Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen: Which Should You *Really* Be Using?

If there’s one important lesson that I wish everyone would listen to it’s to ALWAYS WEAR SUNSCREEN.

Whether you’re nearing your thirties or you’re over 60, I can honestly say that wearing sunscreen on a daily basis will make the biggest difference in the appearance and health of your skin. Plus, if you have skincare concerns like hyperpigmentation (i.e., sun spots) or fine lines, just know that both may have been prevented with proper SPF use.

If you’re ready to step up your skincare routine, and you’re wondering what the difference is between physical sunscreen and chemical sunscreen — and which you should be using on your face — this post breaks it all down for you.

The first thing you should know: not all sunscreen is created equal. I’ll admit that I didn’t even know this until a few years ago when I started routinely getting asked the same question on my sunscreen review Instagram posts: “Is this a chemical or physical sunscreen?”

Clearly, I had some research to do…. so, I’ll explain what I learned and break down the difference for you below.

Whether you’re heading on a beach vacation or you’re simply looking to add a sunscreen to your everyday makeup routine, this overview (plus sunscreen recs) has you covered — literally.

Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreens: What’s the Difference?

Basically, there are two main types of sunscreens: physical and chemical.

Physical Sunscreen: Think of physical sunscreen as a “blackout curtain” that provides total blockage from the sun’s harmful rays (both UVA and UVB). It sits on top of the skin and acts a barrier that reflects damaging UV rays away from the skin, almost like a mirror.

Chemical Sunscreen: Think of chemical sunscreen as a “tinted window” rather than a full-blown black-out curtain. Chemical sunscreen penetrates the skin’s surface to absorb the sun’s rays, preventing them from penetrating deeper into the skin where they cause damage. Multiple chemical ingredients are generally needed in a sunscreen to provide both UVA and UVB protection.

So how do you know which of the two sunscreens is better for you? Read on…

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The Best Sunscreens for the Face:

Colorescience Sunforgettable Brush-On Shield SPF: I have been a fan of this brush-on sunscreen for years now and highly recommend it for applying over makeup.

Summer Fridays ShadeDrops SPF: This top-rated sunscreen is a bit pricey, but worth it if you want something that feels silky and light on your skin.

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen: This clear sunscreen is super smooth and almost works as a primer that your makeup will cling to.

Supergoop! Glow Stick Sunscreen: If you’re looking for a dewy finish, this sunscreen stick will be your new fave.

Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen: Greasy sunscreens are the worst! This one will hydrate your skin without leaving you too shiny.

Dr. Dennis Gross Dark Spot Sunscreen: Highly recommended by dermatologists; lightweight, and a fantastic face sunscreen for any skin type.

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What is Physical Sunscreen?

The two main ingredients that you’ll find in physical sunblocks are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, both of which are mineral-based ingredients (which is why many people refer to physical sunscreens as “mineral sunscreens”).

Pros:

– As mentioned above, physical sunscreens offer broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) protection which starts working as soon as the sunscreen is applied.

– The ingredients are less likely to clog pores than chemical sunscreens ingredients.

­Cons:

– A key point to remember when using a physical sunscreen is that they require more frequent application since they are easily removed from the skin (by rubbing, sweating, swimming, etc.)

– Even though the two main ingredients are non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores), physical sunscreens are often thicker in texture and can leave a film on the skin which may cause problems for people with oily skin.

– They can feel occlusive and are difficult to wash off.

– Traditional zinc oxide formulations can leave a white cast on the skin, but thankfully, modern formulations contain micronized ingredients for a sheerer appearance.

WHO IS PHYSICAL SUNSCREEN BEST FOR?

• This type of sunscreen is generally well tolerated by sensitive and/or acne-prone skin
• The thicker formulas are generally very moisturizing, so they can be more appealing to people with dry skin
• Physical sunscreens are also appealing to those who want a natural sunscreen product
• They’re a good choice for women who are pregnant and breastfeeding, as well as for children

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The Best Physical Sunscreens:

Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Cream SPF 50: A great sunscreen for oily, dry, and combination skin.

SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50: A slightly tinted and water resistant; doesn’t leave a white cast.

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50: This sunscreen is ideal for mid-day application and it won’t mess up your makeup.

EltaMD UV Clear SPF: A great sunscreen for the face that’s perfect for anyone with normal to acne-prone skin.

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What is Chemical Sunscreen?

Many chemical sunscreen products include multiple active ingredients in order to provide broad-spectrum protection, as well as antioxidants (vitamins C and E) to combat the free radical damage that chemical sunscreens predispose the skin to.

Examples of ingredients found in chemical sunscreen include: avobenzone, oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate octocrylene and homosalate, all of which are carbon-based (organic) compounds that create a chemical reaction with the UV rays they absorb, converting the rays into heat which is then released from the skin.

Pros:

– Chemical sunscreens are typically thinner and silkier, which makes them more convenient for everyday use, so they are often found in a variety of makeup and skincare products (think about your tinted moisturizers that contain SPF… these are typically chemical sunscreens).

– They also require less product for adequate protection and less frequent application.

Cons:

– Even though the lightweight texture is an advantage, chemical sunscreen ingredients have the tendency to clog pores, so they can be an issue for people with acne-prone skin.

– Also, since chemical sunscreen products typically contain multiple ingredients, the risk for irritation is higher in people with sensitive skin.

– Another important point is that chemical sunscreens should be avoided in pregnant women since they absorb into the skin (and have the potential to enter the bloodstream).

– Compared to the immediate protection provided by physical sunscreens, chemical sunscreens take about 20 minutes to effectively penetrate into the skin, so they should be applied prior to leaving the house.

WHO IS CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN BEST FOR?

• Chemical sunscreens can be used by people with normal skin
• They are especially great for those with oily skin
• Anyone with acne-prone skin should be careful with chemical sunscreen, since these can clog pores.
• One of the main reasons why I used to avoid wearing sunscreen is because I hated how most felt on my oily skin.

In recent years, I have discovered several chemical sunscreens that I actually enjoy applying because of their lightweight and silky consistency. Some even double as makeup primers.

I’ll include some of my favorites below. Note that many chemical sunscreens are also formulated with physical sunscreen ingredients!

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The Best Chemical Sunscreens:

SUPERGOOP! Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40: a great option to wear under makeup, since it dries instantly

Clinique Broad Spectrum SPF 50: made without parabens, this sweat-resistant, oil-free, non-acnegenic sunscreen is perfect for those with sensitive skin

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60: lightweight and doesn’t feel sticky when applied

Kiehl’s Super Fluid Daily UV Defense SPF 50: another lightweight, fast-absorbing sunscreen that delivers a matte finish

Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench SPF 45: this water-resistant option is ideal for swimming

Do you have a favorite sunscreen that’s not listed here? Leave it in the comments below!

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