Summer is here, and applying sunscreen should be at the top of your list of daily self-care. But with so many to choose from, how do you know which is right for you? It all depends on the situation you find yourself in. If you need to use it under makeup, or at the beach, you might choose two different products. Likewise, if you need something quick and affordable for the kids splashing around in the pool, you won’t want to apply the $45 product you purchased for your face. 

I’ve put together a list of four very different sunscreens that I have personally used. I usually have at least two of them on hand at all times. 

La Roche Posay UV Correct Face Sunscreen SPF 70 with Niacinamide

La Roche Posay

La Roche Posay suncare products employ anthelios, a mineral-based sunscreen. This formula is lightweight, absorbs well, and can be worn under foundation or powder, a bonus for women who like to apply makeup regularly. I keep this one in my professional makeup kit too. 

It also contains anti-aging ingredients to help minimize free radical damage from UV exposure. I used this sunscreen when traveling in sunny Rome after having skin cancer removed from my face, and it did the job. Bonus, it comes in a handy 1.7 fluid oz. package that is perfect for travel.

La Roche Posay UV Correct Face Sunscreen SPF 70 is good for everyday use. This is not a water-resistant formula so it is not the best choice for active outdoor days or water sports but it would be perfect for a day beachside with additional protection like a broadbrimmed hat. 

Raw Elements

Raw Elements

If you are looking for a sunscreen that is reef-friendly, look no further than Raw Elements, the brand that founded World Reef Day. The active ingredient in the lotion and cream products is nano-free zinc oxide which provides broad-spectrum UVA / UVB protection..  It also comes in a convenient spray with SPF 50 for the face and body. Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. 

Kid-friendly, reef safe, no chemicals, organic ingredients, bio-packaging made from sugar cane, no nano particles, what’s not to like?  Raw Elements was recommended when I was traveling in Santa Barbara and forgot my sunscreen. I bought the stick for a handy touch-up that I keep in my bag plus no TSA issues. If you prefer the lotion, Raw Elements Face and Body SPF 30 is exactly 3 oz. so it passes the TSA requirements. There’s even a tinted formula if you want a bit of color.

Avasol

Avasol Surfers Barrier Stick

If you’re planning to surf, snorkel, paddleboard, or spend a long day beachside, Avasol is the sunscreen surfers swear by. You won’t have to reapply it all day, though you can, and it comes in a range of tints for different skin tones. The Surfers Barrier Stick comes in no-waste packaging and is made of 100% natural ingredients. It also comes in an SPF 30 cream formula and is reef-safe, vegan, and gluten-free. 

Neutrogena 

Neutrogena Beach Defense Kids Sunscreen Spray Broad Spectrum SPF 70 with vitamins is perfect for a sun-filled family holiday. It’s dermatologist-approved for kids, and it comes in a convenient spray packaging that is quick and easy to apply. You also don’t have to worry about a lot of waste or product seeping out of a tube and into your luggage. 

This is the only one I have not personally tried but the research seems solid. 

Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, suitable for all skin types with vitamins C & E popular antioxidant ingredients.