Chemical and Physical Sunscreen: What's the Difference?

The main contrast between chemical vs physical sunscreen is how it blocks UV rays. "Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin and absorb the sun's rays," board-certified dermatologist Martha Viera, MD, told POPSUGAR. "Physical sunscreens sit on top of your skin and deflect the sun's rays."

The ingredients in each type of sunscreen are how the formulas protect you from sun damage. "Chemical sunscreens have ingredients that penetrate into the skin and bond with the sun's UV rays, transforming them into heat that is then released back out of the skin," said Orit Markowitz, MD, board-certified dermatologist and director of Pigmented Lesions and Skin Cancer at Mount Sinai. "Physical sunscreens contain mineral ingredients such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide (two ingredients generally found to be safe and effective) that rest on top of the skin and deflect the sun's harmful photons of ultraviolet rays away from your skin."

Generally speaking, physical sunscreens are suitable for all skin types, even sensitive. "Physical UV filters can be less irritating for those with sensitive skin," said Dr. Viera. "Physical sunscreens are also safe to use on babies and during pregnancy."

Because physical blockers sit on top of the skin, they can leave a cast or residue behind but this is not harmful to the skin. "Although these sunscreens tend to feel heavier and leave a trace, they are mostly non-comedogenic and tend to be associated with less adverse skin irritations than chemical sunscreen formulations", said Dr. Markowitz. This makes them suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone and oily.

Chemical sunscreens comes with their own list of benefits. First, you have the consistency and feel of the formulation. "Chemical sunscreens are thinner and spread on the skin easily," said Dr. Viera. "And less product is needed to protect the skin." Dr. Markowitz agreed: "Because chemical sunscreens are absorbed into the skin they tend to have a lighter formulation than physical sunscreens."

It's this key difference in formulation that usually contributes to a person's preference for chemical sunscreens. But there are a few drawbacks, too. "They tend to have more chemical ingredients to provide broad spectrum coverage from UV rays including preservatives, dyes, and fragrances which can cause skin irritations," said Dr. Markowitz. "The preservatives in them tend to irritate sensitive skin types and their absorption tends to clog pores causing acne flare-ups."

Additionally, chemical-blockers typically use a combination of oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate and/or octinoxate which have been found to be irritating. "If absorbed [they can] alter some functions in the human body related to hormone production amongst other harmful effects on humans."

That doesn't mean all chemical sunscreens are harmful to the body — some are made without the potentially irritating ingredients stated above. Dr. Viera said to look for dermatologist-recommended brands when shopping for chemical sunscreens if you prefer that type. There are also products on the market that contain both chemical and physical UV-blockers.

Keep scrolling for product recommendations for both types.

While zinc oxide is the primary blocker in the Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense Sunscreen SPF 30 ($45), it's also infused with other good-for-skin ingredients and antioxidants to quell inflammation and dryness.

Both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection when you use the Coola Mineral Body Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 ($32), but we especially appreciate the lightweight touch and zero fragrance.

While the EltaMD UV Aero Broad-Spectrum SPF 45 ($37) goes on white, it quickly blends out to a clear finish. This mineral sunscreen features two physical blockers: zinc oxide and octinoxate.

A dermatologist (and editor) favorite for a reason, the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra Light Face Sunscreen Fluid Broad Spectrum SPF 60 ($30) feels like nothing on skin but packs a big sun protection punch, thanks to a mix of ingredients like homosalate, octocrylene, and avobenzone.

Another tried and true over the years, the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 55 ($10) has a silky finish that feels not at all greasy. The broad-spectrum combo of oxybenzone, octisalate, homosalate, and avobenzone help protect against UVA/UVB rays.

Perfect for an outdoor run or sweaty days at the beach, the Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Spray SPF 30 ($9) features a water resistant formula that's super easy to apply.