Are you confused about whether to use sunscreen or sunblock? Understanding the disparities between these two essential skincare products is vital for effective sun protection. Today in this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the key differences between sunscreen and sunblock, helping you make informed decisions to safeguard your skin.
5 differences that will help you choose sunscreen or sunblock
How They Work
The first difference lies in the action mechanism of sunscreen vs sunblock: physical and chemical. Sunblock work by creating a barrier on the skin, reflecting direct UV rays back into the environment. Additionally, sunblock works immediately right after application, without requiring absorption time so you don’t have to wait. On the other hand, sunscreen work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat energy. By that, sunscreen require a certain amount of time (about 20 minutes) to penetrate deeply into the skin before you go outside and exposure to sunlight.
Ingredients
The main ingredients in sunblock are inert minerals like titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and iron oxide. Titanium dioxide gives sunblock its characteristic thick white appearance. Sunblock may also contain additional skincare ingredients such as vitamin E or aloe vera, which aid in skin whitening.
Sunscreen primarily contains ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate. Oxybenzone, at concentrations below 6%, is particularly effective at blocking harmful UVA rays that can cause skin cancer. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends many other substances as well. In addition, sunscreen products often include extra ingredients like fragrances and colorants to improve the user experience.
Waterproof
As the awareness of sunscreen or sunblock’s benefits grows, more and more people are adding it into their daily skincare routine. Sunny or rainy, indoors or outdoors, sunscreen has become a must-have-item for shielding our skin. By that, the water resistance of sunscreen or sunblock has came on top our list, becoming a vital aspect in selecting the right sunscreen or sunblock for our skin type and lifestyle.
Sunscreen vs sunblock in term of waterproof? It’s a tie! Both sunscreen and sunblock offer water-resistant protection; however, sunblock is renowned for its superior water resistance, making it ideal for outdoor activities and swimming enthusiasts. Conversely, the water resistance of sunscreen varies based on its formulation and brand. Thus, it’s imperative to carefully evaluate product attributes before making a purchase decision.
Price
When it comes to pricing, it’s arguably the most significant consideration when selecting sunscreen or sunblock to achieve optimal results for your skin. Usually, sunblock come at a higher price point, known for their premium quality. Conversely, sunscreen offer a softer price tag, making them a more budget-friendly option.
Skin Type Considerations
Sunblock works by forming a barrier to block UVV rays from directly contacting facial skin, making it ideal for all skin type, particularly sensitive skin. Nonetheless, due to the presence of titanium dioxide, this product may leave white streaks on the skin after application.
On the other hand, sunscreen are deemed suitable for normal, oily, and combination skin types. However, it’s advisable to perform a patch test on your neck before purchasing to minimize potential risks and skin irritation while using. Additionally, experts suggest applying sunscreen at least 20 minutes before getting expose under the sun and reapplying every 2 hours for optimal effectiveness.
Sunscreen vs Sunblock: A recommendation
Best Korean Sunscreen
The majority of popular Korean sun care products available today is sunscreen. Known for their ease of use, gentle formulation, and effectiveness in brightening and evening out skin tone, these best Korean sunscreen from Olive Young – a Korean version of Sephora, are highly favored, particularly among youngster.
- Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen: The best Korean sunscreen of all time by Olive Young for its lightweight and has a moisturizer that hydrates the skin while protecting the skin from UV rays
- TOCOBO Bio Watery Sun Cream: The second best Korean sunscreen famous for light feeling after applying and has little to no white cast
- Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: The most well-known Korean sunscreen these days belong to this product, a soft sunscreen to block UV rays and also contains soothing ingredients to keep the skin moisturized
👉 Take a look at Seasonal Olive Young Recommendations 2024 edition
Best Korean Sunblock
In contrast to sunscreen, sunblock isn’t as commonly used in the K-beauty world. Most of best Korean sunblock products came from Korean OG skincare brand such as MISSHA, The Face Shop and Natural Republic,… These brands introduced their best Korean sunblock as early as 2010s and continue to be among the few brands offering this type of product.
Today, you’ve joined us to explore the distinction of sunscreen vs sunblock. We hope this article helps you select the appropriate sunscreen or sunblock for your skin type.
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