Let’s face it: sunscreen has never been the most glamorous part of a skin care routine, but it is the biggest non-negotiable. “Up to 90 per cent of visible premature aging is due to ultraviolet (UV) radiation,” says Dr. Russell Wong, medical director and dermatologist at Rejuvenation Dermatology Clinic in Edmonton. “Sunscreen can help prevent skin cancer by protecting the skin against damaging UV rays, as well as slow down and minimize sunspots, fine lines and wrinkles caused by prolonged UV exposure.”
So in the name of healthy skin, day in and day out, we slather on goopy SPFs that don’t always play nice with other skin care or they leave behind a white cast or greasy shine. Thankfully, beauty brands have been chipping away at sunscreen’s utilitarian reputation, and the level of skin-care-infused, enjoyable-to-use face and body formulas available is at an all-time high. From stick balms that make on-the-go touch-ups a breeze to seriously hydrating SPF 50 lotions that feel (and smell) just like a luxurious body cream, the best new sunscreens even make this essential skin care step — yes — enjoyable.
How to choose a sunscreen
With so many great new options to choose from, you’ll still want to check labels for these three key criteria.
- Broad spectrum: This verbiage on the bottle means the sunscreen will protect against both UVA and UVB. UVA is present year-round, has a longer wavelength and is a larger contributor to skin aging. UVB is more prevalent in the summer, has a shorter wavelength and is what burns the skin. Both types of ultraviolet rays can cause skin cancer.
- SPF 30 or higher: SPF stands for sun protection factor, which is essentially “an indicator of how well it protects your skin from getting a sunburn, or how much UVB a sunscreen can filter out,” says Wong. Anything under 30, especially in the summertime when UVB rays are at their peak, won’t provide enough protection.
- Water-resistant: If you plan to be swimming, playing sports or sweating it up, these sunscreens are specifically formulated to protect skin even when it’s wet, often for up to 60 or 80 minutes. “It’s important to note that water-resistant doesn’t mean waterproof, so sunscreen still needs to be reapplied,” adds Wong.
How much sunscreen should I use?
And because even the best sunscreen won’t do the job if you skimp on application: “A nickel-sized dollop should be enough to cover the face and neck,” says Wong. For the body, one ounce (picture a shot glass) should do the trick.
What types of sunscreen filters are best?
There are two types of sunscreen filters to choose from: mineral and chemical. On the mineral side, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide work by reflecting the sun’s rays from the skin. Wong explains that these filters are especially well-suited for those who have sensitive skin or rosacea. Mineral filters used to get a bad rap for their pasty, hard-to-blend textures, but formulas have come a long way in recent years. For those with dark skin tones, some mineral sunscreens might still leave behind a white cast, so a tinted formula can compensate, or chemical filters might be a better fit.
On the flip side, chemical filters like octinoxate, octocrylene, homosalate and avobenzone absorb UV rays. “Chemical sunscreens are good for those who spend more time in the water or are more physically active as this type of sunscreen is more water- and sweat-resistant,” says Wong. One chemical filter he recommends steering clear of is oxybenzone because it can trigger skin reactions.
Whichever you prefer, we’ve rounded up some excellent new formulas that are a joy to apply (and reapply!).
THE BEST SUNSCREENS OF 2024
The beach (and hand) essential
From the new-to-Canada Australian-based sun care experts, this coconut-scented body formula is packed with nourishing ingredients like aloe leaf juice and pentavitin — a plant-based extract that promises 72 hours of hydration. And unlike many sunscreens that leave hands feeling sticky, this one is designed to protect hands, too, and feels silky like a hand cream. It’s also a great option for trips to the pool or beach as it provides water-resistant protection for up to 80 minutes.
The J-beauty-inspired formula
A chemical-filter option that feels like a luxe moisturizer, this formula is the sister of the viral J-Beauty one that was recently the talk of TikTok. Modified to contain Health Canada — approved filters, it feels lightweight on the skin with zero greasy residue, making it a top pick for both dry and oily skin types.
The touch-up hero
Dubbed a “sunscreen serum,” this SPF stick is packed with a ton of skin-healthy ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and the brand’s signature watermelon. It glides easily onto the face, leaving behind a dewy, glass skin-like finish. Plus, the stick format makes for easy reapplication, even over makeup.
The tinted ally
Complexion coverage and sunblock in one? Yes, please. Not only does this mineral sunscreen provide protection but it also doubles as a tinted moisturizer. And because it’s available in three shades — light, medium and deep — it doesn’t leave behind a white cast or rely on a universal shade to work for all skin tones (because let’s be real, it never does).
The lip protector
Repeat after me: lips need sunscreen, too. “I commonly see skin cancer and hyperpigmentation develop from UV damage to the lips,” says Wong. This broad-spectrum mineral tinted primer acts like a “my lips but better” balm with its flattering, natural-looking tint and can be worn alone or under lipstick. Bonus: it’s super hydrating.
The multitasker
This three-in-one combines skin care, bronzer and a hefty SPF 50 into one chic little dropper. It delivers a believable sun-kissed glow and can be worn alone or layered under makeup. And its ingredient list reads like a who’s who of the skin care world, including ferulic acid, ceramides, collagen peptide and vitamin E.
The sensitive-skin sidekick
New from this Canadian self-tanning expert brand, this fragrance-free formula is its first foray into sunscreen. Great for all skin types, but especially those who are sensitive and easily irritated, it ticks all the boxes when it comes to the perfect mineral SPF. With a slight tint and a smooth, ultralightweight texture, it’s enriched with heavy-lifting skin care ingredients like niacinamide and squalane to hydrate and nourish.
The sporty staple
This Hawaii-based brand knows its way around sun care. Its mineral body SPF is a no-brainer for any and all outdoor activities, whether you’re gearing up for a hike or taking a cooling dip at your local lake. It provides 80 minutes of water- and sweat-resistant protection and is formulated with vitamin B3 to improve skin tone and shea butter which gives the cream its rich, enveloping texture.
The invisible shield
Starring collagen peptide to help address signs of aging, this weightless sunscreen is undetectable on the skin, aside from the lovely hydrated finish it leaves behind. Due to its lightweight texture and invisible chemical filters, this SPF is a sure-bet for all skin types and tones, even those with oily, acne-prone skin.
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