Cosmetics 101: What’s Really Inside Your Sunscreen Sunscreen...

Cosmetics 101: What’s Really Inside Your Sunscreen

Sunscreens rely on a combination of active and inactive ingredients. The active components protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation, while the base—oil or water—acts as a carrier.

Mineral sunscreens, primarily zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, sit on the skin’s surface and reflect or scatter UV rays. They are widely regarded as physical blockers and are often positioned as natural alternatives to chemical sunscreens.

Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV radiation and converting it into heat. Ingredients such as avobenzone, oxybenzone, homosalate, octinoxate, and octisalate are commonly used.

Understanding sunscreen chemistry helps consumers make informed choices—balancing protection, safety, and formulation science.

Adapted from Holy Beauty by Sudhir Ahluwalia.