Mineral Versus Chemical Sunscreen: What is the Difference?
By now, you are a pro when it comes to applying sunscreen daily. Regardless of age, gender, or nationality, daily SPF is a non-negotiable. Now that the obvious is out of the way, it’s time to talk about different types of sunscreens. Which sunscreen is best for your skin: mineral or chemical sunscreen?
What is Mineral Sunscreen?
Key Ingredients: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide
Mineral sunscreen uses ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to create a physical barrier to block harmful UV rays. Instead of being absorbed by the skin, mineral sunscreen stays on the skin’s surface and physically block sun's UV rays. This is why it’s called “sunblock.” Typically, mineral sunscreen leaves a white cast on the skin, since it does not get absorbed. A classic example of zinc oxide sunscreen in action is the image of lifeguards with the white zinc oxide on their nose.
The wildly popular brush-on powders are a great example of mineral sunscreen. We love these innovative mineral sunscreens because they don’t leave behind a white cast, and they are easily incorporated into your makeup routine. Many popular sunscreen brands like EltaMD, La Roche Posay, and MDSolarSciences also carry 100% mineral options.
What is Chemical Sunscreen?
Key Ingredients: oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, and octisalate
Chemical sunscreen accounts for 96% of sunscreens on the market in the United States. They use ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, and octisalate to chemically filter UV rays. According to Piedmont, “chemical sunscreen absorbs into the skin and then absorbs UV rays, converts the rays into heat, and releases them from the body.”
Chances are your daily go-to sunscreen from EltaMD or La Roche-Posay contains both mineral and chemical ingredients. For instance, the fan-favorite EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 contains both 9.0% zinc oxide (mineral) and 7.5% octinoxate (chemical). However, with that being said, both of these brands also have 100% mineral product offerings.
Is Mineral or Chemical Sunscreen Better?
The answer to this question is completely up to your personal preference. Chemical sunscreens have gotten a bad rap in recent years. There are growing concerns that chemicals enter your bloodstream and cause harm. Additional studies even suggest that if chemical sunscreens are worn into the ocean, they present harm to coral reefs. While a lot of research still needs to be done, this information is concerning.
It is best to consult with your health care provider to determine the best skincare routine. At the end of the day, it is important to develop the routine that works best for you. Thankfully, there are so many sun-safe solutions on the market. It’s easier than ever to find your best fit. Sun-protective apparel offers a great alternative to keep you sun safe, without posing additional potential health risks.