The best sunscreen for summer
- Anjana Rajbhandary
- Aug 20
- 4 min read
Sunscreen for summer
Finding the best sunscreen for summer is about more than avoiding sunburn—it’s about protecting your skin from long-term damage. Sunscreen, also known as sunblock, is a lotion, gel or spray that protects skin from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Some people think that sunscreen is only for those who burn easily. But the truth is, everyone should wear sunscreen every day.
Too much exposure to UV rays can cause sunburn, which can lead to skin cancer. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. and is very preventable. So whether you burn, tan or your skin seems unaffected by the sun, you still need to wear sunscreen.
What are UV rays?
UV rays are electromagnetic radiation rays that come from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Sunlight has three types of UV rays:
UVA rays: These rays transmit through the atmosphere and have the longest wavelength. UVA rays penetrate the middle layer of your skin (the dermis) and cause skin damage.
UVB rays: These have a shorter wavelength, and though the earth's ozone layer absorbs most of these rays, some can still reach the outer layer of your skin (the epidermis) to cause burns.
UVC rays: These rays have the shortest wavelength, and the ozone layer absorbs all of them. These rays do not affect the skin.
How does sunscreen protect your skin?
Sunscreen should be an essential aspect of your skincare regimen. It’s a good idea to integrate this into your daily routine since it protects your skin in a few different ways. Here’s how sunscreen protects your skin:
It reduces the risk of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and lowers your chances of developing melanoma. SCC is a form of skin cancer characterized by abnormal and accelerated growth of cells. Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that starts at the top layer of your skin and, if not treated early, can spread to your organs.
It helps prevent wrinkles, collagen breakdown and hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure.
Sunscreen protects you if you have any dermatology concerns or take medications that make your skin more sensitive to the sun (photosensitivity).
It reduces your chance of skin damage on cloudy days. About 80% of the sun's UV rays still reach the earth on a cloudy day, so it's important to use sunscreen even if the sun is not out.
What is SPF?
SPF stands for sun protection factor. SPF measures how much your sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays. When you buy sunscreen, make sure to find a broad-spectrum sunscreen since this will also protect you from UVA rays. Dermatologists recommend using SPF15 sunscreen or higher for daily protection and suggest you reapply every two hours.
Types of sunscreen
There are a few different kinds of sunscreen available. Some may work better than others, depending on your needs and skin type.
Physical sunscreen, or sunblock, uses various ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. These block and reflect UV rays before they penetrate your skin. They stay on your skin for as long as possible to protect the skin from damage.
Chemical sunscreen uses ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, homosalate and octinoxate. These ingredients absorb UV rays before they damage your skin. Pregnant and nursing women should not use chemical sunscreen.
How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Summer
If you’re searching for the best sunscreen for summer, these dermatologist-recommended options will keep your skin safe and glowing.
Supergoop! Daily Dose Bioretinol + Mineral SPF 40 This two-in-one mix of SPF 40 and bakuchiol improves skin quality while protecting it from UV rays and blue light from computer screens. It helps brighten skin and smooth wrinkles.
This 2-in-1 sunscreen works as both a primer and a sunscreen that hydrates while protecting against UV rays and blue light. It works on all skin tones.
This oil-free tinted sunscreen protects, smooths and evens skin tone. You can even use it as a primer under your makeup for a flawless finish.
This glowy sunscreen gives you protection and luminance so you won't even need makeup. Perfect for anyone who likes looking radiant.
This untinted sunscreen works for all skin tones and helps protect against UV rays, environmental stressors, blue light, prevents photoaging and moisture loss, primes your skin for makeup, and gives you a luminous glow.
Murad Oil and Pore Control Mattifier Broad Spectrum SPF 45 This lightweight SPF moisturizer works to minimize pores and provides 10 hours of oil control. It keeps your skin looking matte and smooth while still providing hydration.
This SPF enhanced skin tint gives you a healthy glow and protects your skin. It is available in three universal shades and keeps your skin hydrated.
This lightweight sunscreen has no white cast and an invisible finish on all skin tones. It is hydrating and have over 7,000 reviews on Amazon.
Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30 In addition to protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, this uses matcha and sage to keep your skin smooth and hydrated.
Kinship Self Reflect Probiotic Sunscreen SPF 32 This sheer moisturizing sunscreen is perfect for all skin types, including sensitive and those with eczema. It also protects your skin from blue-light damage.
Sun Bum Face Lotion SPF 50 Sun Bum's oil-free sunscreen meets the Skin Cancer Foundation's strict standards, so your skin stays protected and soft.
This all mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide protects without irritation and has a light tint to even out your skin tone.
No matter your skin type, the best sunscreen for summer is the one you’ll use every day.
*This article was originally published on Best Reviews in 2021 and some products updated in August 2025.
Comments