“Sunblock” is an outdated term. Focus instead on mineral vs chemical sunscreens. For most skin types, a gentle mineral formula with zinc oxide is the safest and most reliable choice.
You’ve seen both words. You’ve probably used them interchangeably. But when it comes to sunscreen vs sunblock, is there an actual difference? The short answer? Yes, there is, as one’s a term that’s used in the industry and the other is now obsolete.
That’s the focus of this article, as we delve into the subject a little more deeply so you can get some clarity when you’re buying your next bottle of sun protection.
Sunscreen vs Sunblock? The Latter No Longer Exists
Let’s start with a little reality check in the whole sunscreen vs sunblock conversation: sunblock is mostly a marketing term for older types of mineral sun protection. It used to mean thick, white pastes that physically blocked UV rays (typically with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide). Think lifeguards with white noses on the beach.
Sunscreen, by contrast, meant chemical-based products that absorbed UV rays and released the energy as heat. Lighter, invisible, more wearable.
But over time, formulas got more sophisticated. Mineral products became lighter. Chemical filters became more targeted. And eventually, the FDA stepped in to say: “Stop using the word “sunblock”, as no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays..and pretending otherwise is misleading.
So these days, it’s all sunscreen, regardless of how it works. The word “sunblock” is still out there, but it’s not an official category anymore.
What Does Matter: Mineral vs Chemical
The real distinction today comes down to filter type. That’s what you should focus on, not whether the label says sunscreen or sunblock. You’ll typically find two main types being sold: chemical and mineral, so let’s take a quick look at each.
- Uses zinc oxide (or titanium dioxide) as the active ingredient
- Sits on the surface of your skin and stops UV rays in their tracks
- Is far better for sensitive skin, but some brands can leave a white cast
- Starts working immediately – not after waiting around for 20 minutes
Chemical Sunscreens:
- Absorb into the top layer of skin and convert UV into heat
- Often includes filters like avobenzone, octinoxate, or homosalate
- Can sting or irritate some skin types
- Usually invisible on the skin
So, Which is Best? Mineral Still Wins for Most Skin
While the terminology might be a tad confusing, the choice is easy. For anyone with sensitive, breakout-prone, or reactive skin, mineral sunscreens remain the safer, simpler option. They start working immediately, are less likely to cause irritation, and offer consistent broad-spectrum protection without the chemical load.
And while some chemical filters have improved, they still carry a higher risk of stinging, clogging, or triggering flare-ups, especially around the eyes or under makeup. So if you’ve ever ditched SPF because it made your skin worse, switching to a mineral-only formula could be the fix you didn’t know you needed.
Sunscreen vs Sunblock? A No-Nonsense, Mineral Option is Best
So, there you have it. A clean mineral zinc oxide formula is the best option, so long as it comes with no added fragrance, and a lightweight texture. This is usually a safe starting point, especially if your skin reacts to everything.
You’re not looking for miracles. You just want protection that plays nice with the rest of your routine. And yes, that’s possible when you choose right.
Prime Star