Frequently, applying sunscreen (and reapplying it every two hours) can seem like a tiresome chore, the sort of mundane task that you might be inclined to skip from time to time. Attribute it to the culture of immediate satisfaction: It can take a considerable amount of time to witness the complete benefits of sun protection, which is crucial for safeguarding the skin against signs of aging, sunburns, and most significantly, skin cancer.
That being said, the latest batch of sunscreens offers more than just broad-spectrum SPF. Currently, you can discover sunscreen filters in formulations that are disguised as serums, designed with makeup in view, or filled with numerous other active ingredients that are comparable to an antioxidant serum. Here's what's worth stocking up on at present.
Kiehl’s Better Screen UV Serum SPF 50+ Facial Sunscreen ($42)
With the lightweight sensation of a serum and the high SPF rating of a standard sunscreen, this formula defies expectations. It combines chemical filters with a collagen peptide, which functions to address existing indications of sun damage such as uneven skin complexion and loose texture. Even though the liquid is white, it appears transparent on the skin, thus it won't leave a white residue on darker skin tones.
Kate Somerville Hydrakate Illuminating SPF 50+ Drops ($46)
This potent formula exceeds the average concentration of zinc oxide, featuring 24.5% non-nano zinc oxide (the maximum concentration is 25%, as per the U.S. Food and Drug Administration). Alongside providing peak protection, the formula also shields the skin from pollution-related harm with ectoin, which hydrates the skin and supports the skin barrier. It also contains sheer, mineral-derived pigments, for an inbuilt blurring effect; these give the skin a soft-focus appearance while eliminating any obvious white cast.
Kopari Beauty Sunglaze Sheer Body Mist ($39)
With SPF 42, this ultra-fine body spray provides sun protection along with a delicate, rose-gold luster. It doesn't employ an aerosol but rather a pump to evenly dispense the lightweight, non-sticky formula all over the skin. Additionally, it moisturizes the skin with a blend of vitamin E and hyaluronic acid while actively brightening with vitamin C.
Innbeauty Project Mineral Sun Glow SPF 43 PA+++ ($35)
This formula has everything: It offers mineral sun protection along with an antioxidant complex including vitamin C, a peptide complex to actively address wrinkles, and a hydrating complex to keep the skin comfortable throughout the day. It also comes in two sheer tints that are suitable for an unexpectedly wide range of skin tones. Notably, it's also rated PA+++, a measurement used in South Korea to indicate the level of protection against UVA rays; these rays are responsible for signs of aging, like dark spots and wrinkles. (SPF, meanwhile, measures only protection against UVB rays, which contribute to sunburns and skin cancer.)
Kosas DreamBeam Sunlit SPF 40 PA++++ ($40)
This variation on Kosas’s original DreamBeam sunscreen considers makeup preparation. It's the same formula but with a warm, gold-tinted shade that gives the skin a sun-kissed look; you can wear it alone for sheer coverage or layer it beneath foundation. It also utilizes the PA rating system, offering the maximum amount of UVA protection available, and strengthens the skin barrier with a blend of ceramides and peptides.
La Roche-Posay MelaB3 UV SPF 30 ($27)
La Roche-Posay is renowned for its innovative range of sunscreen products, and this formula is no exception. The moisturizing SPF pairs 5% niacinamide with Melasyl, an exclusive, patented molecule that actively targets the most stubborn dark spots while evening out the skin tone on a broader scale.
Face by Vacation Shake Shake SPF 50 Mineral Milk Face Sunscreen ($29)
What's revolutionary in this formula isn't the mineral filter – zinc oxide – but rather the form it takes. The proprietary, water-based ZincWater enables it to glide smoothly onto the skin without requiring additional blending or leaving a ghostly residue. And the formula also incorporates a lineup of ceramides, peptides, squalane, and hyaluronic acid to provide remarkable moisture and firming advantages while it operates.
Herbivore Star Seed 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 ($38)
Forget your preconceived notions about mineral sunscreen: this cream has an airy, whipped texture that spreads onto the skin in seconds. Its ingredient list reads like a list of top skin care components, with tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate – considered the most stable form of vitamin C available – as well as a vitamin D analogue, glycerin, and chia seed oil to nourish the skin barrier.
Coola Refreshing Water Plumping Gel Serum SPF 30 ($34)
Think of this formula as a hyaluronic acid serum with sun protection as an added (yet significant) bonus. Not surprisingly, there's actual hyaluronic acid in the serum-like formula along with aloe and coconut water, to enhance the skin's ability to retain water and immediately smooth out fine lines and wrinkles. It also has an SPF of 30, thanks to chemical filters, as well as a light, beachy scent although it's free of synthetic fragrances.
