The days are getting longer and the great outdoors is beckoning. Hiking, swimming, riding a bike – these activities are fun and good for you – as long as you protect your skin first.
Sunscreen is essential for skin protection. But not all sunscreens are the same – in particular, there are differences between chemical sunscreen and mineral sunscreen.
For a long time, chemical sunscreen has been the preferred option for many because of its ease of application and aesthetic appeal. But mineral sunscreen may actually be the better option. We spoke with the experts, Dr. Jordan Abbott, a dermatologist with Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center in Arizona, and Dr. Emily Newsom, a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained dermatologic surgeon with UCLA Health to find out what you need to know about mineral sunscreen.
What is mineral sunscreen?
Sunscreens are defined as either chemical or mineral depending on the type of filter in the product, the active ingredient that provides UV protection. Chemical sunscreens have come under some scrutiny because of these ingredients and what they may do if absorbed. Abbott says, “There are currently 14 FDA-approved chemical filters in the U.S., but many more overseas. Chemical sunscreens have very small amounts of systemic absorption into one’s bloodstream. This finding has drawn lots of attention, however, at this time it is not known that this trace amount is problematic.” She adds, “Additionally if one has really sensitive skin, chemical sunscreens are more likely to cause a reaction.”
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Mineral sunscreens are not absorbed through the skin and are also safe and effective. Their active ingredients are usually either titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.
Mineral sunscreen: How does it work?
Newsom says mineral sunscreen could be referred to as physical sunscreen because it’s a physical blocker. “They’re really, really, good because they reflect the UV rather than the chemical sunscreen that absorbs the UV,” she explains.
What are the cons of mineral sunscreen?
Newsom says, “The main thing that people don't like about it (mineral sunscreen) is it can go on pretty white, so it doesn't rub in very well, especially on skin of color. It can create a gray cast that is unappealing and doesn't look good. But now they have tinted mineral sunscreens. So they look kind of like makeup, but they're not, they don't give you the coverage of makeup, but it just basically takes the white cast out of it.”
Is mineral sunscreen actually better?
Chemical sunscreens have also been implicated in harming marine life in the ocean. Newsom says you can avoid this by using mineral sunscreens – as they are very safe.
Whichever sunscreen you would like to use – just make sure you are using enough. Newsom says she recommends a “shot glass full” of sunscreen for every application, with at least 30 SPF, and that you should reapply every few hours.