Browse around the drugstore and you’ll probably see an entire aisle dedicated to sunscreen—especially this time of year, as we spend more time safely basking in the sun. While there are many different formulations and protection strengths, sunscreens can be divided into two overarching categories: mineral sunscreen (also known as inorganice or physical sunscreen) chemical sunscreen (also known as organic sunscreen). This describes the type of ingredient used to protect skin from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
“Mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide; they reflect, scatter and absorb the sun's rays," says Henry W. Lim, M.D., a dermatologist at Henry Ford.
Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients like avobenzone, octisalate and octinoxate; they act by absorbing the ultraviolet rays.
So Which Sunscreen Should I Choose?
Choosing the best sunscreen for you and your family is all about weighing the pros and cons.
Mineral Suncreens
Mineral sunscreens are often recommended as a better choice for infants and children because they sit on top of the skin and do not penetrate the skin.
One of the limitations with mineral sunscreen products is the white cast these products can leave on the skin. Some brands have worked around this by creating tinted products by incorporating iron oxides that are meant to match closer to your skin tone instead of a pasty white.
Chemical Sunscreens
Recently, the FDA approved a new chemical UV filter called bemotrizinol, a UV filter that has been approved and used in many parts of the world for over 20 years. The main advantages of this new filter over many preexisting filters in the US are its large molecular weight - minimizing its absorption into the skin and that it is photostable, so that it does not easily degrade following exposure to sunlight. Plus, it is broad spectrum meaning it protects your skin from both UVB and UVA rays.
For individuals with sensitive skin, the chemicals in these sunscreen products could trigger an allergic reaction. In that case, some people are only able to use mineral sunscreen.
It is also important to note that the safety of chemical sunscreens on ocean life is a controversial issue. In some states such as Hawaii and part of Florida, sunscreens containing chemical filters are banned. As a result, the most commonly cited agent, oxybenzone, is becoming much less commonly used in sunscreen products in the U.S.
A Dermatologist’s Sunscreen Recommendations
Dermatology At Henry Ford
As long as it hasn’t expired (sunscreen usually has a shelf life of one to two years), has been stored in a cool and dry place, and it’s applied correctly, both mineral and chemical will protect from skin cancer, sunburns, and sun-related hyperpigmentation and wrinkles, says Dr. Lim.
For fair skinned individuals, Dr. Lim recommends using a broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen daily, as it will block 97% of the sun’s rays. If you plan to spend extensive amount of time outdoor, then broad spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen would be recommended. If you’ll be sweating or swimming, choose a water-resistant formula. For dark skinned individuals, because of a high risk of developing dark spots on the skin and a lower risk of sun-induced skin cancers, broad spectrum tinted products with SPF 30 are recommended.
And just make sure you’re using enough: two tablespoons for the front and back of your torso, one teaspoon for each arm and forearm, two for each leg and thigh, and one for face and neck; a quarter teaspoon if you’re just putting it on your face. Reapply every two hours when outdoors, or after every time you swim.
“It’s all about finding one that works best with your skin type,” says Dr. Lim. “We often give out a variety of samples so you can test them and see which one you like best. The most important thing is finding one that you’ll apply every day.”
Reviewed by Henry W. Lim, M.D., a dermatologist and the chair emeritus of the Department of Dermatology at Henry Ford Health. He sees patients at Henry Ford Cancer — Detroit and Henry Ford Medical Center — New Center One.
