Best Sunscreen to Prevent Sunburn, Skin Cancer, and Premature Aging!

A lot of people spend time outdoors and have a lot of skin visible to the sun. This can make sunscreen an important part of your daily routine. While there is a lot of information about where to purchase sunscreen, there is less information about the best sunscreen for your needs.

Sunscreen is a crucial step in protecting your skin from the harmful rays of the sun. Not only does it prevent sunburn, but it also helps to reduce the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to know which sunscreen is the best for you. In this post, we will discuss the different types of sunscreen, their benefits, and how to choose the best one for your skin.

What is sunscreen?

Sunscreen is a topical product applied to the skin to protect against the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. It typically contains chemicals that absorb or reflect UV light and reduce the risk of sunburn, skin damage, and skin cancer. Sunscreens are rated based on their Sun Protection Factor (SPF), which measures their effectiveness in blocking UVB rays.

How does sunscreen work?

Let's talk further about the different types of sunscreen. There are two main types: chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreen works by absorbing the sun's rays, while physical sunscreen reflects them away from the skin.

Chemical sunscreens are the most commonly used and typically contain ingredients such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octisalate. These ingredients work by absorbing the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays and converting them into heat, which is then released from the skin. Chemical sunscreens are easy to apply and absorb quickly into the skin, but they can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals.

Physical sunscreens, on the other hand, contain ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients form a barrier on the skin that reflects the sun's UV rays away from the skin. Physical sunscreens are less likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, but they can be more difficult to apply and may leave a white cast on the skin.

When choosing a sunscreen, it's important to look for a broad-spectrum formula that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are responsible for premature aging and wrinkles, while UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn. Broad-spectrum sunscreens will have an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30 and will be labeled as "broad-spectrum" on the packaging.

Another important factor to consider is the sunscreen's water resistance. If you plan on spending time in the water, look for a sunscreen labeled as "water-resistant" or "waterproof." These sunscreens will remain effective for up to 80 minutes of water activity.

It's also important to consider your skin type when choosing sunscreen. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for a lightweight, oil-free formula. If you have dry skin, look for a moisturizing sunscreen that will hydrate and nourish your skin.

Another tip to keep in mind is that the daily use of sunscreen is essential. It is recommended to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.

How to choose sunscreen?

When choosing a sunscreen, consider the following factors:

1. SPF: Choose an SPF of at least 30 to provide adequate protection against UVB rays.
2. Broad-spectrum protection: Look for a sunscreen that provides both UVA and UVB protection, indicated as "broad-spectrum."
3. Water resistance: If you plan to be active or spend time in the water, look for a "water-resistant" sunscreen.
4. Skin type and tone: Consider your skin type and tone when choosing a sunscreen. Oily skin may benefit from a matte finish, while dry skin may prefer a moisturizing formula. Darker skin tones may prefer a lighter, non-whitening formula.
5. Ingredients: Choose a sunscreen with active ingredients that you are comfortable using. Some common active ingredients include zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, avobenzone, and oxybenzone.

Remember, it's important to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after sweating or swimming, for the best protection.

What are the benefits of sunscreen?

The benefits of using sunscreen include:

1. Reduces the risk of skin cancer: Regular use of sunscreen has been shown to reduce the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
2. Prevents sunburn: Sunburns can be painful and increase the risk of skin damage and skin cancer. Sunscreen helps to prevent sunburn by blocking UV rays.
3. Slows skin aging: UV rays can cause premature aging of the skin, including wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Sunscreen can help to slow this aging process.
4. Protects against skin damage: UV rays can cause skin damage, including DNA mutations, that can lead to skin cancer. Sunscreen helps to prevent this damage by blocking UV rays.
5. Increases comfort in the sun: Sunscreen can help to increase comfort while spending time in the sun by reducing the risk of sunburn, skin damage, and skin cancer.

It's important to note that while sunscreen is an important tool for protecting against the harmful effects of UV rays, it should be used in combination with other protective measures, such as wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and avoiding the sun during peak hours.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using sunscreen is one of the best ways to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun. By looking for a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with zinc oxide and an SPF of at least 30, you can reduce your risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. It's also important to consider your skin type and to make sure to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating. By taking these steps, you can keep your skin healthy and youthful for years to come.

Remember to always protect your skin by using sunscreen and limiting your exposure to the sun, especially during peak hours. If you have any other questions or concerns, feel free to ask.

