Sunscreen Vs Sunblock: Which One You Should Use?

When it comes to skin protection from UV rays, the first thing that comes to mind is sunscreen. At the same time, another word in the market that is capturing consumers’ attention in the name of skin protectant is “Sunblock”. However, it is creating confusion among the users whether both terms are the same or different. And if different then what does sunblock mean. 

We have got lots of queries regarding Sunblock and Sunscreen. Consumers genuinely look for the answer and want to know why these products are used, what are the consequences, and which is better than others. So today, we have decided to create an article that will bring you close to every fact about both sun protection creams as we have created this article on Sunscreen Vs Sunblock. 

Sunscreen Vs Sunblock  

Sunscreen and Sunblock are actually two different types of sun protection. Both terms seem endless: broad-spectrum, water-resistance and the goal of their formulas is to protect our skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays that can cause serious damages. Even so, it is important to know the use of each, which one you need, and what you’re buying.  

Sunscreen 

Sunscreen is a chemical compound that absorbs harmful UV rays before they reach and damage the dermal layer. Ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, and para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) present in sunscreen that helps to absorb the sun rays.   

The skin absorbs the sunscreen completely and disappears from the skin. 

Sunblock

Sunblock, on the other hand, physically reflects the sun rays and prevents you from ultraviolet rays. Basically, it sits on the top of the skin and acts as a barrier. Sunblock typically contains protective ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. 

Sunblock is often opaque and noticeable when applied to the skin. 

Should I use Sunscreen or Sunblock?

Both the creams are significantly used for protecting skin from sun rays and other harmful UV rays that come directly from home appliances. 

According to the ‘Skin Cancer Foundation’, skin type should be considered predominantly when choosing the right product for you. Similarly, when buying a skin protection product such as Sunscreen or Sunblock, considering your skin type is a must to make the most out of it. 

For people with sensitive skin, sunblock is considered better, because of its components present in it such as Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. 

At the same time, people with skin conditions like allergy-prone skin or rosacea should avoid products with fragrances, preservatives, and oxybenzone or PABA which are often found in sunscreen.  

A study from the ‘Environmental Working Group’ found that oxybenzone, used in some skin protections, may cause an allergic reaction 

Dermatologists suggested, to avoid reactions, before trying a new sunscreen or sunblock, read the label to ensure what components are used to prepare it and you’ll get the exact protection you’re looking for in your skin. Also, avoid such creams that may be sensitive to your skin type. 

Many skin specialist recommends sun protectants that offer:

• SPF 30 or greater
• Water resistance
• Broad-spectrum protection

What Experts Say: Sunscreen Or Sunblock

Now, when we understand how both sun protectants work, here is what experts say when it comes to sunscreen vs sunblock. They suggested that both skin protection have excellent results. You’re good to go when you choose one to protect your skin against both UVA and UVB rays and is water-resistant or sweatproof. Only you have to make sure the number mentioned on the container indicates how long the sunscreen remains effective (including while swimming or sweating). 

Repeatedly, either you choose sunscreen or sunblock, both are a better option to choose from. Just make sure whichever you choose suits your skin type, meeting your requirements and you’re using it correctly. In this way, you are more likely to protect your skin from harmful effects.

Also, some dermatologists strictly recommend choosing the product having an SPF of at least 15. Now it is important to know what SPF is? 

What is SPF?

SPF is also known as the Sun Protection Factor. It is an indicator showing how much your product is capable of protecting your skin from ultraviolet rays. The SPF number tells the number of times it takes for the skin to redden upon exposure to the sun with protection as opposed to the amount of time without applying sun protection cream. 

In detail, a product with SPF 30 will take the sun 30 times longer to burn the skin than skin directly exposed without protection. Similarly, a product with SPF 50 will take 50 times longer. 

Why Do You Need To Use Sun Protection Cream?

People generally use sun protection products in summer to protect the skin from sun exposure. But have you ever realized what exactly these sun protection products do to your skin and when exactly you need to use these kinda products? Here’re the reasons:

• Sun protectants like sunscreen or sunblock protect the skin from the UV radiation that can cause the most serious skin disease – Skin Cancer. 
• These UV rays can cause sunburn that can damage skin cells and blood vessels. 
• According to the 2013 study of ‘Caucasian women’, UV exposure may be responsible for 80 percent of visible facial aging signs. Signs of visible aging to your skin may include wrinkles, pigmentation, elasticity, and degradation of nature. 

How To Protect Your Skin From Harmful Effects Of The Sun Other Than Applying for Skin Protection?

Staying away from the skin is always the best way to protect yourself, though this can be hard to do. These are the steps beyond wearing sunscreen or sunblock you should take to protect yourself:

• Avoid the sun from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. when UV rays are the strongest. 
• Wear sunglasses that filter UV light. 
• Wear protective clothing, such as long pants, full-sleeved shirts, caps, scarves, etc. 

Think Before You Purchase

Many sun protection has a combination of sunscreen and sunblock. So take enough time before purchasing, review the label, and then go for the right product. 

What To Do For Effective Results?

It is important that your skin protection should be SPF 30 or greater. Along with this, it must have broad-spectrum protection and be water-resistant. Also, avoid the product containing ingredients that are sensitive to your skin. If you’re exposed to the sun for a long time, reapply sun protection cream every two hours to prevent burning. Or apply every 40 to 80 minutes after being in the water or sweating.