We hear about the importance of sun protection all the time. This year this topic is even more relevant to me personally. I had basal cell carcinoma in a spot on my face last year and it was a wake up call. It was a reminder to be diligent in using sunscreen every day and to see my dermatologist regularly.
We can’t (fully) undo our past decisions, but we can change our habits once we learn new information. As we look forward to the summer season, a time when many of us spend a lot of outdoor time, we share an updated version of a favorite post from last year.
Here are the eleven best sunscreens our team has tested.
Supergoop! Luminous screen SPF 40
Recommended by: Kate and Jackie, Editorial Director
$22 – $48
Kate: This is my go to summer sunscreen. I like the shimmer/shimmer better when I have a bit of a tan. It also has a bit of tint on it to hide any redness or blemishes, which I appreciate!
Jackie: This is my go to year round daily face sunscreen. It’s moisturizing (hello, hyaluronic acid!), goes on smoothly, and (the best part, IMO) has an AMAZING shine that makes me feel brighter with and without makeup.
Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 35
Recommended By: Carolyn, Graphic Designer
$25
This product feels more like putting on a moisturizer than a traditional sunscreen. It’s very smooth (without being oily) and it’s tinted (instead of white) so I don’t have to spend forever rubbing it in.
EltaMD UV Daily Color Broad Spectrum SPF 40
Recommended By: Kate and Greta, Content Creator
$38
Kate: This tinted sunscreen is my go-to for most of the year (except summer). It is excellent at providing a matte finish with just enough coverage to minimize redness or blemishes. It also has a great smell.
Greta: This blends super well, doesn’t make me feel greasy or oily, and doesn’t have a nasty sunscreen smell! It acts as a good foundation or alternative to foundation on days when I want a lighter look.
Supergoop! PLAY SPF 50
Recommended by: Kate and Jackie
$21 – $68
Kate: I have been using the mist version of this product lately. It is lightweight, easy to apply evenly and stays on the skin very well. It’s a great product to throw in your bag for the pool!
Jackie: This is my go-to face sunscreen before you go for a run! I also used it on my body several times a day on a recent hot weather trip. Unlike some active sunscreens, it actually melts into my skin when applied (instead of leaving that unfortunate white glow behind) and keeps me protected, even during sweaty outdoor activities.
Aveeno Protect & Hydrate SPF 60 Sunscreen
Recommended by: Jackie
$11 – $22
I use this sunscreen on my hands year-round when I’m outside, and I also apply it to my arms and legs in the summer months when I’m out for a walk or run, running errands, or having drinks outside with friends. . I like that it feels like a lotion (instead of the sticky feeling of certain body sunscreens), that it is an affordable drugstore option, and that it also comes in a 12oz pump bottle.
Supergoop! Radiance Oil SPF 50
Recommended by: Greta
$15 – $38
I love this sunscreen for beach days or when more of my skin is going to show. It leaves my skin hydrated and does not leave a sticky film. It is easy to apply and I usually keep it in my bag because it is perfect for on the go.
Dr. Jart Every Day Sun SPF 50
Recommended by: Kate
$42
This is the sunscreen that I use when I know that I am going to do all my face makeup. It sinks in nicely and provides a great base for layering.
EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46
Recommended By: Erin, Director of New Business
$41
This is my desert island beauty product. I love that it absorbs so well, like a lotion, and that it doesn’t smell like sunscreen! It also blends incredibly well with other products.
Supergoop! Glowscreen Body SPF 40
Recommended by: Kate
$42
This is a great moisturizing body sunscreen that provides an amazing glow all over the skin. I started using it last summer and I love it!
NARS Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30
Recommended by: Kate
$46
I came across this tinted moisturizer recently when I was also looking for a new foundation. Paired with RMS Beauty Primer, it’s a great replacement for a heavier foundation. I use a darker shade than I normally would and use a damp sponge to apply it. It’s a moisture bomb approach to foundation. PS Even if your tinted moisturizer has SPF, don’t skip your regular sunscreen!
Supergoop! Invisible sunscreen SPF 40
Recommended By: Nancy, Executive Assistant
$22 – $48
This is my daily sunscreen. It is really moisturizing and does not irritate my sensitive skin!
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Kate is currently learning to play the ukulele, much to the despair of her husband, children, and dogs. Follow her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.
