With summer well underway, it’s time to talk about sunscreen again — that trusty bottle we all rely on to protect us from the harsh sun. But lately, there’s been growing confusion over which type of sunscreen is better: mineral or chemical? It’s a debate that’s heating up alongside the weather. While both have their pros and cons, there’s more to the story than just SPF numbers.
What’s the Difference?
The key difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens lies in the active ingredients. Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to create a physical barrier that reflects the sun’s harmful rays. Meanwhile, chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays using ingredients like avobenzone or octinoxate, explains The Age.
Mineral sunscreens have a reputation for being more natural, but here’s the kicker: they’re not as “natural” as they may seem. Most mineral sunscreens are highly processed, with some containing other chemicals to enhance their effectiveness or smoothness. Meanwhile, chemical sunscreens can penetrate the skin more easily, but that has led to concerns about their long-term effects, with some studies linking certain chemicals to hormone disruption.
The Controversy Around Sunscreen Recalls
But it doesn’t end there. In the past year, dozens of sunscreens have been recalled due to issues with efficacy and product formulation. Surprisingly, a lot of these have been mineral sunscreens. In November, Bondi Sands recalled several batches of their popular Zinc Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ due to the potential for product separation, which could impact its protection. Other recalls have stemmed from problems like lower than advertised SPF ratings.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has been investigating these concerns, urging consumers to be cautious. Interestingly, the recalls weren’t just limited to mineral sunscreens — chemical sunscreens had their own issues, too. It’s clear that sunscreen formulation is not as straightforward as we might think, and recalls don’t necessarily mean a whole category of products is unsafe.
Which One Should You Choose?
So, which type of sunscreen should you pick? The truth is, it depends on what works best for you. If you have sensitive skin or prefer something “natural,” a mineral sunscreen might be your best bet. However, you may need to tolerate that “white cast” and sometimes thicker application. On the other hand, chemical sunscreens tend to be lighter, and they absorb more quickly — but they do come with potential concerns about ingredient sensitivity and absorption.
Dr. Michelle Wong, a cosmetic chemist, suggests that the most important thing is application. “It doesn’t matter whether it’s mineral or chemical, what matters is how much you apply and how often,” she says. Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen to actually get the SPF protection they think they’re getting.
