No matter what the season or how much time is spent outdoors, protecting ourselves from harmful UV rays with one of the best body sunscreens is non-negotiable. Practicing proper sun protection techniques, like head-to-toe SPF protection on a year-round basis, prevents UV-related skin issues in the long run. In case you need a refresher, ditching your sunscreen could lead to skin concerns like hyperpigmentation, inflammation, fine lines, and — worst-case scenario — skin cancer. Therefore, finding a good sunscreen is a must, and there are several factors that go into what makes a good sunscreen.
First, you’ll want your sunscreen (face or body) to be at least SPF 30. New York City-based board-certified dermatologist David Colbert, MD, previously told Allure that this is what the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends because it is clinically proven to be a sufficient amount of protection to reduce the adverse effects of sunlight.
If you have sensitive skin or are pregnant, you’ll also want to consider a mineral or “physical” sunscreen. Elizabeth Tanzi, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder and director of Capital Laser & Skin Care in Chevy Chase, Maryland, has previously told Allure that these sit on the surface of the skin to deflect the sun’s harmful rays. Chemical formulas, on the other hand, penetrate the surface of the skin to prevent damage from the sun. Regardless of the type of formula, Dr. Tanzi recommends applying about a shot glass’s worth of sunscreen for the entire body and a dime-size dollop for the face, and reapplication every two hours.
Yes, we’re aware of the issues some sunscreens come cause, like leaving behind a white cast, greasy feel, or clogged pores, but the days of subpar sun protection products are mostly behind us. The current generation of sunscreens is filled with amazing formulas that not only mitigate these common annoyances, but even impart additional benefits like luminosity, moisture, and a faux glow, to name a few.
So, whether you choose a formula with bells and whistles or stick to a straightforward option, one thing is for certain: There’s no excuse not to give your skin the protection it needs. Read on for our tried-and-true favorite body sunscreens. (We’d go so far as to say that these could actually make you look forward to applying SPF.)
Our Top Picks:
- Best Overall: EltaMD UV AOX Mist Broad Spectrum SPF 40, $45
- Totally Transparent: Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion SPF 50+ Sunscreen, $50
- Best for Oily Skin Types: Kopari Sun Shield Body Glow Gel SPF 50, $39
- Dermatologist-Approved: Aveeno Protect + Hydrate SPF 60, $27
- Best Body Oil: Vacation Baby Oil SPF 30, $22