Two common types of sunscreen include chemical and physical sunscreen. The difference is in how the two protect your skin from the sun.
Chemical sunscreen uses chemicals such as oxybenzone and avobenzone to create a chemical reaction. Upon exposure to the sun, these chemicals absorb the harmful UV rays, turn the rays into heat, and release them from your skin.
Physical sunscreens, often known as mineral sunscreens, protect your skin like a shield rather than a chemical reaction. Using ingredients such as Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, physical sunscreens reflect and scatter the suns rays before they have the chance to soak in.
Physical sunscreens protect against UVA and UVB rays, while many chemical sunscreens only protect against one or the other. Chemical sunscreens often absorb better than physical sunscreens, while physical sunscreens can leave a white coating on your skin. However, physical sunscreens are often better for sensitive skin.