Sunscreen: Reviews

Updated June 2012

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 30

Best sunscreen

Estimated Price

Reviewers say Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock is an excellent general-use sunscreen. It contains the ingredients avobenzone and oxybenzone for broad-spectrum protection against short- and long-wave UVA rays (the main culprit in long-term skin damage). Neutrogena says this sunscreen will neither run into the eyes nor come off with sweat or towel use. User reviews are generally positive, with many praising the lightweight formula that dries to a matte finish. Keep in mind that although Neutrogena calls this product a sunblock, no sunscreen can completely protect you from damaging rays.

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No-Ad Sunblock Lotion SPF 45

Best cheap sunscreen

Estimated Price

Although we found the best reviews for Neutrogena Ultra Sheer, No-Ad Sunblock Lotion SPF 45 gives consumers more sunscreen for their money; Neutrogena costs five times more, ounce for ounce. No-Ad SPF 45 contains avobenzone for protection against broad-spectrum UVA and UVB rays, as well as skin-soothing aloe. It is also labeled "very water resistant," which means that it will maintain its indicated SPF for 80 minutes in the water, unless otherwise rubbed off. Reviewers say the sunscreen isn't greasy and absorbs easily. One drawback: This product contains fragrance, and it may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin.

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Blue Lizard Sunscreen Sensitive SPF 30+

Baby sunscreen

$15

Estimated Price

Parents of young children and consumers with sensitive skin may be interested in Blue Lizard's Sunscreen. This gentle, fragrance-free product receives excellent reviews. Unlike many other potentially irritating chemical sunscreens, Blue Lizard Sensitive and the identical Blue Lizard Baby formulas contain zinc oxide (10 percent) and titanium dioxide (5 percent), mineral sunscreens that act as a physical barrier against broad-spectrum UVA and UVB rays. Blue Lizard Sunscreen is also water-resistant. However, this sunscreen is thicker and creamier in consistency than other brands, and users say it can take longer to apply.

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Coppertone Sport High Performance Sunscreen Clear Continuous Spray SPF 30

Sport-formula sunscreen

$10

Estimated Price

Reviewers say active people will appreciate the convenience and staying power of Coppertone Sport High Performance Sunscreen Clear Continuous Spray SPF 30. Hands stay clean because it's a spray, not a cream, and it can be applied at any angle. Reviewers warn that it's easy to miss spots, especially since the formula is clear and doesn't require any rubbing. Several users also say it leaves a sticky film on the skin that feels like hairspray. Coppertone Sport relies on avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate and oxybenzone for broad-spectrum UVA/UVB coverage.

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Badger SPF 30+ Lightly Scented Sunscreen

Natural sunscreen

$16

Estimated Price

Badger SPF 30+ Lightly Scented Sunscreen is praised by reviewers for its certified organic ingredients and for using the mineral zinc oxide to provide adequate UVA/UVB protection. Users say the formula is very thick and a bit hard to rub in, but they also say a little goes a long way. The sunscreen is safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin and babies, experts say. Some people, however, don't like the herbal scent derived from the essential oils used in this formula. An unscented version is also available.

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