Chemical Vs. Physical Sunscreens

women taking sun bath

Exposure to the sun’s harmful rays is the most preventable risk factor for skin cancer. The best way to protect your skin is by wearing sunscreen. But with so many options, it’s hard to decide which one is right for you.

To break it down, let’s start with the fact that there are two types of sunscreens: Chemical and physical.

What are chemical sunscreens?

Chemical sunscreens, which include oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, actisalate, homosalate, and octocrylene, work by getting absorbed into the skin and then converting harmful UV light into non-damaging red light.

What are physical sunscreens?

Physical sunscreens either have titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. These physical blockers lay on top of your skin and act as a mirror, reflecting the sun’s rays.

People with skin allergies and sensitivity will want to stick with physical blockers, as to not irritate the skin. Though keep in mind, physical blockers need to be reapplied more frequently—especially when swimming or sweating.

There are also some SPFs that are a mix of both mineral and chemical blockers, which can be a great option if your skin can handle chemical formulations.

Still having trouble picking a sunscreen? Keep these factors in mind

  1. Broad-spectrum-this protects the skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
  2. Water resistant- these sunscreens retain their stated SPF value after a certain time (either 40 or 80 minutes) in water or while sweating
  3. Stick to SPF 30 or higher
  4. Finally, don’t forget to apply 30 minuets before you go outside and then again, every 2 hours thereafter.
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About Schweiger

We believe no one should wait to feel comfortable in their own skin. That's why we're committed to delivering The Ultimate Patient Experience—expert care that's fast, compassionate, and seamless. Founded by Dr. Eric Schweiger in 2010 to eliminate long wait times for high quality dermatologists, we've grown into one of the nation's leading dermatology practice, with hundreds of locations across the country and millions of satisfied patients. We offer medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology, as well as allergy services through Schweiger Allergy. Built around the needs of patients, Schweiger is committed to delivering high-quality, personalized care while removing barriers to access. With a focus on convenience, timely appointments, and clinical excellence, the practice makes expert skin and allergy care easier to get—often within days, with same- and next-day appointments available.

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