The Difference between Chemical & Mineral Sunscreens

When it comes to sunscreens there are essentially two distinct types of sunscreens that refer to the type of UV filters that are used. These are namely chemical and mineral filters. Most available sunscreens usually are a combination of chemical and mineral sun filters.

Chemical Filters

• Chemical sunscreens absorb UV radiation and release it harmlessly
• They are easy to use, absorb quickly, and often provide moisturising benefits
• While they mainly absorb UV radiation, some studies suggest they may reflect a small percentage of light
• Allergic reactions to chemical sunscreens are rare, especially with newer filters
• Photostability varies depending on the specific chemicals used
• Chemical sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays but may degrade in the sun, so regular re-application is necessary
• Many modern sunscreens contain antioxidants for added skin protection
• Wait at least 20 minutes after applying before sun exposure to allow for proper absorption

Mineral Filters (also referred to as physical)

• Mineral sunscreens contain Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide, which sit on the skin’s surface and reflect UV rays away
• Older formulations left a thick, white residue, but modern versions use micronised particles for a cosmetically acceptable finish without a white cast
• Allergic reactions to Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide are unlikely
• Titanium Dioxide protects against UVB rays, while Zinc Oxide protects against most of the UVA spectrum and UVB rays
• Mineral sunscreens provide immediate protection upon application, with no need to wait before sun exposure
• They may rub off more easily when towel-drying, similar to chemical sunscreens
• Regular re-application is advised, especially after swimming or sweating
• Mineral sunscreen powder is an innovative, portable option for re-application throughout the day, convenient for carrying in a handbag or sports bag and does not interfere with makeup

Chemical & Mineral Sunscreen Combination

More modern sunscreens make use of both chemical and mineral filters covering a far broader spectrum of UV radiation including long UVA, high-energy visible light and infrared.

Interesting Sunscreen Facts

• Sunscreens for the eye area: Specially formulated for eye sensitivity or for contact lens wearers
• Sport-friendly sunscreens: Designed to not run into the eyes, preventing stinging during physical activities
• SPF calculation: SPF is determined in controlled lab conditions, but real-life application may be less precise, leading to inadequate coverage if not applied properly or reapplied throughout the day
• Visible light protection: Some modern sunscreens (both chemical and mineral) include Iron Oxides to protect against visible light, which can also be harmful to the skin
• Tinted sunscreens: Iron Oxides give a slight brown tint that helps protect against visible light, making them known as tinted sunscreens
• Sunscreen formulations: Modern sunscreens come in various formulations, with or without tints, to suit different skin types

Tips that can help with selecting your sunscreen

• Oily, acne-prone skin: Opt for an oil-free gel with a dry touch and matte finish
• Dry skin: Choose a rich, cream-based sunscreen
• Normal or combination skin: A lotion sunscreen works well
• SPF choice: Aim for a slightly higher SPF, but the most important factor is broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays
• Personal preference: Choose a sunscreen that suits your skin type, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences
• Sensitive skin: Mineral sunscreens are best for sensitive skin types
• Sporty individuals: Look for sunscreens with safe eye technology to prevent stinging when sweating

Skincare ingredients that can be found in Sunscreens

• Antioxidants
• Iron Oxide
• Botanical Extracts
• Sodium Hyaluronate
• Green Tea Extract
• Bisabolol

Sunscreen Products

Mineral sunscreens

Dr Webster recommends:

Tint free:

• Heliocare 360° Mineral Tolerance Fluid SPF 50
• Heliocare 360° Pediatrics Mineral SPF 50+
• mesoestetic mesoprotech mineral matt antiaging fluid 50+

Tinted: 

• SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
• PCA Skin Sheer Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 45
• Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 (Medium)
• Colorescience Face Shield Flex (Deep)

Eyes: 

• Colorescience Total Eye® 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy SPF 35 Medium

Lips:

• Colorescience Total Protection Sport Stick SPF 50

Body: 

• Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Body Shield SPF 50

(Check skin tone compatibility before purchasing)

Chemical sunscreens

Dr Webster recommends:

Tint free:

• Huxley Stay Sun Safe Essence SPF50+ PA++++
• ZO Skin Health Daily Sheer SPF 50
• Lamelle Luminesce Brightening Defense 30

Tinted: 

• pHformula CC Cream SPF 30+ (Light, Medium & Dark)
• La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Invisible Tinted Fluid SPF 50+
• MartiDerm Proteos Screen Color Fluid Cream SPF 50+

Body: 

• Heliocare Spray SPF 50
• ISDIN Fusion Gel Sport SPF 50

(Check skin tone compatibility before purchasing)

Lips:

La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Stick SPF 50+

Mixed UV filter sunscreens

Dr Webster recommends:

Tint free:

• MartiDerm Active [D] Fluid SPF 50+
• Huxley Stay Sun Safe SPF 50+ PA++++
• Heliocare 360° Water-Gel Sunscreen SPF 50+
• SkinCeuticals Oil Shield UV Defense SPF 50

Tinted: 

• Heliocare 360° Color Gel Oil-Free SPF 50+ (Beige)
• ISDIN Fusion Water Magic Color SPF 50 (Medium)
• Heliocare Gelcream Color SPF 50 (Brown)

(Check skin tone compatibility before purchasing)

Body: 

• La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Ultra-Light Invisible Body Mist SPF 50+
• MartiDerm Active [D] Body Lotion SPF 50+