Applying a high quality sunscreen every day is an essential component of a
well-rounded skincare routine, as it will ensure your skin is protected from
harmful UV rays, which can cause a range of issues such as premature ageing
and pigmentation. Sunscreens can be divided into two categories: chemical
and mineral. But what's the difference and which one should you be using?
What is Chemical Sunscreen?
Chemical sunscreens are formulated with ingredients such as avobenzone and
oxybenzone, which can absorb UV light. This UV light is then transformed
into heat, which the skin can release with ease.
Chemical sunscreens are typically lightweight and don't feel thick or leave
a white cast on the skin. Formulations are also generally non-comedogenic
and well-tolerated by oily and combination skin.
What is Mineral Sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreens are formulated with ingredients such as titanium dioxide
and zinc oxide, which sit on the surface of the skin and both absorb and
deflect UV rays, preventing them from penetrating into the skin. Notably,
the ingredients in many mineral sunscreens are deemed as being reef-safe,
which means they aren't going to cause damage to coral and other marine life
in our oceans.
Mineral sunscreen formulations tend to be thicker and may feel heavy on the
skin. They are also easily washed away with water or sweat, so frequent
reapplication throughout the day will be necessary to stay fully protected.
Common Misconceptions About Chemical and Mineral Sunscreens
You may have seen articles online stating that mineral sunscreens don't
contain chemicals or that chemical sunscreens are harmful, however this is
misleading. Chemicals aren't inherently 'bad' and both chemical and mineral
sunscreens are formulated with chemicals. Let's not forget that even water
is a chemical! So, it can be more helpful to instead think of mineral
sunscreens as containing inorganic filters and chemical sunscreens as
containing organic filters, both of which can protect your skin.
Should I use Chemical or Mineral Sunscreen?
Choosing between chemical and mineral sunscreen is a very personal decision
and it's important to carefully consider your skin type when making your
choice. Ultimately, the best sunscreen for you is one you're happy to apply
every day!
The ingredients within chemical sunscreens can irritate acne-prone or
sensitive skin, causing discomfort, redness and itchiness. However, chemical
sunscreen formulations are often lighter, which can make them a better
choice for oily/combination skin.
Mineral sunscreen formulations are thicker and more likely to suit
dry/dehydrated skin. The ingredients are also less likely to cause
irritation and could therefore be ideal if your skin tends to be more
sensitive.
How to Choose a High Quality Sunscreen
The Heliocare range of sunscreens contains both chemical and mineral
options, with formulas to suit all skin types.
The Heliocare 360 Mineral Tolerance Fluid SPF 50 is an excellent example of
a mineral sunscreen, which is formulated with titanium dioxide and zinc
dioxide to offer high photoimmune protection against UVA, UVB, infrared and
visible rays. The non-comedogenic formula also features an antioxidant
complex which enhances its photoprotector action.
The Heliocare 360 Oil Free Gel SPF 50 is formulated with a combination of
chemical and mineral ingredients to offer excellent protection from UV rays.
This formula is also non-comedogenic and features an antioxidant complex for
additional skin protection.