Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen: Which Is Better for Your Skin?

Chemical sunscreen benefits

Chemical sunscreens are popular because they: 

• Absorb easily into the skin

• Don’t leave a noticeable residue

• Blend easier with makeup and other skin care products

This makes it easier to use sunscreen every day.

Potential drawbacks of chemical sunscreen

Some people are concerned about the ingredients in chemical sunscreens. One reason is that studies have found that six commonly used sunscreen ingredients (including those listed above) can be absorbed into the bloodstream. But it’s not clear what effect, if any, this has on your health. 

So, are chemical sunscreens safe to use? The FDA is working to learn more about the safety of several common sunscreen ingredients — including the ones listed above. Keep in mind that the FDA hasn’t labeled these ingredients as unsafe. 

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People have raised other concerns about chemical sunscreen, including:

• Possible presence of endocrine (hormone) disruptors: Oxybenzone, a common ingredient in chemical sunscreens, may act as a mild hormone in the body. But so far, studies haven’t definitively shown that this is linked to health problems. Even so, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children avoid oxybenzone sunscreen, if possible. 

• Cancer-causing chemicals: Benzene, a chemical known to cause cancer, was found in some batches of sunscreen. But it’s important to note that there’s no evidence that using sunscreen causes cancer. We know that UV rays do.

• Environmental impact: The sunscreen chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate have been linked to damage of coral reefs and other sea life. Because of this, Hawaii has banned them.

Mineral sunscreen benefits 

Many people like using sunscreen that doesn't contain active chemicals. Mineral sunscreens are also less likely to:

• Irritate the skin

• Cause an allergic reaction 

So they may be a better choice for people with sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, or eczema. 

Potential drawbacks of mineral sunscreen

While mineral sunscreens offer great sun protection, they can leave behind a visible white residue. This can make it challenging to work sunscreen into everyday use, especially for people with darker skin tones. Some mineral sunscreens are tinted. These can be easier to blend, and they’re less likely to leave behind a noticeable residue. 

Is titanium dioxide bad for you? 

There have been concerns that titanium dioxide, one of the main ingredients in mineral sunscreen, could be absorbed into the bloodstream and increase your risk for cancer. But most experts believe that titanium dioxide doesn’t pose a threat to your health in either cream or lotion sunscreen form. This is because it doesn’t seem to be absorbed through your skin. 

However, you may want to avoid spray sunscreens and cosmetic powders that contain titanium dioxide. That’s because you’re more likely to inhale tiny particles with sprays and powders, and this could lead to lung irritation or toxicity. 

Safety

Two chemical sunscreen ingredients — para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) and trolamine salicylate — aren’t considered safe by the FDA. These ingredients aren’t common in sunscreens. But it’s always important to check the label to make sure your sunscreen doesn’t have them. 

Other chemical sunscreens are considered safe and effective. But more research is needed to determine what (if any) health impact they have if absorbed into the blood. If you’re concerned about these possible effects, stick with mineral-based sunscreens. 

Skin sensitivity

People with sensitive or acne-prone skin often do better with mineral sunscreen. Mineral sunscreen is also less likely to irritate your skin if you have eczema. 

Age

Sunscreen isn’t recommended for babies under 6 months old. For older babies and children, the AAP recommends mineral sunscreens. It also recommends lotions over sprays. But if you’re using a spray sunscreen, spray it onto your hands, then apply it to your child’s skin. This helps avoid inhaling the spray. 

Which sunscreen do dermatologists recommend? 

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends using whichever type of sunscreen you’re more likely to use daily. Whether that’s mineral or chemical sunscreen is a matter of personal preference. Using either type is far preferable to having unprotected skin. 

The AAD’s guidance is to use a sunscreen that’s:

• Broad-spectrum, meaning it provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays

• SPF 30 or higher 

• Water-resistant (note that you need to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours — and more frequently with sweating and/or swimming)

The AAD also recommends using clothing and hats to block the sun, as well as seeking shade when possible. 

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