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Sun Protection
Both work when applied correctly. Chemical sunscreens (avobenzone, octinoxate) absorb UV rays and tend to feel lighter. Mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) work by both absorbing and scattering UV — not simply "sitting on top and reflecting it," as older explanations put it — and modern formulas have moved past the heavy white cast. Mineral isn't automatically gentler for everyone, though it's often a reasonable first choice for very reactive or acne-prone skin. Honestly, the best sunscreen is the one you'll actually wear every single day.
Evidence reviewed · Aug 2026
- PubMed — mineral vs chemical UV filter mechanismsPubMed
How mineral filters absorb and scatter UV
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Content last reviewed 31 August 2026 by the SkinLabs Editorial Team.