Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen for Acne: Which is Better?

Sunscreen is essential in any skincare routine. However, sunscreen becomes even more critical when you're navigating the delicate terrain of acne-prone skin.

With the sun's UV rays known to irritate acne and its high likelihood of causing hyperpigmentation and scarring, the choice seems clear – you need protection.

We're here to help you find a sunscreen that will help protect and heal your skin and won't break you out.

For those struggling with acne, the quest for the right skincare products is often daunting. Acne can be aggravated by several environmental and internal factors, including hormonal fluctuations, diet, stress, and the skincare products you use.

This makes it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of breakouts and find the perfect solution. However, one thing is clear – the right sunscreen will only help your acne-prone skin, not worsen it.

Sunscreen is a non-negotiable ally in your skincare arsenal. It not only protects your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation but can also help in the management of active acne and the prevention of hyperpigmentation scars.

Mineral sunscreen, often referred to as physical sunscreen, utilizes active mineral ingredients, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, to create a barrier that reflects and disperses UV light. For those with acne, the non-comedogenic properties of mineral sunscreens make it the preferred choice.

1. Non-comedogenic: Mineral sunscreens typically contain fewer ingredients and are less likely to clog pores compared to their chemical counterparts, which can be a game-changer for acne-prone skin.

2. Physical barrier: The formulation forms a layer on the skin, deflecting harmful UV rays, and providing immediate protection without the need to wait after application.

Despite their benefits, some physical sunscreens can leave a white cast on the skin. However, our Plumscreen™ mineral sunscreen blends seamlessly into all skin tones.

Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, work by absorbing UV rays, converting them into a small amount of heat, then releasing them from the skin. This category includes a variety of active ingredients like avobenzone, octocrylene, and oxybenzone.

• Lightweight: Chemical sunscreens tend to be lighter and more easily absorbed into the skin compared to mineral sunscreens.

• No white cast: Unlike mineral sunscreen, chemical sunscreens do not leave a white cast on the skin.

• Potential irritation: Chemical sunscreens can cause irritation or allergic reactions in those with sensitive skin. This is due to the active ingredients being absorbed into the skin, potentially causing inflammation.

• Environmental concerns: Chemical sunscreens have been linked to coral bleaching and damage to marine life, making them a controversial choice for those concerned about their environmental impact.

• Linked to cancer and endocrine disruption: Some studies have linked certain chemical sunscreen ingredients, such as oxybenzone, to an increased risk of cancer and disruption of hormones.[1]

When it comes to choosing the right sunscreen for acne-prone skin, there are a few key factors to consider:

1. Choose non-comedogenic: Non-comedogenic means the product has been specifically formulated to not clog pores or cause acne breakouts.

2. Check the ingredients list: Avoid chemical sunscreens with potentially irritating or harmful ingredients like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and fragrance.

3. Opt for mineral sunscreen: Mineral sunscreens may be a better choice if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin. Look for non-nano zinc oxide - a natural mineral that offers broad-spectrum protection without causing irritation or clogging pores.

4. Consider SPF level: While higher SPF levels offer slightly more protection from the sun's UV rays, they can also be heavier and more pore-clogging. Stick to SPFs of 30+ for the best balance of protection and skin sensitivity.

5. Choose a full-spectrum formula: Look for sunscreens that protect from both UVA and UVB rays to ensure complete coverage.

6. Lifestyle and activities: Consider your lifestyle and the sun exposure you regularly face. Do you spend a lot of time outdoors? Are you involved in water activities? Your daily routine can influence the type of sunscreen that best suits your needs.

Our 7x award-winning Plumscreen™ checks off all the boxes for a perfect daily sunscreen for acne-prone skin. It's:

This lightweight, silky sunscreen:

• Blends seamlessly with your skin tone

• Repairs existing sun damage and signs of aging

• Contains Zonaria Tournefortii Extract - a hand-harvested seaweed with anti-aging benefits