Hello friends! Vlad and Olga are here with our carefully curated picks for the best sunscreen lotions for the body and face.
Designed for those who love the great outdoors as much as we do, our review aims to provide you with every detail you need to choose the ideal sun protection.
On this page:
- Best Sunscreen Lotion
- Sunscreen Lotion Against Pollutants
- Lotion for Sensitive Skin
- Sunscreen Lotion for Travelers
- Best Sunscreen for Face
- Best Body Sunscreen
The Best Sunscreen Lotions for 2024
🏆 Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion
Great for beach vacations, swimming, running, and other outdoor activities, Supergoop! PLAY Lotion is a broad-spectrum body and face sunscreen for sensitive skin.
The sunscreen doesn’t cause skin irritation or breakouts. It has a refreshing rosemary scent and is formulated to be hydrating and nourishing.
Rating: 4.6 
based on 8,800 reviews
Key Features:
- Broad Spectrum SPF 50 protects against UVA and UVB rays.
- Water and Sweat Resistant: Effective for up to 80 minutes in water.
- Application: Suitable for face and body, non-greasy, and leaves no white cast.
Why It’s a Top Pick:
It doesn’t stain clothes and won’t irritate the eyes. The sunscreen is worth the price, especially in larger sizes like 18 FL Oz. The price per ounce drops significantly from the smallest to the largest size. Plus, it’s suitable for all skin types.
- Texture and Scent. It doesn’t leave a greasy residue and has a subtle rosemary scent.
- Ease of Use. The pump dispenser (in larger sizes) makes it easy to apply the lotion quickly.
From Olga, co-founder of Picnic Makers: We’ve organized over 500 luxury beach picnics and we know how important it is to protect your skin from the sun, especially during peak UV hours. The quality of protection is well worth the investment! We’ve tried pretty much every sunscreen on the market, and this one is by far my favorite!
🏆 Sun Bum Original Sunscreen Lotion
Enjoy the refreshing, sunny scent of sunscreen! Sun Bum Sunscreen Lotion is a great, eco-friendly solution for sun protection. Thanks to its gentle formulation, it is applicable to all family members, from kids to adults.
This lotion aligns with the Hawaii 104 Reef Act, free from chemicals that could harm marine life.
Rating: 4.7 based on 27,400 reviews
Key Features:
- SPF Levels: SPF 30, 50, and 70 for diverse sun protection needs.
- Size Variants: Offered in 3 Fl Oz and 8 Fl Oz packs.
- Composition: Enriched with Vitamin E, free from Oxybenzone and Octinoxate.
- Application: Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure, then reapply after 80 minutes of swimming/sweating.
It blocks UVA and UVB rays, prevents sunburn, is water-resistant, and is suitable for all skin types. It also doesn’t irritate the skin and is eco-friendly, reef-safe, and cruelty-free.
Its overall effectiveness and pleasant scent make it an excellent choice for outdoor activities and picnics, aligning well with our Picnic Makers company’s mission to enhance outdoor experiences.
Sunscreen Lotion Against Pollutants
🏆 Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion
Here is another excellent lotion. The Shiseido Sun Protector Lotion offers sun protection and a pleasant skincare experience, whether you’re having a picnic or are about to spend the weekend at the beach.
The fact that it can be used over makeup is a bonus, especially for those who want to look their best outdoors.
Rating: 4.5 based on 1,700 reviews
Why Shiseido Sun Lotion Is a Great Face Sunscreen:
- SPF 50+ protection against UVA and UVB rays.
- Lightweight Formula. The lightweight formula is perfect and safe for frequent everyday use. It’s invisible, non-greasy, and is suitable for both face and body.
- Reef-Friendly. It meets Hawaii regulations and is free of oxybenzone and octinoxate.
The lotion formula fits all skin types, whether dry or oily. In addition to sun protection, the lotion guards against pollutants and dryness, providing an extra layer of skincare.
Customer Insights:
Customers love the absence of white casts without being sticky or absorbent. People with oily skin especially like it because it doesn’t leave a greasy residue. Some users said the product was a bit liquidy, but you can fix that by shaking the bottle following the manual.
The Best Sunscreen Lotion for Sensitive Skin
🏆 La Roche-Posay Sunscreen Lotion
If you’re looking for a top-quality sunscreen that offers serious protection during extended beach outings or picnics, especially for sensitive skin, consider La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen Lotion.
