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Writer's pictureLuv Shah

Physical or Chemical Sunscreen? Which One to Choose?

The application of sunscreen lotion is undoubtedly one of the most significant steps in a skincare routine. Long exposure to the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun can cause irreversible damage to the skin. UVA rays have long-term aging effects and skin-damaging effects on the skin. UVB rays are the ones that cause sunburn. Thus, the goal of wearing sunscreen for face should be to protect yourself down the road from aging and skin-related diseases.

Applying sunscreen is not limited to sun-soaked holidays and beach days. Did you know that even staying indoors you need to use SPF products? UVA light can still reach indoors and has the potential to cause the same damage when you step out.

Sun protection has many aspects etched into it and can be particularly confusing or misguiding with an endless flow of information.

There are two distinct types of sunscreens Chemical Sunscreen and Physical Sunscreen (mineral) both work differently to protect your skin from sunburns or any possible damages.

Let us try to simplify the science behind Physical and Chemical sunscreens.

Which One to Choose?
Which One to Choose?

Difference between Chemical and Physical Sunscreen

Chemical sunscreens are often referred to as “absorbers.” They absorb into the skin and then absorb the harmful UV rays convert the rays into heat, and release them from the body. The active ingredients are organic (carbon-based) compounds that absorb UV rays.


Benefits of Chemical Sunscreen


o They tend to be thinner in use and, therefore, spread more effortlessly on the skin, making them more wearable for daily use. (especially under makeup)

o Less amount is needed to protect the skin because there is no risk of there being gaps between the sunscreen molecules after application.

o Chemical sunscreens offer a broad spectrum of protection to the skin by shielding it against both UVA and UVB rays.

o Easier to use alongside other skin products that nourish your skin.


Physical sunscreens are “reflectors.” Their active ingredients comprise zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which act as physical blockers. These minerals form a protecting barrier on the skin and reflect harmful UV rays before they make contact with the skin’s surface.


Benefits of Physical Sunscreen

  • Give a moisturizing effect, which can feel heavy on the skin.

  • Protects the skin against both UVA and UVB rays.

  • Physical sunscreens are gentler on the skin because they have minimal chances of causing sensitivity or irritation.

  • Safe to use during pregnancy.

  • Safe to use on babies.


Both physical and chemical sunscreens protect your skin against damaging UV rays in their unique ways, reducing the chances of skin diseases and premature aging. UV doux is the best sunscreen recommended by dermatologists in India as it is a silicone-based sunscreen with high protection SPF 50 with PA+++.

UV Doux sunscreen is a unique combination of silicone Elastomer Gel that offers the following benefits.

o Quick absorption.

o Sebum control in acne patients.

o Restricts formation of free radicals.

o Ensured a protective film over sunscreen when in contact with water and sweat.

Both types of sunscreen are designed to work differently on each skin type, their functioning depends on various factors. For example, for an acne-prone or oily-skin chemical sunscreens work better. Whereas physical sunscreens offer more protection from UV light. Chemical and Physical sunscreens work wonderfully to protect your skin from the sun, thus whichever one feels best on your skin, should be applied by following appropriate application methods.

Explore more on UV Doux which is recommended as the best sunscreen in India!




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