As the summer starts to set in, so is the debate on which sunscreen you should be using. Specifically, the debate is about the benefits of chemical versus physical sunscreen. Sunscreen works by combining organic and inorganic active ingredients that protect the skin against sun rays. Sunscreen may come in various forms, including sprays, liquids, lotions, powders, and creams. There are two main types of sunblock available. These are physical and chemical sunscreen. Understanding how these sunscreens are made and the ingredients they contain can help you pick one that is best suited for your skin type.

2. THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL
SUNSCREEN

3. As the summer starts to set in, so is the debate on which sunscreen you should be using.
Specifically, the debate is about the benefits of chemical versus physical sunscreen.
Sunscreen works by combining organic and inorganic active ingredients that protect the
skin against sun rays. Sunscreen may come in various forms, including sprays, liquids,
lotions, powders, and creams.
There are two main types of sunblock available. These are physical and chemical
sunscreen. Understanding how these sunscreens are made and the ingredients they
contain can help you pick one that is best suited for your skin type.

4. How does physical sunscreen work?
Mineral sunscreen or physical sunscreen contains inorganic physical UV filters that
reflect, scatter, and block the sun rays before they penetrate the skin. These active
mineral ingredients, also known as physical blockers, are designed to sit on top of the
epidermis rather than being absorbed in the skin.
Physical sunscreen contains either titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. These are the only
two physical UV filters approved by the FDA because they are the least likely to cause
an adverse reaction, especially those with sensitive skin.

5. PROS of choosing Physical Sunscreen
 Naturally offers broad-spectrum protection
 Less likely to irritate the skin
 Reflects heat, making physical sunscreen a great choice for those with a skin condition
such as rosacea and others that are characterized by excess redness
 Non-comedogenic means they are less likely to clog pores
CONS of choosing Physical Sunscreen
 It can be quick to rub-off especially when you have activities in the water, meaning you
need to re-apply more frequently
 Some physical sunscreen leaves a white-hued residue on the skin
 Often thicker and needs more effort to rub in

6. How does Chemical Sunscreen work?
Chemical sunscreen works differently as this type of sunblock contains organic active ingredients
designed to absorb UV radiation upon contact to prevent damage to the skin. The vast majority of
sunscreens found on pharmacy shelves fall into this category.
Chemical sunscreen can provide highly effective protection without necessarily needing to be in
high concentration. This means they can be formulated with a lightweight and non-sticky feel
making them ideal for daily wear. Compared to physical UV filters that block both UVA and
UVB rays, chemical sunblock often only protects against one or the other.
The most common chemical UV filters are avobenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, oxybenzone, and
octocrylene.

7. PROS of Chemical Sunscreen
 Best for people who are swimming and need a water-resistant formulation
 Best for those who play a sport or sweat a lot during the day
 It quickly absorbs in the skin and leaving less residue
 Tends to be thinner, making them easier to spread evenly across the skin.
CONS of Chemical Sunscreen
 It contains ingredients that can irritate the skin
 When worn under direct sunlight, chemical sunscreen can be used up more quickly, meaning it
requires more frequent application
 Transforms UV rays into heat, and this heat can cause redness of the skin, especially for those
struggling with skin conditions such as rosacea
 More likely to clog pores which can cause breakouts for people with oily skin
 The ingredients found on chemical sunscreen may irritate the eyes

8. No matter which sunscreen you use, the most important factor is that you use it
regularly. If you want to learn more about sunscreen and how it works on your skin,
you should visit a board-certified dermatologist. A dermatologist can look after your
skin health and avoid skin issues in the future, such as premature skin aging.
Skin Doctors Dermatologic and Aesthetic Medicine specialize in more than the usual
dermatology treatments.
It is located in Cebu City’s heart - a 1st class, highly urbanized city of Cebu’s island in
the Central Visayas Region, Philippines.

9. Aside from Dermatology consultations for different diseases of the skin, hair, and nails,
our clinic is equipped with the latest and most effective lasers, technologies, and
science, giving you quick and long-lasting results for all your skin issues.
Let’s start your journey to healthier and beautiful skin. Visit us today!
REFERENCES:
https://www.colorescience.com/blogs/learn/how-does-sunscreen-work-to-protect-your-skin
https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/sunscreen-patients/sunscreen-faqs