Sunscreen Options
What if I really don’t like wearing sunscreen?
If you’re like me, you might not love how sunscreen feels—or the white film it can leave on your skin. The good news: there are now more comfortable and convenient options than ever before. And Sun Protective Clothing is always a great option.
Sunscreen Sticks
Think of these like deodorant sticks. Most go on clear, stay where you put them (no dripping), and are perfect for quick application—especially on kids’ faces to keep sunscreen out of their eyes. They’re a bit pricey for full-body use but great for on-the-go protection.
Sunscreen gel
My personal favorite is an alcohol-based gel sunscreen by Solbar. It goes on like hand sanitizer and dries clear within seconds—no greasy feel or white film.
Sunscreen sprays
Another great option for kids (or lazy adults like me) is spray sunscreen. Nearly every brand sells one now, and some are zinc-based. I like sprays for easy reapplication after 1.5 to 2 hours outdoors.
Sunscreen Lip Balms
Don’t forget your lips — they can burn too. Regular sunscreens taste awful, so choose a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher. These are designed for comfort and protection without the unpleasant taste.
Is a more expensive sunscreen better?
Not necessarily. Consumer Reports recently ranked La Roche-Posay (a pricier option) just below Coppertone (a budget brand) after rigorous testing. The truth is, the best sunscreen is the one you’ll actually use—consistently and generously.
European Sunscreens:
European sunscreens are far ahead of those in the U.S. because Europe classifies them as cosmetics, allowing faster innovation. The U.S. hasn’t approved a new sunscreen ingredient in nearly 20 years.
Most European sunscreens contain TRIAZINE and TRIAZONE, which 1) rub in easily, 2) leave no white film, and 3) last longer. When I was in Amsterdam, even $2 store-brand sunscreens were better than most U.S. options.
If you know someone traveling to Europe, ask them to bring back a few bottles. My favorite is La Roche-Posay Anthelios Milk SPF 50+ Eco Tube—look for TRIAZINE and TRIAZONE on the label.
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