Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreen

Physical sunscreen is made using inorganic filters that don't absorb into the skin, whereas chemical sunscreen is made using organic filters.

Protecting your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays is a universally acknowledged necessity, but have you ever considered the differences between formulas when choosing sunscreen?

Given the sheer number of sunscreens available, choosing the perfect one for you can be a confusing and overwhelming task. But did you know that there are only two types of sunscreen? There is chemical sunscreen and there is physical sunscreen.

Physical and chemical sunscreens both serve the same purpose: absorbing and converting UV rays to prevent damage to your skin. Understanding the differences between physical and chemical sunscreen will help you make informed choices about your sun protection.

So, just what is the difference between the two?

Both have their pros and cons, depending on your skin, what you're doing when wearing it, and other factors. Let's take a look at the differences between physical and chemical sunscreen, how they work, and how to choose the right sunscreen for you.

What is Chemical Sunscreen?

Chemical sunscreen is formulated using a combination of organic chemicals that contain carbon and act as UV filters. This is the most popular and common type of sunscreen. Organic UV filters are also known as chemical filters because the molecules within them change to prevent UV radiation from penetrating the skin.

The active ingredients work by absorbing the UV light that hits the skin converting it into heat, which is then harmlessly released from the body.

Chemical sunscreens tend to be a more lightweight formula and more high-performance than physical sunscreen, meaning that they typically last longer and are lightweight, easier to apply and leave no white cast.

What is Physical Sunscreen? (Mineral Sunscreen)

Mineral (or physical) sunscreen, uses inorganic filters (i.e. minerals) including Titanium Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, and Zinc Oxide as UV filters or are carbon-based. These formulations can often be considered all ‘natural’, but this is often misleading. Whereas these elements may occur naturally on earth, they still need to be processed in a lab to assume their role in sunscreens.

Physical sunscreen is usually a more heavy formula than it’s lightweight cousin, chemical sunscreen. However, newer mineral sunscreen formulas that use micronised zinc are more lightweight than traditional formulas. These new formulations are less likely to clog pores, and much easier to apply.

Modern formulations (like Mineral Sunscreen SPF50+ from We Are Feel Good Inc.) are becoming increasingly popular as they have reduced “white cast” i.e. a pale film that older formulations often leave on top of the skin.

How do Chemical and Physical Sunscreens Work?

Much of the information out there will tell you that physical sunscreen works differently than chemical sunscreen by creating a physical barrier (hence the name) against UV light. However, current research on improving communications on sunscreen choice shows that physical UV filters perform in mostly the same way that chemical UV filters do.

To some extent, physical sunscreen does create a barrier that reflects or scatters UV rays away from the skin's surface. But studies into metal oxide sunscreens have shown that physical sunscreen reflects just 4-5% of UV rays, while absorbing the rest, just like chemical sunscreens.

Ultimately, both chemical and physical (mineral) sunscreens work the same way - they protect the skin by absorbing UV rays from the sun and converting them to heat that is then released harmlessly.

What is the Difference Between Physical and Chemical Sunscreen?

The key difference between physical and chemical sunscreens is the type(s) of UV filters used. 

Chemical sunscreens use a variety of different filters (all organic), providing more options when choosing a sunscreen. These formulations are often thinner, making them ideal for daily use.

While physical sunscreens can feel heavier on the skin and use a more limited range of inorganic filters, they are often preferred by those with sensitive or blemish-prone skin. They contain fewer active ingredients meaning they can be less likely to cause skin irritation or adverse reactions. Other Zinc Oxide benefits include reducing redness and inflammation in acne-prone skin or other conditions like rosacea.

Chemical vs Physical Sunscreen: Which Should I Use?

If you're weighing up chemical vs physical sunscreen, there are a few different factors to consider. Many dermatologists recommend mineral sunscreens for those with sensitive skin or skin conditions since they have fewer ingredients which may mean less chance of a reaction. However, this will always vary on the individual, so it’s always a good idea to patch test on your skin before applying on all areas of your body.

But don't completely discount chemical sunscreens just yet: Sensitive Sunscreen SPF50+ from We Are Feel Good Inc. is gentle enough to use on sensitive skin, so you can still benefit from the durable protection of a chemical sunscreen.

Physical aka mineral sunscreen is often a heavier formula that can be more difficult to apply. Thick formulas usually cause a white cast, making it less ideal for darker skin tones. We Are Feel Good Inc.'s Mineral Sunscreen SPF50+, however, is lightweight and suitable for all skin tones.

You should also consider what you are going to be doing when using sunscreen, as mineral sunscreens tend not to last as long as chemical sunscreens and are less water resistant (note how we don't say waterproof sunscreen as there's no such thing).

The most important thing to remember when comparing physical sunscreen vs chemical sunscreen is the protection that it gives against UV exposure. The best sunscreens are broad-spectrum SPF50 or 50+. Given that it blocks both UVA and UVB rays, naturally broad-spectrum protection offers the best protection available and is more effective at preventing sun damage and premature ageing.

Physical and chemical sunscreens work in basically the same way, so simply pick a sunscreen that is broad-spectrum, SPF 50 or above, and that you are happy to wear every day, and you're onto a winner.

We Are Feel Good Inc. - Sunscreen for Every Body

We offer both chemical and physical sunscreens to suit all different preferences and skin types, while still providing effective sun protection. Most of our sunscreens are formulated using a combination of organic filters, meaning that they are chemical sunscreens and don't contain Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide.

Whether you're team chemical sunscreen or team physical sunscreen, we have sunscreens that are perfect for every body.

Looking for something hydrating? Our range includes SPF moisturisers, like We Are Feel Good Inc. Good Morning SPF 50 daily face lotion - now available in a fragrance-free option.

Want a sunscreen that doesn't have that typical sunscreen smell? We Are Feel Good Inc. Coconut Sunscreen SPF 50+ or Wild Rosella Sunscreen SPF 50+ both smell amazing.

Searching for the best possible coverage while in the water? We Are Feel Good Inc. Sticky Zinc SPF50+ uses Zinc Oxide and a combination of chemical ingredients for effective broad-spectrum protection with great water resistance.

Chasing a simple sunscreen that gets the job done? We Are Feel Good Inc.Signature Sunscreen SPF 50+ has minimal ingredients, making it great for all bodies.

Whatever you are looking for, we're confident that we have a sunscreen that's right for you. And remember, when it comes to choosing your sunscreen, there is no one-size-fits-all perfect sunscreen. At the end of the day, it comes down to what feels best on your skin.

***Use sunscreen liberally and reapply according to product directions. Avoid prolonged exposure. Sunscreen is only one component of sun protection, it is important to wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, hats and protective eyewear when exposed to the sun. Remember to apply sunscreen 20 minutes before sun exposure.