We all know that sun protection is the single most important step in any skincare routine. It protects against sunburn, premature ageing and our overall skin health. But when you’re looking for sunscreen, you’ll likely notice two types you can pick from: mineral/physical and chemical.

So, what’s the difference between the two? In this guide, we’ll breakdown the difference between the two to help you make an informed choice.

Why sun protection matters for skin health

First, let’s recap why wearing daily SPF is essential for the health of your skin. Even if you’re indoors or it’s cloudy, it’s important to remember to apply your SPF as UV rays can still penetrate through windows and clouds. Without sufficient protection, your skin is vulnerable to sunburn, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles and fine lines, loss of elasticity and more serious skin concerns.

So, no matter if you choose mineral SPF, chemical or a combination of the two as your sun protection, using it consistently is what counts.

What is a mineral sunscreen?

Mineral sunscreen, or also known as physical sunscreens, use natural minerals to create a protective shield on the skin.

They sit on the skin’s surface and reflect and scatter the UV rays before they penetrate the skin. They provide quick protection and are super gentle, so are ideal for sensitive skin. Often, you’ll find they’re a slightly thicker texture and can take a little longer to work into the skin for a cast-free finish.

What is a chemical sunscreen?

Chemical sunscreens use active ingredients to absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. They penetrate the top layers of the skin and once the UV rays are converted into heat, this is then released from the skin.

You’ll notice this texture is lighter on the skin and blends seamlessly without a white cast, so great for sitting under makeup. Often with chemical sunscreens you’ll need to apply at least 15-20 minutes before sun exposure.

The pros and cons of mineral vs chemical sunscreens

Both offer broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays and with high SPF50 factors, you’re ensuring your skin has the best chance of protection.

You may find that mineral sunscreens are preferred by those who have sensitive or reactive skin and children and pregnant women, however often a thicker consistency can make it harder to blend, leaving a white cast, so bear this in mind when you’re choosing yours.

Lightweight in texture and easy to blend into the skin, chemical sunscreens can be found in a variety of textures such as gels, fluids and sprays too. They’re great for daily wear, especially under makeup, and still provide a high level of protection for your skin.

Which Ultrasun products use mineral or chemical sunscreen filters?

We use both and have the best of both worlds! Our Mineral Face SPF50 and Mineral Baby SPF50 is our only 100% mineral sun protection with 100% natural ingredients too. This duo is great for babies, children and anyone with ultra-sensitive skin.

However, across the rest of our range we use a mixture of mineral and chemical sunscreen filters. We see the benefits of both types of UV filters and want our customers to enjoy both a sunscreen that absorbs quickly, doesn’t leave a white cast and is great for children and sensitive skins.

Our lamellar technology takes it one step further, encapsulating the ingredients so they reach the lower levels of the skin and bind with the skin in a way that no other product can. This enables sun filters to remain within the skin’s layers for up to 8 hours, so you’re getting longer protection too.

Because of our lamellar technology we can use less filters and focus on quality over quantity. Our combination of mineral and chemical filters won’t overload your skin, avoid irritation and still give you long-lasting broad-spectrum protection.