Need help? We've done the research for you and found the Best Sunscreen on Amazon. Every day, we read hundreds of reviews and try the highest-rated products we have on our list.

Best Sunscreen - Reviews

The Best

Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen Lotion.

About this product

• Leaves Skin Radiant: Sheer Touch Ultra Brilliance sunblock secures, softens, and leaves skin luminescent and glowing. This elegant formula includes mango fruit extract, shea butter complex, and Vitamin E.
• UVA/UVB Level Security: Broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection keep your skin looking its finest. Suggested by The Skin Cancer Foundation.
• Let Your Senses Take YouAway: Glamorous tropical-scented sunblock, impregnated with our timeless coconut scent and mango fruit extract, supplies a genuine island feel no matter where you are.
• Fast-Abasorbing Formula: Our oil-free, non-greasy formula is fast-absorbing and lightweight so you can feel the sun, not your sunblock.
• Waterproof For Approximately 80 Minutes: Our dependable waterproof sunblock remains on for as much as 80 minutes.

However, we have a large percentage of happy users - Not only does this sunscreen make you smell good, but it makes you a little shiny. Goes on completely smooth and with not a trace of white. This sunscreen is great for the price, quality, and sun protection! This can be anybody's go-to sunscreen! It goes on easily, smells good, moisturizes the skin, and provides good protection.

Some long-time users said that the sunscreen they received was not the real Hawaiian Tropic. Users ended up with skin irritations and had no protection from the sun.

Our Thoughts - Can a small percentage be imported fakes? Has the use-by date expired? How can a great brand allow this to happen? We are speechless!

Very Good

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen Lotion.

About this product

• This item is non-sealed.
• Get effective sun defense without the heavy coat with Neutrogena Ultra Sheer
  Dry-Touch Sun Block. Fast-absorbing, waterproof and lightweight, this non-greasy sunblock cream formula is non-comedogenic and PABA-free.

It spreads smoothly and evenly, dries quickly, and feels like nothing on the skin. Overall, not a bad sunscreen but it still leaves a bit of a white cast. It's thicker consistently which is nice and doesn't smell like sunscreen. It's a good value for your buck but again it will leave a cast.

Some users said that you have to really rub it in to get the white cast gone. Throughout the day you will see build-up from the sunscreen. Others said that they hate the chalky feeling of sunscreens and this product definitely has that feeling.

Our Thoughts - Not for all skins. Most brands seem to have a small percentage of product that has gone off or the use-by date has expired.

Good Value

Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunscreen Spray, Broad Spectrum, SPF 50, 6oz. - Twin Pack

About this product

• Now with Argan oil, the special lightweight dry oil formula of Banana Boat Dry Oil Clear Spray Sunblock goes beyond sun protection, leaving your skin sensation silky-smooth. Banana Boat Dry Oil Clear Spray Sun Block Broad Spectrum SPF 15 supplies UVA and UVB Defense.
• Waterproof for approximately 80 minutes.
• Unnoticeable clear spray.
• Easy grip spray can.
• Twist and lock spray, no cap.

From happy users - Great product, works well. Protects active sun lovers from getting burned. Very convenient being a spray-on sunscreen. As long as you don't jump in the water right away the sunscreen will absorb really well. Didn't get sunburn when properly applied this sunscreen. Spray and go, it works great.

A few customers said that this is not reef friendly. Some users received skin irritations. Others said that it didn't work and ended up sunburnt.

Our Thoughts - These now-banned chemicals are believed to be one of the contributing factors to coral reef destruction. Most popular sunscreen brands are known to contain these dangerous chemicals. These brands include Coppertone, Hawaiian Tropic, and Banana Boat, to name a few.

Good

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Face Sunscreen.

About this product

• Description: A Broad Spectrum Sunscreen, EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Face Sunblock soothes and safeguards delicate skin types. This delicate skin sunblock is lightweight, large, and smooth and consists of crucial active ingredients that promote the look of healthy-looking skin. This item is non-sealed.
• Advantages: EltaMD UV Clear is a Skin specialist-suggested delicate skin sunblock that is large, light-weight, and oil-free.
• Recommended Usage: Use per instructions to assist avoid sunburn. Reapply a minimum of every 2 hours.

The majority of users seem to be very happy with this product... One of the features of this product is its ability to easily moisturize and blend into the skin without leaving a white cast! It’s a great product to add to a skincare routine and is super-friendly for those with oily skin. The smooth and light texture leaves the skin protected from the sun and you may only need to reapply 1-2 times.

