1 

Chemical Sunscreen

How It Works: Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin.

Active Ingredients: Common ingredients include avobenzone, octinoxate, oxybenzone, and octocrylene.

Pros: Lightweight, often invisible on the skin, and typically more cosmetically elegant.

Cons: Can cause irritation for sensitive skin types, cause a stinging sensation if it gets into the eyes and may not be reef-safe.​

2

Physical (Mineral) Sunscreen

How It Works: Mineral sunscreens sit on top of the skin and reflect or scatter UV rays away.

Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are the most common.

Pros: Suitable for sensitive skin, often recommended for children, and generally considered reef-safe.

Cons: Can leave a white cast, especially on darker skin tones, and may feel heavier or greasy.

3

Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

How It Works: Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays.

Active Ingredients: Can include a mix of chemical and/or physical filters.

Pros: Provides comprehensive protection against both types of harmful UV radiation.

Cons: Some broad-spectrum sunscreens may feel heavier or greasy, depending on the formula.

4

Water-Resistant Sunscreen

How It Works: Designed to maintain its SPF protection for a certain period of time while you are sweating or swimming.

Pros: Ideal for outdoor activities, sports, or swimming.

Cons: Must still be reapplied after swimming or heavy sweating.

4

Sports Sunscreen

How It Works: Often designed to be extra water-resistant and sweat-resistant to withstand intense physical activity.

Active Ingredients: Can include both chemical and physical filters.

Pros: Long-lasting protection during physical activity.

Cons: May feel thicker or more intense than regular sunscreen.

4

Tinted Sunscreen

How It Works: Contains iron oxides, which provide a physical barrier to UV rays while also giving a slight tint to the skin.

Pros: Offers extra protection against visible light (which can contribute to skin aging), and the tint can help reduce the appearance of dark spots.

Cons: The tint may not match all skin tones, and it may feel heavier on the skin.

4

Sunscreen Sticks

How It Works: Solid, portable sunscreen that you swipe directly onto your skin.

Pros: Great for targeted application (like the face or small areas), very portable, and no mess.

Cons: May be difficult to apply to larger areas or evenly across the skin.

4

Sunscreen Sprays

How It Works: Sunscreen in a spray form, which is applied by spraying directly onto the skin.

Pros: Convenient for quick and even application, especially on larger areas like the back.

Cons: Can be difficult to apply evenly, and some people may inhale the product by accident.

1 

Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin

How It Works: Formulated specifically for delicate or reactive skin types.

Active Ingredients: Often contains fewer chemicals, typically relying on physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

Pros: Hypoallergenic, less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions.

Cons: Might be thicker or leave a noticeable white cast.

1 

Sunscreen with Skincare Benefits

How It Works: Includes additional skincare ingredients like antioxidants, moisturizers, or anti-aging components.

Active Ingredients: Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or peptides.

Pros: Offers both sun protection and skincare benefits in one product.

Cons: Can be more expensive than regular sunscreens, and some formulas may feel heavier.