Best Sunscreens of 2023
Here comes the sun! As temperatures start to warm up, layers start to peel off, exposing more skin. Everyone should be thinking about adding a layer of sunscreen if you don’t already. It’s also a good idea to get fresh, new sunscreen each year. Shelf life of sunscreen averages 3 years, but ingredients in the sunscreen formula can break down when exposed to warmer temperatures. Signs of product/ingredient breakdown include change in color or appearance, consistency or odor.
Remember to try to limit your sun exposure between 10am and 4pm, year round. Trees, umbrellas and hats help but are not full protection. Water and sand are strong reflectors of the sun’s rays so take extra precautions.
Best sunscreens for face
What I have found with sunscreens for your face, is you have to apply by dabbing to blend on because any sweeping/smearing/rubbing/blending will cause pilling of the products layered under the sunscreen. If you’ve come across a sunscreen that doesn’t pill, please let us know!
These are listed in no particular order, and all are tinted sunscreens because I’m all about saving a step if possible and prefer the no-makeup look.
Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum SPF 36 – https://amzn.to/41OGhXf
- All mineral, lightweight formula
- UVA/UVB sun protection SPF 36
- Universal tint for lightweight coverage
- Environmental pollution protection
EltaMD UV Elements Tinted Sunscreen SPF 44 – https://amzn.to/40I7k5K
- Lightweight, oil free formula
- UVA/UVB protection with SPF 44
- Transparent zinc oxide and titanium oxide
- Fragrance free
DRMTLGY Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 46 – https://amzn.to/3nc6KPY
- Universal tint sunscreen and foundation
- Lightweight, non greasy formula
- Broad spectrum SPF 46
- Clean formula made in USA, cruelty free
Colorescience Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50 – https://amzn.to/43WkTBl
· All mineral SPF 50
· protects against free radical formation and damage
Colorescience Brush-On Sunscreen Mineral Powder – https://amzn.to/3N1vmWd
· This formula contains ingredients for sensitive or acne-prone skin
· Contains broad spectrum SPF 50
· great for on the go touch up
Babo Botanicals Daily Sheer Fluid SPF 50 Tinted Sunscreen – https://amzn.to/3CDL0kj
· Ultra-light liquid formula blends in easily for a flawless finish
· Works on most skin tones
· 100% mineral based
· works with sensitive skin
· reef safe
Best sunscreens for body
I’ve switched to reef safe products only. Reef safe SPF is usually formulated with zinc oxide, which is a gentle and safe ingredient that offers broad spectrum protection. I also don’t recommend any spray on sunscreen because the fine mist does get inhaled, no matter how long you hold your breath or try to walk away from it. I won’t risk it, especially with kids.
COOLA Organic Sunscreen SPF 30
Vegan and gluten free
Elta MD UV Sport Broad Spectrum SPF50
For body, UVA/UVB protection designed for outdoor sports and athletes.
EltaMD US Active SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen
For face and body, broad spectrum physical sunscreen for active lifestyle
Thrive Natural Body Mineral Sunscreen SPF50 reef safe
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen w/Zinc Oxide, SPF 50+, UVA/UVB protection
Favorite go to for most scuba divers.
Banana Boat Sport 100% Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, Broad Spectrum, SPF 50+
100% Mineral sunscreen, high endurance vs. sweat, broad spectrum, light weight, free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens and phthalates.
Babo Botanicals Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen
Good for babies and sensitive skin, 100% zinc oxide, fragrance free, water resistant, reef safe
Self tanners
With all this sun protection, you may want a little bit of color or glow, so here are a few tried and true self tanning products to consider:
Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Self Tanner with blending mitt – https://amzn.to/3oWgfU8
Isle of Paradise Self Tanning drops – https://amzn.to/44dvqYT
Just add a few drops to moisturizer and blend!
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