Mineral SPF vs Chemical SPF – What’s the Difference?

07-06-2024 | Posted in: Blogs, Face Treatments, Products, Skin Treatments

In the world of skincare, sun protection is a non-negotiable step. However, with the multitude of options available, choosing the right sunscreen can be daunting. Among the most common and often debated options are mineral SPF and chemical SPF, which we will get into below, discussing their ingredients, benefits, drawbacks, and suitability for different skin types. As a leading aesthetics company offering only the best medical-grade skincare, we’ll also provide our expert recommendations to help you make an informed decision.

What is SPF?

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures the level of protection a sunscreen provides against UVB rays, the primary cause of sunburn and skin cancer. While SPF does not measure UVA protection, broad-spectrum sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays, offering more comprehensive skin protection.

Mineral SPF

Pros of Mineral SPF

Immediate Protection: Starts working immediately upon application.
Gentle on Skin: Less likely to cause irritation, making it ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Environmental Safety: Less harmful to coral reefs and marine life compared to some chemical sunscreens.

Cons of Mineral SPF

White Cast: Can leave a white or chalky residue on the skin, particularly on darker skin tones.
Thicker Texture: Often has a thicker consistency, which some people may find less appealing.
Not Waterproof: Typically less water-resistant especially when swimming or sweating.

Typical Ingredients

Zinc Oxide: Provides broad-spectrum protection and is gentle on the skin, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Titanium Dioxide: Also offers broad-spectrum protection and is known for its lightweight and non-greasy feel.

Suitable for:

Sensitive Skin: Less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions.
Acne-Prone Skin: Non-comedogenic formulas that don’t clog pores.
Children and Pregnant Women: Gentle and safe for delicate skin.

Chemical SPF

Pros of Chemical SPF

Cosmetically Elegant: Often has a lightweight and non-greasy texture, making it ideal for daily use.
No White Cast: Blends seamlessly into the skin, regardless of skin tone.
Versatile Formulations: Available in various forms, including lotions, gels, sprays, and sticks.

Cons of Chemical SPF

Irritation Potential: Can cause irritation or allergic reactions, particularly in sensitive skin.
Hormonal Disruption: Some ingredients, like oxybenzone and homosalate, have been linked to hormonal disruptions.
Environmental Impact: Some chemical ingredients can be harmful to marine ecosystems.

Typical Ingredients

Oxybenzone: Effective in absorbing UVB and short UVA rays but has been linked to hormonal disruption and environmental concerns.
Homosalate: Absorbs UVB rays, but research suggests it may disrupt hormone function.
Avobenzone: Provides broad-spectrum protection but can degrade quickly in sunlight unless stabilized by other ingredients.

Suitable for:

Normal to Oily Skin: Lightweight formulas that don’t add extra grease.
Active Lifestyles: Water-resistant options that stay effective during physical activities.
Daily Wear: Formulations that blend well with makeup and other skincare products.

From the Expert:
Our Skin Therapist & Head of Beauty Amie Hibbert

“SPF is one of the most, if not the most important part of our skin care routines – there are different types of Ultraviolet rays that come from the sun; UVB and UVA rays.
UVA rays are present 365 days a year, and they even pass through the clouds and glass.
UBA and UVB rays are a huge factor in photo aging and breaking down the collagen , elastin and blood vessels in our skin. They penetrate deep into the dermis (middle layer of skin) causing pre-mature ageing and vunerabilities within the skin, and underlying pigmentation which can come to the surface of the skin as brown sun spots.
My favorite SPF’s are in our Aumier range which are all Mineral SPF’s containing UV filters, meaning the rays aren’t absorbed into our bodies, like it would be with a Chemical SPF. Using a good quality SPF will prevent oxidative stress to the skin and also help maintain the life of any injectable treatments you may be having.”