Mineral sunscreen vs Chemical sunscreen, which is better? It’s time to put an end to this age-long battle. You’ve probably heard a dermatologist say chemical sunscreen is better for your skin than mineral sunscreen.

 

At the same time, you’ve heard that mineral sunscreen is better.  Now, you’re confused about which one offers better protection for your skin. 

We got you! In this post, our dermatologists share expert insights into this question. They provide insight into the differences between both sunscreens and the unique benefits each sunscreen offers.

Key Takeaways: Mineral Sunscreen vs. Chemical Sunscreen

Mineral sunscreens create a physical barrier on the skin, reflecting UV rays, and are suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin. They are environmentally friendly and safe for all skin types but may need frequent reapplication.

Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays, are lightweight, and don’t leave a white film but can irritate sensitive skin and may require frequent reapplication. The choice between mineral and chemical sunscreen depends on your skin type and lifestyle needs.

Product Recommendations: Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreen

• Best sunscreen for oily/sensitive/acne-prone/combination skin: Dang! Ageless Face and Body Mineral sunscreen
• Best sunscreen for dry/normal skin: Dang! Ageless Invisible Finish Sun Protection Gel (Sunscreen)
  
  

Mineral Sunscreen vs. Chemical Sunscreen: Which is Better?

Asking if mineral sunscreen is better than chemical sunscreen is like comparing apples and oranges to ask which is better. Both mineral and chemical sunscreens serve the essential purpose of protecting your skin from harmful UV rays but do so in different ways. 

Mineral sunscreens act like a shield, reflecting UV rays away from your skin. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, work like a sponge, absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat. 

Ultimately, it’s not about which one is better overall, but which one suits your skin type and lifestyle the best. As we dive deeper into each type of sunscreen, you’ll understand which one is better for you.

Mineral Sunscreen: What it is and How it Works

Mineral sunscreens are mineral-based sunscreens with active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. How do they work to protect your skin?

You see when applied directly onto your face, the sunscreen sits on top of the skin, instead of melting into the skin. This way, the sunscreen acts as a physical barrier that shields your skin from harmful UV light. 

Put simply, the mineral components contained in mineral sunscreen form a protective layer on the skin that prevents UV rays from penetrating the skin. Hence, they’re also called physical sunscreen.

Chemical Sunscreen: What is it and How it Works

This is sunscreen formulated with carbon-based chemical components. It offers sun protection by absorbing UV rays into the skin, turning it to heat, which is then released out of the skin.  

Due to the nature of how they work (being absorbed into the skin), they often leave an invincible and glossy finish, unlike mineral sunscreen.

Pros and Cons of Mineral Sunscreen: Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreen

Pros

• Safe for all skin types 
• It is safe for children and pregnant and breastfeeding moms.
• Helps with sensitive and acne-prone skin due to the anti-inflammatory properties of zinc oxide.
• It is lightweight and doesn’t clog the pores.
• It’s safe for the environment.
  

Cons

• When not properly formulated, it may leave white cast on darker skin tones
• You may need to reapply more frequently, as it can quickly rub off your skin especially if you’re sweating a lot.
  

Pros and Cons of Chemical Sunscreen

Pros

• It is thinner and spreads more easily.
• Doesn’t leave a white film on the skin, and absorbs easily without making the skin oily
  

Cons 

• Can potentially irritate sensitive skin due to the chemical components.
• Increased chance of flushing for redness-prone skin types since it changes UV rays into heat
• Doesn’t last as long as physical sunscreen when exposed to direct UV light, requiring more frequent reapplication
  

Recommended Sunscreen for Different Skin Types: Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreen

Sunscreen for Oily Skin

If you have oily skin, choosing the right sunscreen can make all the difference. We recommend opting for a non-greasy, no-white cast lightweight mineral sunscreen. 

Mineral sunscreens with ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are excellent for oily skin because they sit on top of the skin and absorb excess oil. Look for formulations labelled as “matte finish” or “oil-free” to keep your skin looking fresh and shine-free throughout the day.

Sunscreen for Dry Skin: Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreen, Which is Better?

For dry skin, hydration is key.  As such, we suggest using a chemical sunscreen that also has moisturizing properties. 

