The Facts About Physical Sunscreens Vs Chemical Sunscreens

If you’ve been confused about the difference between a physical sunscreen vs a chemical sunscreen, here’s a few of the facts to make it easier for you to understand.

A physical sunscreen, also known as a mineral sunscreen, refers to physical UV filters that sit on top of the skin and reflect, scatter and block the suns rays before they can penetrate the skin.

The only 2 ingredients approved for sun protection in this category by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) are Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide. They are also the least likely to cause adverse skin reactions, so those with sensitive skin typically use sunscreens that use these as active ingredients.  In addition, these active minerals also reflect heat, making them a great choice for those struggling with skin conditions like rosacea and melasma, which are aggravated by heat.

Chemical sunscreens work in a completely different way. These types of sunscreens contain ingredients designed to absorb UV radiation from the sun, which catalyses a reaction that changes UV rays into heat, which is then released from the skin. Sounds scary! We think it is. Unlike physical sunscreens and depending on their active ingredient/s they may not also block out both UVA and UVB rays

The most common active ingredients in these chemical sunscreens include Octocrylene, Homosalate, Octyl Salicylate or Octisalate, Oxyenzone, and Octyl Methoxycinnamate. Studies have shown that these chemicals have the potential to disrupt hormones, affect the production of estrogen in the body as well as increasing the body’s production of free radicals after being exposed to the sun!

So in addition to the undesirable chemicals being absorbed into your body, these chemical sunscreens just aren’t even as effective as their mineral equivalents at protecting you against UV damage. Who knew?

At {SIMPLE as that} we spent years formulating a 100% natural, SPF 30, light-weight mineral sunscreen that won’t leave your skin looking white or feeling greasy. We are committed to sourcing the best natural and organic ingredients available to bring you a sunscreen that is not only safe for you and your family, but also for our planet so give it a try. We hope you love it as much as we loved creating it.