When choosing sunscreen, it's not just about SPF – but about what kind of filter provides the protection.

Most sunscreens you find in regular stores contain what are called chemical filters.
At Lev Logisk, we have chosen sunscreens with mineral filters – also known as physical factors.

Mineral sunscreen and physical sunscreen mean the same thing:
The protection comes from a mineral filter (most often zinc oxide) that sits on top of the skin and reflects UV rays.

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Two types of sun protection

1️⃣ Chemical sunscreen (common in stores)

Chemical sunscreen contains synthetic UV filters that:

• absorb UV rays and neutralize them in the skin

• are absorbed into the skin

• must be applied 15–20 minutes before going outside

These filters are approved in the EU¹. However, some of them are discussed because they:

• can be absorbed through the skin²

• have been detected in blood and urine after use²

• in some laboratory and animal studies have shown possible hormonal activity³

Chemical filters must be reapplied regularly, partly because the protection is reduced over time in sunlight (photodegradation).

Examples of such filters are:
Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3), Octinoxate, Octocrylene and Homosalate.

For many, the choice is not about chemical sunscreen being “dangerous”, but about the desire to avoid controversial ingredients.

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2️⃣ Mineral sunscreen (physical factor)

Mineral sunscreen – or sunscreen with a physical factor – usually contains:

• Zinc Oxide (non-nano)

Instead of being absorbed into the skin, the mineral filter sits on top of the skin and:

• absorbs, scatters and reflects UV rays

• works immediately

• has very limited skin penetration (especially non-nano)

This is why many experience mineral sunscreen as a more predictable and minimalist choice.

The typical ingredient list is shorter and can also contain:

• plant oils

• beeswax

• natural antioxidants

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Why we have chosen mineral (physical) sunscreen

At Lev Logisk, we prioritize:

• short ingredient lists

• minimal skin absorption

• no controversial chemical UV filters

• clear documentation

Therefore, we have chosen sunscreens with a mineral filter / physical factor.

Not because everything else is necessarily dangerous –
but because this is the most transparent and minimalist option.

Mineral (physical) sunscreens at Lev Logisk

All the sunscreens we carry are selected according to the same criteria:

• Mineral filter (physical factor)

• Non-nano zinc oxide

• No controversial chemical UV filters

• Clear and reviewed ingredient lists

The difference between the brands is therefore not the type of filter – but consistency, skin type, certification and use.

If you want to see all the variants we have selected according to these criteria, you can find the full selection of mineral sunscreen here.

🌿 Wooden Spoon

Wooden Spoon makes certified organic sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide.

Features:

• High proportion of organic plant oils

• SPF 30 and SPF 50

• Suitable for sensitive skin

• Without synthetic fragrance

This is a good choice for those who want a thoroughly organic formulation with high protection.

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🌿 Ærlig by Walle

Ærlig by Walle focuses on short and understandable ingredient lists.

Features:

• Mineral sunscreen with physical filter

• Developed with everyday safe use in mind

• Mild formulation

• Contains tallow that provides good and natural moisture to the skin

Suitable for those who want a Norwegian alternative with few ingredients.

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🌿 Symre

Symre combines a mineral UV filter with plant-based ingredients.

Features:

• Zinc oxide (non-nano)

• Skin-friendly oils

• Suitable for sensitive skin

• For those who like to spray on the sunscreen.

A nice alternative for daily use, especially for those who want a mild and natural formulation.

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🌿 Badger

Badger is known for its robust, organic sunscreens with mineral filters.

Features:

• Non-nano zinc oxide

• Organic ingredients

• Water-resistant variants

A good choice for the beach, mountains and active use – where you need extra durability.

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🌿 Biosolis

Biosolis offers certified organic mineral sun protection.

Features:

• Mineral UV filter

• COSMOS certified

• Without synthetic fragrance

For those who want documented organic sunscreen with a physical factor.

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Which one should you choose?

Which mineral sunscreen is best for you depends on:

• Skin type, oily or dry

• Scent preferences
  

• Consistency preference

What they all have in common is that they provide mineral (physical) sun protection without controversial chemical UV filters.

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Sources

1. EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 – Regulation of approved UV filters in cosmetics in the EU.

2. Matta MK et al. (2020). Effect of Sunscreen Application on Plasma Concentration of Sunscreen Active Ingredients. JAMA. (FDA study showing systemic absorption of certain chemical filters.)

3. Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS), European Commission – Opinions on Benzophenone-3, Homosalate, etc. (assessments of possible endocrine activity and safety margins).