Sunscreen ( also known as sunblock , suntan lotion ) is a lotion , spray or other topical product that helps protect the skin from the sun 's ultraviolet ( UV ) radiation , and which reduces sunburn and other skin damage , with the goal lowering your risk of skin cancer . Sunscreen , also commonly known as sun block , sun lotion or sun cream , is a lotion , spray , gel or other topical product that absorbs or reflects some of the sun 's ultraviolet ( UV ) radiation on the skin exposed to sunlight and thus helps protect against sunburn . Skin lightening products have sunscreen to protect lightened skin because light skin is more susceptible to sun damage than darker skin .