When it comes to sunscreen, there are many options out there. But, when you’re headed to the beach, choosing a sunscreen that will provide the best protection from the sun’s harmful rays is essential. So, what are the best sunscreens to use at the beach?
There are a few things to consider when choosing the best sunscreen at the beach. First, you’ll need to choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This will assist in guarding your skin from the sun’s damaging UV radiation.
According to New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. David Colbert, as mentioned in Allure magazine, AAD recommends this level of sunscreen application because it has been clinically proven to provide sufficient protection and reduce the adverse effects of sunlight.
Second, you’ll need to choose a water-resistant sunscreen. This will help ensure your sunscreen doesn’t wash away when swimming or sweating. Finally, you’ll need to select a reef-safe sunscreen. This means that it won’t harm the coral reef when you’re swimming in the ocean.
Here we find some best sunscreens to use at the beach for you which help to protect your skin.
15 Best Sunscreens To Use At The Beach
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is our first choice in the list of best sunscreens to use at the beach. It is specially formulated with Zinc Oxide, providing SPF 46 protection. Its lightweight, silky texture makes it a breeze to apply, while its calming properties make it ideal for sensitive skin types prone to acne, rosacea, and discoloration.
Scent: Unscented
Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 46 SPF
Item Weight: 1.7 Pounds
Product Benefits
- Oil-free sunscreen with Zinc Oxide.
- Blends in effortlessly without leaving a white cast.
- Helps protect against breakouts, making it essential for acne-prone skin.
- Ideal for on-the-go use due to its travel-size pump bottle.
- Suitable for sensitive skin prone to acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation.
- Can be worn alone or under makeup, making it perfect for oily skin.
Alba Botanica Sunscreen
The second product from the list of best sunscreens to use at the beach. Embrace the essence of the tropics with Alba Botanica Hawaiian Coconut Sunscreen Spray. This SPF 50 sunscreen not only protects against harmful UV rays but also nourishes your skin with coconut extract, shea butter, and avocado oil.
Its water-resistant formula ensures lasting protection for up to 80 minutes, making it perfect for beach outings and water activities. Enjoy the sun safely while indulging in the luxurious scent of coconut with Alba Botanica.
Scent: Coconut
Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 50 SPF
Item Weight: 22.68 Grams
Product Benefits
- Nourishes and moisturizes skin with botanical emollients like coconut extract, shea butter, and avocado oil.
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, ensuring lasting protection during water activities.
Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Spray
Prepare for your outdoor adventures with confidence, thanks to Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray. Engineered to endure even the most rigorous activities, this high-performance sunscreen is your reliable partner in sun protection.
Its water-resistant formula, lasting up to 80 minutes, ensures steadfast coverage even when you sweat, allowing you to focus on enjoying the great outdoors. With Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB protection, this moisturizing spray sunscreen safeguards your skin from harmful sun rays while keeping it hydrated.
The convenient continuous sprayer enables easy application from any angle, ensuring quick and even coverage for optimal protection.
Scent: Unscented
Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 50 SPF
Item Weight: 11 Ounces
Product Benefits:
- Easy to Apply: Featuring a continuous sprayer, it offers quick and even coverage on any angle.
- Water Resistant: Provides 80 minutes of water resistance, staying strong even during vigorous activities.
- Free Of: Formulated without dyes or PABA for gentle, worry-free protection.
- Bulk Sunscreen: Comes in a pack of two 5.5-ounce bottles, ensuring you have ample supply for extended outdoor excursions.
- Trusted Brand: Coppertone, with over 75 years of innovation, is voted the most trusted sunscreen brand by American shoppers.
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
Embrace the essence of summer and protect your skin with Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion. This iconic formula is beloved by beachgoers worldwide for its reliable sun protection and nostalgic scent that evokes lazy days under the sun. Whether you’re lounging on the sand or enjoying outdoor activities, our Original formula is sure to become your go-to choice.
Scent: Sun Bum Original Scent: People say it smells like summer
Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 50 SPF
Item Weight: 9.6 Ounces
Product Benefits:
- Dermatologist and Sonny approved for moisturizing sun protection.
- The non-comedogenic formula adds a barrier to your face for UVA/UVB protection.