Chemical sunscreens with ingredients like avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone absorb into the skin, allowing for a more hydrating experience. 

Additionally, look for sunscreens that contain moisturizing agents such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. These ingredients help to lock in moisture, keeping your skin hydrated and preventing dryness and flakiness.

Sensitive/Acne-Prone Skin

Sensitive or acne-prone skin requires a gentle touch. We recommend using a non-greasy mineral sunscreen that is free from potential irritants. 

Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are less likely to cause irritation or breakouts because they act as physical barriers rather than absorbing into the skin. 

Look for products that are labelled “non-comedogenic,” meaning they won’t clog pores. Additionally, fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formulations can further minimize the risk of irritation and acne flare-ups.

By following these recommendations, you can find a sunscreen that not only protects your skin from harmful UV rays but also caters to your specific skin type needs. Remember, the right sunscreen can make a significant difference in the health and appearance of your skin.

Common Sunscreen Myths Debunked

• The higher the SPF, the higher the sun protection.  In reality, SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 100 blocks only 1-2% more. No sunscreen can block 100% of rays.
• Sunscreen is only needed on sunny days. Clouds filter minimal UV rays, so sunscreen should be worn daily if going outside. UV rays can also penetrate windows.
• You should use sunscreen in summer. Sunscreen should be worn year-round if spending time outdoors, as UV rays can damage skin in any season.
• Sunscreen prevents all sun damage. While sunscreen reduces risk, it doesn’t eliminate it. Other sun protection measures like seeking shade and wearing protective clothing are also important.
• You can treat sunburn using sunscreen. Sunscreen can certainly prevent sunburn, but it can’t heal already sunburned skin. 
• Sunscreen isn’t only for light-skinned people. Everyone should use sunscreen, including deeper/melanin-rich dark skin tone, because UV rays can damage this skin type and cause skin cancer. This is why there’s also mineral sunscreen for dark skin.
  

Final Thoughts…

In conclusion, both mineral and chemical sunscreens offer unique benefits and potential drawbacks. The best choice depends on your skin type, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

By understanding how each type of sunscreen works and considering your specific needs, you can make an informed decision that ensures optimal protection from harmful UV rays.

Remember, the most effective sunscreen is one that you will use consistently. Prioritize your skin’s health by selecting a sunscreen that fits seamlessly into your daily routine and provides the protection you need to maintain healthy, radiant skin.

FAQs

What happens if you don’t wash off mineral sunscreen?

When you fail to wash off your mineral sunscreen at the end of the day, you risk irritation and break out. Mineral sunscreens are designed to form a physical barrier on the skin to reflect UV rays. 

They remain on the surface of your skin. This means they can trap dirt and oil on your face which could eventually get underneath your skin, clog your pores and cause irritation. Therefore, they need to be removed through thorough cleansing.

Can I apply mineral sunscreen without moisturizer?

It’s okay to skip applying your sunscreen without moisturising. However, this is not a good long-term practice, as both a moisturiser and sunscreen are important for optimised skincare benefits. So, we don’t recommend replacing your moisturizer with sunscreen.

Which comes first, moisturizer or sunscreen?

Your moisturizer should come first before applying your sunscreen.

Should oily skin use mineral sunscreen?

Mineral sunscreen is ideal for oily skin. Mineral sunscreens are often fragrance-free, lightweight, and contain fewer irritants, making them suitable for sensitive, oily skin.

How to apply sunscreen on your face correctly?

There’s no one correct way to apply sunscreen on your face correctly. However, the two-finger application method can guide you. With this method, spread the sunscreen on your index and middle finger, from the top to the end of your finger. Rub evenly across your face, neck, and ears.

Is chemical or mineral sunscreen better for acne-prone skin?

Mineral sunscreens contain fewer irritants making them less likely to cause inflammation and perfect for acne-prone skin.

How long should I wait after applying moisturizer to apply sunscreen?

You should typically wait 2-4 minutes for your skin to absorb the moisturizer before applying sunscreen.

Can I apply powder after sunscreen? 

Yes, you can apply powder after your sunscreen. However, ensure to wait a few minutes for your skin to absorb the sunscreen before applying powder.