The best time to be outside is now! With the summer heat here, it’s important to take care of your skin and protect it from UV rays. Whether you have dry or oily skin, there is sunscreen for you! We’ve compiled this list of The Best Sunscreen for Summer that will keep your skin safe all summer long.
What’s in a sunscreen lotion and how does it work?
Sunscreen lotions work by absorbing UV rays and deflecting them away from the skin. Sunscreens are best when applied 15 minutes before going outside, as they must be absorbed into the skin for it to provide maximum protection. It’s also important to reapply sunscreen every few hours if you’re in direct sunlight- most sunscreens last between two and four hours.
The importance of wearing sunscreen every day
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and one that you can best prevent by taking care of your skin: wear sunscreen every day. These best sunscreen for summer will provide maximum protection from UV rays all summer long.
How to choose the right sunscreen for you
Finding the best sunscreen for your skin can be tricky. Factors like age, skin type, and how often you spend in the sun determine what best suits you.
Start by determining if your skin is oily or dry: those with oily complexions should choose a water-based lotion rather than an oil-based one while those with dry skins. Next, consider the type of activities you will be doing while wearing sunscreen. If you are spending a lot of time in the sun, choose an SPF 30 or higher. If your activities will be indoors (or outdoors for less than two hours), then go with something lighter like SPF 15. If you plan on swimming, you will need a waterproof SPF.
Finally, take your skin type into account: those with sensitive skins may want to go for something fragrance-free while people with rosacea should avoid retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids. People with rosacea choose an oil-based sunscreen instead of powder if they are truly looking for the best sunscreen for summer.
Tips on safe application:
- Always apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going outside
- Wear a hat, protective clothing, and sunglasses to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays
- Reapply every two hours or more if you are in the water. This is especially important for those with sensitive skins. For best results use about one ounce (or enough to fill out an entire palm) for each application on all exposed areas of the skin
- Apply liberally 15 minutes prior to going into the sun, then again after swimming and sweating excessively or toweling off
Why it is important to reapply throughout the day
- Sunscreen loses its effectiveness when you sweat, get wet, or towel off. For best results use about one ounce (or enough to fill out an entire palm) for each application on all exposed areas of skin.
- Reapply every two hours
It’s important to wear sunscreen every day, no matter how sunny it is out. This article has given you a lot of education on what goes into sunscreens and the importance of wearing one, as well as tips for the safe application so that you are getting the most from your product. Armed with this information, go forth confidently knowing that your skin will be protected by an effective sunscreen!
The Best Sunscreen for Summer: For All Skin Types
Best For Sensitive Skin
Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Lotion Sunscreen With SPF 70
Free of oils and fragrances, this oil-free and non-comedogenic sunscreen from Aveeno is jam-packed with some of the best ingredients you can find. Ingredients such as nourishing oat kernel extract, shea butter—which is known for its moisturizing qualities, and most importantly zinc oxide. With a world-renowned dermatologist confirmed to love it too- Dr. Alan J. Feddry says he loves how Aveeno is “fast-absorbing” while protecting your skin all day long without feeling heavy or greasy and in turn keeping it soft throughout the day!
Best Sunscreen for Summer for Lip Protection: Lip Sunscreen
Vanicream Lip Protectant Sunscreen Spf 30
Keep your pucker protected and make a lasting first impression. A lot of lip balms are harsh on your lips, leaving them feeling dry or even puckered. Aveeno is made for people with sensitive skin that can’t handle the harshness of those kinds of sunscreens.
Best Sunscreen for Summer for Black Girls
Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Matte Sunscreen – Spf 45
Black Girl Sunscreen was founded with the simple idea that black girls deserve to feel as confident and beautiful on the outside as they are inside. With traditional sunscreen, it can be difficult for women of color (African Americans, Asians, or Latinas) to find a product that matches their skin tone without leaving a white residue from SPF elements. Make It Matte™ solves this problem by offering a formula specifically suited for women of color so they can go about their day without worrying about adding another layer of makeup while protecting themselves from harmful sun rays. Carefully crafted with ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, and squalene oil their broad-spectrum SPF 45 offers protection against UVB/UVA rays while still providing a matte finish.
Best Sunscreen for Summer For Kids
Anthelios Dermo Kids Sunscreen SPF 60
Protect your child’s skin from pesky sun-worshipping germs, and naughty tan lines with Anthelios Dermo Kids Sunscreen Lotion. This water-resistant lotion provides broad-spectrum UVA/ UVB protection and is recommended for use on the face and body of children 6 months old to 12 years old.
Protecting your skin year-round is important but even more important during the summer. If you’re searching for the Best Sunscreen for Summer I hope this post has been helpful and no matter what your skin type, you found something that works for you. Happy summer.
