1Best Natural:
From New Zealand (where they know a thing or two about sun), comes this natural, zinc oxide-based UVA blocker. Don’t fret that it’ll leave you with a chalky cast, the formula goes on super-transparent and fortified with shea butter for a smooth finish.
Snowberry Active Outdoor SPF 30, $37
This product is available at our sister site, BeautySage, where we only sell products that are proven to work!
2Best for Ethnic Skin
Neutrogena’s ultra sheer technology has a lightweight finish that doesn’t appear chalky on deeper skin tones. SkinMedica’s version is oil- and fragrance-free with a 100 percent mineral formulation that goes on clear as well.
3Best for Face
Liquid and weightless, SkinCeutical’s newest sunscreen features color-infused technology for a radiant hint of tint that is universal. Physical filters of zinc and titanium oxide are strengthened by plankton extract that shores up skin’s defenses against sun rays. Shake to mix the silky fluid before applying to face, and reapply every couple of hours when in the sun.
MORE: How to Choose the Right Concealer
4Best for Baby
With no chemical sunscreens, parabens or PABA, this hypo-allergenic lotion protects and soothes little ones’ skin with aloe, chamomile, sunflower and lavender. Zinc oxide provides mineral sunscreen protection, while plant-derived conditioners like jojoba seed and olive fruit oils keeps delicate skin hydrated.
MORE: Baby Shampoo and Skincare: Toxic Ingredient Cheat Sheet
Seventh Generation Wee Generation Baby Sunscreen SPF 30, $14.
5Best for Body
Infused with rich antioxidants like white grape seed and vitamin E, L’Oréal’s Sublime Sun range deeply moisturizes while protecting with a patented UV filter system. Better yet, there’s no greasy residue. The oil-free formula is also highly water- and sweat-resistant.
MORE: Men Sweat, Women Glow.
6Best Under Makeup
This feather-light liquid formula absorbs and dries on contact, creating the ideal, no-slip base for makeup. And with a lightening complex comprised of vitamin C, licorice, bearberry, cherry and bitter orange peel, it doubles as a brightening treatment to reduce hyperpigmentation and redness.
MORE: Wear Makeup, Appear More Likable.
Artistry Time Defiance UV Defense SPF 50 Ultra Facial Sunscreen, $56.
7Best Scent
If you can’t stand the cloying smell of sunscreen that steeps through most formulas, take a whiff of Ocean Potion’s offerings. The quick-dry range contains a sweet signature scent blend of vanilla and orange, plus you also a get a fortified dose of vitamin D.
MORE: Vitamin D and Your Skin: What’s the Deal?
8Best for Active Wear
With a sweat- and water-resistant formula designed to be absorbed (even on wet skin), grab this spray for strenuous activity in the sun; think runs, bike rides, swimming, hiking or beach volleyball. If applying to the face, spray into hands and then spread onto skin. And be sure to apply 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors so that the protection is activated —a necessity with any chemical sunscreen.
9Best Makeup Substitute
The smooth texture of this primer blurs away flaws with light-reflecting microparticles that also minimize the appearance of pores. Aerogel technology, which uses an aerated silica for a smooth, matte finish, means less silicone content than traditional primers. A blend of chemical sunscreens is blended with senna alata extract (a tropical plant), to further shield skin from environmental aggressors.
MORE: The Science of Multi-Purpose Oils
La Roche Posay Anthelios 50 Daily Anti-Aging Primer with Sunscreen, $40.
10Best Anti-Aging
Improve firmness and fine lines with this formula that ncorporates ginseng root extract, chamomile and the Asian herb dong quai, for potent anti-inflammatory effects that plump and strengthen skin.
VIDEO: The Anatomy Behind Aging Skin
