Distinction Between Sunscreens Based on Minerals and Chemicals
Preparing for Summer Fun Requires Sunscreen, But Which Type is Best?
As beach season approaches, ensuring your sunscreen is readily stocked in your beach bag or backpack is crucial. A sun hat, water bottle, and sunscreen are all essential items, but the question remains: Mineral or chemical?
The Cleveland Clinic, a non-profit academic medical center, provides insights on the differences between these two types of sunscreen and how to make an informed decision.
Choosing Between Mineral and Chemical Sunscreens
Applying some form of sun protection is vital when basking in the sun to avoid sunburns, skin poisoning, and the potential risk of skin cancers such as melanoma.
Two main types of sunscreen available are mineral and chemical sunscreens, which can easily be identified by how they are labeled and their listed ingredients.
How They Work
Mineral Sunscreen
Known as organic or physical sunscreen, mineral sunscreen is characterized by its thicker, heavier texture. According to dermatology resident Taylor Bullock, MD, mineral sunscreens protect the skin by reflecting ultraviolet light from the sun. Key ingredients include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
Chemical Sunscreen
Chemical sunscreen is lightweight and contains ingredients such as avobenzone, oxybenzone, and octinoxate. These ingredients absorb UV rays and prevent them from reaching the skin.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Mineral Sunscreen
Pros:- Suitable for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.- The immediate protection provided upon application.- Less liable to clog pores.
Cons:- A denser, goopier texture that can feel heavier on the skin.- May cause a white cast on the skin, particularly on darker skin tones.
Chemical Sunscreen
Pros:- Easier application due to a lighter texture.- Transparent upon application, blending more easily with the skin tone.- Often water-resistant, making it a good choice for outdoor activities and swimming.
Cons:- May cause allergic reactions or irritation in some cases.- Requires between 20 minutes to absorb upon application before becoming effective.- Concerns over absorption of certain ingredients into the skin.
Which Sunscreen is Better?
Both mineral and chemical sunscreens have their merits, with the best sunscreen for an individual largely boiling down to personal preference.
Dermatology resident Taylor Bullock emphasizes, "What matters most is that you use a sunscreen that you are willing to apply consistently."
Some studies have raised concerns about ingredients in chemical sunscreens such as oxybenzone and avobenzone, leading to an increased preference for mineral sunscreens. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) deemed two main mineral sunscreen ingredients safe in 2019.
Regardless of the type of sunscreen chosen, experts agree that any sunscreen is better than no sunscreen at all. Those with questions about specific ingredients or potential effects may wish to consult their healthcare provider or dermatologist.
In the realm of sun protection, two primary types of sunscreen are mineral and chemical, each offering unique advantages and disadvantages for users. Mineral sunscreen, identified by key ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, works by reflecting ultraviolet light, while chemical sunscreen, with ingredients like avobenzone and oxybenzone, absorbs UV rays. When making a choice, it's crucial to consider factors like texture, water resistance, potential allergies, and the absorption of certain ingredients into the skin. Ultimately, the best sunscreen is the one that an individual is willing to consistently apply, as both mineral and chemical sunscreens play a vital role in preventing sunburns, skin poisoning, and potential skin cancers.
