Know the Difference – Physical Sunscreen vs Chemical Sunscreen

Is your sunscreen a physical or chemical sunscreen? Do you know the difference and which one is better for you and why? Let us help you answer all these queries and more. In this blog, we will unveil the key difference and properties of both physical and chemical sunscreen. And by the end of the blog, you would know which sunscreen you should go for and why.

So, let’s get started:

Physical Sunscreen

Physical sunscreens are also called mineral sunscreens that use mineral-based active ingredients like Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide. These ingredients work by sitting on top of the skin and reflecting or scattering UV rays away from it. Physical sunscreens are gentle on the skin and can also be used by people, who have acne-prone or sensitive skin. Physical sunscreens generally offer broad-spectrum protection, which means they can protect skin against both UVA and UVB rays.

What’s more? Physical sunscreens start working as soon as you apply them, this means you don’t have to wait after applying a physical sunscreen as it can provide instant protection upon application. However, Physical sunscreen often leaves a white cast upon application.

Now coming to Chemical Sunscreen

Chemical sunscreens are usually made of carbon-based active ingredients, such as Avobenzone, Octinoxate, Oxybenzone, Tinosorb, etc. Look for these ingredients in your sunscreen, if it includes any of these, then yours is a chemical sunscreen. Now what does a chemical sunscreen do? Unlike physical sunscreen that sits on top of the skin and reflects UV rays, chemical works like a sponge, as it absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat, which is then released from the skin. Since Chemical Sunscreen easily gets absorbed in the skin, it does not leave any white cast behind after application.

Some chemical sunscreens may offer broad-spectrum protection, but it mainly depends on the specific active ingredients used. Generally, a chemical sunscreen takes time to get absorbed into the skin and become effective, which means you need to apply then at least 20 to 30 minutes before going out in the sun. However, some chemical compounds in the chemical sunscreen may be harsh to the skin and cause skin irritation or allergic reaction.

Now when compared, you would notice that Physical Sunscreen offers a greater advantage than chemical sunscreen. The main difference between Physical and chemical sunscreens is that physical sunscreens are gentler on the skin in comparison to chemical sunscreens and can be used on any skin type. Secondly, Physical Sunscreen provides immediate protection upon application, while with chemical sunscreen you need to wait for 20-30 minutes for the product to get absorbed and become active.

Here, you must be wondering even when physical sunscreen starts working immediately, it leaves a white cast. Don’t you? Here’s a fact for you, AGE Sunscreen doesn’t. Yes! AGE Sunscreen is a physical sunscreen that doesn’t leave any white cast.

sunscreen

What’s more?

AGE Sunscreen is made of natural ingredients, like Aloe Vera, Almond, Apricot, Bees Wax, etc. It is a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 that can protect your skin from sun damage while soothing your skin and keeping it moisturised for hours.

So, if you are looking for a sunscreen that is both natural and provides protection against harmful UV rays, then AGE Sunscreen is one of the best options available for you.