9 Best Body Sunscreens In 2024, Tested By Beauty Experts
Our dermatologists recommend formulas from La Roche-Posay and EltaMD.
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We've waxed poetic about the fact that body and face sunscreens are essentials in your everyday beauty routine. But that doesn’t mean you want to slather on goopy, greasy formulas that are all but certain to leave you looking ghostly. And, the good news? You don’t have to. Today, there are so many new sunscreens out there that can shield you from the sun’s harmful UV rays and still feel a little more like your favorite skincare products.
With choices like the best spray sunscreen and just plain ole mineral sunscreens, our dermatologist-tested list of the best body sunscreens is full of great options for everyone, as most won't break the bank and many have been tested by both skincare experts, beauty editors, and product testers.
Best Body Sunscreen
What to consider
When you're browsing all of the options out there, medical experts say to keep the following in mind:
Broad-spectrum protection
You want both protection from UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays, says cosmetic physician Dr. Vivian Chin, MD. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends an SPF of 30 or higher, and Dr. Chin echoes that, "I highly recommend minimum SPF 30 or higher, because SPF 30 blocks approximately 97 percent of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about percent."
Type
There are two main types of sunscreen: mineral (or physical) and chemical. If you have sensitive skin, Dr. Chin recommends the former, which are powered by zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. "They are less likely to irritate sensitive skin, since they work by reflecting UV rays," she says, adding that they're also immediately effective upon application.
Water-resistance
No sunscreen is “waterproof” or “sweatproof,” but some are water-resistant. Check the label for these details, and note that most products are water-resistant for up to 40 minutes or up to 80 minutes.
How we chose
Women’s Health editors, including contributor Brigitt Earley, researched and tested the bestselling, top-rated body sunscreens, evaluating factors like type, ingredients, SPF, and water-resistance. Our team also consulted a wide range of dermatologists and physicians for their top picks as well as a group of anonymous product testers. Read on for our expert-approved list of the best body sunscreen, tested by experts, Women's Health editors, and real people.
Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.
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