Sunscreen isn’t just for summer; it’s a 12 month a year necessity. However, in summer, there are more hours of sunshine, we’re outdoors for longer periods of time, and we expose more of our skin – so for those reasons, we use more sunscreen in the summer months. As you read this list of some of the best ones out there, don’t neglect using them throughout the year. NYC Dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner says, “Look for the words ‘Broad Spectrum’ on the package. This means that the sunscreen protects against both UVB rays, responsible for sunburn, and UVA rays, responsible for cancer and early aging. And pay attention to expiration dates”. Note: All the sunscreens here are broad spectrum.
Shiseido, one of my favorite luxury brands, has created Wet Force technology, which means that the effectiveness of the sunscreen is enhanced when it comes into contact with water instead of being diluted by it. It works when the negative ions in the sunscreen come in contact with the positive ions in water or perspiration and create a protective veil. Try the Shieido Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion SPF 50+ WetForce for face and body. One of my personal faves is the Clear Stick UV Protector SPF 50+ WefForce. This is especially perfect for use on the forehead, so if you sweat, your sunscreen won’t drip into your eyes. I keep this clear stick with me at all times and continually apply it on the back of my hands to prevent getting dark spots (which are sun damage spots). It’s also great for reapplying your sunscreen on the go. Don’t forget your neck and chest as well!
Available: Nordstrom
The Trilipiderm Protective Day Cream SPF 30 protects your skin from the sun’s harmful rays and is great for all skin types. But the benefits don’t end there – the silky formula also includes hyaluronic acid, and vitamins A, C, D, & E so your skin gets the benefits of hydration and vitamins while being sun protected. That’s a lot of benefits in one bottle. Use on face and neck and reapply throughout the day. Also, keep your entire body moisturized and your skin silky soft, while protecting it from the sun with Trilipiderm All Body Moisture Retention Cream with vitamin D and SPF 30. Both products absorb quickly and are non-sticky.
Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen SPF 50 won’t leave a white residue on your skin like many other mineral sunscreens, so it’s great for all skin tones. The Australian inspired brand – made in the USA – is inspired by the Australian outdoor lifestyle and uses Australian Botanicals, Kakadu plum, eucalyptus, and red algae for anti-oxidant protection as well. Additionally, it’s water resistant, dries quickly and is non-sticky. If you prefer a spray, try their Botanical SPF 50 Natural Spray Sunscreen, which is especially convenient for using on legs when wearing shorts or a swimsuit.
Available: Amazon
The super gentle Avene Mineral Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50 contains their special eau thermal spring water that’s used to heal people with severe skin issues. It’s the perfect sunscreen for super sensitive skin that can’t tolerate chemicals, as well as for post-procedure sun care. It goes on easily and dries to a soft mattifying finish. Perfect for everyday use.
Available: Avene
Yes, your lips are prone to sun damage too. Delicate lips are often neglected when it comes to sun protection, and whether it’s wrinkles or skin cancer, you don’t want either. Don’t be without Ocean Potion Lip Potion SPF 45. This delicious orange/vanilla tasting sunscreen will keep your lips hydrated, and free from sun damage. Whether you’re a water skier or a downhill skier, this inexpensive item should be with you all year long. And if you need a burst of cool on a hot, hot day, bust out a can of Ocean Potion Sport Spray SPF 30. The cooling menthol formula will give you that oh-so-needed instant fresh chill when you need it most.
It’s hard to think of sunscreen and not think of La Roche Posay. The award winning Anthelios 60 is perfect for oily or acne prone skin, as well as for sensitive skin. It’s extremely light weight, leaves a matte finish, and never feels oily or greasy.
Available: Amazon
If you’re looking for a bang for the buck in the sunscreen department, check out Walgreens selection of SPF lotions. The Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 won’t leave you feeling sticky. It’s perfect for the sport loving family who play all day outdoors.
Available: Walgreens
Sunscreen with color tint
Make sure to keep these on hand. You’ll thank me later!
Made with titanium and zinc oxides, the Tizo3 packs a 4-way punch. Most importantly, it’s a terrific mineral sunscreen SPF 40. But its benefits don’t stop there. It’s contains antioxidant vitamins C & E for anti-aging, it’s got a tint that’s sheer enough for most every complexion, and Tizo3 works as a terrific primer too if you prefer to wear your regular foundation.
Available: LovelySkin
Sunscreen brands always advise us to reapply our sunscreen every couple of hours – actually, now it’s 80 minutes. So if you’re wearing foundation over your sunscreen, the last thing you want to do is slather on sunscreen on top of it all day long, right? Switch out your regular foundation for the Shiseido WetForce Sports HydroBB Compact SPF 50+. This solid compact foundation comes in 5 shades, and dries quickly. Simply by using it, you’re protecting your skin with water resistant SPF foundation that’s so easy to reapply all day if you’re outside. Problem solved!
Available: Macy’s
