Physical vs Chemical Sunscreen: Which Should You Use?

Choosing the right sunscreen has always been tough. When there are so many options it can be tricky to not only tell what the difference is between all of these products, but to also decide what is best for your skin.

You’ve probably heard of physical and chemical sunscreens before. You probably know that you should be wearing sunscreen everyday. But do you know what type of SPF you should be using?

If your answer was no, fear not because this article should clear things up a bit!

Why is it important to wear sunscreen?

First off, no one wants to get sunburnt – it’s super uncomfortable! Secondly, and more importantly, there’s a whole host of consequences that come with prolonged UV exposure. Premature ageing is one of them. An increased risk of skin cancer is another.

Prevention is key, so you really need to get ahead of this. Applying sunscreen takes hardly any time at all, make sure to do it daily!

How often should you wear sunscreen?

It’s a common misconception that sunscreen should only be worn on sunny days or when you’re at the beach. No matter the weather, it is important to apply sunscreen – particularly on the areas where your skin is exposed.

UV rays are constantly present. They penetrate through the clouds and reflect off of surfaces around us. On overcast days it’s the sunlight that’s being blocked, not the UV radiation, so we still need to be cautious!

What is chemical sunscreen?

Chemical sunscreens, also called organic sunscreens, work by absorbing UV rays, converting them into heat and then releasing them from the skin. The key ingredients in chemical sunscreens are octisalate, oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone.

Pros and cons of chemical sunscreens:

PROS OF CHEMICAL SUNSCREENS

• Since they sink into the skin, and don’t usually leave behind residue, chemical sunscreens tend to sit better under makeup.
• They give better protection from UVA radiation.
• Thinner formulas mean these sunscreens are easier to spread on the skin.

CONS OF CHEMICAL SUNSCREENS

• Some ingredients in chemical sunscreens, avobenzone in particular, can irritate sensitive skin types and those with inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea.
• Certain chemical filters can cause clogged pores and breakouts.

My top chemical sunscreen picks:

1. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Invisible Fluid Sun Cream
2. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel
3. Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+ PA++++

What is physical sunscreen?

Physical or mineral sunscreens, also known as inorganic sunscreens, sit on top of the skin and work by reflecting UVA and UVB rays. This effectively blocks them from reaching the skin underneath. The active ingredients in physical sunscreens are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. It is worth noting, however, that titanium does not provide as much protection against long UVA rays as zinc oxide does.

Pros and cons of physical sunscreens:

PROS OF PHYSICAL SUNSCREENS

• Generally considered to be safer than chemical sunscreens. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide have been extensively tested and are the only two active sunscreen ingredients that have been recognised as ‘safe and effective’ by the FDA.
• Better suited for people with acne-prone skin.
• More stable than chemical sunscreens so they tend to have a longer shelf life.

CONS OF PHYSICAL SUNSCREENS

• The formula is whiter and thicker so it often leaves a white cast on the skin.
• The increased thickness of the sun cream can make it more difficult to rub in.
• These can feel heavy on the skin. Combination and oily skin types may find them to be uncomfortable.
• Physical sunscreens offer less protection from UVA rays than their chemical counterparts.
• They’re more likely to be rubbed off or melted away by sweat.

My top physical sunscreen picks:

1. Make P:rem UV Defense Me Calming Sun Cream SPF50+/PA++++
2. Etude House Soon Jung Mild Defence Sun Cream SPF49 PA++
3. Pai British Summer Time SPF30

What about hybrid sunscreens?

If you still can’t choose between the two, guess what, you don’t have to! You can actually buy sunscreens that have both chemical and mineral filters, meaning that you can enjoy the benefits of both. My favourite hybrid sunscreens are the COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream (review here) and the TIA’M My Signature Vita Red Sunscreen (review). These are both really moisturising and, despite the titanium dioxide content, don’t leave a white cast! Zitsticka’s Megashade has amazing reviews too!

Which type of sunscreen is your favourite – physical or chemical? Let me know in the comments!