Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen

Mineral sunscreen = Physical sunscreen

Protecting your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays is a universally acknowledged necessity, but have you ever considered the differences between formulas when choosing sunscreen? Given the sheer number of sunscreens available, choosing the perfect one for you can be a confusing and overwhelming task. But did you know that there are only two types of sunscreen — chemical sunscreen and physical sunscreen.

Mineral and chemical sunscreens both serve the same purpose: absorbing and converting UV rays to prevent damage to your skin. Understanding the differences between physical and chemical sunscreen will help you make informed choices about your sun protection.

So, just what is the difference between the two?

Both have their pros and cons depending on your skin type, what you're doing when wearing it, and other factors. Let's take a look at the differences between physical and chemical sunscreen, how they work, and how to choose the right sunscreen for you.

What is Chemical Sunscreen? (aka, Organic Sunscreen)

Chemical sunscreens are formulated using a combination of organic compounds (meaning carbon-based; not "organic" in the food sense) and act as UV filters. This is the most popular and common type of sunscreen. These organic UV filters are often referred to as chemical filters, as their molecules absorb UV light, converts it into heat which is then harmlessly released from the body, preventing it from penetrating the skin.

Chemical sunscreens have been formulated to feel more lightweight while offering more high-performance (SPF50 and above) than mineral sunscreen, meaning that they typically last longer and are lightweight, easier to apply and leave no white cast.

What is Mineral Sunscreen? (aka, Physical Sunscreen)

Mineral (or physical) sunscreen, uses inorganic filters (i.e. minerals) including Zinc Oxide or Titanium Oxide to provide SPF protection. These formulations can often be considered 'natural', but this is often misleading. Whereas these elements may occur naturally on earth, they still need to be processed in a lab to assume their role in sunscreens.

Physical sunscreen is usually a heavier formula than its lightweight cousin, chemical sunscreen. However, newer mineral sunscreen formulas that use micronized zinc are more lightweight than traditional formulas.

Modern formulations (found in our Mineral Range) are becoming increasingly popular as they have reduced "white cast", improved UV protection and have a more comfortable, wearable feel on the skin.

How do Chemical and Mineral Sunscreens Work?

Much of the information out there will tell you that physical sunscreen works differently than chemical sunscreen by creating a physical barrier (hence the name) against UV light. However, current research on improving communications on sunscreen choice shows that physical UV filters perform in mostly the same way that chemical UV filters do.

The simplified explanation you often see ("mineral = reflect, chemical = absorb") was useful when mineral sunscreens used large Zinc Oxide particles, but modern science and micronized zinc particles blur that line.

To some extent, physical sunscreen does create a barrier that reflects or scatters UV rays away from the skin's surface. But studies into metal oxide sunscreens have shown that physical sunscreen reflects just 4-5% of UV rays, while absorbing the rest, just like chemical sunscreens.

Ultimately, both chemical and physical (mineral) sunscreens work the same way — they protect the skin by absorbing UV rays from the sun and converting them to heat that is then released harmlessly.

What is the Difference Between Physical and Chemical Sunscreen?

The key difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens is the type(s) of UV filters used.

Chemical sunscreens use a variety of different filters (all organic), allowing them to cover the full spectrum of UVA and UVB rays. Occasionally, these filters can break down when used on their own after being exposed to sunlight. This is why you will see a combination of chemical UV filters as they work best in unison, to provide stable, long-lasting protection. These formulations are often thinner, making them ideal for daily use.

With a combination of UV filters, the wavelength range covered is greater.

This is with only one UV filter, which covers mainly in the UVB wavelength.

There is a lot of fear-mongering out there regarding chemical sunscreens, in that the common UV filters can be harmful. However, it is important to note that sunscreens are highly regulated in Australia. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) carefully evaluates ingredients to ensure they are safe for use on human skin. All of the ingredients in our formulas are present at levels deemed safe by regulatory bodies in Australia.

In fact, newer chemical UV filters are bringing about a revolution in sun care. With higher performing UVA and UVB filters with lower overall concentrations, formulations can feel even more lightweight on the skin.

Like our all new GOOD SPORT High Performance Sunscreen SPF50+, which is designed with a breathable mesh barrier, delivering extreme protection without the weight. This 4-hour water resistant and sweat-resistant formula glides on smoothly and defends your skin like a pro. If you ever had a reason for not wearing sunscreen, these "next-gen" filters might just change your mind!

