types of sunscreens types of sunscreens

Types of Sunscreens & Sunscreen Formulations

Now that the summer is approaching and ready to hit with more concentrated sunlight, you should gear up to prevent any sun-induced skin damage. How, you ask? By applying sunscreen regularly. Sunscreen aka sunblock or sun cream is a photoprotective topical product that shields the skin from sunburn and skin cancer. But which type of sunscreen is ideal for you – Mineral or Chemical? With a plethora of formulations and types available in the market, finding the right sunscreen can be a daunting task. Allow us to make the decision making easier for you and help you find one that suits your skin the best. Here, we have discussed the two primary types of sunscreens and a guide to choosing sunscreen for oily skin, acne-prone skin, normal skin, and more!

Types of Sunscreens

Listed below are two primary types of sunscreens:

1. Mineral Sunscreen

Mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that deposit on the skin’s surface level and physically restrict UV rays from reaching the skin. Also known as a natural or physical sunscreen, this type of sunscreen acts like a shield and protects your skin from UVA and UVB rays. People can layer mineral sunscreens comfortably on top of other skincare products. Also, since mineral sunscreen needs to be absorbed by the skin properly, you must apply this type of sunscreen 15 – 20 minutes before stepping outside in the sun.

2. Chemical Sunscreen

Unlike mineral sunscreens, Chemical sunscreens work by inactivating the UV rays once they penetrate into the skin. When the skin absorbs the UV light, the active ingredients present in this type of sunscreen like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octocrylene initiate a chemical reaction in which the UV rays are converted into heat and released from the skin. Chemical sunscreens come in a somewhat lighter texture than mineral sunscreens.

Now that you know about different types of sunscreens, let’s find out how to choose sunscreen for oily skin, acne-prone skin, and normal skin.

How to Choose Sunscreen for Your Skin Type?

Willing to get optimal sun protection but don’t know where to start? Read the following guide to choosing sunscreen as per your skin type and come out of the cloud of indecisiveness:

Sunscreen for Oily Skin

Looking for sunscreen for oily skin? Trust chemical sunscreen as these types of sunscreens tend to be drier than mineral ones. You can also go for water-based sunscreen for oily skin instead of oil-based creams to get the best results.

Sunscreen for Dry Skin

If you have dry skin, look for hydrating ingredients like glycerine, hyaluronic acid, and ceramide that would protect your skin from UV rays and moisturize it well. You can go for the glycerine-infused sun control moisturizer (moisturizer + SPF formula) for dry skin.

Sunscreen for Acne-prone Skin

Mineral ones are an ideal type of sunscreen for acne-prone skin. It contains ingredients like Titanium dioxide that prevents clogging of pores, and zinc oxide that has anti-inflammatory properties. As a result, you can safely use mineral sunscreen for acne-prone skin. 

Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin

People with sensitive skin suffer from skin discomfort and irritation. Hence, choosing a mineral sunscreen over a chemical one would be the best bet. Wondering why? Chemical sunscreens generate heat and can cause skin irritation for people with sensitive skin types.

Sunscreen for Combination Skin

People with combination skin, i.e., an oily T-zone and dry cheeks, can benefit from both chemical and mineral ingredients. Hence, a lightweight gel-based would be able to both tackle oily T-zone and nourish dry areas as well.

Sunscreen for Normal Skin

Those with normal skin can benefit from any premium range mineral sunscreen.

Want to include sunscreen for oily skin, dry skin in your skincare routine? We’ll show you how to layer mineral or chemical sunscreen.

How to Layer Mineral or Chemical Sunscreen?

If you apply chemical sunscreen for oily skin, layer it before a gel moisturizer so that your skin gets enough time to soak it. On the other hand, if you choose mineral sunscreen for normal skin, acne-prone skin, or sensitive skin, you can apply it after a vitamin E-infused moisturizer as it needs to sit on the external layer of your skin.

Choose a suitable sunscreen for you as per your skin type and prevent sun-induced skin damage. Also, keep browsing through the wide collection of Garnier skincare products to build a thorough skincare routine and take care of your skin.