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.

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    UV Sheer Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+
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    Sheer and lightweight sunscreen that feels silky and airy on skin. 
  2. 2
    Play Everyday Lotion With Sunflower Extract SPF 50
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  3. 3
    Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50

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    The iconic 100% invisible, weightless, scentless sunscreen that's non-irritating and doubles as a primer.
  4. 4
    Classic Whip SPF 30

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    “Dessert For Your Skin” SPF 30 Sunscreen Mousse
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    Physical Matte UV Defense SPF 50
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    Mattifying sunscreen formulated with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide (Z-Cote*) to provide 100% physical SPF 50 broad-spectrum protection.
  6. 6
    Glowscreen SPF 40

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    Prime and protect your skin with this multitasking SPF 40 that leaves your skin glowing. 
  7. 7
    Dual Defense Face Moisturizer 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
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    Weightless, oil-free daily moisturizer with 100% mineral sunscreen SPF 30
  8. 8
    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. 
  9. 9
    Glow Oil SPF 50

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    An ultra-hydrating sunscreen body oil that leaves skin glowing and protected, without feeling greasy.
  10. 10
    Studio Tone SPF 50 Bronzing Drops for Face
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    Vacation® Studio Tone SPF 50 Bronzing Drops are the makeup artist’s secret to perfect sunkissed skin.

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.