Mineral sunscreens can feel heavier on the skin and use a more limited range of inorganic UV filters (primarily Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide), and can be used on their own as they are known to protect almost the entire spectrum of UV. These formulas are often preferred by those with sensitive or blemish-prone skin as they contain fewer active ingredients — meaning they can be less likely to cause skin irritation or adverse reactions, simply due to less ingredients = less of a chance.

Zinc Oxide as an ingredient in cosmetics can be known to reduce redness and inflammation in acne-prone skin or other conditions like rosacea. In sunscreens, it not only provides broad-spectrum UV protection but may also help calm the skin and reduce UV-induced redness.

The trade-off? Unfortunately, these ingredients can be known to leave a minimal white cast as their particles tend to scatter UV light.

Chemical vs Mineral Sunscreen: Which Should I Use?

If you're weighing up chemical vs. mineral sunscreen, there are a few different factors to consider before making your decision.

Skin-type

Many dermatologists recommend mineral sunscreens for those with sensitive skin or skin conditions as they have fewer ingredients which may mean less chance of a reaction. This is why mineral sunscreens might be your best choice of sunscreen if pregnant, breast-feeding or you're looking for the best sunscreen for babies and children. In that case, our BUBS Baby Mineral SPF50+ is dermatologically tested, fragrance free and designed specifically with your little one's delicate skin in mind.

Keep in mind, reactions will always vary on the individual, so it's always a good idea to patch test on your skin before applying on all areas of your body.

But before you believe Mineral formulas are the only option for sensitive skin, they may not be for everyone, as they tend to be heavier formula which may leave a white cast when applied to your skin, making it less ideal for darker skin tones. In saying that, our range of Mineral Sunscreens are lightweight and suitable for all skin tones.

Our Sensitive Sunscreen SPF50+ has been our #1 best-selling product since We Are Feel Good Inc launched in 2016, as it's proven a cult-favourite amongst those with sensitive skin. This lightweight formula is dermatologically tested, fragrance free and clinically proven for use on sensitive skin, so you can benefit from the durable protection of a chemical sunscreen.

Water Resistance

You should also consider what you are going to be doing when using sunscreen, as mineral sunscreens can provide less water resistant protection. Our range of OG (chemical) sunscreens provide up to 4 hours water resistant protection, while our mineral sunscreens typically offer up to 2 hours water resistant protection.

Searching for the best possible coverage while in the water? Our Sticky Zinc SPF50+ uses a hybrid formulation of both Zinc Oxide and chemical UV filters for broad-spectrum protection and highly effective water resistance.

Even though our sunscreen is proven to stay effective in water for up to 4 hours, reapplying every 2 hours is recommended during swimming or heavy sweating. This ensures your protection remains consistent, as towel-drying, rubbing, or prolonged activity can remove some of the sunscreen from your skin.

Broad-spectrum

The most important thing to remember when comparing sunscreens is to look at the level of protection that it gives against UV exposure. Sunscreens are often formulated with a blend of UV filters to create a more effective product. This combination helps counterbalance the shortcomings of individual filters, leading to a broader, more reliable spectrum of UV protection.

When looking for the best sunscreen, look for the term broad-spectrum. This means the formulation blocks both UVA and UVB rays, protecting your skin from the visible signs of ageing and sunburn. All We Are Feel Good Inc. sunscreens are broad spectrum and SPF50.

We Are Feel Good Inc. — Sunscreen for Every Body

We offer both chemical and mineral sunscreens to suit all different preferences and skin types, while still providing effective sun protection. Most of our sunscreens are formulated using a combination of UV filters to ensure you get the best protection.

From mineral formulations to chemical combos, our sunscreens are designed to suit every body, every day.

Looking for something hydrating? Our range includes SPF moisturisers, like We Are Feel Good Inc. Good Morning SPF 50 daily face lotion — also available in a fragrance free option.

Want a sunscreen that will transport you to an island holiday? We Are Feel Good Inc. Coconut Sunscreen SPF 50+ or Tropical Sunscreen SPF 50+ both smell like a holiday in a bottle and feel like an oasis on your skin.

Whatever you are looking for, we're confident that we have a sunscreen that's right for you. And remember, when it comes to choosing your sunscreen, there is no one-size-fits-all perfect sunscreen. At the end of the day, it comes down to what feels best on your skin.

***Use sunscreen liberally and reapply according to product directions. Avoid prolonged exposure. Sunscreen is only one component of sun protection, it is important to wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, hats and protective eyewear when exposed to the sun. Remember to apply sunscreen 20 minutes before sun exposure.