While in theory, you’ve (hopefully) been practicing safe sun all year long, now that we’re speeding along into the summer months, there’s simply no neglecting it any further. The reasons for wearing a reliable SPF on a daily basis abound, if not for the incredibly obvious: the prevention of sun damage, which includes “wrinkles, brown spots, and uneven pores due to collagen damage,” says esthetician Graceanne Svedsen.
Still, the SPF market is vast, to say the least—and weeding out the good from the downright ineffective can be an overwhelming task. To help us separate the greasy, chalky, and breakout-inducing formulas from the all-around best UVA and UVB blockers, we asked Svedsen and David Shafer, MD, FACS, to recommend their favorite sunscreens of 2017—and added a couple picks of our own. Keep reading for the best new sunscreens of the year, according to our editors and the experts.
1. Sun and Pollution Protection
Elizabeth Arden Prevage City Smart Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Hydrating Shield ($68)
Elizabeth Arden’s sunscreen must be the real deal, as both Shafer and Svedsen recommend this new lightweight formula that protects from both the sun’s harsh rays as well as “harmful pollution in the air,” according to Shafer. Bonus tip: It’s also an amazing skin-perfecting primer.
2. Mousse Protection
Supergoop Super Power Sunscreen Mousse Broad Spectrum SPF 50 ($34)
One of our main complaints when it comes to sunscreen is the thick greasy layer that sits atop our skin. Thanks to Supergoop’s latest mousse formula, you no longer have to worry about that, as the lightweight foam absorbs quickly into the skin for a non-greasy, non-heavy feel. And, as for sun protection, this innovative mousse provides water-resistant broad spectrum sun protection up to 80 minutes. What more could you ask for?
3. Infrared Protection
SkinMedica ($68)
SkinMedica’s new infrared SPF 34 lotion is another favorite of both Svedsen and Shafer, as it “provides a range of SPF from 34 to 50+ while incorporating antioxidants to help natural healing and rejuvenation,” says Shafer.
4. Oil-Free Protection
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen ($20)
Protect your skin with this SPF 60 matte sunscreen, that also happens to be 100% oil-free, meaning that it won’t leave an annoying grease-like residue or cause breakouts. (The brand also receives a glowing endorsement from Consumer Reports year after year.)
5. High SPF Protection
Moroccanoil Sun Lotion SPF 50 ($32)
Like all Moroccanoil products, this sunscreen absorbs easily and smells amazing. The only downside is that it isn’t waterproof, however, it is a great option for everyday sun protection because of its SPF 50.
6. Tinted Moisturizer With Sun Protection
Trufora Titanium Day Cream ($30)
Byrdie editor Deven Hopp loves this relatively new tinted moisturizer, which protects from UVA and UVB rays while also delivering vitamin D to the skin for a more hydrated and youthful-looking complexion.
7. Everyday Protection
Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer with Sunscreen, SPF 50+, Pack of 2 ($25)
There is a reason both Shafer and Svedsen recommended Cetaphil sunscreens, as the brand’s products work for almost all skin types. If you have seriously sensitive skin, this daily moisturizer with SPF 50 is a great option.
8. Serum Protection
Dr. Barbara Sturm Sun Drops SPF 50 ($145)
In addition to its SPF 50 shield, this highly innovative serum from skin genius Barbara Sturm, MD, is packed with botanical extracts that help regenerate damaged skin cells. Mix it with your daily moisturizer for a protective, anti-aging boost.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Wearing SPF daily during summer is crucial to prevent sun damage such as wrinkles, brown spots, and uneven pores caused by collagen damage. Consistent sun protection helps maintain healthy skin and reduces the risk of long-term skin issues.
An effective sunscreen should offer broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, be suitable for your skin type, and have a comfortable texture that encourages regular use. It should also ideally be water-resistant and free from ingredients that cause breakouts or irritation.
This sunscreen protects against both harmful UV rays and pollution, making it ideal for urban environments. It has a lightweight formula that also works as a skin-perfecting primer, providing hydration and protection simultaneously.
Supergoop's mousse formula is lightweight and absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy or heavy feel. It provides broad spectrum SPF 50 protection and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it ideal for those who dislike thick sunscreen textures.
SkinMedica's infrared SPF lotion offers SPF protection ranging from 34 to 50+ and includes antioxidants that support natural skin healing and rejuvenation. This combination helps protect against infrared damage in addition to UV rays.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60 is 100% oil-free and provides a matte finish, making it ideal for oily or acne-prone skin as it won’t cause breakouts or leave a greasy residue.
Yes, tinted moisturizers like Trufora Titanium Day Cream offer broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection while also delivering hydration and vitamin D to the skin. They provide a lightweight option for those who want sun protection with a bit of coverage.
Cetaphil's daily moisturizer with SPF 50+ is formulated to be gentle and effective for almost all skin types, including sensitive skin. It provides reliable sun protection without causing irritation or breakouts.
Dr. Barbara Sturm Sun Drops SPF 50 is a serum that not only provides high-level sun protection but also contains botanical extracts that help regenerate damaged skin cells. It can be mixed with your daily moisturizer for an anti-aging and protective boost.
Yes, some sunscreens like Elizabeth Arden Prevage City Smart Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Hydrating Shield protect against both UV rays and harmful pollution in the air, offering comprehensive environmental defense for your skin.
