
Mineral Sunscreen Vs Chemical Sunscreen
Mineral sunscreen and chemical sunscreen refer to the types of UV filters that a sunscreen uses to protect from the sun’s rays. While both protect from UVA and UVB rays, the way they protect the skin differs.
- A mineral (or physical) sunscreen works like a sun “block”, reflecting the sun’s rays, usually has a thicker texture that leaves a cast on the skin, but starts working to protect the skin immediately.
- A chemical sunscreen works by absorbing the sun’s rays to convert to heat and release out of the skin, are more lightweight and easy to blend, but it can take 20 minutes before it starts working.
- Both chemical and mineral sunscreens can be broad-spectrum and protect from UVA and UVB rays, so choosing between the two is a personal preference.
- Some sunscreens are formulated to include both mineral and chemical UV filters for very high sun protection.
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between the two types of sunscreen, their benefits and disadvantages, so you can choose the right sun protection for your skin needs.


WHAT IS MINERAL SUNSCREEN?
Sometimes called “physical” sunscreen, mineral sunscreens contain particles of minerals—either titanium dioxide and zinc oxide—that sit on the skin's surface to block, reflect and scatter ultraviolet (UV) rays. Mineral formulas tend to have a thick, white texture that can leave a white cast on the skin. Pure mineral sunscreens can also be called sunblock (as they “block” from the sun) and may come in the form of lotion, cream, balm or zinc “stick”.
What are the benefits of mineral sunscreen?
The main benefits of mineral sunscreen are:
● Gentle formula more suited to sensitive skin.
● Mineral sunscreen is photostable, meaning it doesn’t respond to sun exposure and has a longer shelf life.
● Physical barrier that starts working right away.
What are the disadvantages of mineral sunscreen?
The downside to mineral formulas usually comes down to its texture and appearance. Some of the cons to consider are:
● Leave a white cast on the skin, which is especially noticeable on darker skin.
● Thicker in texture, requiring more effort to rub in.
● Not always water resistant and may require more frequent reapplication.
WHAT IS CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN?
Chemical (also known as organic) sunscreen contains filters that absorb UV light to protect the skin. They use a carbon-based compound, like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, or octisalate. With chemical sunscreen, the UV rays are absorbed, converted into heat to be released out of the skin; basically working like a chemical reaction. Chemical sunscreens tend to be more lightweight in texture and blend into the skin, which makes them the preferred choice for layering under makeup.
What are the benefits of chemical sunscreen?
The key benefits to a chemical sunscreen are:
● Lighter in texture and blends into the skin
● Won't leave a white cast like mineral sunscreens
● Formulated to be water- and sweat-resistant
What are the disadvantages of chemical sunscreen?
The main cons to consider with chemical sunscreen are:
● Some formulas can be harsh on sensitive skin.
● Takes time to absorb (around 20 minutes before being effective).
● Can degrade when exposed to sunlight and be less effective.
COMPARING MINERAL AND CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN
Mineral sunscreens | Chemical sunscreens | |
---|---|---|
Filter type | Reflects UV rays | Absorbs UV rays |
Ingredients | Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | Oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, and octisalate |
Texture | Thicker texture. Comes in the form of cream, balm or zinc “stick” | Light-weight texture, often in the form of a cream or lotion |
Appearance | Can leave a white cast on the skin and be harder to blend | Blends easily into the skin, won’t leave a white residue |
Skin sensitivity | Non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin | Some formulas can irritate sensitive skin, particularly oxybenzone |
Absorption | Works immediately | Takes around 20 minutes to absorb into the skin |
Shelf life | Stable with a longer shelf life | Product efficacy can degrade when exposed to the sun or improperly stored, leading to a shorter shelf life. |

WHICH IS BETTER: MINERAL OR CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN?
Neither mineral nor chemical sunscreens are the “better” choice, rather the choice will depend on your personal preference. The most important factor in choosing a sunscreen is that it’s broad-spectrum, meaning it provides both UVA and UVB protection, and that it has an SPF (sun protection factor) of 50+. Both chemical and mineral sunscreens can be formulated to be broad-spectrum with an SPF 50+, so the choice is up to you. There are also hybrid sunscreens that are formulated with both mineral and chemical ingredients for increased efficacy.
WHAT ARE THE BEST MINERAL AND CHEMICAL SUNSCREENS?
La Roche-Posay’s range of sunscreens are formulated with both mineral and chemical filters to provide the most effective sun protection throughout the year. We have a range of sunscreens to suit different skin types.

FOR NORMAL TO COMBINATION SKIN
Free from fragrance and parabens and formulated with antioxidant-rich thermal spring water, Anthelios Invisible Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+ offers high-level protection for sensitive skin.
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FOR OILY & BLEMISH-PRONE SKIN
Lightweight and non-greasy, Anthelios XL Anti-Shine Dry Touch Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+ is the ideal pairing for oily, blemish-prone sensitive skin types. It includes a mattifying ingredient perlite—an anti-sweat molecule that can absorb sebum, sweat and oil for a matte finish.

FOR DRY SKIN
Dry skin is protected and nourished with Anthelios Ultra Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+. With a lightweight, moisturising formula, this sunscreen delivers non-greasy, broad-spectrum protection without leaving a thick cast over the skin.
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FOR WATER-RESISTANT PROTECTION
Anthelios XL Wet Skin Sunscreen SPF 50+ delivers very high broad-spectrum protection suitable for the entire family, with 4 hours water-resistance. Non-greasy, with an invisible finish, it can be applied to wet or dry skin.

FOR SUN PROTECTION AND LIGHT COVERAGE
For a multi-purpose formula, the Uvidea Anthelios Tinted BB Cream moisturises and protects the skin from sun exposure while providing light coverage for the face.
Read more about how to choose a sunscreen for your skin type here.
ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE.
Apply 20 minutes before sun exposure. Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection so wear protective clothing and seek shade. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming, towelling and perspiring in accordance with directions.
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