When it comes to sunscreen, there are primarily two types of protection methods: mineral and chemical. Mineral sunscreens act as a physical shield on your skin, reflecting harmful UV rays away. They consist of ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, providing a barrier that does not penetrate the skin.

In contrast, chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them to heat that is then released from your body. Usually featuring ingredients like avobenzone and octinoxate, these formulations are generally lighter and more transparent on the skin.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen

Each type of sunscreen has its benefits and drawbacks. Mineral sunscreens are often thicker, leaving a visible white cast unless tinted. However, they are typically gentler, making them suitable for sensitive skin and safer for the environment, posing less risk to coral reefs.

On the flip side, chemical sunscreens don’t leave a cast and are often more comfortable for daily use, especially during activities that cause you to sweat. However, ingredients like avobenzone may destabilize in sunlight and potentially irritate the skin. There are ongoing concerns about certain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate harming marine environments and possibly disrupting human hormones, leading to their ban in some regions.

Understanding these aspects can guide users in selecting a sunscreen that best matches their needs and values.

For more information, check out the original article from WIRED.