What is the difference?
Chemical sunscreen contains compounds such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, and avobenzone. All of these works by absorbing the UV rays as they enter the skin. Physical sunscreens contain only active mineral ingredients such as titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide, which work by acting as a shield, deflecting the UV rays away from our skin. Both are effective, but simply work differently.
Let’s break it down…
Chemical Sunscreen:
- Usually a more cosmetically friendly formula, as it is thinner
- Less is needed to protect the skin
- Requires about 20 minutes after you apply before it starts working and typically you need to re-apply more frequently
- Absorbs UV rays and converts it to heat (Note: If you have heat induced melasma, then avoid chemical sunscreens)
Physical Sunscreen:
- Offers protection against UVA and UVB rays and is broad-spectrum
- Offers protection as soon as it’s applied
- Ideal for melasma
- Longer shelf life
- Less likely to clog pores
Regardless of which option you choose, make sure to reapply every two hours to have the maximum protection.
Difference Between UVA & UVB Rays:
- UVA (aging) – responsible for collagen breakdown, fine lines, pigmentation. You see the effects long term.
- UVB (burning) – responsible for burning the skin and what is associated with skin cancer. You see the effects immediately.
- You need broad spectrum to have BOTH!
Here is a breakdown of my favorite sun protectors by category!
Overall Top Picks:
For me personally, I love a tinted sun protection in a physical form. Intellishade TruPhysical from Revision is a foundation (with medium, beautiful coverage) and has SPF 45, which works on the aging process with antioxidants and peptides and leaves you DEWY! That to me means perfection in a bottle.
Intellishade Original: tinted, balanced, good for most skin types, dewy finish, hydrating, and is a SPF 45
Intellishade Matte: same as the original, but designed for oily skin leaving more of a matte finish
Intellishade TruPhysical: the exact same feeling and look as the original, but a physical block
My other go to if I want a lighter formula is ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Daily Mineral SPF 50, which comes in a tinted and untinted formula. This DUO pack is the one I always get. This is an all-mineral broad spectrum sun protection. It contains DNA Repairosomes, which are naturally occurring enzymes, which repair existing sun damage.
Favorite Sunscreen for Acne & Sensitive Skin:
Elta MD UV Clear is incredibly light-weight and contains Niacinamide, which helps both acne prone skin and sensitive skin. Most of my clients who can’t tolerate a lot of sunscreens do incredibly well with this one and never look back. It’s a crowd pleaser for the men in your life since it’s so light-weight. They do make a tinted version, which is a universal tint and I’ve yet to hear any negative feedback.
Favorite Sunscreen for The Athlete:
Elta MD UV Sport-Spectrum SPF 50 provides long-lasting protection during sun exposure and physical activities. It’s a favorite since it will not drip when sweating. The Zinc keeps both the UVA & UVB rays from causing damage. The formula dries to a clear finish and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and can be used on the entire body.
Favorite Powdered Sunscreen:
If you prefer a powder SPF that you can brush on then look no further! Colorscience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 comes in four shades. You can keep with you at all times and will not have to worry about melting or messy re-application. I keep one in my car for when I drive!
Favorite Mineral Tinted Sunscreen Primer and Color Corrector:
Unsun Mineral Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30 is a primer and color corrector in one! The formula covers a range of skin tones which you can use strictly as a primer or as your last step without makeup. The blend of natural extracts leaves your skin feeling moisturized, and pores minimized and breathable.
Favorite Scalp Protection:
This is a biggie for my family. Myself and my daughter are prone to getting scalp burns and this SAVES us! Supergoop’s Poof Part Powder contains SPF 45 in a mineral-based formula. You cannot even tell it’s there, which we love. Ideal for long beach/pool days!
Favorite Lip SPF:
Supergoop Play Lip Balm SPF 30 keeps your lips hydrated with shea butter, and offers great protection. I tend to develop that lip liner caused by the sun so I must wear a 30 or higher SPF to keep my lips protected. If you are just going in and out and want a lighter protection – I love Jane Iredale’s Lip Drink SPF 15, which comes in a variety of beautiful colors.
Favorite Kid and Body Sunscreen:
Hands down my favorite for our family is Elta Pure Broad Spectrum SPF 47 and Elta MD UV Active Broad Spectrum SPF 50. Pure is my go-to since I have been using it the longest. It is ideal for children and adults and applies effortlessly to wet or dry skin and does not leave behind a thick residue. Last summer I feel in love with the Active, which is also a physical sunscreen. It will not rinse off or drip into the eyes, which is not what made me love it for the kids! It protects against UVB and UVA rays and rubs in quickly.
Favorite Sprays:
Elta MD UV Aero provides sheer, but confident protection. It sprays white then dries clear once rubbed in making it a good choice.
Play 100% Minderal Body Mist SPF 50 is a lightweight, zinc formula. This also sprays on white and blends in clear.
Favorite Stick Sunscreen:
Sunnyscreen 100% Mineral Stick SPF 50 is a zinc formula, non-nano mineral formula and is fragrance-free, silicone-free, hypoallergenic and easy to apply. It is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Favorite Drugstore Sunscreen:
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 100
Leave a Reply