While some skincare terms might be interchangeable, mineral and chemical sunscreen are two very different products, and knowing the difference can help you choose the one that’s best for your skin type and goals. In this article, we’ll discuss the differences between mineral vs. chemical sunscreen and address some common myths.
How Does Sun Damage Work?
The primary goal of most sunscreens is to protect the skin from sunburn and sun damage.
Part of the reason why sun damage occurs is that the sun’s rays can cause free radicals, which are unstable molecules that damage cells and DNA, to begin spreading throughout the skin’s outer layer. Luckily, you can help combat them by eating antioxidant-rich foods and applying antioxidant-rich products.
You might not notice signs of sun damage immediately, but they add up over time. Eventually, UV radiation damages collagen fibers and melanin-producing cells in the skin, contributing to signs like wrinkles and dark spots.
How Do Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen Compare?
Now that we have a general understanding of how sun damage works, we can look at the basic differences between mineral and chemical sunscreens. Mineral sunscreen (sometimes called physical sunscreen or sunblock) works by physically blocking the sun’s rays from ever reaching your skin.
On the other side of things, chemical sunscreens work by converting the sun’s damaging UV radiation into heat, which is then released back into the atmosphere. In this case, the rays are converted before they have a chance to begin the chain of free radical damage.
Both products feature different types of ingredients. While mineral sunscreens are made with active mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, chemical sunscreens rely on chemical agents like avobenzone and oxybenzone.
The ingredients in mineral and chemical sunscreen interact with your skin in different ways. Mineral sunscreen sits on top of the skin like a shield, while chemical sunscreen absorbs into the skin to work from within.
What Are Some Myths About Mineral Sunscreen?
In the past, the sunscreen market has been dominated by chemical options, and it’s largely because the first mineral sunscreen options weren’t the most pleasant to use.
However, skincare technology has come a long way since the ‘80s, and now there are mineral sunscreens that are even more luxurious than chemical products — not to mention the fact that mineral sunscreens are also reef-safe, while chemical formulas are not.
Read on to learn four myths and realities of mineral sunscreen.
1. It Has a White Cast
The first iterations of mineral sunscreen were infamous for leaving a noticeable white layer of minerals on top of the skin. This was so common that you might still see it highlighted for comedic effect in movies.
We’re pleased to let you know that mineral sunscreens haven’t done that in years. For instance, our Silky Sun Drops 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 soaks into your skin like a hydrating serum, leaving behind no white cast or oily sheen.
2. It’ll Clog Your Pores
Older formulas of mineral sunscreen were made with thick, oily ingredients designed to help the minerals stay on your skin for longer. However, this was known to cause breakouts for those with oily or blemish-prone skin.
Nowadays, mineral sunscreens are made with lightweight oils that are non-comedogenic, meaning they won’t clog your pores. Instead, they gently hydrate and nourish the skin, encouraging radiance while also providing sun protection.
Our Silky Sun Drops are made with Chia Seed Oil, Glycerin, Raspberry Seed Oil, and Squalane, which help keep the sun-blocking minerals close to the skin without trapping blemish-causing bacteria.
3. It Doesn’t Stay On
We get it — when you’re on the beach or on a hike with some friends, the last thing you want to do is take breaks to reapply sunscreen. All sunscreens do wear off at some point, but older mineral sunscreen formulas used to have a significantly shorter window of effectiveness. This was mainly because the thick formulas could easily be washed away by water or sweat.
As we said, skincare has come a long way since then. Now, mineral sunscreen has a similar reapplication time as chemical sunscreen. Both types of sunscreen should be reapplied about two hours after you first applied them, especially if you’ve been swimming or sweating.
4. It Doesn’t Sit Well Under Makeup
Thick, oily products don’t pair well with foundation, so you can probably imagine the reputation mineral sunscreen had in the beauty world back in the ‘80s.
However, mineral sunscreen is now a normal part of many skincare routines. There are even plenty of foundations, BB creams, and skin tints out there that contain mineral sunscreen to add an extra layer of sun-safe security.
Many mineral sunscreens, such as our Silky Sun Drops, have a smooth, velvety texture similar to a hydrating serum or a lightweight skin oil. Our sunscreen melts into the skin, providing protection while priming it for your makeup routine. You won’t find any sticky or oily residue here.
Meet Our Silky Sun Drops
The delicate skin of the face requires a little more care than the rest of the body. This is why SPF designed specifically for the face often contains other ingredients to support this sensitive skin.
In our Silky Sun Drops, you’ll find the following ingredients:
- Raspberry Seed Oil: Has intrinsic sun-protection properties and skin-loving vitamins.
- Ectoin: Provides antioxidant benefits to help visibly minimize the effects of sun damage.
- Chia Seed Oil: Moisturizes while providing antioxidant support.
- Algica®: Helps the skin look and feel moisturized while protecting against environmental stressors.
- Noni Fruit: Rich in vitamins and minerals that encourage visible skin rejuvenation.
Our formula is your new go-to for beach days (and every day).
The Bottom Line
Mineral sunscreen is made using ingredients that block the sun’s rays from reaching the skin. Meanwhile, chemical sunscreen uses chemicals to neutralize UV radiation after it’s already reached the skin.
At KORA Organics, we are dedicated to providing skincare products that nourish skin, mind, and soul. Our mineral sunscreen is only one in a lineup of options designed for every step of your skincare routine. Shop our collection today to see how our products can support your skin.
Sources:
Sunscreen and Your Morning Routine | Johns Hopkins Medicine
How does sunscreen work? Understanding UV protection | UT MD Anderson