Since it’s almost summer, we need to protect our skin from possible sun damage. Even occasional outside excursions might lead to potentially dangerous skin conditions later in life. Yes, that means applying sunscreen every day even, regardless if you have plans or no plans to go outside — just to be sure (you should actually take this step even in the winter). The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that “overexposure to UV radiation can lead to serious health issues, including cancer. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States.”
Their suggestions?
- Stay in the shade, especially during midday hours. (Not gonna happen.)
- Wear clothes that cover your arms and legs. (That’s also a no.)
- Wear a wide-brim hat to shade your face, head, ears, and neck. (Umm … maybe if it’s a cool one.)
- Wear wraparound sunglasses. (Grandpa? Is that you?)
No, the most feasible solution is using ultra-protective sunscreen, with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, that covers both UVA and UVB protection. The challenge is, so many sunscreens have to be spackled on, leaving the wearer wandering around the ballpark or barbecue looking like a Night Walker. We want you to remain protected, so we’ve listed down the best non-greasy sunscreens with a high SPF. And we didn’t discriminate on medium either — from lotions to sprays to sticks, we included them all. Save the burning for the s’mores. These are the best non-greasy sunscreen options around.
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Coconut Joe’s Zinc Oxide Exotic Coconut Sunscreen
Coconut Joe’s goes the all-natural, reef-safe route for its line of “chemical-free” non-greasy sunscreens. At only $12 for an 8-ounce bottle, it’s a pretty affordable choice, too. It provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays and features an “exotic coconut” fragrance. (It’s also available in SPF 15 or 50.) Follow up with Coconut Joe’s Real Aloe Vera Gel or After Sun Lotion to maintain those tanning gains.
Coppertone Sport Clear Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
Coppertone is a summer classic like the Beach Boys, flip-flops, and hot dogs, but the 65-year-old brand isn’t ready for retirement just yet. This updated formula goes on, as one user described it, “like hand sanitizer,” giving a cooling sensation when applied while offering either 30 or 50-plus SPF, all while resisting heat, sweat, and water for up to 80 minutes.
Cardon Daily SPF and Moisturizer
Looking for a multitasking grooming product? We suggest this SPF moisturizer from Cardon, a relatively new grooming line that that doesn’t clog pores thanks to a water-based formula that also doesn’t leave a white cast. Plus, it’s super hydrating, so you can use it come wintertime as well.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face and Body Stick
We are so ready to try out this one. Offering the easy-to-apply convenience of stick deodorant, this sunscreen has broad-spectrum protection and an SPF of 70. Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer is oil-free, gliding on easily for a hands-free, no-mess application that feels weightless while leaving a non-shiny finish. It’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) free, lightweight, and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores.
Banana Boat Sport Sunscreen Spray Twin Pack SPF 50
Banana Boat’s twin pack of sprays is ideal for fun in the sun. Powerful protection is packed into a lightweight, clear spray that absorbs quickly and won’t run into your eyes — perfect for sports enthusiasts and other active folks. Its non-greasy formulation stays on through ocean, wind, pool, sun, sweat, heat, and sand, and it is water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It’s also reef-safe and made without oxybenzone or octinoxate.
Bare Republic Coco Mango Mineral Spray
Bare Republic offers this non-greasy, non-nano (materials measured in nanometers, or billionths of a meter, to increase clarity and SPF) zinc oxide spray that features plant-derived ingredients. It’s also paraben-free, non-GMO, and vegan. It sprays on white but dries sheer on all skin tones and offers 80 minutes of water resistance. The natural coconut and mango scent smells pretty good … although it had us hankering for a daiquiri. With an SPF of 30, the spray provides a layer of physical protection, enhanced with antioxidant-rich skincare boosters including grape, raspberry, and carrot seed oils. If you’re feeling especially festive, Bare Republic also offers several glitter effect sunscreens as well as neon sticks for a serious 1980s vibe.
Sun Bum SPF 50 Lotion
Sun Bum describes itself as “a brand with a little edge … a small company with a big dream of becoming the most recognized and trusted sun care brand in the world.” If its raving fans on product reviews are any indication, it’s well on its way to realizing that goal. Sun Bum’s moisturizing sunscreen formula (SPF 50) protects your skin from UVA and UVB while enriching the skin with Vitamin E to neutralize free radicals and fight the signs of aging.
Jack Black Sun Guard Very Water Resistant Sunscreen
At a rather precise SPF of 45, Jack Black Sun Guard offers an oil-free lotion with broad-spectrum protection that absorbs quickly, without any greasy, heavy residue. Its protective barrier lasts through intense physical activity without running or dripping into your eyes, which is great for your next triathlon or for sprinting across the hot sand to get those burning tootsies into the surf. It’s also enriched with Vitamin C for its antioxidant- and free radical-fighting properties as well as with calendula to calm and soothe irritated skin. Bundle it as part of Jack Black’s Tattoo Care Kit or complement it with a selection of protective lip balms for men.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Light Fluid Sunscreen
If you’re looking for the best sunscreen for the face, look no further. La Roche-Posay brings a water-like texture to its sunscreen, so it feels light going on both the face and body. It’s a lightweight product but packs “Cell-Ox Shield” plus antioxidants with a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 60) to protect from both UVA and UVB rays, not to mention the sunscreen is non-comedogenic and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen Broad Spectrum
Look, if you hide inside the moment the sun comes out over Memorial Day weekend, waiting for the summer solstice to make it all go away, maybe the 2.4-ounce tube ($19) of this non-greasy formula will work for you. But if you’re like us and are out in the sun from Memorial Day to Labor Day, stock up with this handy 18-ounce pump. The water-resistant formula is fast-absorbing and lightweight, protecting from not only UVA and UVB but also IRA rays (that’s infrared, not something from Sinn Féin), as well as “photoaging” and dehydration. Natural extracts in its ingredients include citrus, basil, and rosewood for a unique, refreshing fragrance. Added sunflower extract helps protect the skin from environmental elements, while rosemary leaf extract has a calming effect on the skin and is rich in antioxidants.
Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50
This option is another one that ranks toward the top of the list for best sunscreen for the face. Just as the name suggests, this sunscreen is exceptionally moisturizing, to the point that it feels like water on your face and leaves no white cast or residue behind. The hyaluronic acid helps your skin remain fresh and moist, leaving your face feeling refreshed. This Japanese sunscreen is a safe chemical sunscreen that will definitely become your sunny day go-to, making it worth the three-pack.
