Why do Ingredients in Sunscreen Matter?
Sunscreen is a must-have for protecting our skin from the sun, but have you ever looked at the ingredients list on the back of the tube? It can feel like reading a science textbook! However, understanding what’s inside your sunscreen is just as important as using it. Some ingredients protect your skin safely, while others can be harmful over time.
So, let’s break it down — what’s good, what’s bad, and how to choose the best sunscreen for your skin!
Safe Ingredients
These ingredients protect your skin without causing harm and are great for daily use.
Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide – The Skin Protectors
These are natural mineral (inorganic) UV filters that act like tiny mirrors, sitting on top of your skin and reflecting the sun’s rays.
They are derived from minerals found in nature and processed for safe use in skincare.
These two ingredients are gentle, non-irritating, non-comedogenic, and safe for all skin types — including sensitive, acne-prone, and rosacea-prone skin.
They are commonly used in mineral (aka physical) sunscreens, baby sunscreens, and tinted SPF products.
Antioxidants (Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Green Tea, etc.) – The Skin Defenders
These ingredients help repair and protect your skin from sun-induced oxidative stress.
They fight free radicals (unstable molecules caused by UV exposure and pollution that accelerate aging).
Think of them as a team of superheroes protecting your skin from environmental damage, dullness, and premature aging.
Commonly used in anti-aging sunscreens and daily wear formulas for city exposure.
Be careful with Vitamin C, though — it can be unstable in sunlight and may oxidize.
Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe Vera & Glycerin – The Hydrators
These are humectants and soothing agents that attract water to the skin and prevent dryness.
They make SPF more comfortable to wear, especially under makeup or in dry climates.
These sunscreens feel like a tall glass of water for your skin — leaving it plump, smooth, and calm.
Found in hydrating sunscreens, SPF serums, and Tinted SPF.
Hydration also helps support the skin barrier.
Harmful or Questionable Ingredients
Some ingredients offer sun protection but may pose health, skin, or environmental concerns.
Oxybenzone & Octinoxate – The Controversial Absorbers
These are chemical UV filters that absorb UV radiation and convert it to heat.
They have been detected in blood and urine samples, raising concerns about systemic absorption — though definitive harm is still debated.
Why they’re controversial:
Potential hormonal disruption (endocrine interference).
Linked to allergic reactions and photo-sensitivity in some people.
Environmental hazard: Can damage coral reefs, which is why they’re banned in places like Hawaii and Thailand.
Found in: Many older-generation chemical sunscreens
Avobenzone – The UV-A Filter with Stability Issues
A chemical filter that absorbs UVA rays but is photounstable, meaning it degrades when exposed to sunlight.
Think of it as: A fragile umbrella that needs reinforcements.
Found in: Many non-mineral (chemical) broad-spectrum sunscreens.
Essential Oils -
Can cause irritation, sensitization, or phototoxic reactions when exposed to sunlight.
Best avoided in facial sunscreens, especially for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
What Looks Like the Best Choice?
A sunscreen that protects and cares for your skin? Yes, please. Mokah’s formula brings together the best of both worlds with Zinc oxide and Titanium dioxide to guard your skin from the sun, other BASF approved filters and Hyaluronic acid, Aloe vera and Glycerin to keep skin hydrated and leave no white cast, and Vitamin E and Ginseng extract to fight off damage from pollution and UV exposure. It’s a multitasking hero that works hard without feeling heavy or greasy.
Mòkah’s Take:
We made this sunscreen to do more than just block UVA, UVB rays, it also products from the blue light from digital devices. With ingredients that protect, hydrate, and defend, it feels like smart skincare, because it is. It’s light, easy to apply, and keeps your skin glowing all day.
