Mineral Based Sunscreen vs Chemical Based Sunscreen

July 17, 2022

4 min read

The importance of using sunscreen as a part of your regular skincare cannot be over-emphasized in current times. Not protecting your skin from the harmful UV rays can result in skin problems like dryness, hyperpigmentation, premature aging, and even skin cancers.

A recent study confirms that regular use of sunscreen reduces melanoma incidence in adults.

If you are stocking up on sunscreen and are confused with the variety available to choose from, this is what you need to know.

All sunscreens protect against the harmful UV rays of the sun. Some of the characteristics of sunscreens are:

Sunscreens must be broad-spectrum, which means they must protect from UVA and UVB light.
They must have SPF(sun protection factor) of 30 and higher to be effective.
They must be water-resistant.

Primarily, there are two types of sunscreens available. They are physical, or mineral-based, and chemical-based.

What is Mineral-Based Sunscreen?

Mineral-based, or physical sunscreen, has primary ingredients, like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. As a physical sunscreen, they stay on your skin surface and act as a barrier, protecting your skin from harmful UV rays.

Benefits of Mineral-Based Sunscreen

The benefits of mineral-based sunscreen are the following:

The sunscreen sits on top of your skin and provides a protective layer that reflects off the harmful UV rays. They do not need to get absorbed in the skin and can be less toxic to your body.
As mineral sunscreens sit on the skin, it starts working immediately.
Mineral sunscreens are effective for a long time and need not be applied frequently.
The main ingredients, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are generally safe to use.
They are an excellent option for sensitive skins.

Drawbacks of Mineral-Based Sunscreen

Some drawbacks of using mineral sunscreen are as follows:

Mineral-based sunscreen sits on top of your skin and can give a chalky white appearance. It lacks the smoothness and texture of chemical sunscreen and is difficult to spread on your skin.
Mineral sunscreens may not be as water-resistant as chemical ones and need to be frequently reapplied if they get washed out.
They are thicker and may feel heavier on your skin than the chemical-based sunscreens.

What is Chemical-Based Sunscreen?

Chemical sunscreens use certain chemicals that absorb harmful UV rays and convert them to heat. Some of the standard UV filters found in chemical sunscreens are oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, homosalate, octocrylene, octisalate, and ensulizole.

Benefits of Chemical-Based Sunscreen

The benefits of chemical-based sunscreen are the following:

The primary benefit of using a chemical-based sunscreen is that it easily blends into the skin and becomes invisible.
It has a light texture that can make you feel comfortable.
Unlike mineral sunscreens, chemical sunscreen provides more extended protection from UV rays.

Drawbacks of Chemical-Based Sunscreen

Some drawbacks of using chemical-based sunscreens include:

Chemical sunscreens are often loaded with chemicals that are not good for the environment. Studies conducted by the European Commission advise against using chemicals like oxybenzone, homosalate, and octocrylene at higher doses. They get absorbed in the skin and can cause hormonal imbalances or damage to the lungs and internal organs.
Chemical sunscreens need at least 15 to 20 mins to get absorbed in the skin before they start working.
Chemical sunscreens can cause allergies to sensitive skin. It can also worsen skin problems, such as melasma and rosacea.

Mineral Sunscreens Vs. Chemical Sunscreens

With environmental concerns and certain health hazards regarding chemical sunscreens, the mineral sunscreen seems to be a better choice to protect yourself from harmful ultraviolet rays. But there has been no conclusive proof of the long-term health effects of such chemicals on the human body.

Sunscreen based on your skin type

Like most skincare products, not all sunscreens will suit you. Dermatologists recommend that you get the sunscreen suitable for your skin type to get the best protection without any side effects.

Sensitive Skin

As sensitive skin is more prone to having skin issues when exposed to harsh UV rays, you need to use mineral-based sunscreen as it is free from any side effects. This is because chemical-based sunscreen often has harsh chemicals that can cause breakouts and redness in sensitive skin.

Oily Skin

If you have oily skin, you need a lightweight chemical-based sunscreen that quickly absorbs into your skin, keeping your skin looking dry and non-greasy.

Dry Skin

Dry skin needs sunscreen that also has hydrating properties. Mineral-based sunscreen can be the best option for you as chemicals can dry out your skin even more.

Combination Skin

For combination skin, you can use a chemical-based sunscreen that gets absorbed quickly with some additional ingredients like hyaluronic acid to give you the hydration you need.

Skin with acne, eczema, or psoriasis

If you have skin problems like eczema, acne, or psoriasis, it's best to avoid any chemical-based sunscreen as the chemicals can worsen your skin issues. You can consult a dermatologist to find the best sunscreen that works for you.

No matter what sunscreen you choose, you must use it regularly. FDA guidelines say you need to go for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has an SPF of 15 or more to get the maximum benefit.