- Oil-free, water-resistant, and compliant with Hawaii 104 Reef Act regulations.
- Easy application with instructions for optimal sun protection.
- Free from harmful ingredients like Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Gluten, Cruelty, and Parabens.
- Trusted by beachgoers for effective sun protection that moisturizes and cares for your skin.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion
Shield your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays with Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 70. This travel-size bottle provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, making it an essential companion for sun protection on the go.
Formulated with Dry-Touch technology, this lightweight and sheer sunscreen absorbs quickly for a non-greasy, matte finish, leaving your skin feeling clean and refreshed.
Scent: Unscented
Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 70 SPF
Item Weight: 0.24 Pounds
Product Benefits:
- Provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
- Features Dry-Touch technology for a non-greasy, matte finish.
- Formulated with Helioplex for superior sunburn protection.
- Helps prevent sunburn and decreases the risk of skin cancer.
- PABA-free and non-comedogenic for daily use.
- Convenient travel size for on-the-go sun protection.
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- From the #1 dermatologist-recommended suncare brand.
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen
Protect both your skin and the environment with BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+. This reef-friendly formula contains no oxybenzone or octinoxate, helping to safeguard delicate coral reefs while providing powerful sun protection. With its mineral-based SPF 50+ formula and no chemical active ingredients, this sunscreen acts like tiny mirrors to reflect UV rays away from your body, ensuring broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection without harming marine life.
Scent: Unscented
Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 50 SPF
Item Weight: 0.1 Pounds
Product Benefits:
- Reef-Friendly Formula: Contains no oxybenzone or octinoxate to protect coral reefs.
- Mineral Sunscreen: The zinc oxide-based formula acts as tiny mirrors to reflect UV rays away.
- Paraben-Free and Fragrance-Free: Free from common irritants like parabens and fragrances.
- 100% Vegan and Dye-Free: Formulated without animal-derived ingredients or dyes.
- Easy Application: Glides on easily, rubs in clear, and dries smooth for hassle-free protection.
- Sweat and Water Resistant: Designed to stay on for up to 80 minutes during your toughest adventures.
- Nourishing Ingredients: Contains Aloe Vera, Shea Butter, Sunflower Seed Oil, and Vitamin E to nourish and protect the skin.
- Ideal for Sensitive Skin: Suitable for those with sensitive skin due to its gentle, mineral-based formula.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Body And Face Sunscreen
Shield your skin from the sun’s harmful rays with our Body & Facial Sunscreen SPF 60. This broad-spectrum sunscreen offers UVA/UVB protection with an SPF of 60, ensuring your skin stays safe from sun damage.
Its non-greasy, fast-absorbing texture leaves your skin hydrated and smooth, providing a velvety finish that’s perfect for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Plus, it’s paraben-free, giving you peace of mind about what you’re putting on your skin.
Scent: Fragrance-free
Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 70 SPF
Item Weight: 0.31 Pounds
Product Benefits:
- Broad Spectrum Protection: Formulated with Cell-Ox Shield Technology + Antioxidant Protection to provide comprehensive sun protection for both face and body.
- Oxybenzone Free: Free from oxybenzone, a common sunscreen ingredient that has been linked to potential health concerns.
- Hydrating and Smooth Texture: Leaves skin feeling hydrated and smooth with a velvety texture, without leaving behind a greasy residue.
- Suitable for All Skin Types: Gentle formula is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, making it ideal for the whole family.
- Water Resistant: Water resistant for up to 80 minutes, ensuring long-lasting protection even during water activities.
- Easy Application: Apply sunscreen thoroughly 15 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply at least every 2 hours for continued protection.
Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion
Elevate your sun protection game with PLAY Everyday SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion. This supercharged sunscreen offers broad spectrum protection against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays, ensuring your skin stays safe and youthful. Its lightweight and hydrating formula absorbs easily without leaving a dreaded “white cast” or sticky residue, making it perfect for everyday use.
Scent: Rosemary
Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 50 SPF
Item Weight: 3 Ounces
Product Benefits:
- Provides broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
- Absorbs easily without leaving a white cast or sticky residue.
- Water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- Formulated with clean, antioxidant-rich ingredients like sunflower and rosemary leaf extracts.
- Free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances.
