Not all sunscreens are created equal. Finding the right formula is the key to smooth, sun-protected skin.

<a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/beauty/broad-spectrum-sunscreen-beauty-skincare-travel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Suncreen</a> might seem plain and simple, but like most things in life—it's not. The wrong suncreen can cause problematic buildup that will leave your skin <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/beauty/how-to-treat-prevent-maskne-acne-from-wearing-masks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">acne-prone</a> and heavy, so it's worth taking the time to find a formula that works for you. With countless products to choose from, the search for the perfect <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/beauty/face-sunscreen-skincare-tips" target="_blank" rel="noopener">sunscreen</a> can appear daunting, so let's start with the basics. You've probably heard of physical and chemical suncreens before, and though the words may not mean much to you now, here's why the differentiation is important. 
Physical <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/men/sunscreen-for-men-skincare-spf-shop" target="_blank" rel="noopener">sunscreens,</a> also called mineral sunscreens, have a fundanmentally different way of avoiding sun damage. They contain  active mineral ingredients, such as <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/wellness/natural-ingredients-for-skincare-haircare-body-wellness-health" target="_blank" rel="noopener">titanium dioxide</a>, that sit on the top of your skin and deflect UV rays away from the skin. Physical suncreens work instantaneously—as soon as they are applied to the skin they fight to protect you against both UVA and UVB rays. 
Sounds pretty good, right? Physical suncreens are even less likley to create impurities due to clogged pores, which is a major plus for those of us with acne-prone skin. The downside to physical formulas? They tend to come off easier as a result of their heavy formula which means you'll have to reapply throughout the day, and they might leave you with that annoying white film that ruins your tan. If you are especially active or love hitting the pool, physical suncreens might not be right for you, as they don't stand a chance against water or sweat. But don't worry, there are chemical suncreens, too.

Chemical suncreens take a varied approach to protecting the skin from harmful rays. They contain organic, carbon-based compounds that convert UV rays into heat. While this sounds pretty magical, it all comes down to science. Chemical suncreens are typically thinner, too, which makes them perfect for daily use. The formula is seamlessly absorbed into the skin, which allows for other products to rest smoothy on top of it. Due to the simple and lightweight formula, chemical suncreens often have skin-benefiting additives such as <a href="https://www.lofficielsingapore.com/beauty/what-is-niacinamide">niacinamide</a> or <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/beauty/winter-skincare-dry-skin-ingredients-hyaluronic-acid" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hyaluronic acid</a>.&nbsp;
While there are many opinions as to which type of suncreen is more effective and better for the skin, it really comes down to the individual. If you live a more active lifestyle, chemical formulas might work best for you, and if you don't like the idea of chemicals (even if they are organic) being absorbed into your skin, you might reach for a physical suncreen instead. The choice is up to you, but here are some things to note. Regardless of age or even if you live in a sunny climate, suncreen should always have a place in your daily routine. It's always a good idea to use a product that is labeled as "non-comedogenic," this way you won't have to worry about unexpected <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/music/how-to-pop-pimples-safely-acne-skincare" target="_blank" rel="noopener">blemishes</a>. If you have ultra-sensitive skin, dermatologists recommend using physical formulas in efforts to avoid the irritation that may arise from chemical <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/beauty/popular-skincare-indgredients-for-hair-care" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ingredients</a>. Lastly, if you have a darker <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/wellness/best-superfoods-for-skin" target="_blank" rel="noopener">complexion</a>, physical suncreens might leave you with that chalky whitecast, while chemical formulas will layer on to the skin with no added color.&nbsp;
With the knowledge of these two different formulas in your back pocket, your search should be appear less strenuous. Check out the best physical and chemical suncreens on the market right now. Pick up one of these <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/beauty/hybrid-beauty-cosmetics-skincare-makeup-products" target="_blank" rel="noopener">products</a> and your skin will thank you.&nbsp;https://www.instagram.com/p/CGGacn3nfJX/

Physical Sunscreen

This sheer physical sunscreen delivers powerful broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and aids in the prevention of free-radical and oxidative damage. With raspberry seed oil, this suncreen also offers antioxidant protection from damaging environmental aggressors.
Umber Sheer Physical Daily Defense SPF 30, $34, <a href="https://www.sephora.com/product/umbra-tm-sheer-physical-daily-defense-broad-spectrum-sunscreen-spf-30-P419222?country_switch=us&lang=en&skuId=2170330&om_mmc=ppc-GG_1917651515_76228057331_pla-448866949084_2170330_353513007736_9003500_c&ds_rl=1261471&gclid=CjwKCAjw3pWDBhB3EiwAV1c5rM_F6PLdvdWrYNoN46To8mlXjZQ70zV0_OwzZB9VLeSafA0ZtfBGPRoC8x4QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sephora</a>

