Sunblock

Sunscreens that were once called sunblock are now often labeled “broad-spectrum sunscreens” as the Food and Drug Administration has requested that manufacturers not use the term “sunblock”.

These products all contain a physical blocker – zinc oxide or titanium dioxide - against both UVA and UVB.  Although it does depend on the amount of physical blocker in the product, they typically have a SPF of 30+, and may be quite effective in preventing all kinds of skin cancers, including squamous cell skin cancers and its precursors, as well as melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer.

Broad-spectrum sunblocks are extremely safe and effective, but using them used to be like applying white zinc paint, and so they lost popularity. However, newer products contain micofine particles of zinc that are almost invisible on the skin. The newer formulations have gained in popularity and are now recommended by many dermatologists.  The best quality sunblocks will have 6% or more zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide.

When worn daily, broad-spectrum sunscreens or sunblocks help to minimize the harmful effects of UVB and UVA on DNA.  They also help protect important proteins such as collagen, elastin, and keratin, which keep skin smooth and firm. Some daily moisturizers now include zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as these ingredients are well known to help stop or even reverse some signs of aging.