Now that my family is outside for much of the day, we use plenty of sunscreen to prevent sunburn and UV damage. There are two main types of sunscreen: mineral and chemical. Usually, you can tell which one is which by the label and the ingredients. The blog post is about the difference between the two and whether one is better than the other.

Mineral sunscreen, also known as organic or physical sunscreen, has a heavier, thicker texture than chemical sunscreens. Mineral sunscreens contain active ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Ingredients found in mineral sunscreens work as a shield against the sun’s rays. The sunscreen sits on the skin’s surface and reflects UV rays away from the skin.

Meanwhile, chemical sunscreens contain chemical ingredients. Rather than reflecting sun rays, chemical sunscreens absorb the sun’s rays and prevent them from reaching the skin. Their chemical compounds include avobenzone, oxybenzone, and octinoxate.

So which one is better? Overall, it depends on personal preference, though in recent years, mineral sunscreen has been the preferred choice for kids. However, both types achieve the same goal: protecting your skin from the sun.

By Diane Alavie, BSc. Phm.