Best Sunscreen For Beach Vacation

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
    Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50

    Supergoop!

    Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50
    $22
    138 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    The iconic 100% invisible, weightless, scentless sunscreen that's non-irritating and doubles as a primer.
    View full details
  2. 2
    Classic Lotion SPF 50

    Vacation

    Classic Lotion SPF 50
    $15
    112 REVIEWS
    Specifically designed to optimize recreation and protect skin for “Long days by the pool.”
    View full details
  3. 3
    Classic Whip SPF 30

    Vacation

    Classic Whip SPF 30
    $22
    362 REVIEWS
    “Dessert For Your Skin” SPF 30 Sunscreen Mousse
    View full details
  4. 4
    Perfect Body Spray Sunscreen SPF 30

    M-61

    Perfect Body Spray Sunscreen SPF 30
    $24
    48 REVIEWS
    New
    A coconut vanilla scented sunscreen packed with antioxidants and water resistance up to 80 minutes.
    View full details
  5. 5
    Fortune Teller SPF 30

    Solara Suncare

    Fortune Teller SPF 30
    $64
    111 REVIEWS
    This best-selling mineral SPF 30 milk leaves skin looking visibly lifted and smooth with a luxe blend of peptides, superfruits and adaptogens.
    View full details
  6. 6
    Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50

    SkinCeuticals

    Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
    $72
    138 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Weightless, tinted sunscreen formulated with 100% physical filters and zinc oxide, providing broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection for radiant skin.
    View full details
  7. 7
    UV Sheer Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+

    EltaMD

    UV Sheer Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+
    $37
    332 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Sheer and lightweight sunscreen that feels silky and airy on skin. 
    View full details
  8. 8
    Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

    Supergoop!

    Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
    $38
    4,463 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Invisible, weightless, and even scentless! This makeup-gripping sunscreen gives you your daily dose of SPF 40 while priming your skin. 
    View full details
  9. 9
    Dual Defense Face Moisturizer 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

    Jack Black

    Dual Defense Face Moisturizer 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
    $35
    1,257 REVIEWS
    Weightless, oil-free daily moisturizer with 100% mineral sunscreen SPF 30
    View full details
  10. 10
    Play Everyday Lotion With Sunflower Extract SPF 30

    Supergoop!

    Play Everyday Lotion With Sunflower Extract SPF 30
    $36
    120 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    A fast-absorbing, non-greasy, water and sweat-resistant, and broad-spectrum SPF 30 lotion for face and body.
    View full details

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.

When it comes to enjoying a beach vacation, protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays is essential. With so many sunscreen options on the market, finding the best one can be overwhelming. To make your search easier, we've compiled a list of top-rated sunscreens based on user reviews. Whether you're lounging on the sand or taking a dip in the ocean, these sunscreens are designed to provide reliable protection while keeping your skin feeling great. So, grab your favorite beach hat and get ready to soak up the sun safely with our selection of highly recommended sunscreens for your next beach getaway!

FAQ

What features should I look for in a sunscreen for a beach vacation? + -

When choosing a sunscreen for the beach, look for broad-spectrum protection, water resistance, and an SPF of at least SPF30. Lightweight, non-greasy formulas are also ideal for comfortable wear during outdoor activities.

Is mineral or chemical sunscreen better for the beach? + -

Both mineral and chemical sunscreens can be effective at the beach. Mineral sunscreens use physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, while chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays. The best choice depends on your skin type and personal preference.

How often should I reapply sunscreen while at the beach? + -

It's recommended to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you are swimming or sweating. Even water-resistant formulas need to be reapplied after towel drying or extended time in the water.

Are there sunscreens that are reef-safe for beach vacations? + -

Yes, many sunscreens are labeled as 'reef-safe,' meaning they do not contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate that can harm marine life. Look for products specifically marked as reef-friendly if you want to minimize environmental impact.

Can I use facial sunscreen on my body at the beach? + -

Facial sunscreens can be used on the body, but they may come in smaller sizes and have different textures. For convenience and cost-effectiveness, body-specific sunscreens are usually recommended for larger areas.