Sep
02
2022
Which one is better? What’s the difference? Which is safer? The benefits? The functions? So many questions, and all the answers you seek are here.
Wearing sunscreen everyday not only prevents skin cancer but also from harmful UV rays that causes skin aging. Sunscreen ingredients are classified in two categories, chemical and physical. Physical sunscreen is also known as mineral sunscreen. The primary difference between the two is based on their ingredient list and functionality.
Ingredients Physical and chemical sunscreen works differently based on their ingredient list. It is always good to understand what you are buying based on the ingredient list. Here are some ingredients that are commonly listed in their respective category.
Physical Sunscreen Physical sunscreen consists of active ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. These two are an FDA approved ingredient to be safe and effective.
Chemical Sunscreen According to FDA, these are 12 active ingredients approved by FDA in chemical sunscreen. Cinoxate, dioxybenzone, ensulizole, homosalate, meradimate, octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene, padimate O, sulisobenzone, oxybenzone, avobenzone. However, we would suggest avoiding ingredients containing octinoxate and oxybenzone as it may trigger skin allergies for people with sensitive skin.
Functions UVA and UVB rays are the two main damaging radiation emitted by the sun. UVA has long wavelength rays which can penetrate into the deepest layers of skin. This causes skin aging, like fine lines and wrinkles. UVB has short wavelength rays which affect the top skin layer and causes sunburn.
| Physical Sunscreen |
| More effective towards UVB rays, sunscreen sits on top of the skin creating a barrier on the skin surface which reflects the UV rays to prevent skin damage and sunburn. |
| Chemical Sunscreen |
| Effective against both UVA & UVB rays. The sunscreen is absorbed into the skin and assists in dissolving UV rays and releasing them as heat from the body. |
Pros & Cons Despite all the above, both have their own unique properties and benefits. Here are some additional information to help you choose which sunscreen is likely more suitable for you.
| Physical Sunscreen |
| Pros Suitable for dry and sensitive skin due to thick consistency, less likely to trigger skin allergies. Difficult to spread or rub onto skin and may leave an obvious white streak or cast. Physical sunscreen works immediately once applied. |
| Cons Less effective against UVA rays. UVA rays have a longer wavelength which may penetrate through physical sunscreen. May not be suitable for people with oily skin type due to its thick and heavy formula. |
| Chemical Sunscreen |
| Pros Provides better protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Chemical sunscreen tends to be lightweight and easily spread as it absorbs quickly into the skin. Hence, feeling more comfortable to wear. Most are built to be water and sweat resistant which are good for simple exercises. |
| Cons Ingredients in chemical sunscreen may not be suitable for people with sensitive skin which can trigger skin allergies. Chemical sunscreen requires 15 to 30 minutes to allow the ingredients to be absorbed into the skin before exposing to sunlight. |
In general, it all comes down to which formula is most comfortable for your skin. Nowadays, most sunscreens consist of both physical and chemical active ingredients which provide a broad spectrum. Blue light emitted from our technology devices such as phones, tablets or computers can cause skin aging as well. We do recommend the daily application of sunscreen indoors or on a rainy cloudy day.
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