05/21

We’re Calling It– These 7 Sunscreens Will Be Our New Go-To’s For Summer

By Hilary Sheinbum

Sunscreens come in all shapes, forms, sizes, colors and strengths. There’s SPF in some makeup, too. But, no matter what it looks, smells or feels like, the most important thing is that it’s applied to your skin — and reapplied frequently.

“For everyday use — such as a workday with minimal outside time — once a day is enough,” says Karen Fernandez, lead aesthetician at SkinSpirit. But there is a caveat to her rule.

“If you go for a noon walk, reapply before heading out. And don’t forget to apply [sunscreen] to the arms and back of the hands too.”

Furthermore, if you’re spending an extended period of time in the sun, Fernandez highly recommends applying sunscreen every 2 hours and/or after swimming or sweating.

Why do we apply this substance so obsessively? There are a few very important reasons. For one, sunscreen doesn’t just prevent burns, it reduces your overall UV exposure. Additionally, if you’re concerned about fine lines and wrinkles — and overall general health — sunscreen is proven to slow signs of aging, and it lowers your risk of skin cancer and sun damage.

While sunscreens of yesteryear often left behind a white film on the skin, and maintained a specific smell: sun protection has come a long way and evolved to tinted and invisible, chic, fragrant (and unscented) forms.

Before hitting the pool, the beach, or taking a midday stroll, check out these options that will keep you protected all summer long.

Sun Bum Original SPF 45 Sunscreen Face Mist

Lightweight and sheer, this face mist is made for all skin types. Rather than squeezing a bottle of product onto your hands, simply spray directly onto your face (with a hand over your closed eyes!) for a quick refreshing spritz.

Kari Gran Essential Tinted SPF 28

This sheer-coverage tinted moisturizer — available in light, medium and dark — includes SPF mineral sunscreen, which means you can apply less makeup (or none at all, if you wish) in the morning and remain protected. It also leaves a glowy, dewy finish and moisturizes with the help of raspberry seed oil, French plum oil and macadamia nut oil.

M-61 Hydraboost Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 40

Not only is this sunscreen gluten-free, vegan, lightweight and reef safe, but it’s also hydrating and fast-absorbing. The formula includes peptides (to reduce appearance of fine lines), vitamin B5 (to plump and replenish moisture), tamarind (to improve elasticity) and other ingredients to benefit skin health while preventing it from sun damage.

Thrive Bodyshield 50 Mineral Sunscreen

Packaged in plants, and applied without leaving behind white residue, this sunscreen offers protection for the whole body, without a greasy feeling. While protecting from rays, the super plant oil coralillo offers a medicinal and anti-inflammatory benefit to help sun, wind and pollution-damaged skin.

It Cosmetics CC+ Illumination

No need to compromise a glow-y complexion when this dual product is equal parts foundation and sunscreen. With micronized light-reflecting pigments this CC+ cream helps radiate your skin while also hydrating and protecting.

Supergoop! Glow Sunscreen

A multi-tasking sunscreen that has easily become a cult-favorite among skincare fanatics. Not only does this sunscreen protect, but it will additionally hydrate your skin while leaving a pearlescence appearance. Infused with hyaluronic acid and Vitamin B5, this sunscreen will leave your skin naturally supple and dewy.

Suntegrity 5-in-1 Tinted Moisturizing Face Sunscreen

A plant-powered skincare product that packs a punch. While providing sun protection, light coverage, and hydration this sunscreen also works to improve your complexion with its skin-enhancing formula. Infused with pomegranate, cucumber, and green tea to make your skin to feel rejuvenated while wearing.