best sunscreen lotions in 2024

by | Feb 6, 2024 | reviews

Hello friends! Vlad and Olga here, bringing you our carefully curated picks for the best sunscreen lotions of 2024. Designed for those who love the great outdoors as much as we do, our guide aims to arm you with information to choose your ideal sun protection.

Discover the Best Sunscreen Lotions in 2024

🏆 Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion

Ideal for beach vacations, swimming, running, and other outdoor activities Supergoop! PLAY Lotion is a broad-spectrum body and face sunscreen designed for sensitive skin. Sunscreen boasts a refreshing rosemary scent formulated to be hydrating and nourishing.

Supergoop body sunscreen

Rating: 4.7 full-star goldenfull-star goldenfull-star goldenfull-star goldenhalf-star-golden based on 7,800 reviews

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Key Features:

  • Broad Spectrum SPF 50: Offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
  • Water and Sweat Resistant: Effective for up to 80 minutes in water.
  • Application: Suitable for face and body, non-greasy, and leaves no white cast.

Experience the Difference:

The product offers good value, especially in larger sizes. The per-ounce price decreases significantly from the smallest to the largest size. In addition, it`s suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Why It’s a Top Pick:

  • Texture and Scent: Users appreciate the lightweight, non-greasy texture and the subtle rosemary scent.
  • Effectiveness: It provides reliable sun protection, even during extended outdoor activities, and doesn’t cause skin irritation or breakouts.
  • Ease of Use: The pump dispenser (in larger sizes) is convenient for quick application.

Customer Insights:

  • Customers rave about its effectiveness in preventing sunburns, even during intense outdoor activities. It’s also praised for not staining clothes and not irritating eyes.
  • Some users find it a bit pricey, and the cap design on the larger bottles can be improved for better functionality.

The quality of protection and skin benefits justify the investment, especially for those outdoors.

Psssttt! Here is another cool guide about four alternatives to the best body sunscreen.


🏆 Sun Bum Original Sunscreen Lotion

Sun Bum Sunscreen Lotion is a highly effective and environmentally conscious choice for sun protection. Its popularity is backed by its performance in intense sun conditions, suitability for sensitive skin, and eco-friendly formulation. Suitability for various family members, from kids to adults, due to its gentle formulation makes it outstanding.

Sun Bum 30 non toxic sunscreen

Rating: 4.8 full-star goldenfull-star goldenfull-star goldenfull-star goldenhalf-star-golden based on 24,800 reviews

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Key Features:

  • SPF Levels: SPF 30, 50, and 70 for diverse sun protection needs.
  • Size Variants: Offered in 3 Fl Oz and 8 Fl Oz packs.
  • Composition: Enriched with Vitamin E, free from Oxybenzone and Octinoxate.

Experience the Difference:

Enjoy the pleasant, summer-like aroma of sunscreen. The lotion is notably compliant with the Hawaii 104 Reef Act, ensuring it’s free from chemicals harmful to marine life, like Octinoxate and Oxybenzone.

Usage & Benefits:

  • Application: Recommended to apply 15 minutes before sun exposure, reapplying after 80 minutes of swimming/sweating or every 2 hours.
  • Benefits: It provides effective UVA/UVB protection, is water-resistant, and is suitable for all skin types. It’s also environmentally friendly, being reef-safe and cruelty-free.

Customer Insights:

  • Praise its effectiveness in preventing sunburn, especially in intense sun exposure conditions. It’s appreciated for not causing skin irritation and being environmentally safe.
  • Some users reported breakouts when applied on the face, suggesting it might be better suited for body use.

Its overall effectiveness and pleasant scent make an excellent choice for outdoor activities and picnics, aligning well with our mission to enhance outdoor experiences.

Explore these four alternatives to the best non-toxic sunscreens for diverse options. Clean manufacture – clean nature.


🏆 Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion

Shiseido Sun Protector Lotion SPF 50+ is a product that offers sun protection and a pleasant skincare experience for those who enjoy the great outdoors, whether it’s a lovely picnic or a day at the beach.

Shiseido sun protector for face

Rating: 4.6 full-star goldenfull-star goldenfull-star goldenfull-star goldenhalf-star-golden based on 1,400 reviews

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The fact that it can be used over makeup is a bonus, especially for those who want to look their best at outdoor events.

Why Shiseido Sun Lotion Is a Great Face Sunscreen:

  • Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ Protection: This high SPF rating ensures comprehensive protection against UVA and UVB rays, essential for prolonged sun exposure.
  • Lightweight Formula: Designed to be invisible and non-greasy, it’s suitable for both face and body, making it versatile for all-day use.
  • Reef-Friendly: It complies with Hawaii regulations and is free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, making it an environmentally conscious choice.

Whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin, this lotion is formulated to be compatible. In addition, besides sun protection, it also guards against pollutants and dryness, providing an extra layer of skincare.

Customer Insights:

Customers consistently appreciate its non-sticky, absorbable nature and effectiveness without leaving a white cast. Those particularly favor it with oily skin for its non-greasy finish. Some users found the product to be a bit too liquidy, though this can be resolved by shaking the bottle as advised.

And if you need more alternatives to the best facial sunscreen, you can find them here. Maybe there is perfect fit for you!


🏆 La Roche-Posay Sunscreen Lotion

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen Lotion SPF 100 is a top-tier sunscreen for those needing strong sun protection, particularly for sensitive skin.

