Sun Screen: Physcial Vs. Chemical

We all know the importance of wearing sunscreen and how the benefits go beyond just protection from the sun. There are hundreds of sunscreens on the market, and it can get overwhelming deciding which one is best. However, for certain skin types one type of sunscreen may be better than the other. 

Our two main types of sunblocks are physical and chemical. Though they both offer protection from the sun, they do have their differences. Physical sunscreens contain ingredients like zinc or titanium and they work by acting as a shield on the skin. Physical sunscreens basically prevent harmful UV rays from penetrating the skin. These sunscreens are typically not sheer and frequently offered in a tinted form. Chemical sunscreens on the other hand act differently by absorbing the sunscreen into the skin and create a chemical reaction where UV light is converted into heat, and then the heat vanishes from the skin. Chemical sunscreens also typically apply sheer on the skin and do not leave a white finish. 

So which sunscreen is better? The FDA has labeled both physical and chemical sunscreens safe and the risks of not protecting your skin from sunlight is more harmful than any FDA approved chemical sunscreen. Overall, physical sunscreens are generally healthier since chemical sunscreens typically contain the active ingredients oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate which can cause irritation to some skin types. Those with melasma, rosacea or who generally have sensitive skin may get irritated from chemical sunscreens. Also, for those who are worried about the use of chemical ingredients in products may want to use a mineral based sunscreen.

Physical sunscreens can potentially cause breakouts for those who have acne prone skin as well as leave a film on the face after application. Luckily, mineral sunscreens have come a long way and are offered in tinted formulations which apply nicely and look more like natural skin. It is also important to note that physical sunscreens need to be applied more frequently than chemical sunblocks. 

It is no secret that we should be applying sunscreen everyday of the year and as summer approaches, sun protection should be used daily. Regardless if it is a gloomy day, the UV rays are still harmful. The takeaway is that no matter what something is better than nothing when it comes to sun protection.