Sunscreen 101: Mineral vs. Chemical Filters

The Two Types of Sunscreens

Sunscreen is the most crucial step in any skincare routine, protecting against premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer. But when choosing a sunscreen, you'll encounter two main types: mineral (physical) and chemical.

Mineral Sunscreens

Mineral sunscreens act like a physical shield, sitting on top of the skin and reflecting UV rays away. The active ingredients are typically Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide.

• Pros: Gentle, less likely to cause irritation, effective immediately upon application, reef-safe.
• Cons: Can leave a white cast, especially on darker skin tones, often thicker in texture.

Chemical Sunscreens

Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin and work by absorbing UV rays, converting them into heat, and releasing them from the body. Common ingredients include Avobenzone, Octinoxate, and Oxybenzone.

• Pros: Lightweight texture, absorbs quickly, leaves no white cast, easy to formulate with other skincare ingredients.
• Cons: Takes 15-20 minutes to become effective, may irritate sensitive skin or eyes, some ingredients are controversial regarding reef safety.

Which One Should You Choose?

The best sunscreen is the one you will wear every single day. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, a mineral sunscreen is often recommended. If you have darker skin and want to avoid a white cast, a modern chemical sunscreen or a tinted mineral sunscreen is ideal.