Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreen: What’s Right for You?
Wearing sunscreen is one of the most important things you can do for your skin. It helps prevent sunburn, lowers your risk of skin cancer, and protects against the early signs of aging. No question there.
But when it comes to choosing an SPF, we hear a lot of questions! What’s the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens? Which ingredients are reef safe? Which sun creams are best for my lifestyle?
At LATHER, sun protection is more than skin deep - it’s about empowering people to make informed, mindful choices that support both their health and the planet. So, today, we're breaking down the key differences between mineral and chemical sunscreens to help you make the best choice for your skin – and your lifestyle.
How sunscreens work
The first thing to know is that sunscreens fall into two categories: mineral (physical) and chemical.
Think of mineral sunscreens like a mirror: they sit on the surface of your skin and physically deflect UV rays. They use natural minerals, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, as their active ingredients. These formulas are ideal for sensitive skin and start working immediately upon application.
In contrast, chemical sunscreens are more like a sponge: they absorb into your skin and work by converting UV rays into heat, which is then released from the skin. While they’re widely available and can feel lightweight, some of their active ingredients - like oxybenzone and avobenzone - may cause irritation or harm to marine life.
The benefits of mineral sun protection
At LATHER, we formulate mineral sunscreens because we believe they’re better tolerated by more skin types, especially those with sensitive skin. Since they don't penetrate the skin's surface like chemical formulas, they're less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. This makes mineral SPF a popular choice for children, people with reactive skin conditions, or anyone who prefers a gentler approach to sun protection.
We also like mineral sunscreens because they’re gentler on marine life. As responsible stewards of the Earth, we formulate our products with clean ingredients and sustainable practices. You’ll find non-nano zinc oxide in our face and body sunscreens, which offer strong sun protection on the skin while remaining reef safe.
Naturally strong protection
LATHER offers two powerful ways to boost your sun protection routine, both with broad-spectrum mineral SPF 50. They help prevent sunburn, reduce the risk of skin cancer, and defend against visible signs of aging like dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles.
And unlike some other mineral sunscreens, which can feel thick and chalky - often leaving a pasty texture - ours applies onto skin easily, feeling more like skin care than sun block.
Daily Defense Mineral SPF 50 Body Sunscreen and Daily Defense Mineral SPF 50 Facial Sunscreen are lightweight mineral sunscreens that glide on effortlessly, blend in seamlessly, and leave behind no white cast - just soft, protected skin. We packed them full of clean, active ingredients, including:
- Non-nano zinc oxide to deflect UV rays from the skin’s surface
- Shea butter to moisturize and soften
- Natural botanical extracts to soothe and protect skin
Daily Defense SPF 50 Facial Sunscreen is designed specifically for delicate facial skin, offering a sheer, lightly tinted finish. Daily Defense SPF 50 Body Sunscreen provides the same powerful protection in an un-tinted, fragrance-free formula, perfect for larger surface areas and those with sensitive skin.
Swimming or sweating? No problem. Both sunscreens are water resistant for up to 80 minutes, so skin will be protected. Remember to reapply after towel-drying, or every two hours.
Don’t forget after-sun care
Even with the best sun protection, skin can benefit from post-sun nourishment. LATHER’s After Sun Body Serum is your go-to for calming and restoring sun-exposed skin. It’s made with:
- Aloe juice to soothe
- Virgin organic coconut oil to moisturize
- Organic hemp seed oil to nourish
This post-sun ritual helps your skin bounce back, feeling soft, hydrated, and balanced.
Ready, set, protect
Choosing between chemical and mineral sunscreens isn’t about picking the ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ side - it’s about understanding what feels best for your skin, your values, and your lifestyle.
Whether you’re hitting the beach or just running errands outdoors, daily use of a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen is one of the best things you can do for your skin.
Have any other SPF questions? Contact us and let us know how we can help your skin have its best summer ever.
