What’s the Difference Between Mineral and Chemical Sunscreen?

The importance of wearing sunscreen cannot be stressed enough. Sunscreen helps protect our skin from harmful UV rays that can cause severe damage, skin aging, and even skin cancer. However, choosing the right sunscreen can be a bit of a challenge, especially with the vast array of options available on the market. 

The two main types of sunscreen are mineral and chemical, and it is important to know their differences to determine which is best for your skin needs. In this blog, we’ll dive into their differences, how they work, and which is best for you.

Mineral Sunscreen: How Does it Work?

Mineral (also called physical) sunscreen uses titanium dioxide or zinc oxide to create a barrier on the skin that reflects UV rays, preventing damage and sunburn. This type of sunscreen is stable and won’t oxidize or interact with cosmetics or other skincare products. 

Mineral sunscreens are a good choice for daily use and sensitive skin because they are gentler on the skin than chemical sunscreens. They are also ideal for those with rosacea, acne, or allergies since they sit atop the skin rather than penetrating it. 

It is also recommended to apply mineral sunscreen to babies’ skin.

Take a look at our different mineral protections from sprays to creams

Mineral Body Sunscreen Spray COOLA

Mineral Sunscreen Face Moisturizer COOLA

Mineral Sunscreen COOLA Sun Silk

Chemical Sunscreen: Your Outdoor Buddy!

Chemical sunscreen, on the other hand, uses complex filters to absorb UV rays. They penetrate the skin and work by absorbing the sun’s rays, converting them into heat, and then releasing them from the body. Chemical sunscreen needs to be reapplied every 1.5-2 hours, especially when swimming or sweating. 

Furthermore, the user must allow 20-30 minutes for the sunscreen to penetrate the skin before exposing themselves to UV rays. Chemical sunscreen is preferred for outdoor activities or sports and high sun exposure.

There is a wide choice of chemical sunscreens. Take a look at our online store to find out more! 

Organic Fragrance Free Body Sunscreen COOLA

Esthederm Sun Intolerance Care Sun Ultimate Cream

Esthederm Adaptasun Sea And Tropics Face Sunscreen

How Much Sunscreen Should I Apply ?

To ensure adequate protection, it is important to apply the recommended amount of sunscreen. Most experts recommend using an ounce of sunscreen, which is around the size of a shot glass, to cover your entire body. 

If applying sunscreen to the face, use roughly a dime-sized amount of product. Inadequate applications would result in uneven or incomplete coverage, leading to increased skin exposure to the sun’s damaging radiation.

Which Type of Sunscreen Should I Choose?

Sunscreen now comes in a variety of textures and application methods. Options include tinted or white creams, spray-on products and oils. If you like to wear make-up, there are also several fantastic options that can complement your beauty routine such as compact and loose powder or even make-up primers and setting sprays. 

No more excuses to protect your skin!

Esthederm Sunshine Care Powder 2 suns

Organic Mineral Face Sunscreen COOLA – BB Cream

Jane Iredale Amazing Base Loose Mineral Powder

Organic Spray Sunscreen and Makeup Setting COOLA

If you’re struggling to find the perfect sunscreen for you, consulting with a skincare expert can provide personalized recommendations. A skincare expert can help you determine which type of sunscreen or barrier product is suitable for your skin type and the activities you will be doing outdoors.

EQlib Medispa Is Here to Help!

Choosing the right type of protection is crucial to keep your skin healthy and safe from the harmful effects of UV rays. By understanding the difference between these two types of sunscreen, you can choose the right one for your lifestyle and skin type with confidence.

If you’re still not sure which one to take, don’t hesitate to contact us or leave us a comment, and we’ll be happy to advise you.

Enjoy the summer season!

Helene