Moisturizer vs. Sunscreen — What's the Difference?

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