Sunscreen’s been in the news a lot lately, and not just because summer sun is upon us. Just weeks ago, researchers at the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia released the results of a study that prove that regular sunscreen use slows the cosmetic effects of aging. Days later, United States Senators urged the FDA to complete its review of sunscreen labels.
Hear that? That’s the universe (and the global news media) telling you that now is the perfect time to reevaluate your sun protection habits. We’ve compiled a list of our dermatologists’ top picks for sunscreens for all skin types. Every product on the list is recommended for use year round and meets the FDA’s new regulations.
NORMAL – Ultra Sheer Liquid Daily Sun Protection SPF 70
Have fond memories of your mother coating your back in gooey sunscreen? Neither do we. Ultra Sheer provides intense sun protection (it has an SPF of 70) without the heavy, milky texture of traditional sunscreen. It absorbs into skin instantly, so you’ll barely know it’s there. You can top it with moisturizer and makeup without issue.
DRY – Hydraphase UV Intense Hydration Fluid with SPF 30 Sunscreen
Rejoice, dry skin sufferers who also love to get a great bang for your buck! We’ve got the perfect sunscreen for you! Not only does Hydraphase provide adequate sun protection (it’s got an SPF of 30), it also provides 24-hour hydration, meaning it will moisturize your skin while protecting it from harmful rays, which we like to call “two birds, one stone.”
SENSITIVE – Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid for Face
The fancy scientists at La Roche-Posay combine avenobenzone (a common ingredient in sunscreen) with a powerful blend of antioxidants, creating a unique sunscreen that has less ingredients than traditional sunscreen yet still provides an SPF of 60. It’s fragrance-free, paraben-free, and tested on sensitive skin.
COMBINATION SKIN – Ultra Sheer Liquid Daily Sun Protection SPF 70
In accordance with new FDA regulation, Neutrogena will no longer be able to market this product using the term “SPF 70” (going forward it will be described as “SPF 50+”), but that doesn’t diminish this lotion’s ability to block harmful rays. It has a lightweight texture that absorbs into skin quickly, and it’s also non-comeodogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, which makes it a safe bet for people with combination skin.
OILY – Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid for Face
Unlike most drugstore sunscreens, which leave leave thick, oily residues that tend to be bad news for oily and acne -prone skin, this Anthelios serum is light and fast-absorbing. It was designed with a powerful blend of antioxidants, allowing it to offer broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection without the heft and texture of chemical ingredients.