Hey you! This is the year that you are going to take the importance of sun protection seriously. When applied properly, sunscreen protects against sunburn, photoaging, and other skin damage. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skincare by the age of 70.
Scary right? But there’s a way to prevent it- SPF! Regular use of an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen reduces the risk of squamous cell carcinoma by 40%.
Now that’s a life-saving state that is totally preventable.
Picking the right SPF can be tricky- you need a formula that does not leave a white cast on the skin, provides adequate protection while being lightweight and comfortable enough to wear all day, whether or not you wear makeup.
The more you enjoy the SPF you are wearing, the greater chance that you will wear it every day. And hey, wearing one every day is important!
Keep reading to check out our favorite sunscreens for all your needs.
Protect Your Skin With These 8 Must Have Sunscreens!
Best serum formula: Dr Brandt Liquid Sun Shield SPF 50
This lightweight 100% mineral sunscreen is formulated with zinc oxide to defend against UVA/UVB rays and photoaging. Call it damage control in a bottle with a serum-like texture!
Lightest formula: Paula's Choice Resist Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50
This innovative SPF 50 formula is water-light in texture and packed with antioxidants and broad-spectrum protection. Not only does it protect your skin against environmental stressors, but it also promotes a healthier, younger-looking appearance.
Best under makeup: Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40
Get your glow on with makeup-gripping SPF that doubles as a primer. Great for all skin types, this SPF provides sun protection and hydration so you can glow all day.
Best for active lifestyle: PCA Skin Active Broad Spectrum SPF 45
This SPF from PCA Skin is perfect for the person that lives an active lifestyle and needs protection. Tested to protect the skin for 80 minutes in water or while sweating, it is formulated so that it won't drip into the eyes. Added bonus, it's reef safe!
Overall winner: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60
Highly recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, this broad-spectrum SPF 60 formula absorbs fast with a smooth, velvety texture and no white cast.
Most affordable: Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
Support a Black owned brand and prevent skin damage with this SPF 30 formula. This sunscreen dries clear while helping to prevent premature aging, fine lines, and skin discoloration.
Highly rated: Eleven by Venus Williams SPF 35
Made in collaboration with The Sunscreen Company, this mineral SPF promises to melt into the skin, leaving a semi-matte finish with no white cast. After long-term use, one user noticed a difference in her hyperpigmentation.
Best for photo-damaged skin: Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50
This antioxidant-rich SPF features white tea extract rich in polyphenols and polypeptides to improve the appearance of photo-damaged skin. In addition to providing superior protection, it provides long-lasting hydration and a formula that blends into the skin effortlessly for a perfect finish.
Sunscreen is necessary to protect your skin, so finding the perfect one for you is very important! Protecting your glowing skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays will not only prevent premature aging and leave you with less discoloration, but it will also save your life.
Whether you are on the hunt for the most popular SPF or one that you can wear comfortable under makeup or while you swim, we got your back!
When applying SPF, be sure to follow the instructions and apply enough to provide adequate protection.
Do you wear SPF daily? What’s your favorite SPF? Keep the conversation going in the comments!