Girlfriend
  • News
  • Beauty
  • Fashion
  • Life and Advice
  • Entertainment
  • Role Model Search
  • Dolly Doctor
  • Video
Girlfriend
  • News
  • Beauty
  • Fashion
  • Life and Advice
  • Entertainment
  • Role Model Search
  • Dolly Doctor
  • Video
  1. Home
  2. Beauty

Chemical V Physical Sunscreen: Which One You Should Invest In

We break down their differences to find out which one is best. - by Faye Couros
  • 29 Jul 2021

Wearing sunscreen is unarguably the most important part of your skincare routine because it protects you from the sun's harmful rays.

WATCH: Sunscreen tips to keep you protected every day.

Sunscreen is the only product on the market proven to prevent ageing, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation.

That's not to say textured skin is bad but the sun's powerful nature is damaging your skin's surface, which can cause premature issues.

There are two types of sunscreens on the market; physical and chemical sunscreen.

Both are great ways to protect your skin, but some key differences may influence your decision.

So, to help you make an empowered consumer choice, we have broken down what they each entail.

What is physical sunscreen?

Physical sunscreen is like what lifeguards wear, but thanks to modern technology, most formulas apply clear. 

According to Adore Beauty, it acts as a physical barrier that blocks the sun from penetrating the skin.

It sits on top of your skin, and it's naturally a broad-spectrum product that protects against UVA and UVB rays.

It features ingredients like zinc oxide (its modern iteration, not the thick nasty stuff you grew up with) and titanium dioxide.

Because it sits on top of the skin, it doesn't require any time between application and sun exposure.

It's recommended for people with sensitive skin (which is why it's used on children).

However, for people with acne-prone and oily skin, it may not be the best option because it's so thick.

What is chemical sunscreen?

A chemical sunscreen sinks into the skin, and it absorbs heat so the sun rays can't enter the skin's surface.  

Basically, it works like a sponge that takes up the UVA and UVB.

It's a much lighter formula that needs 15 minutes to embed itself within the skin before sun exposure.

When looking for a chemical sunscreen, read the ingredient list and look out for the chemical oxybenzone. 

Because in January 2019, the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found it can bleach coral reefs.

However, there are plenty of products on the market that no longer include this chemical, and it's also the hallmark of a good company to buy from.  

f

Do yourself a favour and take suncare seriously.

Getty

So, which one is better to use?

 

It's up to you, your skin type, and the texture you prefer on your face.

 

According to Dr Reena Jogi for Bustle, the skin expert claims people with sensitive skin or rosacea shouldn't opt for chemical sunscreens.

 

However, if you like to exercise, chemical sunscreen is best as it's more sweat and water-resistant.

 

Here are some great physical and chemical sunscreens on the market. 

f
Sephora

Shop Ultra Violette Extreme Screen Hydrating Body and Hand Skinscreen SPF 50+, $35.00 from Sephora here. 

f
Revolve

Shop Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40, $50.32 from Revolve here. 

f
Sephora

Shop Ultra Violette Lean Screen SPF 50+, $49.99 from Sephora here. 

f
Sephora

Shop Ultra Violette Queen Screen Luminising Sun Serum SPF 50+, $47.00 from Sphora here. 

r
Adore Beauty

Shop La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50+, $32.95 from Adore Beauty here. 

Want more fashion, beauty, health and pop culture news from Girlfriend?

Follow us on Instagram @girlfriendmag & turn ON our post notifications in the top right-hand corner of our IG profile so you never miss a post

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Remember to add our homepage to your favourites https://www.girlfriend.com.au/

  • News
  • Beauty
Faye Couros

Subscribe to our sister mag and save up to 35% -

Subscribe Now
Subscribe to our sister mag and save up to 35%

Subscribe to our sister mag and save up to 35% -

Subscribe Now
Subscribe to our sister mag and save up to 35%

Recommended to you

Sophie Monk drops another epic Love Island trailer
Watch 1:00

Sophie Monk drops another epic Love Island trailer

{headline}

{headline}

Sunscreens that won't cause oily, acne-prone skin to freak out

Sunscreens that won't cause oily, acne-prone skin to freak out

The common sunscreen mistake you're making every day

The common sunscreen mistake you're making every day

STOP EVERYTHING: Priceline is having a massive skincare sale

STOP EVERYTHING: Priceline is having a massive skincare sale

The Best Skincare Products To Use According To Your Star Sign

The Best Skincare Products To Use According To Your Star Sign

{headline}

{headline}

3 Ways To Prioritise Yourself, According To Model Jess Purchase

3 Ways To Prioritise Yourself, According To Model Jess Purchase

Clean Look Beauty Is Taking Over Social Media And It’s A Classic

Clean Look Beauty Is Taking Over Social Media And It’s A Classic

Last-minute Beauty Stocking Fillers Your Besties Will Love

Last-minute Beauty Stocking Fillers Your Besties Will Love

{headline}

{headline}

EXCLUSIVE: Hyram Shares His Take On TikToker & Celebrity Skincare Brands

EXCLUSIVE: Hyram Shares His Take On TikToker & Celebrity Skincare Brands

The Beauty Advent Calendars You’ll Delight In Unboxing This Festive Season

The Beauty Advent Calendars You’ll Delight In Unboxing This Festive Season

EXCLUSIVE: Hyram Yarbro Divulges The One Skincare Fad He Is Over

EXCLUSIVE: Hyram Yarbro Divulges The One Skincare Fad He Is Over

EXCLUSIVE: Skincare King Hyram Tells Us How To Approve A Product

EXCLUSIVE: Skincare King Hyram Tells Us How To Approve A Product

What You Need To Know Before Trying Dermaplaning At Home

What You Need To Know Before Trying Dermaplaning At Home

The Five Easy Steps To Perfect Your Natural Makeup Look

The Five Easy Steps To Perfect Your Natural Makeup Look

This Is The Real Order You Should Be Applying Your Skincare

This Is The Real Order You Should Be Applying Your Skincare

Girlfriend
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Terms
  • Privacy Policy
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Terms
  • Privacy Policy

Brands

  • New Idea
  • Practical Parenting
  • That’s Life
  • Who

Our Network

  • Better Homes and Gardens
  • BHG Shop
  • marie claire
  • Beauty Crew
  • New Idea food
  • Home Beautiful
  • All Recipes
  • 7plus
  • 7News
  • Sunrise
  • Starts at 60
  • The West Australian
  • Perth Now
  • 7mate
  • 7Sport
  • Hard to Find
© 2022 Are Media PTY LTD
All products are independently selected, tested or recommended by our team of experts.If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Get more from Girlfriend

Magazine Subscription Offer

Subscribe to our sister mag and save up to 35% -

Shop This Offer
Subscribe to our sister mag and save up to 35%