Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

When it comes to protecting your skin from the sun, not all sunscreens are created equal. The SPF number might be the same on the label, but what's inside the bottle makes a big difference—especially when it comes to your skin, your health, and the environment.

So, what’s the real difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen? And why does Cove Suncare proudly stick to mineral-only formulas?

Let’s break it down.

 

 

What Is Mineral Sunscreen?

Mineral sunscreens—also known as physical sunscreens—use natural UV blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients sit on top of your skin and physically reflect the sun’s rays.

Pros:
✔️ Starts working immediately after application
✔️ Less likely to irritate sensitive or acne-prone skin
✔️ Non-phototoxic (won’t break down in sunlight or cause irritation)
✔️ Reef-safe and environmentally friendly
✔️ Great for kids, those with sensitive skin, and daily wear

Cons:
➖ May leave a white cast (though modern formulations like Cove’s solve this)
➖ Can feel thicker or heavier in older formulas

 

 

What Is Chemical Sunscreen?

Chemical sunscreens use synthetic compounds like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate to absorb UV rays and convert them into heat.

Pros:
✔️ Often lightweight and sheer
✔️ Easy to blend, especially under makeup

Cons:
➖ Takes 15–30 minutes to become effective
➖ More likely to cause irritation or breakouts
➖ Phototoxic risk—can break down in sunlight and irritate skin
➖ Contains ingredients harmful to coral reefs
➖ May disrupt hormones (some filters have been linked to endocrine disruption)

 

 

Why Cove Suncare Uses Only Mineral Filters

At Cove, we’re committed to clean protection you can trust. Our formulas are:

  • 100% mineral-based, using zinc oxide for broad-spectrum protection

  • Non-phototoxic, meaning they won’t cause sun-triggered irritation

  • Reef-safe, made without oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other marine-damaging ingredients

  • Sprayable and lightweight, with zero stickiness and no chalky residue

  • Safe for daily use, for all skin types

Whether you're at the beach, running errands, or layering it under makeup—Cove is sunscreen you’ll actually want to wear.

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