Three bottles of Hi, Finch Sheer Lightweight Brightening Sunscreen SPF 50+ with white packaging, silver accents, and red logo, arranged on a white background.

Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreen: Which Is Best for Your Skin?

Kasey Bennett

When it comes to protecting your skin, sunscreen is your number one defense against premature aging, sun damage, and skin cancer. But how do you choose between physical (mineral) and chemical sunscreen? As a nurse practitioner, I love helping patients find the right skincare products—and the truth is, understanding the difference makes a big impact on your skin health.

What Is Physical (Mineral) Sunscreen?

Physical sunscreen, also called mineral sunscreen, uses ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to create a shield on your skin. These ingredients reflect UV rays before they can penetrate the skin. It works immediately and is often preferred by those with sensitive skin, rosacea, or those who have had recent skin treatments.

Benefits of Physical Sunscreen:

  • Immediate UV protection

  • Less likely to irritate sensitive or acne-prone skin

  • Ideal for post-procedure care

  • Effective for broad-spectrum SPF protection

What Is Chemical Sunscreen?

Chemical sunscreen contains ingredients like octinoxate and avobenzone, which absorb into the skin and neutralize UV rays. These formulas are lightweight, easy to layer under makeup, and great for everyday use.

Benefits of Chemical Sunscreen:

  • Lightweight and sheer

  • Absorbs quickly

  • Best for everyday wear under makeup

  • Often preferred for active lifestyles and water resistance

Our Favorite Hi, Finch Sunscreens (All SPF 40-50, Broad-Spectrum)

We’ve curated a line of effective, high-quality daily sunscreens at Hi, Finch that offer more than sun protection—they deliver skincare benefits, too.

1. Hi, Finch Sheer Lightweight Brightening Sunscreen SPF 50
This hybrid sunscreen combines zinc oxide and octinoxate with niacinamide, lactic acid, and hyaluronic acid to brighten skin and improve texture. It’s great for dry, dull, or uneven skin.

Key Benefits:

  • UVA/UVB protection

  • Visibly improves discoloration and uneven tone

  • Hydrating and brightening

Best For: Normal to dry skin, discoloration, and daily use.

2. Hi, Finch Mineral Mattifying Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50
A true physical sunscreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, this tinted formula blends into most skin tones for a soft matte finish. Packed with antioxidants like vitamin C, green tea, and CoQ10, it calms and protects skin.

Key Benefits:

  • Mattifies and minimizes pores

  • Blurs imperfections

  • Gentle on sensitive and acne-prone skin

Best For: Oily, acne-prone, or post-procedure skin.

3. Hi, Finch Sport Antioxidant Sunscreen SPF 40
Perfect for those on the go, this water-resistant sunscreen features zinc oxide, octinoxate, and a potent antioxidant blend including vitamins A, C, E and green tea extract to fight free radical damage.

Key Benefits:

  • Water-resistant for 80 minutes

  • Lightweight, no white residue

  • Antioxidant-rich protection

Best For: Outdoor use, workouts, and active lifestyles.

Final Thoughts: Sunscreen That Works for You

No matter your skin type, the most important thing is consistently using broad-spectrum sunscreen every single day. At Hi, Finch, we make it easy to protect your skin with high-performance, dermatologist-approved formulas.

Still unsure which sunscreen is best for you? Book a consultation or stop by—we’re here to help you find the perfect fit for your skin’s needs.

 

The efficacy and safety of sunscreen use for the prevention of skin cancer

back to Hi, Finch Playbook
Shop nowBook Now