Chemical vs Mineral sunscreen

With so many sunscreens out there, it can be overwhelming to know what type of protection is best for your skin. One common question I hear from patients is “what is the difference between chemical sunscreen and mineral sunscreen?” There are some key differences in both the UV filters used in these sunscreens, as well as in the way they provide protection, so let’s dive into the details.

Mineral sunscreen, also referred to as physical sunscreen, uses minerals to provide a shield against harmful UV rays. There are two main UV filters: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. If the sunscreen contains any additional ingredients listed under Active Ingredients on the label, then it is NOT a mineral sunscreen.  Mineral sunscreens lay on top of the skin and reflect UV radiation back into the atmosphere, like an invisible shield on the surface of the skin. Mineral sunscreens also tend to be gentler on the skin and less likely to cause rashes or other sensitivities.

Chemical sunscreens may contain zinc or titanium, but also contain chemical UV filters such as avobenzone, oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene, among others. Chemical filters do not reflect UV radiation, rather they absorb the radiation and transfer it to a lower wavelength which is less likely to penetrate the skin. This is why it is recommended to allow chemical sunscreens to sink in for 10-15 minutes prior to exposure to the sun.

In recent years, questions have emerged about the potential environmental and health consequences of certain chemical filters. For example, oxybenzone and octinoxate have been associated with bleaching of coral reefs and are now banned in Hawaii, Key West Florida, Aruba, Palau, and the US Virgin Islands, with the list growing each year. Additionally, a study published in 2019 in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that chemical UV filters were found in the bloodstream at levels that exceeded the acceptable threshold put forward by the FDA after just four applications. The safety of chemical sunscreens remains an ongoing area of study by the FDA, environmental scientists, and dermatologists.

We do know that sunscreen is only one component of a healthy skincare regimen. Other important ways to care for your skin include seeking the shade, wearing sun-protective clothing like long-sleeved shirts and broad-brimmed hats, and using gentle cleansers and moisturizers to remove environmental build-up, hydrate, and restore the skin barrier. Make these habits part of your daily routine and you’ll be well on your way to glowing, healthy skin!

Dr. Meghan with #MDTips

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