Why are there so many different sunscreen types?

There are many sunscreen chemicals available that filter and/or reflect harmful UVA and UVB light generated by the sun.

Some chemicals and ingredients absorb harmful rays, some reflect them and some do both. Most sunscreens contain a blend of such chemicals to optimise the SPF 30+ rating. However, other characteristics such as water resistancy, ease of application, non oily/greasy, non irritating, non whitening, etc that are desired by customer, require special formulations which will impact on the type of ingredients, the sunscreen actives and the preservatives used.