La Roche Posay best sunscreen lotions 2024

Rating: 4.7 full-star goldenfull-star goldenfull-star goldenfull-star goldenhalf-star-golden based on 8,200 reviews

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Its unique formula, combining high SPF with a melt-in texture, makes it a favorite among users for daily use and intense sun exposure.

Why Reef Is Ideal for Your Outdoor Adventures:

  • High SPF 100 for maximum sun protection.
  • Suitable for kids and adults and particularly beneficial for sun-sensitive skin.
  • Dermatologists recommended ensuring product safety and effectiveness with a melt-in formula for easy application.

Priced competitively in the high SPF sunscreen category, offering good value for its quality and efficacy.

Customer Insights:

Many users appreciate its high SPF level, ease of absorption, and suitability for sensitive skin. The lack of white residue and non-greasy feel are frequently mentioned benefits. A few users have noted it can sometimes ball up when used with other skincare products, suggesting a need for compatibility testing with existing routines.


⭐ Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion is suitable for sensitive skin, and its non-comedogenic properties make it a safe option for daily use. The affordable pricing and travel-friendly size add to its appeal, making it a top choice for everyday protection and specific outdoor activities.

body sunscreen for a picnic

Rating: 4.6 full-star goldenfull-star goldenfull-star goldenfull-star goldenhalf-star-golden based on 22,300 reviews

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This sunscreen is more than just a shield against the sun’s rays; it’s a nourishing treat for your skin, thanks to its prebiotic oat formula. It’s the perfect companion for those who love to bask in the sun and cherish their skin’s health and vitality.

Why Neutrogena Is Ideal for Your Outdoor Adventures:

  • Broad Spectrum SPF 70: Provides strong protection against sun damage.
  • Water Resistant: Effective for up to 80 minutes in water.
  • PABA-free and Non-comedogenic: Safe for sensitive skin and won’t clog pores.

Excellent choice for those seeking high-level sun protection without the heavy, greasy feel often associated with sunscreens. Moreover, it’s suitable for both face and body applications.

Customer Insights:

Users appreciate its quick-absorbing nature and non-greasy touch. The product goes on thick but dries quickly to a touchable finish. Offers strong sunburn protection, even in intense sun exposure situations like beaches and outdoor work environments. Highly favored by users with sensitive skin, as it doesn’t cause breakouts or irritation.


Sunscreen lotions: What You Need to Know

What is a Sunscreen Lotion?

A sunscreen lotion is a topical product applied to the skin to protect it from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Sunscreen lotions come in various Sun Protection Factor (SPF) levels, offering different degrees of protection, and can be formulated to be water-resistant, suitable for sensitive skin, or non-greasy. They are used for daily skin care routines and specific outdoor activities to protect the skin from UV exposure.

Sunblock vs. Sunscreen: What’s the Difference?

Sunblock physically blocks UV rays using ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, acting as a barrier on the skin’s surface. Sunscreen, however, absorbs into the skin and then absorbs UV rays, converting them into heat and releasing them from the body.

Why Use Sunscreen Lotion?

It shields the skin from premature aging, such as wrinkles and sunspots, caused by UV exposure. By forming a protective barrier, sunscreen lotion helps maintain overall skin health and appearance, making it a vital part of your skincare routine, especially outdoors.

What is the Best Brand of Sunscreen Lotion?

As of 2024, Supergoop, Sun Bum, Shiseido, La Roche-Posay, and Neutrogena are the best sunscreen brands. Each offers unique benefits tailored to different skin types and preferences.

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen

Choosing the right sunscreen lotion involves considering several factors:

  • SPF Level: Opt for a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 for adequate protection, higher if you spend extended time outdoors.
  • Broad Spectrum: Ensure it offers broad-spectrum protection, guarding against UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
  • Water Resistance: For swimming or sweating, choose a water-resistant formula.
  • Skin Type: Select a sunscreen suitable for your skin type – non-comedogenic for oily or acne-prone skin, hypoallergenic and fragrance-free for sensitive skin.
  • Application Preference: Decide between lotion, spray, or stick based on ease of application and the area of coverage needed.

Application Tips for Maximum Protection

  • Apply sunscreen generously 15 minutes before going outdoors.
  • Cover all exposed skin, and don’t forget often-missed spots like the tops of your feet, neck, and ears.
  • Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours or more if swimming or sweating.

Is it Okay to put Sunscreen on Every Day?

Absolutely! Daily sunscreen is recommended to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, which can cause skin damage even on cloudy days or through windows.

Which Sunscreen is Better: SPF 30 or 50?

Both SPF 30 and SPF 50 offer significant protection, but SPF 50 blocks slightly more UVB rays. The choice depends on your skin type, the duration you’ll be in the sun, and the intensity of the sun exposure.

We understand the importance of staying protected while enjoying sunny days. With these top sunscreen picks available today. You can confidently step into the sunshine, knowing you’re taking the best care of your skin. So, embrace the sun, soak in the joy of outdoor adventures, and keep your skin healthy and radiant!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you.

Olga and Vlad Picnic Makers

Vlad and Olga

Hello, beautiful souls! 🌸 We’re Vlad and Olga, the storytellers behind each journey. Join us on this adventure as we share tales of joy, celebration, and a life well-lived. Thanks for being part of our magical story! 🌟

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