If you’ve struggled to find your SPF soulmate with traditional chemical-based sunscreens, mineral sunscreens could be worth a try. Both tests are carried out to agreed British and International test standards. Any fails are subject to a repeat test with a fresh sample from a different bottle.

Ultimately, the best sunscreens are the ones you will actually use on a regular basis. Dermatologists from the British Skin Foundation claim:

Which is better, mineral or physical sunscreen?

Although underrated, mineral sunscreens (or mineral SPFs) are often applauded for their ability to shield our skin from the harmful UV rays, and deservedly so. Compared to their chemical counterparts, mineral sunscreens tend tend to feature a much more gentle formula, making it perfectly suitable for sensitive complexions. Not to mention, they also offer broad spectrum protection, aimed to deflect blue light, UVB and UVA rays (which may cause pigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles and the breakdown of collagen). There’s no doubt that sunscreen and sun creams are absolutely essential for healthy skin; however, it can be hard work finding a sunscreen you’re totally satisfied with. According to Dr Radmila, mineral SPFs are safe for sensitive skin and are less likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions than chemical sunscreen. “Mineral SPF is more heat-resistant and tends to last longer than chemical sunscreen, making it an excellent choice for protecting the skin against the sun’s harmful rays,” she says. Unlike chemical formulations, which take around 20 minutes to become effective, mineral sunscreens also get to work as soon as you apply them. The best sunscreen is the one you will use regularly and in the correct quantities.” Which is better, mineral or physical sunscreen?

Suncream buying guide - SPF, UVA and UVB explained, how to choose, and the marketing jargon to watch out for After retesting its product Tropic told us: ‘The safety of our customers is and has always been our number one priority. On receiving Which?’s results, we disagreed entirely with their findings. Our Skin Shade SPF30 had been tested multiple times, with the last test conducted in August 2021, achieving an SPF rating of 32.5. While chemical formulas tend to be a popular choice because they’re typically lighter in texture and easier to apply, mineral sunscreens are less likely to clog pores, making them better for sensitive, irritated and blemish-prone skin types. Our independent lab tests reveal how well high street sunscreens protect skin from UVA and UVB rays, the types of ultraviolet light linked to skin cancer. UVA causes premature skin ageing and UVB causes sunburn.Mineral sunscreens are also generally considered safe for most people, including those who are pregnant or have sensitive skin conditions such as eczema. However, Amanda Azzopardi, aesthetic nurse and founder of Amanda Azzopardi Aesthetics, still recommends consulting with a healthcare professional or a dermatologist before using any skincare product. They can also be a great choice for pregnant and breastfeeding women, as they sit on the surface of the skin rather than get absorbed. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing the sun's UV rays and converting the light to heat, which then dissipates from the skin. This chemical reaction is what gives chemical sunscreens their name. However, they can be problematic for sensitive skin, causing stinging or watery eyes upon application. Additionally, for those who have melasma (a skin condition that results in stubborn skin pigmentation, which is often exacerbated by the sun and heat), chemical sunscreens can sometimes make this worse, as the conversion of the light into heat can trigger pigmentation. Lamellar technology uses a Lamellar gel structure that is specifically made to work in harmony with your skin. This unique technology helps the formulation bind and work in harmony with your skin, offering longer lasting UV protection that is fully water-resistant whilst helping to strengthen your skin’s barrier.

Clinique told us it has conducted external standard testing which supports its SPF claims and meets EU guidelines for UVA: ‘All our products are subjected to rigorous testing - we guarantee our claims are clinically valid. Our evaluation and inspection process means we have full confidence in the integrity and efficacy of all ingredients and formulas.' However, mineral sunscreens can sometimes leave whitish ‘casts’ on the skin, so may not be suitable for people with darker skin tones (even though this is much less common now). It's important to note that both mineral and chemical sunscreens can be effective at protecting the skin from the sun's harmful rays, but some people may prefer one type over the other based on their skin type or personal preferences," adds Dr Ludmila. What are the benefits of using a mineral sunscreen?Now, thanks to technological advances, most mineral sunscreens are so sophisticated you won’t even know you’re wearing them. And because they can be combined with hydrating ingredients, pigment and anti-ageing ingredients such as antioxidants without compromising their efficacy, SPF no longer even needs to be a separate layer in your skincare regime. There’s much to be said for big floppy hats, sunglasses and just staying out of the sun altogether. However, when it comes to sheer practicality, it’s far easier to commit to the cardinal rule of beauty and all-round skin health of applying SPF daily. UVA protection - we spread the sunscreen on a glass plate, place it in the path of a spectrophotometer and record the UVA radiation absorbed by the sunscreen. They’re sometimes referred to as a physical sunscreens and work by absorbing and then deflecting or scattering the UV radiation, as well as absorbing the UV light and releasing it as heat. 1

Mineral sunscreens and chemical sunscreens differ in the way they protect the skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun,” shares Dr Radmila Lukian, dermatologist and skin expert at Lucia Clinic. “Mineral sunscreens are often preferred by individuals with sensitive skin, as they are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions.”Once upon a time, mineral sunscreens were often written off due to the white ‘cast’ they would leave on the skin. But times have changed! Innovative formulas have changed the game when it comes to mineral sunscreens and there are so many to choose from. Edewell (manufacturer of Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Protective Sun Lotion) told us it firmly disagrees with the testing results obtained by Which?: ‘Our product’s sun protection factor has been tested by a reputable and internationally recognised lab to ISO 24444 and obtained an SPF result of 34.5. Its UVA protection surpasses minimum European and UK thresholds and we’ve received no complaints or reports about adverse reactions.' Discover nine of our favourite mineral sunscreens here at H&B, as well as a little more information to help you decide if they could be a good choice for you in this article. Skip to: