When it comes to sunscreen, the most important thing is that you use one—but how do you decide which one to slather on? 

Mineral vs Non-Mineral Sunscreen: What’s the Difference?- BeautifulJobs

We’ve turned to Michelle Ryan, skin expert and Ultraceuticals’ National Trainer, to find out all you need to know about chemical-based and mineral-based sunscreens. 

Non-Mineral 

Also commonly referred to as ‘chemical sunscreens’, non-mineral sunscreens protect the skin from the sun by absorbing UV light and converting the rays into non-damaging heat that is released from the body. They are thinner in consistency and sheer in texture and, as a result, are generally more favoured by people.

If you’re unsure which to pick, the best-selling Ultraceuticals’ Ultra UV Protective Daily Moisturiser SPF 50 (€54.50) is available in Hydrating andMattifying formulas. They are lightweight, non-whitening, and fast-absorbing—the dream combo. 

Mineral

Mineral sunscreen (also known as physical sunscreen) sits on top of the skin and deflects the sun’s rays to protect it from UV damage. These formulas tend to be slightly thicker in consistency and velvety to the touch. They are generally preferred by sensitive or acne-prone skin types, utilising ingredients such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, which are shown to be gentler on the skin. 

While mineral sunscreens are often deemed to leave a white cast, peel easily, or be difficult to rub into the skin, Ultraceuticals’ Ultra UV Protective Daily Mineral Defence SPF50+ (€65.00) isn’t your average mineral sunscreen. It is a light, sheer, non-greasy, easy-to-blend mineral sunscreen offering UVA and UVB protection. 

Which to Choose?

To sum up, mineral and non-mineral sunscreens are two slightly different formulas designed to achieve the same goal: protecting your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Ultimately, choosing the right formula for you is down to your skin type or personal preference.  In any case, you can trust in the superior protection provided by all Ultraceuticals sunscreens. Formulated to provide protection against the harsh Australian climate, they incorporate state-of-the-art technology by combining nourishing and hydrating ingredients without compromising the efficacy of the protection that sunscreen provides.

Shop Ultraceuticals on ultraceuticals.ie and in Ultraceuticals’ Clinics & Salons nationwide