As a child, I remember watching my mother slather on baby oil and lay in the summer sun for hours, devouring the latest beach reads and slowly transforming into a burnished copper goddess. Of course, like many sun-worshipping women of her era, she’s had to deal with the side effects of these decisions, including treating significant signs of aging related to sun exposure – and it could have been much worse.
Today, we know a lot more about the effects of the sun and the reasons we need to protect our skin from harmful rays. If you’re not keen to become a shut-in or cover up when the weather gets warm, you can use dermatologist-approved sunscreen to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Here are just a few of the best broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreens to add to your purse or beach bag.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 100+
This is among the most affordable options at under $10 for 3 fluid ounces, and it comes with the high SPF that dermatologists recommend to avoid sunburns. Considering how much sunburns can increase your risk for skin cancer, you want the best protection possible, and this Neutrogena product means you’ll maintain protection, even if you forget to reapply frequently. It’s fast absorbing, matte finish, and remains water resistant up to 80 minutes.
Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen, Sensitive SPF 30+
SPF 30 is generally considered the lowest level of sun protection recommended, mostly because you’ll have to apply frequently to maintain efficacy. Still, this Blue Lizard product is a must-have for any beach outing for a couple of reasons.
First and foremost, the white bottle turns blue when exposed to UV rays, so you always know when you need to slather some on. In addition, it’s chemical-, fragrance-, and paraben-free, which makes it ideal for many people with sensitive skin. Active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide ensure broad spectrum sun protection, and it’s priced affordably at just over $10 for 6 fluid ounces.
Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Lotion Sunscreen SPF 70
Oil-free and noncomedogenic, this is one sunscreen that will not cause breakouts, making it ideal for use on the body and the face. It’s water resistant up to 80 minutes, it’s enriched with colloidal oatmeal (like many Aveeno products) to boost skin hydration and protect the skin barrier, and it’s safe for everyone, including people with skin conditions like dry skin or eczema. No wonder it’s recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
Revision Skincare Intellishade Original SPF 45
Not all sunscreens are great for use on your face. If you’re looking for a daily wear face sunscreen that won’t turn makeup into an oily mess, this tinted product offers all the benefits of mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) paired with anti-aging and hydration benefits. At $75 for 1.7 ounces, it’s not the cheapest, but you don’t need much for facial coverage, and those who use it swear by it.
Colorescience Sunforgettable Loose Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30
It’s easy to reapply throughout the day with this brush-on, tinted sunscreen that doubles as a mattifying powder for your face. Plus, you can pair it with a liquid sunscreen for added benefits.
When you want to maintain your skin’s youthful glow and combat sun damage, contact the qualified and caring professionals at the offices of Dr. Beverly Fischer at 410-308-4700 or online to schedule a consultation and learn more.