Rating: 4.6 based on 9,600 reviews
Why It’s a Great Choice for Your Outdoor Adventures:
- High SPF 100 for maximum sun protection.
- Suitable for kids (ages 3 and up) and adults. It’s particularly beneficial for sun-sensitive skin.
- Dermatologists Recommended. It provides incremental protection in comparison with low SPF number lotions.
Its unique formula—which combines a high SPF with a melt-in texture, makes it a favorite among users for daily use and intense sun exposure.
Customer Insights:
Many users like that it has a high SPF level, is easy to absorb and is suitable for sensitive skin. People often mention no white residue and it doesn’t feel greasy.
Some users have mentioned that it can sometimes clump when used with other skincare products, suggesting a need for compatibility testing with existing routines.
Best Sunscreen Lotion for Travelers
⭐ Neutrogena Sunscreen Lotion
The Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion! It’s suitable for sensitive skin and non-comedogenic, so it’s safe for everyday use.
The affordable price and travel-friendly size make it an attractive traveler’s choice for daily protection and specific activities.
Rating: 4.5 based on 28,000 reviews
This sunscreen is a nourishing treat for your skin, thanks to its prebiotic oat formula. It’s suitable for both face and body applications.
Why Neutrogena Is Ideal for Your Outdoor Adventures:
- Broad Spectrum SPF 70 provides safety against sun damage.
- Water Resistant. Feel free to use it in the water for up to 80 minutes.
- PABA-free and Non-comedogenic: It’s safe for sensitive skin and doesn’t clog the pores.
Customer Insights:
Users highlight its quick-absorbing nature and non-greasy touch. The lotion is quite thick but dries quickly to a touchable finish.
It offers strong sunburn protection, even in intense sun exposure situations like beaches and outdoor work environments. It’s a favorite among users with sensitive skin due to breakouts or irritation prevention.
Best Sunscreen Lotions for Face
🏆 La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50 promises sun protection and a touch of beauty. Protecting your skin from the sun’s rays is just as essential when you’re having fun in the sun, whether it’s a day at the beach or just a fun day in the sun.
Rating: 4.5 based on 21,500 reviews
Key Features:
- SPF 50 protection. The high sun protection protects you against harmful UV rays, which is essential for those sunny days out.
- Mineral-based formula. This 100% mineral sunscreen with titanium dioxide suits all skin types but is particularly beneficial for sensitive skin.
- It’s water-resistant and lasts up to 40 minutes, so it’s great for unexpected splashes or mild sweat during outdoor activities.
As event professionals who know a thing or two about sun protection, we understand how important it is to have good sunscreen for your face on those hot summer days. If you plan a picnic or spend the day outside, this product is worth adding to your skincare routine.
Why It’s a Top Pick:
It matched our setup perfectly and ensured everyone could enjoy the day worry-free. The lightweight formula was a big hit with our friends with sensitive skin.
⭐ Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Lotion
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Lotion is a great option for sun protection on your face. This vegan, fragrance-free lotion is perfect for the skin and the environment, as it’s Hawaii 104 Reef Act compliant.
Rating: 4.6 based on 13,900 reviews
Sun Bum’s sunscreen is an excellent option for a day out in the park or a beachside picnic. It’s made with natural ingredients that are kind to the environment, which fits our goal of responsibly enjoying nature.
Why We Love Sun Bum:
- Reef-friendly and vegan. The sunscreen is compliant with Hawaii’s Reef Act and free from Oxybenzone and Octinoxate.
- Enriched with vitamin E. This nutrient provides an extra layer of skincare, known for its moisturizing and antioxidant properties.
- Non-comedogenic and oil-free. It’s designed to be gentle on the skin, so it won’t clog pores or leave an oily residue.
Explore these four alternatives to the best non-toxic sunscreens for diverse options.
⭐ CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
Here, we have a dual-purpose CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30. It’s an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts because it combines the benefits of a daily moisturizer with the essential protection of sunscreen.
Rating: 4.5 based on 87,100 reviews
Highlights of CeraVe AM Sunscreen:
- SPF 30 sunscreen. It provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
- Oil-free and non-comedogenic. It’s suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
- 3 essential ceramides. It helps restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
The product is designed for daily use and has been given the thumbs-up by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
Customer Insights:
Many users have given it high marks for its lightweight, non-greasy texture and its ability to absorb quickly into the skin. It’s also a great base for makeup and doesn’t leave a white cast.
