According to Dr. Nazarian, the key difference between physical (mineral) and chemical sunscreens is in how they protect against ultraviolet radiation. Mineral sunscreens create a protective barrier that blocks UV light from reaching the skin, while chemical sunscreens absorb UV light and convert it into a form less harmful from skin.
Mineral and chemical SPF varies in application, too. Per Dr. Nazarian, physical sunscreens tend to be less irritating, whereas chemical sunscreens are often more cosmetically appealing and lightweight. “Neither is ‘better’ than the other—they’re just different,” she stresses. Each year, companies continue to improve the cosmetic elegance of mineral sunscreens, making them smoother, more hydrating, and nearly invisible. Let’s also not forget the innovations in sunscreens from other countries, such as the best Korean sunscreens and the advancements in Japanese sunscreens.
Lastly, if you have sensitive skin (think: those with sensitive skin, including babies, children, individuals with rosacea, or those with allergies), mineral sunscreens are often a better choice. The reason being that they don’t contain harsh chemical sunscreen ingredients such as homosalate, octocrylene, octisalate, and avobenzone, which can exacerbate skin issues or cause allergic reactions.