- Hydrating and fast-absorbing formula suitable for active lifestyles.
Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Stick
Indulge in gentle, hydrating sun protection with CETAPHIL Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50. Crafted specifically for sensitive skin, this lightweight, chemical-free sunscreen nourishes while shielding against harmful UV rays. Its microbiome gentle formula locks in moisture to hydrate and protect your skin’s delicate microbiome, ensuring a healthy complexion.
Scent: Unscented
Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 50 SPF
Item Weight: 0.09 Pounds
Product Benefits:
- Hydrating Protection: Nourishes sensitive skin while providing hydrating, chemical-free sun protection.
- Microbiome Gentle Formula: Locks in moisture to hydrate and protect the delicate microbiome of the skin.
- Non-comedogenic and Ultra Lightweight: Blends quickly without leaving a greasy residue, suitable for fragile areas like lips, nose, earlobes, and around the eyes.
- Mess-Free Application: Portable size and easy application make it ideal for on-the-go use, perfect for travel or vacation.
- Reef Safe: Reef-friendly formula ensures your protection doesn’t harm delicate marine ecosystems.
- Travel Size: Conveniently sized under 3.4 fl oz, making it easy to carry on your next adventure.
- Broad Spectrum SPF 50: Reflects both UVA and UVB rays to prevent sunburn and decrease the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.
- Sheer Formula: Developed with sheer zinc to blend quickly into the skin without clogging pores or leaving behind a white cast.
- Gentle and Hypoallergenic: Formulated with zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and soothing vitamin E to provide lasting hydration and comfort for sensitive skin.
Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin Daily Sunscreen Lotion
Shield your sensitive skin from the sun’s harmful rays with Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50. This convenient, TSA-compliant travel-friendly size offers water-resistant protection against UVA and UVB rays, ensuring your skin stays safe wherever you go.
Formulated to be gentle and non-irritating, this sheer mineral sunscreen is made with naturally sourced 100% zinc oxide active ingredient and nourishing oat, making it suitable for daily use on both the face and body.
Scent: Unscented
Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 50 SPF
Item Weight: 0.27 Grams
Product Benefits:
- Gentle and Non-Irritating: Specifically designed for sensitive skin, this hypoallergenic mineral sunscreen is free of fragrance, parabens, phthalates, and dyes.
- Broad Spectrum Protection: Provides water-resistant protection from both UVA and UVB rays to prevent sunburn and skin damage.
- Naturally-Sourced Ingredients: Contains 100% zinc oxide active ingredient and nourishing oat to protect and soothe the skin.
- Lightweight and Fast-Absorbing: The non-comedogenic formula dries sheer with a matte finish, providing a clean, oil-free feel.
- Sweat and Water Resistant: Offers up to 80 minutes of sweat and water resistance, reducing the need for frequent reapplication.
- TSA-Friendly Travel Size: Convenient size allows you to take sunscreen wherever you go, ensuring sun protection on the go.
- Easy Application: Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply at least every two hours for optimal protection.
Banana Boat Light As Air Faces Sunscreen Lotion
Experience weightless, breathable sun protection with Banana Boat Light As Air Face Sunscreen. This innovative formula offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection without clogging pores or feeling heavy on the skin.
With its non-greasy and fast-absorbing formula, you can stay dry and fresh while enjoying the sun’s rays. Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, this sunscreen is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation to safeguard against harmful UV radiation.
Scent: Fresh
Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 50 SPF
Item Weight: 3 Ounces
Product Benefits:
- Weightless and Ultra-Breathable: Won’t clog pores and absorbs excess oil and moisture for a comfortable feel.
- Non-Greasy and Fast Absorbing: This keeps you feeling dry and fresh without leaving a greasy residue.
- Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection: Provides effective protection against both UVA and UVB rays to prevent sunburn and skin damage.
- Water Resistant: Formulated to withstand water exposure for up to 80 minutes, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
- Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation: Trusted by experts to protect against the sun’s harmful rays.
- Noncomedogenic: Specifically designed for the face, ensuring it won’t clog pores.
- Free from Oxybenzone and Octinoxate: Formulated without these common sunscreen ingredients for peace of mind.