Best Body Sunscreen
⭐ Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Body Sunscreen
When it comes to outdoor leisure, it’s essential to have a sunscreen that protects and nourishes your face and body skin as well. That’s where the Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen Lotion comes in. It’ll keep you protected and hydrated while on the sun-soaking front.
Rating: 4.5 based on 3,900 reviews
Thanks to its prebiotic oat formula, it’s a nourishing treat for your skin. It’s ideal for those who enjoy sunbathing and want to maintain healthy, vibrant skin.
Why Aveeno Is Ideal for Your Outdoor Adventures:
- Hydrating Care. This product is infused with a prebiotic oat moisturizer that will leave your skin feeling soft and smooth.
- Invisible Protection. It’s got a non-greasy, quick-absorbing formula that doesn’t leave a white cast.
- Eco-conscious and skin-friendly. It’s free from harmful chemicals, so it’s a good choice for the environment and your skin as well.
This sunscreen is great for setting up a picnic or engaging in outdoor sports. It keeps your skin hydrated and protected. This lotion is designed to work with your body, not against it so that you can enjoy your outdoor activities to the fullest.
Sunscreen Lotions: What You Need to Know
What is a Sunscreen Lotion?
Sunscreen lotion is a topical product applied to the skin to protect it from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Sunscreen lotions come in various Sun Protection Factor (SPF) levels, offering different degrees of protection, and can be formulated to be water-resistant, suitable for sensitive skin, or non-greasy. They are used for daily skincare routines and specific outdoor activities to protect the skin from UV exposure.
Why Use Sunscreen Lotion?
Sunscreen lotion protects your skin from premature aging, like wrinkles and sunspots, caused by UV exposure. It forms a protective barrier that helps keep your skin healthy and looking its best.
It’s an essential part of your skincare routine, especially when you’re spending time outdoors.
Sunblock vs. Sunscreen: What’s the Difference?
Sunblock prevents UV rays exposure using ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which act as a barrier on the skin’s surface. Meanwhile, the sunscreen soaks into the skin and blocks UV rays, converting them into heat and releasing them from the body.
What is the Best Brand of Sunscreen Lotion?
As of 2024, Supergoop, Sun Bum, Shiseido, La Roche-Posay, and Neutrogena are the best sunscreen brands on the market. Each has its own benefits, designed to suit different skin types and preferences.
How to Choose the Right Body Sunscreen
When you’re choosing a body sunscreen, consider these factors:
- Choose a broad-spectrum protection sunscreen. Make sure you choose a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection and guards against UVA and UVB rays.
- SPF rating. The higher the SPF number, the more protection it offers. We suggest using an SPF of 30 or higher if you will be outside. For more detailed guidance – visit the American Academy of Dermatology.
- Water resistance. If you’re planning activities involving water or sweat, like swimming or hiking, look for water-resistant sunscreens that won’t easily wash off.
- Skin type. Choosing sunscreens free from fragrances, parabens, and oils is best if you have sensitive skin. Non-comedogenic formulas are great for acne-prone skin because they don’t clog pores.
- Eco-friendliness. To align with eco-friendly practices, consider choosing sunscreens that don’t contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can harm marine life.
Which Sunscreen Do I Need: SPF 30, 50, 70, or 100?
Here is the table that guides you on the way to choosing the most appropriate sunscreen lotion:
| Category | Recommended Sunscreen | Protective Features | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Best Sunscreen | Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion |
|
Ideal for active outdoor use, it hydrates without causing breakouts |
| Top Choice for Body | Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Body Sunscreen |
|
Nourishes and hydrates skin with prebiotic oats. Offers invisible protection for leisure and sports. |
| Best for Facial Sun Protection | La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen |
|
Enhances aesthetic with a tinted formula, gentle on sensitive skin, suitable for daily wear. |
Is it Okay to put Sunscreen on Every Day?
Yes, absolutely! Use sunscreen daily to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can damage it even on cloudy days or through windows.
Application Tips for Maximum Protection
- Apply sunscreen lotion generously 15 minutes before sun exposure.
- Ensure you cover all your exposed skin, including the tops of your feet, neck, and ears, which are often overlooked.
- Reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
We know how important it is to stay protected while enjoying sunny days. With these top sunscreen picks available today, you can be sure you’re taking the best care of your skin.
Go out and enjoy the sunshine confidently, knowing you’re taking the best care of your skin. Embrace the sun, soak in the joy of outdoor adventures, and keep your skin healthy and radiant!
For more tips on how to stay safe in the sun, visit the CDC’s skin cancer prevention page.
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