Physical vs Chemical Sunscreen / What’s the difference?

Protecting your skin from the sun isn’t just a summer concern—it’s a daily essential for maintaining healthy, radiant skin. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right sunscreen for your skin type?

Sunscreens generally fall into two categories: physical and chemical. Each type offers unique benefits and has its own set of pros and cons. Understanding the difference can help you make the best choice for your skincare needs

Before diving into the different types of sunscreens there are, it's important to first understand how UV rays interact with our skin. Knowing the effects of UVA and UVB rays helps explain why certain sunscreens are formulated the way they are—and why choosing the right one matters for your skin’s health and protection

UVA vs. UVB: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

When it comes to sun exposure, not all UV rays are created equal. UVB rays are often referred to as “UV Burning” because they’re responsible for causing sunburn. These rays carry heat, so you can feel them on your skin, especially when the sun is at its peak between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., and they’re slightly stronger in the summer months. UVB rays primarily affect the outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, and cause visible damage like redness, burning, and peeling.

On the other hand, UVA rays are known as “UV Ageing.” Unlike UVB, they don’t carry heat, so you won’t feel them on your skin—and they don’t cause sunburn. This makes them particularly sneaky, as the damage they cause isn’t immediately visible. UVA rays are present from sunrise to sunset, all year round, and in all weather conditions, including cloudy or rainy days. They penetrate deeper into the skin, reaching the dermis, where they activate enzymes like collagenase and elastase that break down collagen and elastin. Over time, this leads to premature ageing, fine lines, and wrinkles.

In short, UVB causes the sunburn you feel, but UVA causes the aging you don’t see right away. That’s why daily, broad-spectrum sun protection is essential—not just to prevent burning, but to protect your skin’s long-term.

Understanding the Two Types of Sunscreen: Physical vs. Chemical

When it comes to sun protection, all sunscreens fall into two main categories: physical and chemical. While both are designed to shield your skin from harmful UV rays, they work in very different ways—and each has its own pros and cons.

Physical Sunscreen

Physical sunscreens are made with naturally occurring minerals like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as their active ingredients. These minerals sit on top of the skin and act as a physical barrier, reflecting and scattering UV rays away before they can penetrate. Think of them like tiny, invisible mirrors bouncing the sunlight off your skin. They also absorb a small amount of UV radiation on the surface—but unlike chemical filters, they don’t sink into the skin.

Zinc oxide is especially notable because it's the only sunscreen ingredient that provides broad- spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

However, there’s one golden rule with physical sunscreens:


“If you move it, you lose it.”


Because they stay on the skin’s surface, they can easily rub off with sweat, water, or even if you simply touch your face. That means you need to reapply frequently, especially after swimming or sweating, to maintain protection.

Chemical Sunscreen

Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV radiation into the skin and converting it into heat, which is then released from the body. This internal chemical reaction helps prevent sunburn effectively, but it also comes with a trade-off. Because the reaction occurs within the skin tissue, it can generate free radicals, which may contribute to cellular stress and damage over time.

What About SPF?

There’s often some confusion about SPF and how much coverage it really provides. Here’s a simple breakdown:

• SPF 30+ blocks about 97.3% of UV radiation

• SPF 50+ blocks about 97.8%

The difference between the two is minimal, but higher SPFs may offer a bit more protection for those with very fair or sensitive skin. Regardless of SPF level, no sunscreen offers 100% protection, so regular reapplication and sun-smart habits (like wearing a hat and seeking shade) are key

So in conclusion, no matter which type you choose, the most important thing is consistency. Apply your sunscreen every single day—even when it's cloudy, even in winter. Your skin will thank you later.

Now that you understand how sunscreens work, let’s get to the good part—our top product recommendations. At Simply Skin and Laser Clinic, we proudly offer a curated range of 12 different sunscreens, each carefully selected to suit a variety of skin types, concerns, and lifestyles.

At Simply Skin and Laser Clinic, our mission is clear: we’re here to educate and empower you to protect your skin from sun damage and prevent premature aging. Whether you're looking for a lightweight SPF for daily use or a medical-grade formula for advanced protection, we have a sunscreen to suit every skin type and lifestyle.

Not sure which one is right for you? Our experienced therapists are here to help. Book a consultation or pop in for a chat, and we’ll guide you toward the perfect sunscreen to keep your skin healthy, radiant, and glowing—now and for years to come.