How to Know if Chemical or Physical Sunscreen is Right For You

Suncreen might seem plain and simple, but like most things in life—it's not. The wrong suncreen can cause problematic buildup that will leave your skin acne-prone and heavy, so it's worth taking the time to find a formula that works for you. With countless products to choose from, the search for the perfect sunscreen can appear daunting, so let's start with the basics. You've probably heard of physical and chemical suncreens before, and though the words may not mean much to you now, here's why the differentiation is important. 

Physical sunscreens, also called mineral sunscreens, have a fundanmentally different way of avoiding sun damage. They contain  active mineral ingredients, such as titanium dioxide, that sit on the top of your skin and deflect UV rays away from the skin. Physical suncreens work instantaneously—as soon as they are applied to the skin they fight to protect you against both UVA and UVB rays. 

Sounds pretty good, right? Physical suncreens are even less likley to create impurities due to clogged pores, which is a major plus for those of us with acne-prone skin. The downside to physical formulas? They tend to come off easier as a result of their heavy formula which means you'll have to reapply throughout the day, and they might leave you with that annoying white film that ruins your tan. If you are especially active or love hitting the pool, physical suncreens might not be right for you, as they don't stand a chance against water or sweat. But don't worry, there are chemical suncreens, too. 

Chemical suncreens take a varied approach to protecting the skin from harmful rays. They contain organic, carbon-based compounds that convert UV rays into heat. While this sounds pretty magical, it all comes down to science. Chemical suncreens are typically thinner, too, which makes them perfect for daily use. The formula is seamlessly absorbed into the skin, which allows for other products to rest smoothy on top of it. Due to the simple and lightweight formula, chemical suncreens often have skin-benefiting additives such as niacinamide or hyaluronic acid. 

While there are many opinions as to which type of suncreen is more effective and better for the skin, it really comes down to the individual. If you live a more active lifestyle, chemical formulas might work best for you, and if you don't like the idea of chemicals (even if they are organic) being absorbed into your skin, you might reach for a physical suncreen instead. The choice is up to you, but here are some things to note. Regardless of age or even if you live in a sunny climate, suncreen should always have a place in your daily routine. It's always a good idea to use a product that is labeled as "non-comedogenic," this way you won't have to worry about unexpected blemishes. If you have ultra-sensitive skin, dermatologists recommend using physical formulas in efforts to avoid the irritation that may arise from chemical ingredients. Lastly, if you have a darker complexion, physical suncreens might leave you with that chalky whitecast, while chemical formulas will layer on to the skin with no added color. 

With the knowledge of these two different formulas in your back pocket, your search should be appear less strenuous. Check out L'OFFICIEL's picks for the best physical and chemical suncreens on the market right now. Pick up one of these products and your skin will thank you. https://www.instagram.com/p/CGGacn3nfJX/