Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreen – What’s the Difference?
Posted by Skinsider Team on 16th May 2025
Choosing the right sunscreen can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options on the market. One of the first questions you might encounter is: mineral or chemical sunscreen – what’s the difference? Both types offer essential sun protection, but they work in distinct ways and cater to different skin needs. Let’s break down how each type functions, who they’re best suited for, and explore some standout Korean sunscreens you can find at Skinsider.
How Do Mineral and Chemical Sunscreens Work?
Mineral Sunscreen (Physical Sunscreen)
Mineral sunscreens use physical UV filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They sit on top of the skin and act like a shield, reflecting UV rays away before they can cause damage.
- Key benefits: Immediate protection after application, generally gentler on sensitive skin, and less likely to clog pores.
- Downside: Some formulas can leave a slight white cast, especially on deeper skin tones, though modern Korean mineral sunscreens are constantly improving in texture and finish.
Chemical Sunscreen
Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, absorb into the skin and transform UV rays into harmless heat. They use ingredients like octocrylene, avobenzone, and newer filters developed in Korean skincare that are highly stable and skin-friendly.
- Key benefits: Lightweight, easy to layer, often invisible on the skin, and well-suited for everyday wear, even under makeup.
- Downside: They can sometimes cause irritation for very sensitive or reactive skin types, depending on the formula.
Recommended Mineral Sunscreens:
MIXSOON Shield Fit Pure Suncream - This gentle mineral sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection while feeling featherlight on the skin. Thanks to its clean formula, it's a fantastic choice for sensitive and easily irritated skin types. It soothes as it protects, helping maintain a healthy, calm complexion without any greasy residue.
I'm From Rice Sunscreen - Blending the benefits of mineral protection with the nourishing properties of rice extract, this sunscreen not only reflects harmful rays but also brightens and hydrates the skin. It's ideal for dry to normal skin types wanting a sunscreen that doubles as a skincare booster.
Recommended Chemical Sunscreens:
PURITO Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen - An upgraded take on traditional chemical sunscreens, this product is silky, fast-absorbing, and fragrance-free. It’s packed with skin-soothing ingredients like centella asiatica, making it perfect for sensitive skin despite being a chemical formula. The Daily Soft Touch is a dream under makeup, offering a natural, non-greasy finish.
COSRX Ultra Light Invisible Sunscreen - True to its name, COSRX delivers a sunscreen that's ultra-light and truly invisible. Designed for all skin types, especially oily or combination, it leaves no white cast or heavy feeling. Its hydrating formula also ensures your skin stays fresh and comfortable throughout the day.
Which One is Best for You?
Ultimately, both mineral and chemical sunscreens are excellent choices — it all comes down to your skin type, lifestyle, and personal preference.
- If you have sensitive, acne-prone, or redness-prone skin, you might gravitate toward MIXSOON Shield Fit Pure Suncream or I'm From Rice Sunscreen for their calming mineral formulas.
- If you want a lightweight, daily sunscreen that wears beautifully under makeup, the PURITO Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen or COSRX Ultra Light Invisible Sunscreen would be your go-to picks.
Remember: The best sunscreen is the one you’ll actually use every day.
