Best Sunscreens You’re Not Using but Probably Should

5 minute read

By HealthVersed

There are many sunscreens on the market, so it can be difficult to know which one will work best for you. Fortunately, there are several products that work for a variety of skin types. Start a search today to find affordable sunscreen.

We all know that exposure to broad spectrum light (UVA and UVB) can lead to skin damage and even skin cancer. Anyone, regardless of their gender, genealogy, or age, is susceptible to skin cancer. That’s why finding the right sunscreen matters.

The Basics

Since our skin is our first and best line of defense against many illnesses and germs, we need to take good care of it, especially during the brutal summer months. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using sunscreen that has broad spectrum protection, has a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, and that is water-resistant. Additionally, if you are keen on using something organic, there are plenty of organic brands and products out there to try. If you suffer from dry skin or need extra facial protection, creams tend to work best, but gels are better for hairier areas of the body. Sprays work well for children, but fumes should not be inhaled.

1. Banana Boat Dry Balance Sunscreen Clear UltraMist SPF 30

One of the worst things about applying sunscreen is that it can leave your skin feeling sticky and gross. Banana Boat’s Dry Balance Sunscreen Clear UltraMist SPF 30 leaves a nice, glossy matte finish on your skin while still providing the right amount of protection.

Effectiveness

This sunscreen works incredibly well since it provides broad spectrum coverage. You should apply it half an hour before you head outside for the sunscreen to be most effective. When applying, spray it evenly around all exposed skin areas. Even immediately after applying it, you will notice a nice, smooth, non-sticky matte. This formula does its job of preventing excessive moisture on the skin and leaves your skin feeling dry and natural while you are out in the sun.

Quality

Banana Boat is well-known for putting out quality products for a fraction of the price of some of their high-end competitors. While it isn’t zinc-based, Dry Balance Sunscreen Clear UltraMist works well on different types of skin, has a pleasant scent, and leaves a smooth and dry matte finish on the skin just as it promises. Those with sensitive skin have used this product without experiencing breakouts, and it stops additional burning if you apply it after getting a little crisp.

Price

This product is very reasonably priced, retailing at about $7.99 for a 6-ounce bottle.

2. Mad Hippie 30+ Zinc Oxide Facial SPF

Are you looking for an all-natural, chemical-free sunscreen that offers broad spectrum protection for your face? Consider trying Mad Hippie’s 30+ Zinc Oxide Facial SPF. Along with zinc oxide, this sunscreen contains avocado, red raspberry seeds, and carrot seed oil to help keep your skin hydrated. Also, it is rich in the antioxidants vitamins C and E, as well as ferulic acid, which works to prevent premature skin aging.

Effectiveness

This sunscreen goes on relatively smooth, and it can be applied over your facial moisturizer. Those who have had skin cancer or who are at risk of developing skin cancer have claimed that this product has been effective in keeping skin cancer, both melanoma and basal cell, at bay.

Quality

Mad Hippie utilizes high-quality natural ingredients, and it is a very affordable alternative to higher-priced, high-end products. This sunscreen does go on fairly thick, so you will have to rub it in for it to work its best. However, there aren’t many more chemically-based or non-chemical sunscreens out there for the price. It won’t rub or run off if you work up a sweat outside.

Price

This product generally retails for about $25 for a 2.1-ounce bottle, making it slightly more expensive than some low-end products but certainly more affordable than other products that make the same kinds of promises to protect your skin.

3. LaRoche Posay Anthelios Clear Skin SPF 60

Do you suffer from acne breakouts? If so, LaRoce Posay Anthelios Clear Skin SPF 60 might be the right sunscreen for you. This dermatologist-recommended product absorbs oil from the skin in any type of weather condition and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Effectiveness

LaRoce Posay Anthelios Clear Skin SPF 60 offers advanced protection against UVA, UVB, and airborne toxins. Apply this sunscreen 15 minutes before heading outdoors for the most effectiveness. Its Cell-OX Shield technology is rich in antioxidants, and its inclusion of Perlite and Silica helps to quickly absorb excess oil.

Quality

This product is 100% oil-free, paraben-free, and fragrance-free, so it is high-quality and ideal for those with allergies or skin conditions. It is non-comedogenic, so it won’t block your pores.

Price

This sunscreen retails for about $19.99 on Amazon for a 1.7-fl-oz container, making it relatively affordable for the everyday consumer.

4. Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Problems with Eczema or other persistent skin disorders? Try Neutrogena’s Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30, which has been recommended by the National Eczema Association. This product contains naturally sourced 100% pure zinc oxide sunscreen and features Purescreen Technology to help protect from harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Effectiveness

Neutrogena’s Dry-Touch fulfills its promise of leaving a dry, smooth finish on your skin, so you won’t have to walk around with sticky-feeling skin. You won’t find any white residue left on your skin after application, a rare characteristic for a relatively affordable sunscreen. This formula is hypoallergenic and has been tested and positively reviewed by dermatologists.

Quality

This product is made of high-quality ingredients and is non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, oil-free, and water-resistant. Neutrogena is one of the most trusted brand names in skin care, and this sunscreen certainly lives up to the company’s high standards for quality. Many customers rate their satisfaction with the product as being high.

Price

Neutrogena retains its consumer-friendliness with the very fair pricing of just under $10. This product can be found online and on the shelves at many drugstores throughout America.

Your skin defends you against against harmful toxins that can seep into the body, so why not protect it from broad spectrum damage with a powerful sunscreen? Even if you only plan on being outside for a short period of time on a hot summer day or are just riding in a car for a while, your skin can still receive some damage. One of the four above cost-effective and non-skin-irritating products could help you keep your skin looking fresh and young, prevent those pesky and painful sunburns, and keep skin cancer at bay.

HealthVersed

Contributor