What’s the difference between mineral and chemical SPF?

Skincare

There are two main types of sunscreen out there, so here’s what you need to know when shopping:

Chemical (also known as organic or synthetic) sunscreens

These are the most commonly used sunscreens and work by absorbing UV light and releasing them back into the atmosphere as heat – so your skin doesn’t hold onto the heat.

Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin and need to be applied 20 minutes before sun exposure. They tend to have a thinner and more lightweight texture and spread more easily on the skin.

However, due to the chemical formula, this type of sunscreens gets ‘used’ up quickly when in direct sun, so needs to be re-applied regularly.

Mineral sunscreen can often leave a white cast on the skin and therefore aren’t the best at being inclusive for all skin tones, plus larger amounts are required to achieve adequate protection.

It needs to be applied regularly throughout the day for effective skin protection.

Mineral (also known as physical) sunscreen works by scattering or reflecting UV light (a bit like a mirror would).

They provide protection from the sun immediately after application and tend to last longer in the sun. However, be aware that they wash off with sweat and water.

Mineral sunscreen can often leave a white cast on the skin and therefore aren’t the best at being inclusive for all skin tones, plus larger amounts are required to achieve adequate protection.

It needs to be applied regularly throughout the day for effective skin protection.

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    £25
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    A lightweight, non-greasy SPF50+ face moisturiser that provides coverage from UVA, UVB, blue light and environmental stressors, for Broad Spectrum everyday protection, whatever the weather. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
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    Everyday Skin Glow Set

    £50
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    Prep and protect your skin for all-day glow with this set. Add our Universal Cream Cleanser, new Everyday Hero SPF50+ and our best-selling One&Only pH GlowOil to your beauty routine. (Worth £59, sold as set for £50).

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    Clear Squad Set

    £65
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    Banish the blemishes and hydrate your skin after the summer sun with our Moisture Fix Mask, Universal Soft-Cream Moisturiser, Cleansing Pads and Spot On Paste, plus a free indu gift (worth £76, sold as a set for £65)
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    £22
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    An ultra-creamy moisturiser to provide all skin types with daily hydration for dreamy, balanced skin.
  • Universal Soft-Cream Moisturiser Refill

    Universal Soft-Cream Moisturiser Refill

    £16
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    Refill cartridge for the Universal Soft-Cream Moisturiser, an ultra-creamy and nourishing moisturiser for all skin types.

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    Ultimate Universal Skincare Bundle

    £55
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    Includes our Universal Cleanser and Moisturiser, Micro-Fine Wonder Scrub, and indu Flannel (Worth £61, sold as set for £55).
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    £18
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    A gentle cream-to-foam face wash for every day use to cleanse and nourish all skin types.
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    On the Go Heroes Set

    £25
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    On-the-go skin saviours to take with you every day. Keep your skin clean and glowing with this power set: our One&Only pH GlowOil and Cleansing Pads, plus a free indu gift (worth £36, sold as a set for £25)!
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