Mineral Sunscreen vs Chemical Sunscreen: The Difference

Sunscreen is one of the most basic ingredients in a skin care routine. Whether you’re outdoors or indoors, you must apply a layer of sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. With technology, the sunscreen market as a whole has evolved a lot, leading to sunscreens for different skin types and with different levels of sun protection factor. But an ongoing debate on this side of the skin care world is mineral sunscreen vs chemical sunscreen.

Why are sunscreens important?

Sunscreen is important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, which can increase the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. “Both mineral and chemical sunscreens offer protection, but they work in different ways to protect the skin from UV rays,” explains cosmetologist and trichologist Dr Meera Adhikari.

What are mineral sunscreens?

Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, create a thin physical barrier on the surface of the skin that reflects UV rays away from the skin. “They contain active mineral ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide,” says Dr Adhikari. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, it’s best to use a mineral sunscreen if your skin is acne-prone.

Also Read: Best Gel Sunscreens for Oily Skin: 6 Top Picks for UV Protection

What are chemical sunscreens?

Chemical sunscreens are formulated with organic compounds that absorb UV rays before they penetrate the skin. “These compounds, such as oxybenzone or avobenzone, work by converting UV radiation into heat, which is released from the skin,” says Dr Adhikari. The American Academy of Dermatology likens chemical sunscreens to a sponge that absorbs the sun’s rays.

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Mineral Sunscreen vs Chemical Sunscreen: How Are the Two Different?

Mineral sunscreen

• Creates a physical barrier on the skin.
• Provides instant protection.
• A slight white cast may be left on the skin initially.
• It has been proven to reduce the risk of melanoma by up to 50% with daily use.

Chemical sunscreen:

• Absorbs into the skin and turns UV rays into heat.
• It takes about 20 minutes to become fully effective.
• Usually invisible after absorption.
• Daily use has been proven to reduce the risk of melanoma by up to 50 percent.

Also Read: Best Sunscreen For Combination Skin: 6 Top Picks For You!

What are the pros and cons of mineral sunscreen?

The advantages of mineral sunscreen are that it is safe for the skin and the environment, especially suitable for reactive skin, and is easy to formulate. “However, they can leave a white cast on the skin and some formulations have been shown to cause coral bleaching,” said Dr Adhikari.

What are the pros and cons of chemical sunscreen?

Chemical sunscreens are water- and sweat-resistant, have a lightweight formula, and are quick and easy to apply. “However, they irritate the skin, leave a white cast and can worsen conditions like melasma and rosacea,” says Dr Adhikari.

Mineral Sunscreen vs Chemical Sunscreen: Which is Safer and Why?

Mineral sunscreens are often considered safer for both the skin and the environment, Dr. Adhikari explained. “They provide broad-spectrum protection without the use of potentially harmful chemical ingredients, making them a preferred choice for many people,” she says.

Overall, mineral sunscreens are generally considered better than chemical sunscreens because of their safety profile and effectiveness in providing broad-spectrum protection. However, the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preferences and skin sensitivities.