Mineral Vs. Chemical Sunscreen - Know Your Product Before Putting Your hands on It

 The toxic impact of the sun rays on the skin is already known to all. Prolonged exposure to the sun may cause sunburn, hyperpigmentation & severe skin diseases, like skin cancer. That's the major driving reason why doctors recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen in order to stay protected from irrecoverable damages. 

In September 2018, JAMA Dermatology reveals a study on sunscreen that regular sunscreen application in adults is directly related to the reduced risk of melanoma. It's needless to say that every sunscreen is made differently and its workaround changes as per the ingredients and benefits. Here, we'll understand the fine line between a mineral or physical sunscreen and chemical sunscreen.

How Do Chemical and Mineral Sunscreen Work?

First of all, let's all know that chemical and mineral, both types of sunscreen protect our skin from the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun. However, the way they work on the skin subsequently differs from each other.

Chemical sunscreen allows the sunrays to penetrate the skin. As soon as the rays get absorbed, a chemical reaction is created that converts the UV lights into heat. Later the heat gradually evaporates from the skin. 

On the other hand, mineral sunscreen is nothing but the small particles of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. This type of sunscreen sits on your skin and prevents UV rays to penetrate skin. It directly reflects the sun rays and protects your skin from heat and damage.

Chemical Vs. Mineral Sunscreen

The FDA (Food & Drug Administration has regulated all the sunscreens to be safe and all of them are made available as OTC drugs in stores. Despite the approval, several studies have shown that certain chemicals like oxybenzone may cause allergic reactions to the skin. Now here we are to identify the basic pros and cons of both chemical and mineral sunscreen. 

Pros of Chemical Sunscreen

Unlike mineral sunscreen, chemical sunscreen doesn't leave a white film on the skin, thus, it's quite easy to use. And they protect your skin for quite a long time from the sun rays. 

Cons of Chemical Sunscreen

People with sensitive skin, melasma, rosacea, and acne problems, often confront allergic reactions to chemical sunscreen. This kind of sunscreen may often worsen the intensity of such skin problems.

Pros of Mineral Sunscreen

Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, the two major ingredients of mineral sunscreen are rewarded as effective and safe by the FDA. For children and people with sensitive skin and other skin problems, mineral sunscreen is the best choice. It directly reflects the sunlight instead of letting it penetrate the skin. And the best part is, it starts working immediately after application, so no waiting time needed before facing the sun.

Cons of Mineral Sunscreen

As mineral sunscreen sits on the top of the skin, it might worsen the effects of acne. As it leaves white films on the skin, mineral sunscreen is harder to apply and should be applied more frequently than chemical ones.

The Bottom Note

Among the two types, mineral sunscreen is certainly a better and healthier choice. Though it's hard to blend and requires frequent application, it's definitely a safer choice for long-term sun exposure. Before you choose your everyday sun-shield, ensure it comes with SPF 15+ and higher with broad-spectrum properties to protect you from both UVA and UVB sun rays.