Q&A about SUN
Are you curious about the Karmameju SUN range in general?
Here, we have gathered our most frequently asked questions about suncare we get from you guys. Karmameju SUN is suncare that’s skincare - sustainably grown under the Southern sun.
What are the benefits of choosing mineral filters?
There are two categories of filters - the mineral, also called physical filters, and the chemical filters. Our holistic approach to natural skincare makes the mineral filters the obvious and only correct choice of sun filter in Karmameju SUN. Our sun filters consist of minerals that are naturally derived from the soil and based on titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Mineral sun filters lay, and remain, on top of the skin as a membrane that protects the skin by reflecting the UV rays away from the skin like a mirror. We prefer physical filters, as several years of research indicate that they are very photostable and less likely to irritate the skin.
How often do I have to apply sunscreen?
We recommend that you use the UV index and your healthy sun-sense when applying sunscreen to yourself and the kids. Some skin types are more sensitive to the sun and need high SPF and frequent application, while others can be in the sun for longer with a lower SPF without problems. It depends on the skin type, the UV index, and the activity you do in the sun.
If you need a more structured way to remember, you can use this 2-step method, which is based on several studies on sunscreen application:
1. Apply your first layer 15 to 20 minutes before sun exposure (however, mineral sunscreens work immediately once applied)
2. Apply your second coat within the first hour of sun exposure.
While this method will give you what should be a satisfactory amount of coverage, experts agree that the best method is to reapply regularly and generously every 1-2 hours in the sun or after contact with water or exercise.
What is the difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50 sunscreen?
The concentration of mineral sun filters is very high in SPF 50 products, and even though we have succeeded in creating SPF 15 and SPF 30 products that are transparent and easy to apply, it was not possible with SPF 50. The sunscreen left the skin with a white sunblock look and was difficult to apply.
The difference in SPF protection against UVB radiation is only a matter of a few percent. Sunscreen with SPF 15 blocks out 93 % of the UVB radiation, while SPF 30 blocks out 97 % of the UVB radiation, and SPF 50 protects against 98 % - only 1 % more than SPF 30.
Is your sunscreen waterproof?
Even though physical sun filters are known to be waterproof, we have chosen not to brand Karmameju SUN as being waterproof or water resistant, considering the consumers’ sun-habits.The Danish Environmental Protection Agency states that “no product can cope sweating, bathing and drying with a towel. It is a good idea to reapply sunscreen regularly if you want to be protected. There is currently no international standard for when to call a sunscreen waterproof, so it is the manufacturers' own judgment behind when this claim is applied."
We recommend that you take your skin type and behavior in the sun into consideration daily: If you are spending a lot of time in the water, are doing sports, or sweat heavily, you need to reapply sunscreen more often. We believe in using the well-known sun advice: UV swimwear, t-shirts, sun hat and siesta in the shadow between 12 and 3 pm.
Is the SUN range coral-friendly?
Karmameju SUN uses SPF filters, which are based on the naturally extracted mineral titanium dioxide, without nanoparticles. Titanium Dioxide is marketed in many suncare products and cosmetics as an all-natural mineral (which it is), that is 100% safe for coral reefs. However, we have chosen not to market the SUN series as coral-friendly because internationally there are different attitudes to what is considered safe/unsafe for coral reefs.
The sun filters that are NOT considered coral-friendly here in Denmark are, among other things, chemical sunscreens such as octinoxate and oxybenzone - Karmameju does not use any of these.
Does sunscreen clog pores and cause pimples?
The short answer is: No. But the combination of sunscreen and increased heat-related sweat production can make the skin more clogged than usual. Dead skin cells, dirt, bacteria and sweat from the day can turn into excess sebum production and pimples if the skin is not cleaned thoroughly every day - and preferably extra - after using sunscreen. Check in with your skin - maybe it's time to consider a lighter routine and skip an extra layer of cream in your summer routine than the rest of the year. For example, try using just serum and sunscreen with SPF, rather than serum, toner, cream and SPF.
Does the sunscreen rub off on clothes?
In some cases, sunscreen can stain our summer clothes, and it rarely comes off from a regular wash. That is why we have tried and tested our way to find a method that can combat these tricky stains. And - we succeeded! Read here to find out how to remove sun stains from your clothes.
Mineral sun filters are known to be difficult to apply. Why have you chosen to use them?
Sunscreens with mineral sun filters are known for being difficult to spread and for leaving the skin with a whitish cast.
It takes a few more minutes to apply mineral sunscreen compared to sunscreen with chemical or nanoparticle sun filters. However, the benefits of using mineral sun filters make it worth the extra minutes it takes to apply Karmameju SUN on the whole body.
There are many advantages to physical, mineral sun filters:
- Mineral sun filters are naturally derived sun protection
- Mineral sun filters work as soon as applied
- Mineral sun filters do not clog the pores
- Mineral sun filters are allergen-free
- Mineral sun filters are recommended for children
Tip: With well-moisturized skin, the minerals melt on the skin and leave it cared-for and protected - use, for example, the PRE- & AFTER SUN serum-lotion or the perfume-free INFINITY. Then warm the sunscreen between your hands before applying. We like to use the extra minutes to get the many benefits of mineral sunscreens (and remember, touching the skin releases happy hormones in the brain, so it's money well spent!)
Read more in the article How to easily apply the SUN series.
Can I use my sunscreen for more than one summer/ season, even after the expiration date?
Yes, you can. If you have stored your sunscreen according to the directions on the product, the product will stay fresh until the expiration date stated on the product packaging. Mineral sun filters do not get old, but the active, plant-based ingredients and natural fragrances can change in scent, colour, and effect if the sunscreen has not been properly closed or has been exposed to too much heat for longer periods. We recommend that you smell your sunscreen and if the scent is still good it can be used for another summer or the next vacation.
Do you have any other questions about SUN and general sun care? Then read our in-depth questions and answers here. You are also always welcome to write to us at info@karmameju.com.
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