Physical vs Chemical Sunscreens: Which One Should You Use?

Sunscreens are broadly categorised into physical sunscreens and chemical sunscreens. While the term “chemical” often throws people off, the difference is really the method in which the ingredients protect the skin.

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Physical sunscreens (sometimes called mineral sunscreens) often contain ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide which form a protective barrier to reflect ultraviolet rays. The downside is that sunscreen containing these ingredients often leave a white cast, making them unpleasant or difficult to apply.

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Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, are made with ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate and octinoxate, which absorb the sun’s rays. This forms a chemical reaction which generates a small amount of heat and while this is not harmful to skin, those with skin sensitivity might experience redness as a result.

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Physical vs Chemical Sunscreens: Which One Should You Use?

PHYSICAL SUNSCREEN: Soleil Toujours 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30, $38 (35.5 ml)

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The Soleil Toujours 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30, $38 (35.5 ml), uses zinc oxide as its active ingredient. Although it applies white, it blends with skin perfectly.

PHYSICAL SUNSCREEN: SIGI Skin Morning Glow Physical Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++, $58 (50 ml)

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The SIGI Skin Morning Glow Physical Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++, $58 (50 ml), doesn’t just protect against UVA and UVB rays, its blend of superfood ingredients, including avocado and acai, helps to
hydrate and strengthen skin.

PHYSICAL SUNSCREEN: Eau Thermale Avéne Fluid Fragrance-Free SPF 50+, $41.90 (50 ml)

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Formulated for sensitive skin, the Eau Thermale Avéne Fluid Fragrance-Free SPF 50+, $41.90 (50 ml), protects with its lightweight texture. Plus, it’s also developed to have minimal impact on marine life, making it the ideal sunscreen to bring along on your next beach vacation or diving trip.

PHYSICAL SUNSCREEN: Elizabeth Arden PREVAGE City Smart Broad Spectrum SPF 50 PA++++ Hydrating Shield, $99 (40 ml)

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With a 100 per cent mineral sunscreen blend, the Elizabeth Arden PREVAGE City Smart Broad Spectrum SPF 50 PA++++ Hydrating Shield, $99 (40 ml), also contains ingredients to defend against pollution as well as strengthen skin against oxidative stress.

PHYSICAL SUNSCREEN: Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Physical Daily Defense SPF 30, $48 (90 ml)

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Containing main sunscreen ingredient zinc oxide, the Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Physical Daily Defense SPF 30, $48 (90 ml), is also loaded with potent antioxidants to defend against free radicals and other environmental aggressors.

PHYSICAL SUNSCREEN: Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Mild Milk SPF 35 PA+++, $39.90 (60 ml)

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The Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Mild Milk SPF 35 PA+++, $39.90 (60 ml), contains mostly mineral sunscreen ingredients but also trace amounts of chemical sunscreen ingredients. However, it’s worth noting that it also contains anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory ingredients to minimise reactions on sensitive skin, and is also friendly to marine life.

CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN: Astalift D-UV Clear White Solution SPF 50+ PA++++, $72 (30 g)

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Containing titanium oxide and avobenzone, the Astalift D-UV Clear White Solution SPF 50+ PA++++, $72 (30 g), gives complete coverage with its new Stretch UV Shield technology which accommodates to the movement of your facial muscles.

CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN: Clair SKIN SOLUTIONS Ultra-Light Sunblock SPF 50+ PA++++, $56 (30 ml)

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Delivering UV protection and hydration, the Clair SKIN SOLUTIONS Ultra-Light Sunblock SPF 50+ PA++++, $56 (30 ml), is also free from parabens, alcohol, mineral oil and artificial colouring. Chamomile, silk peptides and aloe vera extracts help soothe skin redness.

CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN: Lancôme UV Expert Aqua Gel Anti-Pollution SPF 50 PA++++, $75 (30 ml)

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The Lancôme UV Expert Aqua Gel Anti-Pollution SPF 50 PA++++, $75 (30 ml), has an anti-pollution formula to help protect against environmental damage. Its unique texture spreads easily but dries to a matte finish.

CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN: Kiehl’s Dermatologist Solutions Ultra-Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF 50 PA++++, $56 (30 ml)

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It’s almost as though the Kiehl’s Dermatologist Solutions Ultra-Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF 50 PA++++, $56 (30 ml), was formulated for Singapore’s weather. The fluid gel texture spreads easily on skin and penetrates easily to protect skin while smoothing out the appearance of pores.

CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN: Clarins UV Plus Anti-Pollution SPF 50 PA++++, $74 (30 ml)

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The Clarins UV Plus Anti-Pollution SPF 50 PA++++, $74 (30 ml), has a combination of both mineral and chemical sunscreen ingredients to give skin well-rounded protection against UV damage and pollution.

CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN: Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence, $18.90 (50 ml)

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The improved Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence, $18.90 (50 ml), now has a micro defense UV technology to provide even coverage, even within fine lines and pores. Its lightweight gel texture makes it one of the most comfortable to wear in humid weather.

CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN: Sulwhasoo Snowise Brightening UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++, $92 (40 ml)

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Containing brightening ingredients to reduce skin dullness, the Sulwhasoo Snowise Brightening UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++, $92 (40 ml), is also infused with the Skin Coating Film Technology to prevent pollutants from adhering to skin, effectively shielding it against environmental aggressors.

Text: Arissa Ha, The Singapore Women’s Weekly

A print version of this story can be found in the June 2019 issue of The Singapore Women’s Weekly.

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Physical vs Chemical Sunscreens: Which One Should You Use?

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