There are a lot of differences between Sunscreen and Sunblock to protect your skin from UV rays. Indeed, sun exposure helps make Vitamin D in the body, but unfortunately, long-term exposure to UV rays can also cause severe skin issues. Premature aging, hyperpigmentation, melanoma, sunburn, and even skin cancers are triggered by harmful UVA and UVB radiations. Thus, dermatologists make sun protection products as essential skincare products to avoid UV rays driven skin issues. When it comes to sun protectors, you will find various sunscreen and sunblock protect your skin for different skin types and seasons. Here we guide you to choose the best one that you can use all year round. Sunscreen and sunblock protect your skin very well so we should carefully choose one for our skin as per our skin type.
Sunblock versus Sunscreen:
Although we hear sunblock and sunscreen as interchangeable words, they are actually two different kinds of formulas. Sunscreen is a chemical-based sun protector that absorbs harmful UVA rays before they reach the dermal layer. It contains avobenzone, oxybenzone, or para-aminobenzoic acid to defend the skin from sun rays. According to dermatologists, chemical sunscreen may cause skin irritation on sensitive skin, but it works the best for normal to dry skin types.
On the other hand, sunblock is a mineral-based UV ray protector that creates a physical barrier on the skin to block sun rays. The zinc oxide or titanium oxide in its formula works as a protective barrier against ultraviolet radiations. They suit almost all skin types as they only sit on the skin surface to create a layer of defense. However, they are often opaque, so they may leave a white cast on the dermal surface.Many brands also infuse both their properties in one formula to ensure complete sun protection in all seasons.
Consider the SPF in Sun Protection Products: While choosing the best skin protection formula, the prime factor that one should consider is the SPF number on the product’s label information. The level of sun protection factor shows its capacity of protection against UVB rays, e.g., SPF 30 will take ultraviolet rays exposure 30 times tougher to damage the skin. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, people of all ages should choose SPF of 30 during outdoor activities.
Best formula according to your skin type:
The mineral sunscreen and sunblock protect your skin come in various formulas, e.g., include sprays, lotion, cream, gel, and stick. The texture, formulation, and density of these products vary from brand to brand. Buyers need to check the suitability of the formula as per their skin types and skin sensitivities.
- If you have dry skin, choose a moisturizer with SPF to keep skin protected and nourished.
- If you have sensitive skin, pick a lightweight product with at least 30 SPF for ultimate skin protection. You should also avoid products with fragrances, synthetic chemicals, or any allergens.
- If you have oily skin, go with water-based, mineral-based, and gel-based formulas to control excessive oil production.
- During monsoon season, choose the water-resistant formula to keep skin nourished, fresh, and secured.
10 Best Sunscreen:
Here we enlisted 10 most recommended sunscreen and sunblock by dermatologist around the globe and they are widely used around by many men and women across the world. These skin care sunblock are high rated by consumers and have no side effects.
- Neutrogena UltraSheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 100+
- EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 Facial Sunscreen
- Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen, Sensitive SPF 30+
- Cerave Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
- Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Lotion Sunscreen With SPF 70
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60
- Vanicream Lip Protectant and Sunscreen SPF 30
- Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Stick
- Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
- MDSolarSciences Mineral Moisture Defense SPF 50 Sunscreen
Takeaway:
Always look for products with broad-spectrum protection and water resistance for best sunscreen for men and women. Review the product label to see the ingredients, your skin may be sensitive, so before buying the product from any online shopping website. Test it on your ear to check its suitability on your sensitive skin. To avoid sunburn, ensure reapplying the sun protectant after every two hours.