Lifestyle
Best New Summer Sunscreens from Sephora: Editor Reviews
aask a dermatologist and they’ll tell you: the best SPF is one you can use want to to use every day. The problem is that the SPF category has been chronically delayed in bringing sunscreens to market that are actually comfortable to wear. Like most people, I’ve come across a lot of pasty, white formulas that have made sun protection far from fun.
However, as a beauty editor with 10 years of experience covering skincare trends, I’ve spent a lot of time year talk to dermatologists about sun protection. I know better than skipping sunscreen. “Sunscreen reduces your overall UV exposure and lowers your risk of skin cancer and sun damage,” says Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “Regular daily use of sunscreen SPF 15 (30 is even better) can reduce the risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma by about 40 percent and lower the risk of melanoma by 50 percent. It also helps prevent premature skin aging caused by the sun, including wrinkles, sagging and age spots.”
According to Dr. King, wearing SPF makes the most dramatic difference in how our skin ages over time.
According to Dr. King, wearing SPF makes the most dramatic difference in how our skin ages over time. “Sunscreen is important every day and that includes reapplying every two hours and after swimming or sweating,” she says.
Fortunately, there are brands (such as the summer sunscreens from Sephora listed below) have been working hard lately to make SPF wearable, sexy, and effective, and these days it feels like there are more good options than none. My skincare routine has evolved so much that applying sunscreen is no longer a chore, but a seamless part of my day. I’ve put together an ‘SPF wardrobe’, similar to a collection of basic clothing items. These formulas can stand alone for work or pleasure, but also pair well with other elements of my life, like makeup, physical activity, and even cuddling with my baby.
I recently added nine new summer sunscreens from Sephora for my SPF wardrobe, each serving a unique but essential purpose. Ahead, I’ll dive into my absolute favorites for your pre-summer sun protection needs.
Buy summer sunscreen from Sephora
Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 – $32.00
Many brands that promise clear sunscreen don’t deliver Real mean it, but not Shiseido. This stick is 100 percent transparent and feels like silk when applied to the skin. I discovered this formula a few months ago on holiday and used it on a stump. It’s a great formula to wear on your face, but I also like to keep it in my bag as the weather warms up so I can reapply it to exposed areas (like my arms and chest) when I’m wearing short sleeves or tank tops .
Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40 Sunscreen with Hyaluronic Acid + Niacinamide – $38.00
Supergoop revolutionized the industry with its effective formulas that made wearing sunscreen fun, and the brand continues to innovate. I’ve been a regular devotee since the launch of Glowscreen (the pearlescent SPF formula that gives you that lit-from-within vibe). Since then, Supergoop has released several shades of the formula, and Golden Hour is mine perfect agreement. The glowing liquid is tinged brown and in winter it looks like I’ve been on a tropical vacation for a few days. In the warmer months it goes well with a natural tan.
Even if I don’t go out, I love slathering this on on days when my skin feels dull and needs a boost. I also like to use it as a base for dewy makeup (or just add some liquid blush on top, to be honest).
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Balm Sunscreen SPF 45 — $30.00
Another great, clear option that still hasn’t let me down is this balm stick from Glow Recipe. Yes, it is transparent, and yes, it contains the hyaluronic acid and watermelon extract that I Love from the brand’s Watermelon Glow range. But what I love most about this one is that it also contains niacinamide, an ingredient I’m looking for to help with my hyperpigmentation. I’ve been using it for a few weeks now and I’m curious to see how daily use will help (and protect) my skin this summer.
Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Mineral Milk Sunscreen SPF 30 – $36.00
This Summer Fridays formula feels like an expensive silk scarf on your face. It’s lightweight, like a serum, and contains squalene, one of my favorite ingredients for hydration. I use the two-finger rule and the nozzle applicator makes it easy to measure. Once applied, my face becomes soft and visibly plumper, making reapplication every few hours feel like a luxury.
Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance™ SPF 50 Body Spray Sunscreen with Niacinamide — $36.00
Normally I love a sunscreen that mentally transports me to the tropics, and this one does that And some. The Rio Radiance mist combines the beachy aroma of Sol de Janeiro’s Cheirosa 87 scent (one of my favorites) with SPF 50 sun protection, so you don’t have to skimp on a long-lasting scent while protecting your skin. In addition to the wonderful scent, it also leaves a beautiful shine that does not feel sticky or greasy. I’m using this for tank top season, but I’m packing an extra bottle for my upcoming summer vacation.
Sephora Collection Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 – $20.00
Finding a mineral formula that doesn’t pill or feel dry (not to mention one that doesn’t leave me looking ashy) has been a challenge. This one does none of the above and Actually rubs clear into my mid-depth skin. It contains zinc oxide, which creates a physical shield that protects the skin and leaves me feeling hydrated but not greasy or sticky. “Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide are less likely to irritate sensitive skin and there are fewer concerns about absorption and safety,” says Dr. King. Plus, pilling is never a problem when I put makeup on top.
Innisfree Daily UV Defense Invisible Broad Spectrum SPF 36 Sunscreen – $18.00
When you think of wardrobe essentials, the first things that come to mind are plain white T-shirts, flattering denim and a cute blazer. You know, the basics. This formula is all that, but for your face.
As you know, sunscreen should be applied daily. So when I’m looking for a formula to fit into my daily routine, I go for one that hydrates and feels like skincare. This one is so hydrating it feels like a drink of water on my face. It’s formulated with green tea extract and sunflower oil to soothe and plump dry skin (like mine) but doesn’t feel too matte. It also doesn’t leave a white cast, which is super important to me.
