At last, we have almost reached summertime, with the sun shining bright every day and not a worry in the world. Oh wait…we need to worry about making sure to put an effective sunscreen on! I tested four different sunscreens on their efficiency, texture and price so you can choose a sunscreen that will work for you this summer.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Spray Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 45, Lightweight, Non-Greasy & Water Resistant Sunscreen offers a pleasant, lightweight texture that goes on sheer without feeling sticky, making it comfortable to wear throughout the day. The scent is mild and not overpowering, which is a plus for those sensitive to strong fragrances. Overall, I liked using this sunscreen for its ease of application and feel on the skin. However, I did experience some sunburn on my chest and shoulders, so it may not provide adequate protection for more sensitive areas or might need more frequent reapplication there. I didn’t get a breakout or rash from this sunscreen, which is great because I have sensitive skin. This is reasonably priced at around $13 per bottle, so it is a good sunscreen considering the cost and the bottle does last a while. Overall, I would rate this sunscreen a 3/5.
I’ve been using Supergoop’s Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 for a few years now, and it’s one of my favorites. It goes on really smoothly—not too thick, but still gives great coverage. It doesn’t feel greasy or heavy on my skin, which I really is important for me when wearing sunscreen. My favorite part is how well it blends. It just melts into your skin without leaving a white cast, and it works great under makeup or on its own. I’ve never had any irritation or breakouts from it either. If you’re looking for a sunscreen that’s easy to wear and actually feels good on your skin, I definitely recommend this one. It’s a must-have in my summer routine; however, it is on the more expensive size costing $40, which is pricey for a singular sunscreen. Overall, I would rate this sunscreen a 4/5.
Vacation’s Classic Whip Sunscreen SPF 30 is one of the most fun sunscreens I’ve ever used and I know that sounds weird. The whipped cream texture is super light and fluffy, which really does look and feel like dessert for your skin. It spreads easily and doesn’t feel heavy or sticky. It smells like vacation, bringing me to the beach, which does not make me mad at all. I didn’t get burnt at all, so it is more than just a fun sunscreen. This sunscreen is definitely more than just cute packaging—it works well and makes putting on SPF feel like a treat. This is great for summer days when you want something a little more playful but still effective and it was $23, so it won’t not break your budget to buy. Overall, I would rate this sunscreen a 5/5.
Sun Bum’s SPF 15 Tanning Oil is another one that has been in my sunscreen rotation. I reach for it when I want a lighter sunscreen so I can get a darker tan. Since it is an oil, I do not love the texture; however, it does an effective job for only being SPF 15. This oil has the classic Sum Bum banana scent, which some people might not like, but I really enjoy. For being $18, I would say it is worth the purchase, considering it lasts a long time. Overall, I would rate it a 3.5/5.