Okay, here’s a fact. You don’t really know as much as you think you do when it comes to sun-proofing the skin. And that’s because there’s a common misunderstanding that sunscreen and sunblock are the same product (they are not). Even though they both promise to defend your skin against sun damage, they don’t do it in the same way. I’m going to explain it all so that you can get the best sun defense ever.
Table of Contents
We’ve already spoken about sunscreens for different types of skin: dry skin, acne-prone skin, and sensitive skin; but this has been long overdue. Here’s a definitive guide to the difference between sunscreen and sunblock. Because you’ve gotta know your basics.
What Is Sunscreen?
Let’s go over the fundamentals of sunscreen. Sunscreens absorb UV rays (but not completely) by seeping into the skin before the rays can penetrate and damage the dermal layers. It usually contains ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, or para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) to do much of the absorption, and is referred to as a ‘chemical’ sunscreen. Sunscreens are a chemical defense against the sun.
POPxo Recommends: POPxo Selfie Ready Tinted Sunscreen
Formulated for all types of skin, the POPxo Selfie Ready Tinted Sunscreen is a triple-duty product in the way that it starts off as a primer, doubles up as a glow-inducing tinted moisturiser, and sun-proofs your skin with broad spectrum SPF 50. It comes with a PA+++ rating—which means that it provides high levels of protection from UVA and UVB rays.
This lightweight sunscreen offers protection from man-made sources of blue light as well—in other words, protection from light emitted from your screens. It makes my skin feel soft and smooth and the tint matches my skin tone perfectly too.
Also Read: Does Sunscreen prevent tanning
What Is Sunblock?
It’s self-explanatory. A sunblock blocks UV rays by sitting on top of your skin, and functioning as a barrier against the rays of the sun. It’s a physical form of sun protection that doesn’t absorb or seep into the skin. A sunblock can contain ingredients like Zinc Oxide and Titanium Oxide. Sunblock can also be referred to as ‘physical’ sunscreen
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The St. Botanica Vitamin C SPF 50 Sunblock Face & Body Mist Sunscreen is a mineral-based physical sunscreen (a sunblock in other words) with a strength of SPF 50 PA+++ to offer broad spectrum sun protection. It has a lightweight and non-greasy formula that doesn’t leave behind a residue or film on the surface and prevents spots, hyperpigmentation, and photo-ageing.
Infused with botanical extracts such as chamomile, calendula, jasmine, green tea, madonna lily, and pomegranate, this sunscreen spray feels extremely soothing and refreshing on the skin. Thanks to its spray format, I can apply and reapply this sunscreen on the go with ease.
What Are The Ingredients In Sunscreen And Sunblock?
Why do sunscreens and sunblock perform differently? You can thank their ingredients for that. Their ingredient list is what sets them apart.
Sunscreen Ingredients
A sunscreen contains active ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, or octinoxate. These work by absorbing the rays of the sun. You might ask: what’s the difference between sunscreen and sunblock? This composition is one of the things that sets them apart.
Also Read: How To Treat Sunburn Damage Skin
Sunblock Ingredients
A sunblock contains physical ingredients like Titanium Dioxide or Zinc Oxide. These ingredients deflect the rays of the sun and are generally considered safe for use. The latter is regarded as safer in comparison though. It’s cited as safe, photostable, and suitable for sensitive skin. These mineral-based ingredients do contribute to the thicker consistency of sunblock.
Sunscreen Vs Sunblock
Apart from the way in which the two protect your skin, there are a couple of differences between the two. Let’s see: Sunscreen vs Sunblock — which one is better?
| Factors | Sunscreen | Sunblock |
| Duration | Must be reapplied every two hours. | Tends to last longer than sunscreen, and you don’t have to reapply it as frequently. |
| Appearance | Blends into your skin seamlessly, and doesn’t leave behind marks or streaks. Just remember to rub it in well for the formula to trickle into your pores. | Thicker and less see-through, and leaves behind a white-ish film or residue because it is sitting on top of your skin. |
| Application | Must be applied about thirty minutes before you step out into the sun. Absorption needs a little time. | Just rubbing it onto your skin is enough for it to start working. But you must cover every inch of your body. |
| Suitability | Suitable for combination or acne-prone skin due to thinner consistency. | Suitable for those with sensitive skin—or with conditions like rosacea and eczema as they contain non-irritating ingredients that just sit on the surface of the skin. |
| Protection | Formulated to protect you from UVB rays. | Formulated to defend you against UVA rays. |
Which Is Better: Sunscreen Or Sunblock?
Both of them have their pros and cons—as seen in the points explained above, and it all depends on the nature of your skin coupled with your personal preference. Sunblock is considered more effective than sunscreen as it forms a protective barrier between the skin and the rays, much like an armor. It doesn’t contain chemicals that penetrate the skin for protection, and it lasts longer in comparison to sunscreen. But sunscreen is ideal for those with acne-prone skin. And it doesn’t leave behind a residue like a sunblock. Once you understand the needs of your skin, you’ll know which one’s better for you.
FAQs
- Are sunscreen and sunblock the same?
No, they’re not the same. So what is the difference between sunscreen and sunblock? The primary difference lies in the way in which they function. A sunscreen works by absorbing the rays of the sun (most of them) before they reach your skin, and a sunblock sits on the surface of your skin and forms a barrier between your skin and the sun.
- Do sunscreen and sunblock prevent tanning?
Tanning is an after-effect of UV-induced damage. When the skin senses this damage, it reacts by stimulating the production of melanin for protection. And that’s how tanning happens. Yes, they can prevent tanning to a certain extent. But you can still tan regardless, just that these products soften the impact.
Just remember this—since everything is labeled sunscreen these days, look for products infused with mineral-based ingredients like Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide.
Once you’ve ticked that box, make sure the formula is an SPF 30 or higher and features keywords like ‘broad-spectrum’ (protection against UVA and UVB rays) and ‘water-resistant’ (how long it’s effective in water before a reapplication is required). Find a product that combines the benefits of both (with the label ‘broad-spectrum’).
Some sunscreens can contain fragrances, oils, or insect repellants. Steer clear of them. Sunscreen has to be applied every few hours, and these ingredients aren’t suitable for frequent usage. Now you know the answer to ‘Are sunscreen and sunblock the same thing?’ It’s a resounding no. We’ve finally put the Sunscreen vs Sunblock difference to rest.
Also Read: Should I Wear Sunscreen Indoors
Also Read:
- Best Zinc Oxide Sunscreens: We’re pretty sure you know that there are different types of sunscreens: physical/mineral and chemical. Zinc Oxide is a mainstay in the former, but what do we know about this ingredient? Why is it featured in these sunscreens, and does it have any benefits at all? And what Zinc Oxide-infused sunscreen is ideal for our skin? Read on to find out.
- The Best Sunscreens For Every Budget: Sunscreens range from inexpensive to costly. And choosing the right one for yourself bearing in mind the price is a little tricky. Some satisfy all of our requirements but exceed our budget; while others are cheap but not quite suitable for our skin. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best sunscreens for every budget bracket! Read on to sun-proof yourselves generously and effectively this summer.
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