We all use these two words Sunblock and Sunscreen interchangeably because we thought they are the same. BUT do you know that they are actually different in their functions and purpose? Do you know how to identify the differences between sunblock and sunscreen? While both of them protect you from the damaging UV rays of the sun, sunblock reflects the light from your skin, blocking the rays from entering into your skin whereas sunscreen coats your skin, and acts like a sponge which absorb the UV rays to protect your skin, where it converts into less damaging form of radiation. Sunblock works immediately when you apply on your skin while you will need to apply sunscreen lotion 15-20 minutes before it can actively protect your skin from damage.
What is Sunscreen?
When you come across a product that says “SPF XX”, it is a sunscreen product which designed to filter UV rays from the sun. It typically contain chemical ingredients like PABA, which can be irritating for people with sensitive skin. The American Academy of Dermatologists encourages everyone to use a sunscreen with an SPF level of at least 30 as an everyday precaution against skin damage. Fair-skinned individuals who are more prone to sunburns are encouraged to use a higher level of SPF.
What is Sunblock?
Sunblock lotion is much thicker than sunscreen lotion and it has a more opaque color. Sunblock products typically comprised of titanium oxide or zinc oxide, acts as a “physical barriers” to block harmful rays from contacting the covered area of skin, reaching the skin to cause damage. It is more durable due to the thick texture and we are able to spot areas that have worn thin.
Sunblock offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, and is highly recommended for those that have an unusually high sensitivity to ultraviolet rays. In order to fully protect your skin, choose a broad-spectrum protection formulated sunscreen that will protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
