Summer may not be “officially” here if you go by the calendar, but with local temperatures of 100+ degrees, my brain is convinced otherwise. But before you shed those spring layers and bare all for the perfect bronzed glow, let’s talk sunscreen. No, I’m not talking that thick, white cream your mother slathered on you as a kid. Lucky for us, some of my favorite brands have redefined sun protection with some truly fabulous products. Here are some of our top picks for proper SPF this summer.
COOLA Sport SPF 30 Unscented Sunscreen Spray
From my daughter’s adventures in the splash pad to numerous outdoor workouts, my skin sees a lot of UV rays and I need something that can last through wet and sweat. COOLA’s sport formula does just that. The lightweight spray is easy to use and has some serious staying power and several beauty benefits to boot. Even better, COOLA boasts the use of 70% certified organic ingredients. Who doesn’t love organic? Available at coolasuncare.com for $32.
Clarins Sunscreen Care Oil Spray SPF 30
Don’t let the “oil” fool you. This handy sunscreen spray comes sans greasy texture. Clarins utilizes a dry oil to create a water resistant sun protector for both body and hair. That’s right, your hair needs protection too and this is just the product to do it! They use Indonesian Nyamplung Oil to help nourish and beautify skin and hair and Aloe Vera to soothe and soften while promoting a rich and healthy-looking tan. Available at clarinsusa.com for $36.
Hampton Sun SPF 55 Continuous Mist Sunscreen
Utilizing UVA and UVB broad spectrum sunscreens this product is made for non stop protection. But luckily, the good people at Hampton Sun kept us bathing beauties in mind and loaded it with ingredients to nourish hydrate and give you the perfect, “I Summer in the Hamptons” glow. Last but not least, the non-aerosol 360º dispenser sprays at any angle for even sun coverage without frustrating clogs and mist malfunctions. Plus, it won’t damage the environment! Available at hamptonsun.com for $32.
John Masters Organics SPF 30 Natural Mineral Sunscreen
Made with five certified-organic ingredients, this gluten free alternative will not only keep your skin looking and feeling great, but keep your conscious clear too. It is reef friendly, bio-degradable and free of overpowering fragrances and greasy after effects. Bust most importantly, their perfect blend of natural ingredients (like green tea extract, shea butter and jojoba oil hydrate) and UVA/UVB protection makes a powerful sidekick when protecting yourself from the sun. Available at johnmasters.com for $32.
Australian Gold Continuous Spray Sunscreen with Instant Bronzer, SPF 30
After months of hiding, your skin may not be ready for public exposure as is. This Australian Gold sunscreen will help hide the pasty white complexion of winter’s past with a tint of bronzer that is built right into the SPF formula. It is water resistant for up to 80 minutes and won’t leave you smelling like a tanning salon either. Even better, it’s easy on the pocket book at just over $10. It won’t give you the same hydrating and nourishing effects as our other top contenders, but it will give you a jump start on the summer color. Available at Walgreens for $11.49.
Keep in mind, whatever your sunscreen of choice, reapplying is crucial for accurate and complete sun protection. Check your specific product instructions for length of use, but the FDA advises no more than 80-minutes between application.
Now that you have the proper arsenal to combat the sun while achieving that perfect summer tan, you can hit the volleyball courts, poolside BBQ or any other sunny-day favorite with confidence. Have another SPF favorite? Tell me about it in the comments, as you will soon come to know, I just love finding new products to try!