Drunk Elephant 

This cult-favorite product is celebrated for its non-greasy formula that protects the skin from harmful rays while also lightly tinting the complexion to enhance radiance. The lighweight, fragrance-free formula is perfect for sesitive and acne-prone skin. 
UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41 Sunscreen - Tinted, $34, <a href="https://www.dermstore.com/product_UV+Physical+BroadSpectrum+SPF+41+Sunscreen++Tinted_11541.htm?utm_egbu=Dermstore-US_Google-Search_Core_EltaMD_CONV_B_DTM_tROAS&utm_egb=500300&utm_ega=CONV&utm_egc=UV%20Physical%20Broad-Spectrum%20SPF%2041%20-%20Tinted&gclid=CjwKCAjw3pWDBhB3EiwAV1c5rA3CuN3gXaYO55FXcP7-L1weAh5J15ZnFEUKkGwxj608G_v5nmC5NxoCECMQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dermstore</a>

EltaMD 

Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide block out UVA/UVB rays in this fluid sunscreen. Boosted by an antioxidant complex to fight against free radicals, this award-winning sunscreen protects skin in more ways than one.
Anthelios Mineral Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 50, $34, <a href="https://www.laroche-posay.us/sunscreen/sunscreen-product-type/face-sunscreen/anthelios-mineral-zinc-oxide-sunscreen-spf-50-883140000907.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">La Roche-Posay</a>

La Roche-Posay

This is a 100 percent mineral, indoor and outdoor SPF that shields against digital blue-light damage and UVA and UVB pollution. The main ingredients include Zinc Oxide and Titanium Oxide, which provide broad-spectrum sun protection.
City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50 | PA++++, $68, <a href="https://www.murad.com/product/city-skin-age-defense-spf-50/?XID=SEM_GGL_SH_MURA&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping&zmam=85563399&zmas=1&zmac=1&zmap=15232&gclid=CjwKCAjw3pWDBhB3EiwAV1c5rEsnh6QjmjnNTBu70RsSGev28kbr8DBf1fe9-tg-uoUMV2LaKTbV3RoCLtcQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Murad</a>

Murad 

Chemical Sunscreen

This lightweight SPF 35 water-gel formula contains a<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-weight: inherit; letter-spacing: 0px;">ctive microcapsules that instantly absorb into skin, so it pairs well with makeup. The serum-like consistency ensures that there is no white cast or greasy residue left of the skin. 
Invisible Shield, $25, <a href="https://www.glossier.com/products/invisible-shield?g_campaign=US_Google_Shopping&g_campaignid=2047147846&g_adgroupid=72089136203&g_adid=358363440181&g_keyword=&g_keywordid=pla-297434723751&g_adtype=&g_merchantid=107339476&g_productchannel=online&g_productid=ISH-000-00-01&g_partition=297434723751&utm_source=Google&utm_medium=CPC&utm_campaign=US_Google_Shopping&gclid=CjwKCAjw3pWDBhB3EiwAV1c5rAxwg2Ksn9dQdh8EHkEwQmbKTzizxWvRoWQF2WKY-tdoIIsQK3FPXhoC2iEQAvD_BwE" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glossier</a>

Glossier 

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 This two-in-one suncreen includes both SPF 40 and Vitamin C. These ingredients work together to form a serum that helps visibly brighten skin and prevent the two main causes of dark spots: UV rays and blue light.
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Daily Dose Vitamin C + SPF 40 Sunscreen Serum | PA+++, $46, <a href="https://supergoop.com/products/daily-dose-vitamin-c-serum-spf-40">Supergoop</a>

Supergoop

This suncreen is a go-to for those of us who are prone to break-outs. Formulated with Helioplex, it provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. Perfect for face and body, this liquid-lotion has a water-light texture that leaves a weightless, matte finish so skin can breathe.
Clear Face Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 30, $14, <a href="https://www.ulta.com/clear-face-oil-free-sunscreen-spf-30?productId=xlsImpprod4150023&sku=2223679" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ulta</a>

Neutrogena 

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 This lightweight suncreen provides SPF 30 Broad Spectrum protection that absorbs quickly with no unwanted residue and lasts all day. It is free from parabens, alcohol, and mineral oil and is formulated especially for melanin-rich skin.
 Melē No Shade Sunscreen Oil Broad Spectrum for Melanin Rich Skin - SPF 30, $20, <a href="https://www.target.com/p/mele-no-shade-sunscreen-oil-broad-spectrum-for-melanin-rich-skin-spf-30-1-fl-oz/-/A-80039238#lnk=sametab" style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Target</a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-weight: inherit; letter-spacing: 0px;"> 
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How To Know if Chemical or Physical Sunscreen is Right for You

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