Thrive Natural Care Body Mineral Sunscreen
Thrive Natural Sunscreen SPF 50 offers superior sun protection with a reef-friendly mineral formula featuring 23.5% zinc oxide. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, it provides water-resistant coverage for up to 80 minutes without the greasy feel of traditional mineral sunblocks.
Infused with antioxidant-rich Costa Rican superplants, this sunscreen not only shields against UVA/UVB rays but also hydrates and revitalizes the skin. With every purchase, you support regenerative farming practices in Costa Rica. Cruelty-free, vegan, and free from harmful chemicals, it’s a skin-loving choice for all your outdoor adventures.
Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 50 SPF
Item Weight: 4 Ounces
Product Benefits:
- Reef-friendly mineral sunscreen with 23.5% zinc oxide provides physical barrier protection.
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, perfect for outdoor activities.
- Hydrates, nourishes, and revitalizes the skin while offering broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
- Infused with antioxidant-rich Costa Rican super-plants for skin repair and protection.
- Tube made from recycled plastic for a lighter environmental footprint.
- Cruelty-free, vegan, PABA-free, GMO-free, and free from synthetic colors, fragrances, or ingredients.
- Supports Costa Rican farmers engaged in regenerative farming practices.
- A 100% Satisfaction Guarantee ensures customer satisfaction or a refund of the purchase.
Hawaiian Tropic AntiOxidant+ Sunscreen Lotion
Hawaiian Tropic Antioxidant Plus Sunscreen takes sun protection to a luxurious level with its reef-safe formula made without oxybenzone and octinoxate. Infused with antioxidants, this sunscreen provides a protective layer against skin damage and premature aging caused by the sun.
Its lightweight, non-greasy lotion offers broad spectrum coverage, available in both SPF 30 and SPF 50 variants. Transport yourself to the islands with the delightful fragrances of jasmine, coconut, and other exotic scents, while pampering your skin with a silky smooth application.
Hawaiian Tropic delivers an authentically Hawaiian experience, allowing you to bask in the sun’s positive effects while shielding from its damaging rays.
Scent: Light Tropical
Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 50 SPF
Item Weight: 170 Grams
Product Benefits:
- Reef-safe formula free from oxybenzone and octinoxate.
- Provides a protective layer of antioxidants to prevent long-term skin damage and premature aging.
- Lightweight, non-greasy lotion offers broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection.
- Available in SPF 30 or SPF 50 variants to suit your sun protection needs.
- Island-inspired fragrances evoke the essence of the tropics, enhancing your sunbathing experience.
- The silky smooth application ensures luxurious indulgence while protecting your skin.
- Allows you to enjoy the positive effects of the sun while being shielded from its harmful effects.
Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Sun Milk Body Lotion
Indulge your skin in luxurious sun protection with our Non-Greasy Mineral Sunscreen. Crafted with a fast-absorbing silky texture, this sunscreen effortlessly blends into your skin for a seamless application. Featuring 100% mineral actives, it offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection without the use of harsh chemicals.
The self-nourishing milk formula, enriched with Hawaiian-inspired botanicals like coconut and kukui nut, provides lightweight yet long-lasting moisturization. TSA-compliant for your travel convenience, this sunscreen ensures your skin stays nourished and protected wherever your adventures take you.
Scent: Tropical Island
Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 50 SPF
Item Weight: 3.4 Fl Oz
Product Benefits:
- Non-greasy and fast-absorbing formula for effortless application.
- 100% mineral actives provide broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection without chemicals.
- Self-nourishing milk formula enriched with Hawaiian botanicals offers lightweight, long-lasting moisturization.
- TSA-compliant for hassle-free travel.
- Leaves skin feeling silky smooth and nourished with every application.
Bare Republic Mineral Gel Sunscreen
Last product from the list of best sunscreen to use at the beach. Experience lightweight mineral protection like never before with Bare Republic Mineral Gel Sunscreen. Our ultra-clean gel-lotion formula glides effortlessly over your skin, providing hydrating sun protection without the heavy feel.
Transparent and light, it’s tough enough to keep up with all your adventures while being free from chemical actives, parabens, dyes, and synthetic fragrances. Trust Bare Republic to enhance your everyday fun with simple, safe, and effective sun protection.
