Difference between Sunscreen and Sunblock??

[Jaime]

Is there a big difference or are they really the same thing? I always wonder why some brands say sunscreen and some say sunblock. TIA

[Jaime]

Is there a big difference or are they really the same thing? I always wonder why some brands say sunscreen and some say sunblock. TIA

[ck_nd]

Jaime it might be best to check with labelling legislation in your part of the world. Here the powers that be are called the Therapeutic Goods Association or TGA for short.

Here they are no longer allowed to use the label "sunblock" b/c no sunscreen can block UV 100%.

[FiestyFemme]

I copied this from dermstore.com....

There are two types of products that protect the skin from the sun's damaging ultraviolet radiation: chemical and physical products. Sunscreen is classified as chemical, while sunblock is physical.

Sunscreens actually absorb the ultraviolet radiation, thus and reducing the amount of radiation that penetrates the skin. There are two types of ultraviolet light, UVA, often called the "aging ray" which weakens the immune system of the skin cell, and UVB, called the "burn ray" which causes changes to DNA that can cause abnormal growths in skin cells. While older sunscreens were only effective on UVB, newer formulations are effective on both UVA and UVB. Even people with sensitive skin can find highly effective sunscreen designed to be non-irritating. For example, Pharmaceutical Specialties Vanicream Sunscreen SPF 35 is excellent for those with sensitive skin.

Sunblocks, on the other hand, are classified as physical. As the name implies, they physically block both the UVA and UVB radiation from the skin. Sunblocks used to be thick, white, greasy creams made of either titanium oxide or zinc oxide, but they've become much more user friendly. Consider trying Cotz Transparent Sunblock SPF 58 or Neutrogena's Active Breathable Sunblock , which is available in an SPF of 30 or 45; it's a waterproof, sweat proof, non-greasy sunblock made for an active daily life.

HTHS, Jaime!

[Angel Baby]

I was giong to post that too erica!! http://community.icompact.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[marroncream]

So i guess sunblock would be a better choice??? it seem even though sunscreen is absorbing the uv rays it's still sitting on top of your skin..i don't know maybe it's just me....