No-Ad Sunblock Lotion SPF 45 Review

Although skin-care experts praise Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 30 (*Est. $9 for 3 oz.) more often, many reviewers say No-Ad Sunblock Lotion SPF 45 is a good choice for families who go through vats of sunscreen each summer. The company has been around since 1960; the name No-Ad refers to the manufacturer's no-advertising policy, and this brand can be hard to find in stores. Ounce per ounce, No-Ad is less expensive than other sunscreens, yet it still provides dependable broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. No-Ad SPF 45 contains avobenzone to protect against short- and long-wave UVA rays -- the type of rays that can cause long-term skin damage.

We found a couple of reviewers at Drugstore.com who say they have been using No-Ad sunscreen for several years, including a farmer who spends many hours in the sun each day. In one professional test, No-Ad scores as well as other top-rated, higher-priced sunscreens for UVA and UVB protection, as well as for water resistance. Several users at Walmart.com say they have been using the sunscreen for years and praise it for its reasonable price, strong protection and non-greasy feel. Most agree that No-Ad sunscreen is lightweight and absorbs easily. One reviewer at Amazon.com says it "does not feel like you have lotion on you (it feels dry)."

Although it isn't reviewed as often as other sunscreens, No-Ad is an excellent, water-resistant (lasting up to 80 minutes) sunscreen that contains avobenzone and oxybenzone for broad-spectrum UVA and UVB coverage. It also contains antioxidants (vitamins A and E) and aloe. Aloe is known to be a soothing water-binding agent that draws water to the skin. It also has antioxidant properties. As with any new skin-care product, it's a good idea to test it on a small patch of skin before using. That's because No-Ad uses chemical sunscreens and contains fragrance that may irritate skin.