Whether you're sunbathing outdoors or relaxing in the comfort of a room with glass windows (yes, UV rays pass through glass windows too), sunscreen should always be an important part of our skincare regimen.
This is an undeniably important factor in the long-term prevention of unnecessary sunburn, sunburn, photoaging and even skin cancer.
However, choosing the right sunscreen can be overwhelming because there are two main types of sunscreen: physical and chemical.
Below, we'll take a look at the differences between the two types of sunscreen, and why you might want to switch to a chemical sunscreen if you want to use one every day (and you should!).
What is the difference between physical sunscreen and chemical sunscreen? The main difference between these two camps is how they stop UV rays from penetrating and damaging your skin.
Physical sunscreens form a protective barrier on the surface of the skin, reflecting and scattering UV rays like a shield. It contains mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide
which is why they are sometimes called mineral sunscreens. These ingredients physically block and deflect UV radiation, effectively preventing it from penetrating the skin.
Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, absorb UV rays and convert them into heat energy, thereby neutralizing their harmful effects.
which is why they are sometimes called mineral sunscreens. These ingredients physically block and deflect UV radiation, effectively preventing it from penetrating the skin.
Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, absorb UV rays and convert them into heat energy, thereby neutralizing their harmful effects.
Chemical filters such as avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone are often used in these sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens tend to be lighter in texture and blend into the skin more seamlessly.
Both types of sunscreen are equally effective at protecting you from the sun. However, chemical sunscreens are becoming the first choice of many dermatologists for their convenience, practicality, and appearance and effect on the skin.
Chemical sunscreens are better for skin. Chemical sunscreens are generally lightweight and ideal for daily use.
If you wear makeup, chemical sunscreen is also an excellent primer to help your makeup blend in. We like to use Daily Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF50+ as our base.
With its lightweight, hydrating formula containing hyaluronic acid, makeup glides on effortlessly for a seamless second-skin look. If you like rose tones to brighten your look, choose our Tinted Glow Primer SPF30 Sunscreen.
Melatonin friendly, no white spots. One of the most annoying limitations of physical sunscreens is the white, filmy layer they leave on the skin.
This white tint is especially noticeable on melatonin-rich skin tones, so it's not suitable for those with darker skin tones. Chemical sunscreens have no such problem
Everyday Hydrating Sunscreen SPF50+ blends easily and disappears into skin without any visible residue or greasiness.
Less re-application and longer wear time. Since chemical sunscreens are absorbed into the skin, they are a better choice when wearing time is a consideration or if you plan to engage in physical activity that causes sweating or getting wet.
Physical sunscreen wears off faster. So, switch to chemical alternatives to reduce the number of reapplies throughout the day.
If you're going swimming, skip the physical sunscreen altogether and use a chemical sunscreen with a high level of protection against UVA rays (note...daily moisturizing sunscreen with PA++++, the highest UVA protection available) .
Antioxidant protection from free radicals. Since chemical sunscreens are often formulated with skin care in mind, most formulas contain other ingredients that are beneficial to the skin.
Our daily moisturizing sunscreen SP50+ not only blocks UV rays but also contains antioxidants from vitamin E and vitamin C-rich Kakadu plum to protect skin from free radicals causing wrinkles and pigmentation.
When is it better to use physical sunscreen? Although chemical sunscreen has so many benefits, it's important to note that it may not be a one-size-fits-all solution. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, use a physical sunscreen.
The goal for your skin is to avoid unnecessary ingredients, which can irritate the skin - and since chemical sunscreens are absorbed into the skin, this can be bad for your complexion.
Both types of sunscreen are equally effective at protecting you from the sun. However, chemical sunscreens are becoming the first choice of many dermatologists for their convenience, practicality, and appearance and effect on the skin.
Chemical sunscreens are better for skin. Chemical sunscreens are generally lightweight and ideal for daily use.
If you wear makeup, chemical sunscreen is also an excellent primer to help your makeup blend in. We like to use Daily Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF50+ as our base.
With its lightweight, hydrating formula containing hyaluronic acid, makeup glides on effortlessly for a seamless second-skin look. If you like rose tones to brighten your look, choose our Tinted Glow Primer SPF30 Sunscreen.
Melatonin friendly, no white spots. One of the most annoying limitations of physical sunscreens is the white, filmy layer they leave on the skin.
This white tint is especially noticeable on melatonin-rich skin tones, so it's not suitable for those with darker skin tones. Chemical sunscreens have no such problem
Everyday Hydrating Sunscreen SPF50+ blends easily and disappears into skin without any visible residue or greasiness.
Less re-application and longer wear time. Since chemical sunscreens are absorbed into the skin, they are a better choice when wearing time is a consideration or if you plan to engage in physical activity that causes sweating or getting wet.
Physical sunscreen wears off faster. So, switch to chemical alternatives to reduce the number of reapplies throughout the day.
If you're going swimming, skip the physical sunscreen altogether and use a chemical sunscreen with a high level of protection against UVA rays (note...daily moisturizing sunscreen with PA++++, the highest UVA protection available) .
Antioxidant protection from free radicals. Since chemical sunscreens are often formulated with skin care in mind, most formulas contain other ingredients that are beneficial to the skin.
Our daily moisturizing sunscreen SP50+ not only blocks UV rays but also contains antioxidants from vitamin E and vitamin C-rich Kakadu plum to protect skin from free radicals causing wrinkles and pigmentation.
When is it better to use physical sunscreen? Although chemical sunscreen has so many benefits, it's important to note that it may not be a one-size-fits-all solution. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, use a physical sunscreen.
The goal for your skin is to avoid unnecessary ingredients, which can irritate the skin - and since chemical sunscreens are absorbed into the skin, this can be bad for your complexion.
Physical sunscreens are also more effective for people prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). They provide better protection against visible light, a major potential cause of discoloration.
How to choose between physical sunscreen and chemical sunscreen
Still, experts agree that the best sunscreen is the one you actually use. Why not choose an option that makes you feel good in your skin and that you can’t stop pursuing?
To determine the right amount, use the two-finger rule: squeeze sunscreen along your index and middle fingers and spread evenly over your face. Use in the morning before skin care and makeup, and reapply as needed throughout the day.
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