Chemical vs. Physical Sunscreen: What’s better?

Girl in front of the sunrise

So first off, what is the difference between the two?

Physical sunscreen provides a layer of protection that sits on top the skin and repels the harmful UV rays. Its ingredients consist of titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, which are what cause the white cast we often see with physical sunscreens.

Chemical sunscreens do not repel the harmful UV rays. Instead they get absorbed into the skin and gets converted it into heat so the UVA and UVB rays do not affect the skin.

Now that we know the differences, what are the pros and cons of each?


Chemical sunscreens

Pros

  • No white cast
  • Longer time before having to reapply in comparison to mineral sunscreens

Cons

  • Potentially unsafe ingredients
  • May cause side effects for those with sensitive skin
  • May not be safe to use while pregnant
  • Takes at least 20 minutes for the protection to kick in

Physical sunscreens

Pros

  • Made with safe ingredients
  • Protection is immediately provided on application

Cons

  • Potential white cast, although there are many currently on the market that don’t have a white cast
  • Have to reapply every 2 hours

No matter what you end up choosing, using a sunscreen is always beneficial. Not only does it slow down the effects of aging, but it also helps prevent cancer and sun burns.

If you want any sunscreen recommendations check out SPFs for dark skin.

XOXO,

Lattes and Blush