Summer is here, and with it comes longer days, beach trips, and plenty of sunshine! But before you soak up those rays, make sure you're protecting your skin with a good sunscreen lotion.
Sun exposure is the leading cause of premature aging and increases your risk of skin cancer. Luckily, there are many excellent sunscreen lotions available to keep your skin safe and healthy all summer long.
Here's our list of the top 5 sunscreen lotions to consider, offering options for different needs and preferences:
1. Best Overall: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 55 Sunscreen Lotion
Pros: Broad spectrum SPF 55 protection, oil-free and lightweight formula, water-resistant (up to 80 minutes), affordable
Cons: Some reviewers find the scent a bit strong
Neutrogena's Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch is a favorite for a reason. It offers superior sun protection with SPF 55, while the lightweight formula absorbs quickly and leaves a non-greasy finish. It's also water-resistant, making it perfect for a day at the pool or beach.
2. Best for Sensitive Skin: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+
Pros: Mineral-based formula, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, water-resistant (up to 80 minutes), SPF 50+ protection
Cons: Can leave a white cast on deeper skin tones
Blue Lizard's Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen is a great option for those with sensitive skin or allergies to chemical sunscreens. This mineral-based formula is gentle on the skin and provides broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection. It's also water-resistant and fragrance-free. However, some reviewers with deeper skin tones mention a slight white cast, so a trial run is recommended.
3. Best Budget-Friendly Option: Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
Pros: Affordable, pleasant scent, water-resistant (up to 80 minutes), readily available at most drugstores
Cons: Lower SPF protection (SPF 30), contains oxybenzone (not reef-safe)
Hawaiian Tropic's classic sunscreen lotion is a budget-friendly option that offers good sun protection (SPF 30) and a pleasant, tropical scent. It's also water-resistant and easy to find at most drugstores. However, it's important to note that it contains oxybenzone, a chemical that can be harmful to coral reefs. If you're eco-conscious, consider a reef-safe alternative.
4. Best for Face: Isdin Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+ Sunscreen
Pros: Lightweight, non-comedogenic (won't clog pores), very high SPF 50+ protection, suitable for daily use on face
Cons: Expensive
Isdin Eryfotona Actinica is a facial sunscreen that offers superior sun protection (SPF 50+) without feeling greasy or heavy. It's also non-comedogenic, which means it won't clog your pores. This makes it a great choice for everyday use on your face. However, this high-quality product comes with a higher price tag.
5. Best Reef-Safe Option: Sun Bum Original Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
Pros: Mineral-based formula, reef-safe, oxybenzone-free, water-resistant (up to 80 minutes), lightweight and absorbs quickly
Cons: Lower SPF protection (SPF 30)
Sun Bum Original Mineral Sunscreen Lotion is a fantastic option for those who prioritize reef-safe ingredients. This mineral-based formula is free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, chemicals harmful to coral reefs. It's also water-resistant, lightweight, and absorbs quickly. Keep in mind that SPF 30 offers moderate protection, so reapplication is crucial, especially on long exposure days.
Remember: Regardless of which sunscreen you choose, make sure to apply it generously and reapply every two hours, or more often if you're sweating or swimming.
Sun Safety Bonus Tip: Don't forget to protect your eyes with a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses!
Disclosure: This blog post may contain affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products that I believe in and use myself.
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