Bhg
  • Shop
  • News
  • Food
  • DIY
  • Garden
  • Renovating
  • Decorating
  • Health
  • TV
  • Hard to Find
Bhg
  • Shop
  • News
  • Food
  • DIY
  • Garden
  • Renovating
  • Decorating
  • Health
  • TV
  • Hard to Find
Subscribe
  1. Home
  2. Better Life

The difference between physical and chemical sunscreens

Which is better, and which should you be using? - by Laura Barry
  • 30 Jul 2019
The difference between physical and chemical sunscreens

Everyone understands the importance of correct sunscreen application in Australia. Our harsh sun and high UV levels mean that every day without sunscreen is a day you are putting yourself at risk of premature ageing and sun damage. However, what most people don’t know is that there are two types of sunscreen to choose from, and both of them prevent sun burn and UV damage differently.

We spoke to Emma Hobson, the Education Manager at respected skincare brand Dermalogica, to find out what the difference between chemical and physical sunscreen is, and which one is actually better for your skin and sun protection.

What is chemical sunscreen?

“Chemical sunscreens typically absorb UV rays and include ingredients such as avobenzone, oxybenzone and homosalate, among others,” says Emma.

What is physical sunscreen?

“Physical - or mineral - sunscreens include the physical compounds zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These physical sunscreens sit on the skin and scatter or reflect UV rays.”

woman applying sunscreen to face
Getty

What are the main differences between the two?

“Chemical sunscreens were developed to provide versatility in formulations, allowing for invisible coverage with a light texture,” says Emma. “Physical sunscreens are preferred by those with skin sensitivity, especially if you suffer from Rosacea or Eczema. The negative of physical sunscreens is that some sunscreens using physical agents can sit on the skins surface and feel a little ‘heavy’.”

Which is better?

“There are lots of options for sunscreens, and most formulations will use a combination of physical and chemical sunscreens. One option isn’t better than the other, as they both do their job well, it’s mostly down to personal preference as to which you prefer to use.”

You might also like:

This sunscreen has just been voted best in the world 

The difference between tinted moisturiser and BB cream 

Top 5 sunscreen mistakes everyone is making 

Want some advice on applying sunscreen? Watch the video below. 

  • Beauty
  • Health
  • Better Life
Laura Barry
Laura Barry
Laura Barry is a writer, bookworm and interior design enthusiast with a love for reporting on all things homes, travel and lifestyle. When not tapping away at her keyboard, Laura can be found making endless cups of tea or perusing the shelves of Sydney’s many bookstores.

Treat yourself to a subscription-Save up to 25%

Plus, your chance to win

Subscribe Now
Treat yourself to a subscription

Treat yourself to a subscription-Save up to 25%

Plus, your chance to win

Subscribe Now
Treat yourself to a subscription

Recommended to you

YOU’LL NEED A WEDGE TO HANG THAT DOOR
Watch 6:32

YOU’LL NEED A WEDGE TO HANG THAT DOOR

{headline}

{headline}

One pot of this facial moisturiser sells every 6 seconds

One pot of this facial moisturiser sells every 6 seconds

5 myths about organic skincare products that you shouldn’t believe

5 myths about organic skincare products that you shouldn’t believe

7 of the best face oils for your skin

7 of the best face oils for your skin

 Eating this one berry can make you look younger

Eating this one berry can make you look younger

{headline}

{headline}

Skincare products that fix and prevent breakouts

Skincare products that fix and prevent breakouts

Common skincare products you should never mix together

Common skincare products you should never mix together

If your makeup has SPF in it, do you still need sunscreen?

If your makeup has SPF in it, do you still need sunscreen?

{headline}

{headline}

What order should you apply skincare products?

What order should you apply skincare products?

5 ways to deal with eczema in winter

5 ways to deal with eczema in winter

This $20 Aldi facial cream is better than most luxury beauty brands

This $20 Aldi facial cream is better than most luxury beauty brands

6 myths about skincare you probably believe

6 myths about skincare you probably believe

How to simplify your beauty routine and get ready faster

How to simplify your beauty routine and get ready faster

Two skincare rules every woman should follow

Two skincare rules every woman should follow

A doctor reveals the effects that drinking alcohol has on your skin

A doctor reveals the effects that drinking alcohol has on your skin

Bhg
  • About Us
  • Subscribe Today
  • Contact Us
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Privacy Policy
Bhg Magazine Subscribe
  • About Us
  • Subscribe Today
  • Contact Us
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Privacy Policy

Brands

  • All Recipes
  • BHG Shop
  • Girlfriend
  • Home Beautiful
  • New Idea
  • New Idea Food
  • Practical Parenting

Our Network

  • marie claire
  • Beauty Crew
  • Who
  • Women's Weekly Food
  • Bounty Parents
  • That’s Life
  • Perth Now
  • The West Australian
  • 7Plus
  • 7mate
  • 7NEWS
  • 7Sport
  • Sunrise
  • Starts at 60
  • 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 Better Homes and Gardens

Magazine Subscription Offer

Treat yourself to a subscription-Save up to 25%

Shop This Offer
Treat yourself to a subscription