TL;DR
Both block UV; physical (zinc oxide / titanium dioxide) is gentler for irritated or post-acne skin, while modern chemical filters feel lighter in tropical humidity. Either works if SPF 50+ and re-applied.
- Physical
- Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide
- Chemical
- Modern filters (e.g. Tinosorb, Uvinul)
- Best for PIH
- Physical if skin is inflamed
- Tropical pick
- Light chemical if sweating a lot
The direct answer
The best sunscreen is the one you will re-apply. Physical filters sit on top and are ideal for angry, post-acne, or sensitive skin; chemical filters absorb UV and feel lighter, which helps compliance in humid MY & ID.
How to choose
- Inflamed or acne-prone: start with a zinc-oxide-based physical SPF.
- Heavy sweating / humidity: a light chemical or hybrid SPF you will re-apply.
- Re-application matters more than the filter type.
- Look for "broad-spectrum" and "SPF 50+".
A note on tint
Tinted mineral sunscreens with iron oxides add protection against visible light, which can worsen melasma — a useful option for stubborn patches.
FAQ
Does physical sunscreen leave a white cast?
Older formulas did. Modern micronised zinc oxides and tinted versions minimise white cast while keeping the gentle profile.
Is chemical sunscreen unsafe?
Modern filtered chemical sunscreens are safe and effective. Those with sensitive or post-inflammatory skin may simply prefer physical types.
Which helps melasma more?
Tinted physical (mineral) SPF with iron oxides offers extra visible-light protection that plain chemical SPFs may miss — helpful for melasma.