Moisturizer vs. Sunscreen — What's the Difference?

A skincare product that hydrates and softens the skin.

Comes in various SPF ratings to indicate protection level.

Often part of a daily skincare regimen.

Essential for preventing sunburn and skin cancer.

Used to prevent dryness and flaking of the skin.

A protective skincare product that blocks or absorbs UV radiation.

Can contain ingredients like oils and emollients.

Can be chemical or physical, based on the active ingredients.

Some formulations include anti-aging ingredients.

Often recommended to reapply every two hours during sun exposure.

Moisturizer, or emollient, is a cosmetic preparation used for protecting, moisturizing, and lubricating the skin. These functions are normally performed by sebum produced by healthy skin.

Sunscreen, also known as suncream, sunblock or suntan lotion, is a lotion, spray, gel, foam (such as an expanded foam lotion or whipped lotion), stick or other topical product that absorbs or reflects some of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation and thus helps protect against sunburn and most importantly prevent skin cancer. Diligent use of sunscreen can also help to slow or temporarily prevent the development of wrinkles, dark spots and sagging skin.

A cosmetic lotion or cream applied to the skin to counter dryness.

A preparation, often in the form of a cream or lotion, used to protect the skin from the damaging ultraviolet rays of the sun.

Something that causes moisture or a a condition of wetness; something that makes things moist.

A cream, to be spread on the skin, containing organic compounds that absorb, and/or titanium dioxide that reflects the sun’s ultraviolet radiation.

Moisturising cream, emollient.

A cream spread on the skin; contains a chemical (as PABA) to filter out ultraviolet light and so protect from sunburn

No, moisturizers do not offer the same level of UV protection as sunscreens, even those with added SPF.

Yes, non-comedogenic moisturizers are formulated to hydrate the skin without clogging pores.

Sunscreen should be applied after moisturizer to ensure it forms an effective barrier on the skin's surface.

Moisturizers are designed to hydrate and nourish the skin, while sunscreens protect against the harmful effects of UV rays.

If your skin feels soft and supple throughout the day without tightness or dry patches, your moisturizer is likely effective.

Physical sunscreens containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide are generally better for sensitive skin as they are less likely to cause irritation.

Yes, there are formulations designed to be suitable for all skin types, but individual skin needs can vary, so specific products may be better for different skin types.

A moisturizer with SPF provides hydration while also offering some protection against UV radiation, making it convenient for daily use.

While sunscreen significantly reduces UV radiation absorption, which leads to tanning, it does not completely prevent it unless applied liberally and frequently.

Choose an SPF of at least 30 for daily use and higher for extended outdoor activities, depending on your skin type and UV exposure.

Effective sunscreen use should prevent sunburn, reduce tanning, and protect the skin from the visible signs of premature aging.

Generally, using both products as directed should not cause skin problems and can be beneficial, but individual reactions can vary.

Yes, UV rays can penetrate clouds, so sunscreen is necessary even on cloudy days to protect against skin damage.

If you are near windows where you can be exposed to UV rays, it is advisable to wear sunscreen even indoors.

Sunscreen typically has a shelf life of three years, but it should be replaced if the texture or smell changes.