Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreen

When it comes to sun protection, choosing the right sunscreen can be as daunting as picking a flavor at an ice cream parlor. But fear not! Let’s break down the differences between mineral and chemical sunscreens, and why SkinBetter’s mineral sunscreen deserves a spot in your skincare routine.

Mineral Sunscreens

Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical or organic sunscreens, use active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to create a physical barrier on the skin. Mineral sunscreens are effective immediately upon application and are less likely to cause skin irritation, making them suitable for sensitive skin types. 

Texture: Picture a creamy shield – that’s mineral sunscreen. It’s thicker, more opaque, and leaves you feeling like you’ve just donned a chic sun armor. Great for sensitive skin warriors!

How They Work: Mineral sunscreens create a physical barrier on your skin. They reflect UV rays like a boss, preventing them from penetrating deeper.

Instant Protection: No waiting around – mineral sunscreens start working the moment you apply them.

Chemical Sunscreens

Chemical sunscreens feature ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, and octinoxate. These chemicals absorb UV rays and convert them into harmless heat. They tend to be lighter and more transparent on the skin but can sometimes cause irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

Texture: Think lightweight, sheer, and invisible. Chemical sunscreens blend seamlessly, making them a favorite among makeup enthusiasts.

How They Work: Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays, transforming them into heat. Your skin then releases this heat harmlessly. They are water-resistant, perfect for beach days as they won’t wash off easily.

Delayed Protection: Chemical sunscreens need about 15-20 minutes to become effective after application.

Why Choose Mineral Sunscreen

Pros

• Good for sensitive skin. Mineral sunscreens are generally well-tolerated by people with sensitive skin or those prone to skin allergies.

• Good for acne-prone skin. Mineral sunscreens are less likely to clog pores and contribute to acne breakouts. They’re a good option for people with oily or acne-prone skin.

• Immediate protection. Mineral sunscreens start working as soon as they’re applied to your skin. Unlike chemical sunscreen, you don’t have to wait for the sunscreen to be absorbed before going out in the sun.

Cons

• Slower application. Mineral sunscreens often have a thicker, goopier texture compared to chemical sunscreens. This can make them feel heavier on your skin.

• Leaves white cast on skin. One common drawback of mineral sunscreens is that they can leave a white cast on your skin. The zinc oxide or titanium dioxide particles can be visible, especially on darker skin tones.

Why Choose Chemical Sunscreen

Pros

• Easy application. Because of its ingredients, chemical sunscreens can be applied easier to apply due to its more lightweight, blendable texture.

• Transparent on skin. Unlike mineral sunscreens, chemical sunscreens are usually transparent on your skin, without leaving a white cast.

• Water-resistant formulations. Chemical sunscreens often have better water resistance compared to mineral sunscreens. They can maintain their effectiveness for a longer period when exposed to water or sweat, making them a good option for outdoor activities and swimming.

Cons

• May cause allergic reactions or irritation. Due to the ingredients used, chemical sunscreen has a higher risk of causing allergic reactions in some cases.

• Isn’t immediately effective. Chemical sunscreens typically need about 20 minutes to fully absorb and become effective after application.

• Absorption into skin. Chemical sunscreens are designed to be absorbed into your skin to work effectively.

SkinBetter Mineral Sunscreen

SunBetter TONE SMART SPF 75:

• 100% Mineral: Pure zinc oxide protection with a hint of color. It’s like a filter for your face!

• Primer Perfection: Use it under makeup or as a light foundation.

• Sensitive Skin Approved: Gentle on even the most finicky complexions.

SunBetter SHEER SPF 70:

• Sheer Elegance: Lightweight, oil-free, and perfect for everyday wear.

• Sun-Savvy: Shields you from UV rays without feeling heavy.

• Blend It Like Beckham: Makeup-friendly and won’t mess up your look.

SkinBetter with Core Aesthetic

Elevate your sun defense with sunbetter Technology's ultra-high performing 100% mineral sunscreens. Support skin’s defenses against UVA/UVB, IRA, blue light, and pollution in five elegant options with up to SPF 75. Core Aesthetic offers a variety of SkinBetter products in store or you can order any product online through our Core professional. All you have to do is use the “Find a Professional” tab and search for Core Aesthetic, choose your desired products, and they will be shipped to your home. For further Core recommendations, click here to see what our staff has picked.