Sunblock vs. Sunscreen: Which Do I Choose?

Sunblock vs Sunscreen

With so many options available, choosing your sun protection products can be challenging and overwhelming. In order to help you make an informed decision, we will provide you with information about some of the differences.

Some Common Sun Protection Terms

First off, let’s go over the terminology so we’re all on the same page.

SPF – Sun Protection Factor – is used to estimate the amount of Ultra Violet (UV) radiation it normally takes to burn one’s skin with sun protection.

The “A” in UVA can attribute to “Aging”; the “B” in UVB can attribute to “Burning”.

What’s the difference?

There are two types of protective lotions – physical and chemical. Sunblock is a physical form of protective lotion whereas Sunscreen is a chemical kind. Some might respectively classify them as ‘mineral’ and ‘classic’ sunscreens instead. Sunblocks are formulated to protect against UVB rays, while sunscreens protect against UVA.

The physical/mineral version (sunblock/UVB protection) acts as a layered barrier to scatter or deflect UV rays and is thicker in consistency. Essential ingredients include zinc oxide and titanium oxide, which are less irritable for sensitive skin. Chemical sun protection (sunscreen/UVA protection) interacts with your skin, and helps absorbs UV rays before they reach the vulnerable dermal layer.

In order to fully protect your skin, it’s best to choose a broad-spectrum protection sunscreen that will protect against both UVA and UVB rays. We offer a wide range of sun protection from EltaMD, SkinMedica and Colorescience.

If you have questions about sunscreens, sunblocks and broad-spectrum formulas, contact our Denver-area Medical Aestheticians and Aesthetic Nurse Specialists for a free skin evaluation and to help determine which would be best for you. Call 303-647-1215 to schedule your appointment.