National Safe Sun Week, May 23-29 this year, is observed every year the week before Memorial Day. As we prepare to enjoy a weekend of barbecues, swim parties or a day at the beach, medical professionals are encouraging the best practices to follow when it comes to sun exposure.
Unless you’re living in the Arctic, you know by now excessive sun exposure can lead to skin cancer affecting people of all skin tones. But what you may not know is that the sun actually causes the most common form of cancer - and its frequency is continuously growing. According the the CDC, each year about 4.3 million adults are treated for basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas - types of cancer caused from sun exposure.
But scientific evidence shows using sunscreen can prevent health issues and protect us from the UV rays of the sun. So, as you prepare to enjoy summer on the coast, take a look at the list of sunscreens below to help prevent worse case scenario. They are listed by category to simplify your search. Find just the right lotion for your family to celebrate National Sunscreen Day on May 27!
When it comes to sunscreen for your kids, dermatologists advise sticking to mineral (also known as physical) formulas, rather than chemical ones. And while spray sunscreens are a popular choice among older kids and teens, dermatologists prefer lotions or creams because it’s easier to rub in to their skin. If you do choose the spray sunscreens, be sure to rub it into their skin to ensure full coverage.
The original, totally invisible, weightless, scentless sunscreen with SPF 40 that leaves a velvety finish.
Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40: The original, totally invisible, weightless, scentless sunscreen with SPF 40 that leaves a velvety finish. $20-$36
Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen, SPF 50: This mineral sunscreen is water resistant for 80 minutes. It’s also free of fragrances, parabens, dyes, and phthalate, earning the NEA Seal of Acceptance. No need to worry about stinging the skin with this one! $9.97
Baby Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion: Formulated with protective zinc oxide, as well as hydrating shea butter and coconut oil, it’s applies like a dream on delicate baby skin, covers well, and doesn’t get too sticky. It’s also vegan and cruelty-free. $13.99
BLUE LIZARD Baby Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide, SPF 50+: Free of potentially irritating parabens and fragrances. Its water resistant for 80 minutes, plus the bottle turns pink when harmful UV rays are present, so you have a nice reminder to apply more, get the kids under the beach umbrella, or consider a lunch break inside. $26.22
Dermatologists recommend using a more sensitive sunscreen on your face than on your body because the skin on your face is more sensitive to the oils in most body sunscreens. Also - dermatologist recommend applying sunscreen to your face every day, so you may want to add one of these to your morning routine.
Oil-free EltaMD UV Clear facial sunscreen is recommended by dermatologists as it helps calm and protect sensitive skin types.
EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 for Sensitive or Acne-Prone Skin: Great for those with oily or acne-prone skin, as it contains lactic acid, niacinamide, vitamin E, and more to keep skin woes at bay.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50: This is a drugstore favorite and is a lightweight sunscreen that offers tinted mineral protection. It also serves a a perfect base for makeup.
SPF 50 Sunscreen Oil Control Skin Tone Brighten Waterproof Sweat-Proof Face Sunscreen: A bestseller for good reason, this sunscreen goes on so light and clear, you’ll forget you’re wearing it. And did we mention, it’s sweat-proof? $8.35
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Face Sunscreen Lotion with Zinc Oxide – SPF 50: Awarded the Skin Cancer Foundation Daily Use Seal of Approval, this mineral sunscreen forms a protective barrier on the skin to help reflect UVA and UVB rays. $13.99
Sports sunscreens are going to provide the best coverage for a day on the water or spending time outdoors simply because they’re formulated to be more water-resistant. This means they will stay on better if you’re sweating or swimming.
Whatever outdoor activity you’re passionate about, Coppertone SPORT Continuous Sunscreen Spray is on your team.
Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Spray SPF 50, Twin Pack: Designed to stay on strong when you sweat, this high-performance sunscreen protects you from the sun with a durable and water-resistant formula that leaves a light, breathable feeling on your skin. $12.97
Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen Lotion with SPF 50: Ideal for active families, this beach-strength sunscreen lotion is clinically proven to help defend against the signs of sun damage and may decrease the risk of skin cancer caused by the sun when used as directed. $8.97
All Good Sport Sunscreen Lotion Water Resistant - SPF 30: All Good Sport Sunscreen Lotion’s award-winning formula is lightweight, non-greasy, and is made with certified organic ingredients. $13.99
EltaMD UV Sport Broad Spectrum SPF 50: UV Sport full-body sunscreen is great for use while enjoying all outdoor activities. This mineral-based sunscreen is water-resistant so it won’t rinse off in water or drip into your eyes and sting when you sweat. $28
Ashley Dill covers the online shopping industry, writing about commerce. She can be reached at adill@pennlive.com.
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