While having the terms sunblock and sunscreen used interchangeably is not uncommon there is a difference between sunscreen and sunblock. Everyone needs to be careful of the harmful effects of the Sun when it comes to skin damage, no matter what it is.
Given what many people think just during summers about using sun protection, you need it all year round, because the sun is out almost every day! How Sunscreen and Sunblock Protect Your Skin in Various Ways
Many people interchangeably use the terms sunscreen vs sunblock because they are two entirely different types of sun protection. Let us get to know how different they are.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is the most widely used form of sunscreen. It filters or displays ultraviolet rays (UV) from the sun. It holds out most of the rays but some. Often, it may be called a chemical sunscreen.
Sunblock
Sunblock, by contrast, removes the rays of the sun from the surface, blocking the rays from reaching the surface. It could be called a sunscreen.
Sunscreen and sunblock are also excellent ways of protection against sunlight. The Experts do not recommend using each other as long as the one you pick protects against both UVA and UVB rays has a 30 or higher Sun Protection Factor (SPF) and is water-resistant. Only ensure you’re implementing it correctly.
Ingredients of sunblock
Most sunblocks use the active ingredient titanium oxide or zinc oxide, which results in a thicker, more opaque consistency. Some find this a drawback, as the consistency makes it difficult to distribute across the body.
Second, many sunblocks are opaque and after application can be seen on the skin – so that could be aesthetically unattractive to you.
You may see people wearing sunblock, particularly at the beach, because they will often have a sunblock streak on their noses and other parts of their faces.
Ingredients of Sunscreen
Sunscreens use a combination of chemicals that work until they reach the skin to absorb harmful UV rays.
Some have active components such as oxybenzone or avobenzone. Some people are immune to or allergic to other sunscreen ingredients such as PABA, so many opt for sunblock instead of sunscreen. In the battle between sunblock vs sunscreen, sunblock is chosen.
It is necessary to check the label if you want to avoid fragrances or oils which are sometimes added to the sunscreens. Also, some sunscreens are designed to include insect repellant, either a natural kind or one containing artificial chemical substances.
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Like you, I read other opinions on products to help form a better idea of how a product worked overall. That said, you can find blog posts here where I rant negatively about a product!