Between sunblock and sunscreen - which is the best to prevent darkening?

Answer by  Connie45 (1110)

Then you should choose sunblock with a high number. Sunblock physically blocks UVA rays (look for titanium dioxide or zinc oxide in the ingredients), while sunscreen filters out UVA rays. Sunblock has historically been white and messy, but there are newer ones on the market now that are invisible.

Answer by  Addy (162)

Your best choice is sunblock, since you don't want to tan. Sunblock uses compounds that physically obstruct ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Sunscreen incorporates chemicals that filters it. To be sure you're getting what you need, check the product's ingredients and the sun protection factor (SPF). Sunblock contains titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide. It's SPF is 30, or higher.

Answer by  TheAnswerFairy (2345)

Sunblock does not protect against UVA rays, and sunscreen does. Typically, the only people who use sunblock are those who are allergic to sunscreen. Neither one will do very much to prevent a tan, they mostly just keep you from getting burned.

Answer by  Travis404607 (3916)

Sunblock is typically stronger than sunscreen. Sunscreen blocks some of the sun's rays, while letting others in. This is often to allow for some sort of a tan. It sounds like you don't want a tan, so you should opt for sunblock, which is meant to block as many rays of the sun as possible.

Answer by  Supersadie (363)

Sunscreen absorbs ultraviolet light while sunblock totally blocks the sun's rays. Sunblock is usually thick, messy and opaque so best good for small areas like noses and ears.

Answer by  Iris (60)

Sunblock is better to prevent tanning. It provides a physical barrier which prevents UVA and UVB rays from reaching the skin. Be sure to re-apply it every two hours.

Answer by  eldergeek (473)

The best way to avoid getting a suntan is to avoid direct exposure to sunlight. If you can't escape the sun, try to wear protective clothing and headgear. After that, sunblock is generally superior to sunscreen however some new brands of sunscreen (notably Anthelios SX and Helioplex) are almost as effective as sunblock.

Answer by  worker8740 (33)

Sunscreen absorbs the sun's rays, preventing skin damage and tanning. However it only blocks UVA rays. Your skin will still be affected by the UVB rays. Sunblock physically blocks both UVA and UVB rays and is therefore more effective. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are common and effective igredients to look for in a sunblock.

Answer by  bajestar (605)

A sunblock would be your best bet. Sunblock do not absorb in to the skin so it will be visable. Also try wearing a hat and protective clothing.

Answer by  martine (860)

sunblock and sunscreen are essentially the same thing. I suggest using a sunblock or sunscreen with and SPF of 45 or higher. also be sure if you are covering your face to use an oil free one.

Answer by  pete74 (97)

Sunblock is best to prevent tanning. It blocks more of the uva and uvb rays from the sun than sunscreen. Of course you know that just staying out of the sun will prevent you from getting a tan. Use the highest number of protection on the bottle for the most protection.