TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 9.0*
Why it's great: According to readers, this Banana Boat sunblock absorbs quickly, protects skin and won't bust your budget. "It protects my skin from the sun and is not too heavy," says one reviewer.
On the whole, readers find that you can't go wrong with this solid, wallet-friendly product.
TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 9.3*
Why it's great: "I love it," raves one reviewer. "It's the only sunblock that doesn't make my face break out." Readers prone to sunburns and acne praise the product for its light texture, easy absorption and "heavenly" scent. Another reader with "extremely sensitive skin" said the sunblock "glides on, sinks in quickly and it doesn't cause any irritation." Another plus: "It also works well under makeup."
TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 9.3*
Why it's great: A sunscreen that moisturizes and protects from harmful UV rays? Readers are totally on board. "It's very light and absorbs quickly," one reader says. Other readers explain that a little goes a long way, as the product itself is "creamy and thick," but you would never know you're wearing sunscreen due to the lightweight feel. "It stays on your skin all day, no matter what the elements," one user says. "It's perfect for running, swimming and being outside."
TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 9.3*
Why it's great: Readers appreciate this product for its powerful sun protection and water-resistant formula. They say it doesn't feel greasy, and stays on all day. "This sunscreen does the job superbly without irritating my very fair and sensitive skin," explains one reviewer.
TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 9.4*
Why it's great: This light and airy product triples as a sunscreen, moisturizer and translucent foundation, making the $75 price tag a little less distressing. The formula blends evenly with many complexions, hydrates skin and has a slight matte finish — plus, it leaves "skin silky-smooth after washing off at night." One reviewer sums up: "This is my Holy Grail, and it's a keeper."
Whether we like it or not, sunscreen is a must for all of us. And according to Heidi Waldorf, M.D., of Waldorf Dermatology & Laser Associates in Nanuet, NY, we need "an SPF of at least 15 daily." For prolonged sun exposure (anything more than the incidental exposure you might get from driving or working near a window), she recommends an SPF of 30 above with a water-resistant formula. She also suggests choosing a sunscreen containing titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, avobenzone or mexoryl as its active ingredient.
The amount of sunscreen you apply is also vital. Waldorf recommends "a shot glass full of sunscreen" for the average adult and reapplying "every one to two hours while outdoors." We'll admit that doesn't sound like a fun way to spend your summer, but with these reader-approved products, maybe it won't seem like such a chore.