Some users had a skin reaction when they applied it. In fact, a few users questioned if it really is eltaMD.

Our Thoughts - We often wonder if Amazon really knows that sellers are making money out of fake or under-standard products. These sellers causing people to suffer should be banned for life.

Good

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen.

About this product

• Game-Changing Sun Block - Our most popular SPF, Unseen Sunblock is a completely undetectable, weightless, broad-spectrum sunscreen, and odorless formula that offers oil-free sunblock security for all skin types, ways of life, and tones.
• Comprehensive Defense - This feel-good, antioxidant-rich facial sunblock assists filter blue light (skin-damaging light given off from your phone, tablet, & computer system), UVA, UVB, and IRA rays.
• A Super-Powered Primer - The special oil-free formula moves onto the skin, offering shine control and leaving a silky, makeup-gripping surface. Apply it thick and equally as the last step in your skin care regimen and prior to makeup.
• Reef-Friendy Sun block - Our oxybenzone- and octinoxate-free daily sun block consists of clean, effective active ingredients like calming frankincense and hydrating meadowfoam seed that nurture and safeguard your skin.
• Terrific For People - This beard-friendly, broad-spectrum sunblock's clear texture really seems like not wearing any.

Absolutely love how it spreads. A little bit just glides all over your face.
Non-greasy - Even though it literally glides across your face, it doesn't seem the least bit greasy. A few minutes after application, you just feel like you're evenly protected, not slathered up with grease.
Non-comedogenic - Many facial sunscreens would leave clogged pores after a day of application. For obvious reasons, that won't do if you're planning on using it daily.
No white cast - This one goes on clear. The other one had a white cast that you really had to rub in for a while to make it somewhat less obvious.
The skin feels moisturized without feeling greasy.
Reef friendly - Please, please, please if you are going anywhere near the ocean be sure to use sunscreen that is reef friendly. With global climate change the world's reefs are under enough stress as it is, let's not make it worse by using sunscreens that are harmful.

Some long-term users said that what they received this time was not Supergoop sunscreen. The color, text, and smell were all off. Whatever the hell this was burned upon application. Others said that it didn't work for them.

Our Thoughts - We don't get it. Why is there a small percentage of users that received a bad product while there is a large percentage of users that love it? Are there bad batches or the use-by date has expired?

Good

Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Sunscreen.

About this product

• Safe, Natural Protect: Thinkbaby sunblock supplies efficient SPF 50+ sun defense for infants. The broad spectrum UVA and UVB infant sunscreen are appropriate for day-to-day usage on babies' delicate skin, providing mild defense against the sun's rays.
• Easy Application: The hydrating sun cream is simple and fast to apply to even the most active infants, and protection starts immediately. The fast-absorbing kid's sun cream will not leave skin feeling oily or sticky and has no undesirable chemical fragrance.
• Clean Mineral Solution: The very first sunblock to pass Whole Foods Premium Care requirements, Thinkbaby vegan, Jumping Bunny accredited sun creams consist of no PABA, parabens, phthalates, BPA, oxybenzone, avobenzone, petroleum, gluten, dairy, or poisonous chemicals.
• Water Resistant: Your infant can splash, play and swim in the water securely. Our kids' sun cream supplies the greatest water resistance per the FDA, providing infants constant security for as much as 80 minutes in the swimming pool or sea prior to the sunblock must be reapplied.
• Reef Friendly: Safe for infants, and safe for the earth. Produced in the U.S.A., our sunblock's active component is non-nano Zinc Oxide, and the formula is extremely eco-friendly, nontoxic, and does not consist of any recognized chemicals damaging to reefs.

if you’re looking for sunscreen without harsh ingredients. It also smells amazing and is really easy to spread. The quality of this brand is good but it can be difficult to rub in. It can protect without irritation for some extra sensitive faces. It is an effective sunblock, and you can’t beat the price.

Has this brand changed the formula? Some users said that it didn't do much protection. They also said that it irritated skin, especially sensitive skin.

Our Thoughts - Not for every skin type. This product may not be for babies with sensitive skin. It did work to prevent sunburn, although in the sun for many hours each day, and burned a couple of times when neglected to reapply. You do have to reapply every couple of hours and to get it to stick you should dry off before reapplying after being in the water.