You need daily sun protection to keep your skin healthy and looking youthful. But which type of sunscreen should you choose? Sun protection generally falls into two categories: chemical and mineral (also known as physical). While both provide sun protection, chemical sunscreens and mineral sunscreens differ in their active ingredients and in how they protect against UV exposure. Read on to learn the difference and discover the benefits of using mineral sunscreen.

Mineral Vs. Chemical Sunscreen | Mineral Sunscreen Benefits | Dermatologist-Suggested Mineral Sunscreen

Mineral Vs. Chemical Sunscreen: The Key Difference

Chemical Sunscreen

Sunscreen is essential for keeping the skin protected from the dangers of sun exposure, including sunburn, sun damage and melanoma. It’s also beneficial in minimizing the aging effects of UV rays, such as fine lines, wrinkles, sagging and rough skin. 

There are two types of sunscreens to choose from — mineral and chemical sunscreen. Chemical sunscreens are often referred to as “absorbers.” Their active ingredients are organic (carbon-based) compounds that absorb UV rays. Through a chemical reaction, these compounds convert UV rays into heat, then release that heat from the skin. 

Chemical sunscreens include one or more of the following ingredients: 

• Oxybenzone
• Octinoxate
• Octocrylene
• Avobenzone
• Ooctisalate 
• Homosalate

While these active ingredients successfully dissipate UV rays, these chemicals can end up getting absorbed into your skin. 

Mineral Sunscreen

Mineral sunscreens, known as “reflectors,” are widely believed to block and bounce UV rays off the skin. Mineral sunscreens are formulated with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as the two main active ingredients. These ingredients form a protective barrier on the skin, which can reflect harmful UV rays before they make contact with the skin’s surface.

While great for all skin types, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Markowitz shares with Glamour that mineral sunscreens are especially well suited to those with acne-prone or sensitive skin. Mineral formulas sit on top of the skin, so the formula is less likely to clog pores or irritate. Mineral sunscreens are also reef-friendly but we’ll explore the benefits in greater detail below. 

The Key Difference For Sunscreens

For some, the absorption of active ingredients from chemical sunscreen has raised alarm bells; a recent study found that certain active ingredients used in chemical sunscreens can be absorbed into the bloodstream in as little as one use. These ingredients included oxybenzone and avobenzone. In a press release, the FDA’s Director Dr. Janet Woodcock says that while the study showed evidence of some active ingredient absorption, more research is needed. In comparison, the zinc oxide and titanium oxide used in mineral sunscreens are two ingredients that are recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 

If you prefer to take a precautionary approach when choosing a sunscreen, consider using mineral sunscreens as they create a physical shield on your skin instead. Another main point of difference is the time it takes for each product to start working. Since chemical sunscreens are absorbed, they generally take 20 – 30 minutes to be fully effective. Let’s further explore the surprising benefits of mineral sunscreen that you may not know about. 

Mineral Sunscreen Benefits

If you aren’t yet convinced by the benefits of mineral sunscreens, here are a few more reasons to add them to your daily skin care routine. 

Reef-Friendly

Mineral sunscreens could be friendlier for the environment. The ingredients (organic, carbon-based compounds) found in chemical sunscreens could potentially affect ecosystems found in our ocean’s coral reefs. Mineral sunscreens are often the preferred choice for beachgoers and destination travelers because they avoid these harmful chemicals.

Suitable For All Skin Types

Mineral sunscreens are hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. With their anti-inflammatory properties, they are gentle enough for the most sensitive skin types. And they are usually free of pore-clogging silicones, making them a better option for those prone to blemishes. Some formulas are also made with dry, combo and normal skin types in mind. Regardless of your skin type, there’s a mineral SPF that’s perfectly suited to your unique skin.

Broad Spectrum UV Protection

Experts believe that mineral sunscreens reflect both UVB and UVA rays from the skin’s surface. UVB rays cause sunburn and uncomfortable symptoms such as redness, dryness and itchiness. UVA rays, which penetrate the skin more deeply, are responsible for premature aging and play a key role in the development of melanoma (a type of skin cancer).

Our Dermatologist-Recommended Mineral Sunscreens

Some dermatologists lean towards mineral sunscreens due to their intrinsic benefits. Dr. Hooman Khorasani, MD, a quadruple board-certified dermatologic and skin cancer surgeon in New York City “loves” when people use this type of sunscreen.

“I recommend mineral sunscreen to patients that have inflammation of the skin, sensitive skin, acne-prone skin or have had an energy-based procedure in the office,” says Dr. Khorasani. “Mineral sunscreens reflect UV rays and, therefore, do not absorb heat in the skin like chemical blockers do. Overall, mineral sunscreens are more gentle on the skin and the environment.”

The key ingredient in most mineral sunscreens is zinc oxide — a mineral that provides broad-spectrum protection. The best formulas are free from harmful additives and use non-nano zinc oxide, offering a safer option for both your skin and the environment. Keep reading to learn more about this essential ingredient.

What Is Zinc Oxide?

Zinc oxide has come a long way since its days as a thick, white sunscreen slathered on noses and cheeks during the ‘80s. These days, this sunscreen ingredient can be found in lightweight, layerable formulas that provide sun protection with a natural-looking finish.

Zinc Oxide Keeps Skin Cool

Many experts believe that, unlike chemical sunscreens that trap UV rays and convert them to heat, zinc oxide keeps the skin cool and allows it to breathe. It is known to reflect the heat and energy of the sun’s UV rays and help the skin maintain its temperature. For this reason, mineral sunscreen is particularly beneficial in minimizing the appearance of skin inflammation and redness associated with acne, rosacea and skin sensitivity.

Zinc Oxide Provides Physical Sun Protection

While zinc itself can be found in nature, zinc oxide is actually created by combining the mineral zinc with oxygen molecules. When these two elements are vaporized and condensed, experts state that they form a fine powder that sits on top of the skin, creating a protective barrier against UVA and UVB rays. This physical barrier is what makes zinc oxide the key ingredient in effective mineral sunscreens.

Supports Collagen Production

UV exposure is the leading cause of premature aging. Sun damage exposes the skin to harmful free radicals that break down and destroy collagen, a protein that is essential for keeping skin toned, plump and elastic. Zinc serves as a co-factor in collagen synthesis by activating the protein collagenase. This protein triggers collagen production in order to build and repair connective tissue like your skin.

Benefits Breakout-Prone Skin

Zinc oxide is also beneficial in treating breakout-prone complexions. Studies show that zinc effectively reduces the appearance of skin inflammation, inhibits the growth of pimple-causing bacteria and regulates sebaceous gland activity. It also has astringent properties, which tighten the appearance of pores and minimizes the look of an uneven skin texture. 

Will you be adding a mineral sunscreen to your skin care routine? Tell us in the comments below and join the conversation on social media. Experience our all-mineral SPF moisturizers and sunscreens at an Eminence Organics Spa Partner near you.