

“Mineral sunscreen is also a good choice if your skin is sensitive or you’re prone to acne or rosacea, since some chemical sunscreens can cause irritation or breakouts,” said Ingersoll. Titanium oxide and zinc dioxide are the only two sunscreen ingredients that currently meet the FDA’s criteria for “generally recognized as safe and effective.” If you’re concerned about the potential risks of chemical sunscreen, mineral sunscreen may be the way to go. Meanwhile, the FDA stresses that people should continue to use sunscreen and follow other sun safety practices, such as wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses. More research is needed to confirm the study results and determine what effects, if any, absorption might have on a person’s health. Oxybenzone showed up in the blood in far higher concentrations than the other ingredients. One pilot study conducted by FDA scientists tested four chemical sunscreens and found that all of the chemicals tested (avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, and ecamsule) were absorbed into the blood at levels higher than those the FDA recommends for chemicals that have not been tested for toxicity. The main concern with chemical sunscreens is their ability to enter the bloodstream. Mineral sunscreen is effective right away. “Otherwise, you could get burned while the sunscreen is being absorbed,” said Evelina Ingersoll, APRN, a certified advanced practice registered nurse at Water’s Edge Dermatology. Mineral sunscreen contains titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide.īecause chemical sunscreens take time to sink into your skin, you should apply them15 to 30 minutes before going outside. IngredientsĬhemical sunscreens contain one or more chemicals, such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate. Keep in mind that some sunscreens contain both chemical and mineral ingredients. To decide what’s best for you, consider the facts below. They work by blocking and reflecting the sun’s rays.īoth types offer protection against sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer, so it comes down to a personal choice. Mineral sunscreens, also called physical sunscreens, sit on top of the skin. They work by absorbing UV rays and converting them to a small amount of heat, which the body releases. Many or most of the sunscreens you find at the store are chemical sunscreens, which penetrate the skin. chemical sunscreen, which is the smarter option? You’ve probably heard that when it comes to buying sunscreen, you should choose one that provides broad-spectrum protection (to guard against both UVA and UVB rays) and has SPF 30 or more. Medical Review By: Evelina Ingersoll, APRN
