Sunscreen and Sunblock, There is a Difference

You may think that because you are participating in a winter activity that you don’t need sunscreen or sunblock, you would be wrong.  Next to the best snowboard equipment you can afford the most important accessory you can carry is sunscreen or sunblock.  Your face needs all the protection you can give it.

The difference between sunblock and sunscreen is that sunblocks reflect or block the UV rays and sunscreens absorb them.  Look for a high SPF number (Sun protection factor).  The SPF number refers to the amount of time you can remain in the sun without burning.  For example if the SPF is 8 you can stay in the sun for 8 times longer than you would normally burn.  If you burn after 20 minutes of exposure, you will be able to tan for 160 minutes with an SPF of 8.

Using sunscreen and sunblock is the smart thing to do.  Not only will it help stop you from getting sunburn, those who stay in the sun too long without it risk the chance of getting skin cancer.  Add to that, your skin will reap the benefit of the extra moisture, causing you to look younger!  And that’s a good thing!