The Difference Between Sunscreens and Sunblocks

Although most people think sunscreen and sunblock are the same, there are important differences between these types of products.

Sunscreens protect your skin by absorbing ultraviolet light and only protect against UVB rays. On the other hand, sunblocks act like a shield by reflecting UVA and UVB rays from reaching the skin’s uppermost layer. This is why sunblocks are specially recommended for babies, children and adults with very sensitive skin. In the past sunblock formulations were thick and streaky. Recently, skin care companies have developed a new generation of sunblocks that are invisible, just like a sunscreen.

Similarly to sunscreens, sunblocks don’t need to be reapplied after the first application. However, sunblocks are generally mineral heavy, which doesn’t allow them to be waterproof. Therefore, while a sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours of sun exposure, sunblocks need reapplication every time you get in the water.

 As mentioned some products are labeled as sunblocks when they are really sunscreens. There are two indicators of the authenticity of a high quality sun blocking formula. One is price. The formulation technology behind a sunblock determines a higher price level so be aware of bargain sunblocks. The other indicator is the presence of Titanium Dioxide or Zinc Oxide. Without one of those two ingredients, the sunblock is really just a sunscreen.

If you are about to spend a few days out at the beach and you are taking your baby, your toddler or child under 12 years old, a sunblock is the best option for their skin. Remember, it needs to be reapplied every time they get into the pool. If you have any adults with sensitive skin in your family, they should also use a sunblock. The other members of the family can use a good sunscreen and reapply it after every two hours sun exposure.

In our next blog we will explain what SPF means and which SPF is best depending on age, skin type and sensitivity.

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