What to Look for in the Best Sunscreen for a Beach Vacation

Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is essential when spending time at the beach—here’s what to consider when choosing a sunscreen.

1. Broad-Spectrum Protection

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Choose a sunscreen labeled 'broad-spectrum' to shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays, which can cause sunburn, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer.

2. Water Resistance

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Since you'll be swimming or sweating at the beach, select a water-resistant formula that will stay effective for up to either forty or eighty minutes after exposure to water.

3. SPF Rating

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Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of at least thirty for adequate protection during extended outdoor activities. Higher SPFs offer more protection, but remember to reapply regularly.

4. Skin Type Compatibility

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Consider your skin type and any sensitivities—opt for oil-free or non-comedogenic formulas if you have oily or acne-prone skin, and fragrance-free or mineral sunscreens if you have sensitive skin.

  1. 1
    Powder-Me Dry Sunscreen SPF 30
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    Nourish, protect and soothe your skin with this broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen for body, face and scalp. 
  2. 2
    Classic Whip SPF 30

    Vacation

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    “Dessert For Your Skin” SPF 30 Sunscreen Mousse
  3. 3
    Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Face Cream SPF 50
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    Innovative reparative sunscreen featuring SolarSmart technology that stabilizes high-level protection against the effects of UVA/UVB rays.
  4. 4
    Studio Tone Bronzing Drops for Face SPF 50
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    Vacation® Studio Tone SPF 50 Bronzing Drops are the makeup artist’s secret to perfect sunkissed skin.
  5. 5
    SuperNatural Radiance Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 30
    2,049 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Tinted serum with SPF 30 for natural-looking illumination.
  6. 6
    UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
    1,852 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Formulated with 5% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) to help reduce the appearance of blemishes and discoloration on your skin.
  7. 7
    City Block Sheer Oil Free Daily Face Protector Broad Spectrum SPF 25
    848 REVIEWS
    Lightweight formula offers sheer, broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen as it helps to wick away perspiration and absorb excess oil.
  8. 8
    Clear Daily Soothing UV Defense SPF 50
    488 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    A daily SPF 50 sunscreen ideal for sensitive skin, redness or acne-prone skin, and darker shades of skin.
  9. 9
    Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for Face
    343 REVIEWS
    Oil-free, ultra-lightweight mineral sunscreen providing SPF 50 protection against sun damage and premature aging.
  10. 10
    The Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

    Augustinus Bader

    333 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Suncare meets Skincare in this broad-spectrum, non-nano mineral sunscreen. Your daily SPF 50. Powered by TFC8.

What to Look for in the Best Sunscreen for a Beach Vacation

Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is essential when spending time at the beach—here’s what to consider when choosing a sunscreen.

1. Broad-Spectrum Protection

Citrus catapult arrow

Choose a sunscreen labeled 'broad-spectrum' to shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays, which can cause sunburn, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer.

2. Water Resistance

Citrus catapult arrow

Since you'll be swimming or sweating at the beach, select a water-resistant formula that will stay effective for up to either forty or eighty minutes after exposure to water.

3. SPF Rating

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of at least thirty for adequate protection during extended outdoor activities. Higher SPFs offer more protection, but remember to reapply regularly.

4. Skin Type Compatibility

Citrus catapult arrow

Consider your skin type and any sensitivities—opt for oil-free or non-comedogenic formulas if you have oily or acne-prone skin, and fragrance-free or mineral sunscreens if you have sensitive skin.