06.04.2013

The best sunscreens for summer

Best physical–SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50: Physical sunblock is one of the best options for sun protection and I really love this version from SkinCeuticals.  With SPF 50 and a little color-infused technology, the water-resistant block uses titanium and zinc oxide to protect you.  It’s good stuff, trust me.

Best for the beach–Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen Spray SPF 70: I feel like so many of my friends hate putting on sunscreen once we’re already at the beach, so this is the PERFECT option for those picky few.  The spray form prevents sticky sand hands and the technology provides salt and water-resistant sun protection that’s also broad-spectrum.

Best for hydration–L’OREAL Sublime Sun Sheer Protect Sunscreen Oil Spray SPF 50+: At first glance, I thought this was tanning oil, the most insane product in existence.  But at second glance, I realized that L’OREAL had the foresight to create a sunscreen oil (e.g. NOT for tanning), which is actually quite genius.  You get all of the benefits of oil (the moisture, vitamins, etc.) but are also protected with SPF 50.  If only this existed when I was in high school…Also, for every Sublime Sun product sold in the U.S. (through the end of this year), L’OREAL will donate $1 to the Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA) for the L’OREAL Paris-MRA Team Science Award. Over the next three years, they will donate over $750K to the MRA.

Best for touch-ups–Clinique Broad Spectrum SPF 45 Sunscreen Targeted Protection Stick: It’s always good to keep a little SPF stick like this in your purse, for those “ooops, I forgot” times.  A stick like this is perfect for those tiny spots that are hard to cover like your ears, nose, cheek bones, etc.

Best for the face–Kiehl’s Powerful Wrinkle Reducing Cream SPF 30: So this isn’t the traditional sunscreen, per say, but going with the fact that you should be wearing SPF every day (especially on your face), I really recommend this version from Kiehl’s.  It’s a powerful, skin fortifying anti-wrinkle cream that goes on nicely and doesn’t feel greasy.

Best high end–Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection SPF 50+: I’ve blogged about Shiseido sunscreen a few times before.  While a little pricey, yes, this is hands-down the most luxurious sunscreen that I’ve ever used. I hoard it.

Best natural–Yes to Cucumbers Natural Sunscreen SPF 30: Perfect for anyone who likes to do the natural skin care thing (OR has sensitive skin).  This mineral-based formula provides SPF and also contains soothing ingredients like aloe and cooling cucumber…plus you can use it on your face and body and won’t have any breakouts.