Chemical vs Mineral Sunscreen: What’s the Difference and Which One Is Better?

What Is Chemical Sunscreen?

Chemical sunscreen uses active ingredients that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin.

Common chemical sunscreen ingredients include:

• Avobenzone

• Octinoxate

• Octisalate

• Oxybenzone

• Homosalate

How it works:
Chemical filters absorb UVA and UVB rays before they can damage the skin.

Pros of Chemical Sunscreen

• Lightweight and easy to apply

• No white cast

• Works well under makeup

• Often water-resistant

Cons of Chemical Sunscreen

• May irritate sensitive skin

• Needs about 15–20 minutes to activate

• Can cause stinging around eyes for some people

Chemical sunscreens are popular for daily wear, outdoor activities, and makeup-friendly routines.

Fusion Water MAGIC SPF 40 is a chemical sunscreen featuring ISDIN’s ultralight, water-based technology. It absorbs quickly, feels weightless, and leaves no greasy residue—making it perfect for everyday wear, especially in hot or humid climates.

The formula includes Hyaluronic Acid for hydration and Vitamin E for antioxidant support. Unlike Eryfotona, this version is not tinted, so it won’t provide coverage or tone correction.

Key benefits

• Chemical sunscreen with advanced UV filters

• Ultra-light, fast-absorbing texture

• Hydrating with Hyaluronic Acid

• Comfortable for daily, all-day wear

• Works well under makeup

What Is Mineral Sunscreen?

Mineral sunscreen (also called physical sunscreen) uses natural mineral filters that sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays.

Active mineral ingredients:

• Zinc oxide

• Titanium dioxide

How it works:
Mineral sunscreen creates a protective barrier that deflects UVA and UVB rays away from the skin.

Pros of Mineral Sunscreen

• Gentle and suitable for sensitive skin

• Works immediately after application

• Less likely to cause irritation

• Often recommended for acne-prone or rosacea-prone skin

Cons of Mineral Sunscreen

• Can leave a white cast

• Thicker texture

• May feel heavier on oily skin

Mineral sunscreen is ideal for sensitive skin, post-procedure skin, or those who prefer cleaner formulations.

ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Tinted Mineral SPF 50+ is a 100% mineral (physical) sunscreen formulated with Zinc Oxide. Instead of absorbing UV rays, it reflects them away from the skin, making it ideal for sensitive, post-procedure, or treatment-compromised skin.

Its standout feature is DNA Repairsomes®, which help repair sun-induced DNA damage, combined with Vitamin E for antioxidant protection. The universal tint provides light coverage and evens out skin tone without leaving a white cast.

Chemical vs Mineral Sunscreen: Key Differences

Feature Chemical Sunscreen Mineral Sunscreen

UV Protection Absorbs UV rays Reflects UV rays

Activation Time 15–20 minutes Immediate

Texture Lightweight Thicker

White Cast None Possible

Sensitive Skin May irritate Very gentle

Which Sunscreen Should You Choose?

Choose chemical sunscreen if you:

• Wear makeup daily

• Prefer lightweight textures

• Have normal to oily skin

• Spend long hours outdoors

Choose mineral sunscreen if you:

• Have sensitive or acne-prone skin

• Experience redness or irritation easily

• Want immediate protection

• Prefer minimal or clean skincare

You can also use hybrid sunscreens, which combine chemical and mineral filters for balanced protection.

How to Use Sunscreen Correctly

No matter which type you choose:

• Use SPF 30 or higher

• Apply generously to face and neck

• Reapply every 2 hours outdoors

• Use sunscreen daily — even on cloudy days

Consistency matters more than sunscreen type.