It’s no secret that sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. But did you know that there are two types of sunscreen? Mineral and chemical sunscreens both have their pros and cons, so it can be tricky to decide which one is best for you. In this blog post, we will break down the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens and help you decide which one is right for you! We will also introduce you to a handful of sunscreens we carry at The Skin Company that deserve a spot in your daily sun-care routine. Read on to discover more about chemical sunscreens and physical sunscreens, as well as the advantages of each.

1. What are mineral sunscreens?

Mineral sunscreens are made with active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients work by sitting on top of the skin to reflect and scatter the sun’s rays away from the body. Mineral sunscreens are considered more natural and less irritating than chemical sunscreens, making them a good choice for people with sensitive skin. However, with some mineral sunscreens, they can be more thick in their consistency and more challenging to apply evenly. In addition, they can sometimes leave a white cast on the skin and feel heavy.

2. What are chemical sunscreens?

While many different types of chemicals offer sun protection, the most commonly used chemical SPF ingredients in the United States include oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, and octisalate. These admittedly hard-to-pronounce ingredients work like a sponge, absorbing ultraviolet radiation before it can reach your skin. As a result, chemical sunscreens are what most people mean when they refer to sunscreen.

Chemical sunscreens absorb the sun’s rays and convert them into heat, which the body releases naturally. Chemical sunscreens often have a lighter consistency and can be easier to apply evenly than mineral sunscreens. They are also less likely to leave a white cast on the skin. However, chemical sunscreens can be more irritating to the skin and may contain harmful ingredients like oxybenzone. They also need to be reapplied more frequently than mineral sunscreens, as they tend to break down more

3. The benefits of using a mineral sunscreen over a chemical sunscreen

There are a few key benefits of using a mineral sunscreen over a chemical sunscreen. Firstly, mineral sunscreens are less likely to irritate the skin, making them ideal for people with sensitive skin. They are also more natural and made with good ingredients for the skin, like zinc oxide. Additionally, mineral sunscreens provide broad-spectrum protection, protecting against both UV-aging and UV-burning rays. Another significant benefit of mineral sunscreens is that they are more stable in sunlight than chemical sunscreens and are less likely to break down. Finally, many people prefer how mineral sunscreens look and feel on the skin because they often have a more natural finish.

4. The benefits of using a chemical sunscreen over a mineral sunscreen

There are a few key benefits of using a chemical sunscreen over a mineral sunscreen. Firstly, chemical sunscreens often have a lighter consistency and can be easier to apply evenly than mineral sunscreens. They are also less likely to leave a white cast on the skin. Additionally, chemical sunscreens are more water-resistant than mineral sunscreens, which will stay on the skin for longer when sweating or swimming. Finally, many people prefer how chemical sunscreens look and feel on the skin. They often have a more matte finish and don’t leave the skin feeling greasy or oily because they absorb into the skin rather than sitting on top of its surface.

5. Which option is the best choice for you?

So, which sunscreen is right for you? Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference. At The Skin Company, we believe that both mineral sunscreens and chemical sunscreens have a place in your daily sun-care routine. Therefore, we offer various sunscreen options that provide broad-spectrum protection against UV-burning and UV-again rays. For example, the Maria Kane Luminous Mineral Moisture with SPF 40 is a mineral sunscreen that contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for sun protection. It is chemical-, paraben- and fragrance-free and improves the appearance of redness with a sheer tint from iron oxides. In addition to protection against UV rays, Luminous Mineral Moisture protects skin against free radicals from the added antioxidant protection of vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid.

In contrast, the EltaMD UV Clear sunscreen is a chemical formula that is an excellent option for people with oily and acne-prone skin. UV Clear helps calm and protect sensitive skin types prone to discoloration and breakouts associated with acne and rosacea. In addition, it contains niacinamide (vitamin B3), hyaluronic acid, and lactic acid, ingredients that promote the appearance of healthy-looking skin.

In conclusion, both mineral and chemical sunscreens have their own unique benefits. The best sunscreen for you is the one that suits your individual needs and preferences. At The Skin Company, we offer a range of sunscreen options to suit all skin types and needs. Visit our shop to find the perfect sunscreen for you.