Sunscreen: mineral or chemical? SPF 30 or 50?
The best sunscreen is the one you'll wear every day in the right amount. But knowing the difference between types helps you find one that feels comfortable, so you keep using it.
Mineral or chemical?
| Mineral (physical) | Chemical | |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide | Filters that absorb UV rays |
| Texture | Heavier, and can leave a white cast | Lighter and absorbs easily |
| Suits | Very sensitive skin, and children over 6 months | Most people, and oily skin |
| Note | Tinted versions hide the white cast | Can sting around the eyes for some people |
Many sunscreens combine both types. What matters is that the label says broad spectrum or shows UVA protection.
SPF 30 or 50?
SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, and SPF 50 about 98%. The difference is small on paper, but in reality most people apply less than they should, so SPF 50 gives a bigger safety margin, especially in Egypt's sun and for people with dark spots or fair skin.
Quick reviews of well-known ranges
La Roche-Posay Anthelios
Sunscreen range for sensitive skin
- Suits
- Sensitive skin, with options for oily skin
- Texture
- Ultra-light fluid, cream and tinted
- Stands out for
- A wide choice of textures
- Watch out for
- Choose the product for your skin type, not the first one you find
Bioderma Photoderm
Sunscreen range in different formats
- Suits
- Sensitive and oily skin
- Texture
- Cream, spray and matte versions
- Stands out for
- Includes options for oily, breakout-prone skin
- Watch out for
- The names are similar, so read the skin type on the pack
Vichy Capital Soleil
Sunscreen range for face and body
- Suits
- Daily use, with matte options
- Texture
- Mild
- Stands out for
- Includes tinted and matte versions for oily skin
- Watch out for
- Make sure it's a face product if you're using it on your face
Avène Very High Protection
Sunscreens for sensitive skin
- Suits
- Sensitive and irritated skin
- Texture
- Fluid, cream and mineral
- Stands out for
- Includes a mineral version without chemical filters
- Watch out for
- The mineral version can leave a slight white cast
Availability varies between branches. Send the product name on WhatsApp before you come, and the pharmacist will tell you what's in stock and a suitable alternative.
How to apply it properly
- Amount: about two finger-lengths for the face and neck.
- Timing: the last step of your morning routine, before make-up.
- Reapplying: every two hours if you're in the sun, and after sweating or swimming.
- Even in winter: UV rays are present all year round.
Babies under 6 months: it's best to keep them out of direct sun with shade and clothing, and ask a doctor before using any sunscreen.
Need a pharmacist's opinion? Call us or send a WhatsApp message. Our branches in Tanta and Kafr El-Zayat are open 24 hours.
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