohexadecane / Isododecane
Petroleum-derived emollients that can leave hydrocarbon residues on skin and contribute to barrier disruption with prolonged use.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. Through innovation, we can set a higher standard in sun protection.
Every Tone SPF 30 is powered by non-nano zinc and a proprietary dispersion technology five years in the making: a completely non-petrochemical, non-silicone, non-synthetic innovation that enables the 17% non-nano, uncoated zinc to blend effortlessly into skin-without relying on questionable ingredients to do the heavy lifting. Each supporting ingredient of this groundbreaking SPF system has been carefully selected for its proven compatibility with sensitive skin, working in harmony with non-nano zinc.
The result? A revolutionary sunscreen that goes beyond "mineral" to offer uncompromising protection. Providing broad-spectrum protection against all UVA and UVB rays, shielding against premature aging, and preventing UV-induced stress—this sunscreen reinforces the skin barrier, improves skin’s elasticity, and ensures skin remains hydrated and radiant throughout the day.
Setting a higher standard for the industry, away from petrochemical reliance, the groundbreaking Every Tone SPF 30 was engineered with a clear commitment to efficacy, efficiency, and ingredient integrity—and will forever change the way you think about sunscreen.
FAQs
Why do many “clean” or “natural” sunscreens use petrochemical chemical boosters like silicones?
Mineral sunscreens are notoriously difficult to formulate, so many brands turn to petrochemical synthetic boosters to improve spread and diminish white cast—but this is a shortcut in place of innovation that can potentially compromise the integrity and health of your skin in favor of a fast but questionable solution.
How do petrochemicals affect internal health beyond our skin?
While skin care products are applied externally, petrochemical-derived microplastics and compounds have been shown to absorb into the bloodstream. Since 2009, over 500 cosmetic manufacturers have admitted to using petrochemicals in their products—with links to serious health concerns including cancer, hormone and endocrine disruption, reproductive harm, and birth defects.
What are the long-term effects of topical use of skin care products containing petrochemical boosters?
Beyond irritation and dryness, chemical surfactants of petrochemical origin bind to lipids and proteins on the epidermal layer of the skin. Prolonged use and high concentrations can disrupt the skin barrier by breaking down epidermal and intracellular lipids, the essential fats and proteins within the skin, compromising the structural integrity and protective functions of the skin’s outer layer.
Reading List: Petrochemical Synthetic Boosters
Introduction to Synthetic Chemicals in Skin Care Products
Fossil Fuel Derived Endocrine Disruptors
Chemical Surfactants in Skin Care Formulation