We all know how important sunscreen is for us. Nowadays, the use of sunscreen is being talked about everywhere and it is believed that without it your skin care is incomplete in every way. If we talk about sunscreen, then most people are not fully aware of its types and uses. You must have seen that sunscreen and sunblock are available separately in the market, but what are they?

We spoke to Miss Pooja Nagdev, Founder, Aroma Therapist and Cosmetologist, INATUR, to know the difference between sunscreen and sunblock.

Pooja said that SPF is very much needed for the protection of our skin and it protects us from many things.

What is sunscreen?

Sunscreen is a kind of chemical barrier that is applied to the skin so that UV rays are not absorbed and the skin is protected from sun damage. Due to UV rays, conditions like skin ageing and skin cancer can arise. UVB rays and UVA rays are entering the skin. UVB rays are short and UVA rays are long.

What kind of sunscreen you'll need depends on the kind of environment you live in, the amount of time you spend in the sun, and your skincare routine. You should always use sunscreen to avoid UVA and UVB rays.

What is the difference between sunscreen and sunblock?

Now let's first talk about the difference between sunscreen and sunblock. They are mostly used separately. There is a big difference between a chemical sunscreen and a physical sunblock. To understand these two it is very important to know about them.

How do you apply?

Sunblock is used as a physical barrier and you apply it all over your body. Also, it is designed like a physical barrier, so there is no need to wait for it to get absorbed into the skin.

If we talk about sunscreen, then it can be applied more in some specific areas, but keep in mind that it is necessary to protect the whole body from sun protection. In many cases, we have to wait for 30 minutes so that it can get absorbed into our skin.

Why are they used differently?

As we mentioned earlier that there are two types of UV rays, and then two types of things also come to stop them. Sunblock is designed to prevent UVB rays. Sunscreen is used to prevent UVA rays.

Difference between chemicals

Sunblock contains ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide and hence it does not allow UV rays to enter the skin where it is asked to wait 30 minutes after applying sunscreen so that it can absorb as it absorbs UV rays. Gives entry into the skin, but does not allow them to harm.

How many times have to apply?

Chemical sunscreens have to be applied repeatedly and they have to be given time to absorb into the skin. If we talk about sunblock, then there is no need to apply them again and again.

So in this way, the use of both sunscreen and sunblock is different, the work of both is different and the ingredients of both are also different. You use only one, it is not recommended to use one over the other. If you have to be in the sun for a long time, apply sunblock. Sunscreen would be better if it is to be for a short period.

DISCLAIMER

Your skin and body are different just like you. We endeavour to bring you accurate, safe and expertly verified information through our articles and social media handles but still consult your doctor before trying any home remedy, hack or fitness tip.