Chemical Vs Mineral Sunscreen: What You Need to Know this Labor Day
Sunscreen isn’t just for summer- it’s a must-have every single day to protect your skin from premature aging, sun damage and skin cancer. But if you’ve ever tried to shop for SPF, you probably noticed that there are two main types: Mineral and Chemical. Let’s break down the differences so you can choose the one that’s right for you.
Mineral sunscreen
Also called physical sunscreen, this type uses natural minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Mineral sunscreen works by sitting on top of your skin and creating a barrier to reflect UV rays away..
Pros:
- It works immediately. You do not have to wait any period of time before sun exposure
- It works great for sensitive and acne-prone skin as well as for those prone to hyperpigmentation
- Naturally protects against both UVA and UVB rays
Cons:
- Can leave a white discoloration on skin, especially those with darker skin tones
- Mineral sunscreen is usually thick and therefore more difficult to apply evenly
Chemical Sunscreen
This type of sunscreen uses ingredients such as oxybenzone, avabenzone, octocrylene and homosalate to protect the skin. It works by absorbing UV rays, converting them into heat and then releasing them from the skin.
Pros:
- In general, chemical sunscreen is more lightweight and blends easily with no white cast to the skin
- Because the sunscreen is absorbed, it tends to be more water resistant and longer lasting. It is great for swimming and sweating
Cons:
- Chemical sunscreen can take approximately 15 – 20 minutes to start working
- Can cause irritation with sensitive or acne prone skin.
- Not the best choice for those prone to pigmentation.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer for which sunscreen you should use, however the best sunscreen is the one that you will wear every single day.
La Fleur Favorites
At La Fleur Aesthetics, we love mineral sunscreens and can help you find the SPF that fits your skin type, lifestyle and preferences. See below for our favorite SPF’s in office.
Colorscience Classic SPF 50 – one of our favorite, every day wears. The Classic is light, goes on smoothly and doesn’t feel sticky or greasy, this SPF gives a very minimal tint to any skin tone revealing a more even tone and all the skin protection you need.
Want more protection or more glow? Don’t worry, our colorescience experts can show you all this line has to offer. And believe us, it’s a lot!
La Fleur Aesthetics Glow Drops SPF 50– This gentle, lightweight SPF goes on like a dream, while also giving you a gorgeous summer glow.
