Summer is here and if that’s music to your ears too, then you’ve probably got your mind set on soaking up some good fun in the sun. But not so fast, let’s talk about your skin! One day in the sun could cause anything from sunburns and peeling skin to wrinkles and skin cancer. That’s why it’s so important to lather up with best sunscreens that actually works to protect your skin.
Last month’s issue of Consumer Reports revealed the scary truth about sunscreen brands. Disappointingly, lab tests showed that many brands had less SPF coverage than claimed on their labels and advertisement. Below you will find the 7 best sunscreen brands that lived up to their claims.
1. Neutrogena Beach Defense Water + Sun Barrier Spray, SPF 70
Best for your face, this sunscreen is a 6.5-ounce, dermatologist-recommended, broad spectrum spray. It’s oil-free, so it won’t clog your pores or leave behind a greasy residue, and it withstands water for up to 80 minutes.
2. Coppertone Water Babies, SPF 50
Best sunscreen for babies, this 8-ounce bottle contains moisturizers and aloe to prevent dryness and soothe young skin. It’s also free of added fragrances and dyes, so you don’t have to worry about it irritating your child’s skin or stinging their eyes when they sweat.
3. Banana Boat SunComfort™ Clear UltraMist Sunscreen Spray with, SPF 50+
One of the only 50+ sunscreens to meet its SPF claims, Banana Boat’s 6-ounce continuous spray is a great option for both face and body protection.
4. L’Oréal Paris Advanced Suncare Quick Dry Sheer Finish, SPF 50+
L’Oreal’s 4.5-ounce sunscreen spray is smaller than most on this list, but it’s still a great value because of its patented UV filter system. Vitamin E, white grapeseed, and other antioxidants nourish the skin while protecting it from the sun.
5. Equate Ultra Protection, SPF 50
This generic Wal-Mart sunscreen didn’t just pass the test; it is also rated a “best buy” for both protection and price. A 16-ounce bottle should last all summer, and one application lasts for 80 minutes.
6. No-Ad Sport Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50
No-Ad’s long-lasting face and body sunscreen is also available in a 16-ounce bottle with 80 minutes of water resistance. It is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation because it’s designed to absorb quickly and stand up to sweat.
7. Coppertone Sport High Performance AccuSpray SPF 30
Made for sporty adults, this high performance sunscreen brand AccuSpray is oil-free and dries in seconds. It’s rub-resistant so that it doesn’t get into the eyes or smear off the body.