Q&A about SUN

Do you know the benefits of choosing mineral filters? Do you know the difference between SPF 30 and 50? And does sunscreen cause breakouts?

Here, we’ve gathered the most frequently asked questions from our customers about sun care.

What are the benefits of choosing mineral filters?

There are three types of UV filters – mineral (also known as physical) filters, nano-particle filters and chemical filters.
Our holistic approach to natural skincare makes mineral filters the only choice for sun protection in Karmameju SUN. Our sun filter is made from minerals naturally sourced from the earth and based on Zinc oxide. Mineral sun filters sit on top of the skin and form a protective layer that reflects UV rays away from the skin like a mirror.
We prefer physical filters as several years of research show they are highly photostable and less likely to irritate the skin. Most importantly, they do not penetrate the skin.

Benefits of mineral sun filters:

- Naturally sourced sun protection

- Work immediately after application

- Do not leave yellow stains on clothing

- Noncomedogenic, do not clog pores

- Allergy-friendly

- Recommended for sun allergies

- Recommended for children

- Do not sting the eyes

Curious to learn more about the difference between UV filters? Read more here.

How often do I have to apply sunscreen? 

We recommend using 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 with 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? 

• It’s a question we are often asked – and one we take very seriously.
  We believe in leaving as little trace as possible. But even the most careful choices leave an impact. Whether we talk about physical, chemical or nano UV filters, all sun filters have the potential to affect nature – including marine life below the surface.

Research into UV filters and their impact on the marine environment is still evolving, and there is currently no globally recognised definition of what “coral-friendly” or “reef safe” actually means.

At Karmameju, we choose not to market the SUN series as coral-friendly. Not because we don’t care – but because this is a grey area where regulations vary from country to country and clear definitions are still lacking.

What we can say with certainty is this:
- Karmameju SUN exclusively uses Zinc oxide as a sun filter – a physical, mineral UV filter that is naturally sourced from the earth.
- We do not use chemical or nano sun filters.
- We actively avoid UV filters that are considered not safe for coral reefs in Denmark, including:
Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate (also known as octinoxate)
Benzophenone-3 (also known as oxybenzone)

It’s important to note that while some filters have been specifically identified as harmful to corals, this does not mean that all others are guaranteed to be safe. Many have not yet been tested for long-term effects on marine ecosystems.

At Karmameju, we always develop skincare with care – and we closely follow the latest research and regulations so we can continue to make the most responsible choices.

Read more about the differences of UV filters here.

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 in 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 filters are often known for being difficult to apply and for leaving a white cast on the skin. That’s not the case with KARMAMEJU SUN – the filter is transparent on the skin, feels lightweight and is easy to apply.

Tip: Antioxidants help boost your sun protection by neutralising the damage caused by free radicals from sun exposure – one of the main causes of premature skin ageing. For an extra protective boost, use our antioxidant-rich PRE & AFTER SUN serum-lotion or the fragrance-free INFINITY, which contains the same formula as PRE & AFTER.

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 closed properly 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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