Scent: Fragrance-Free
Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 30 SPF
Item Weight: 4.0 Ounce
Product Benefits:
- Mineral Gel Sunscreen: Offers lightweight mineral protection with a gel-lotion formula.
- Sheer and Light: Transparent and ultra-light, providing effective coverage without feeling heavy on the skin.
- Natural Ingredients: Free from chemical actives, parabens, dyes, and synthetic fragrances.
- Good, Clean Fun: Bare Republic promises clean and simple products for your everyday adventures.
- Our Story: Founded by a group of friends from California passionate about health, wellness, and adventure, Bare Republic seeks to provide affordable and wearable sunscreen solutions for families.
There are 15 different types of best sunscreen which is used at the beach. You can choose any sunscreens from this list according to your preferences which suit your skin.
Things To Remember Choosing the Best Sunscreens to Use At The Beach
There are a few things to remember regarding sunscreen and sensitive skin, especially when choosing the best sunscreens to use at the beach.
Does Sunscreen Work For Sensitive Skin?
Yes, but it depends on the sunscreen.
Many sunscreens available are specially crafted for those with sensitive skin. These best sunscreens to use at the beach usually contain gentle ingredients on the skin and won’t cause any irritation. Selecting a sunscreen with a high SPF is crucial if you have sensitive skin.
A high SPF aids in shielding your skin from the sun’s damaging rays. A high SPF ensures your skin stays safe from the sun’s detrimental effects. It’s also essential to choose a water-resistant sunscreen. Even if you sweat or swim, this will assist in protecting your skin.
Does Sunscreen Expire?
Yes, sunscreen does expire. Most sunscreens have a shelf life of just three years. Beyond that point, the sunscreen might guard your skin less effectively against the sun’s damaging rays.
Thus, if you’re utilizing sunscreen from an older bottle, always verify its expiration date; if you can’t find it, it’s probably time to buy a new one.
When selecting a sunscreen, choose one that offers broad-spectrum coverage against UVA and UVB rays. Also, ensure it boasts an SPF rating of 30 or higher.
Lather sunscreen liberally on all open skin areas, including the face, neck, ears, and hands. And remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours or more often if you’re sweating or swimming.
What Is The Intensity Of The UV Rays?
When you’re at the beach, the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not you’re getting enough sun protection. But with the intense UV rays beaming down on you, you must ensure you’re using the best sunscreens to use at the beach possible.
While many different types of sunscreen are available, some provide different levels of protection. The intensity of the UV rays can vary depending on the time of day and the location, so it’s essential to choose a sunscreen that will offer the best protection.
Some sunscreens are designed to protect against UVA and UVB rays, while others only offer protection against one another.
UVA rays primarily lead to skin aging and can pass through the glass, So it’s essential to use sunscreen that blocks UVA and UVB radiation.
Types Of Ingredients Used In Sunscreens At The Beach
To protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, the best sunscreens to use at the beach can contain a variety of substances. These elements are not all created equal, though.
One of the most common ingredients found in sunscreen is zinc oxide. This component effectively shields against UVA and UVB rays, making it perfect for individuals seeking all-around sun defense. Zinc oxide is also non-irritating and gentle on the skin, making it a good choice for sensitive skin. However, some people find that zinc oxide can leave a white cast on the skin.
Another common sunscreen ingredient is titanium dioxide. Like zinc oxide, titanium dioxide effectively blocks both UVA and UVB rays. However, it is also less likely to cause a white cast on the skin. Titanium dioxide is a good choice for those looking for a sunscreen that will not irritate their skin.
Conclusion
Summertime is the perfect time to enjoy the beach, but it’s also when we must be most careful about protecting our skin from the sun. There are a lot of different sunscreens on the market, so how do you know which are the best sunscreens to use at the beach?
Make sure your sunscreen has an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher while making your selection. This aids in shielding your skin from the sun’s damaging UV rays. You also want to ensure the sunscreen is water-resistant so it won’t come off if you get wet.
Coppertone Sport Sunscreen is one of the best sunscreens at the beach. It has an SPF of 50 and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It’s also affordable and easy to find at most drugstores.
Another great option is Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen. It has an SPF of 100 and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It’s a bit more expensive than Coppertone, but it’s worth it for the extra protection.
No matter what sunscreen you choose, always wear the best sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or more when outdoors.
