What To Look For
When shopping for the best sunscreens, consider several factors: the level of sun protection offered, the sunscreen's base and the scent of the product. The best sunscreens will offer you with enough protection to last for several hours; this is marked by the sun protection factor (SPF) rating. However, some sunscreens with the same SPF level protect differently. For example, Consumer Reports found that Up & Up Sport Continuous sunscreen protects significantly better than other sunscreens at the same SPF level.
In addition, consider the sunscreen's base. Sunscreens should not be oil-based, and should be lightweight enough not to clog your pores while still providing you with sun protection. Finally, smell the sunscreen before purchasing it. After all, you will be wearing it for at least several hours, and you should make sure you don't have a bad reaction to the scent.
Common Pitfalls
Don't assume that pricier sunscreens provide better sun protection. In fact, Consumer Reports found that the priciest sunscreen they tested, La Roche-Posay Anthelios 40 with Mexoryl SX, actually worked less well than the majority of the other products from stores like Target and Walgreens.
In addition, when considering the cost of the product, also consider how big the container is. You will have to reapply sunscreen once every few hours for it to be effective, and a sunscreen is only a bargain if you don't have to buy two tubes of it to get the coverage you need.
Where To Buy
You can find the best sunscreens at national chain stores, such as Target and Walgreens. These stores offer a variety of products, many of them among the best sunscreens, at steep discounts from designer products. They also have reliable websites where you can purchase these products, if there is no store near your home.
Cost
The best sunscreens are not necessarily the priciest. In fact, you should be able to find the best sunscreens for under $10 a bottle. Plan on spending between $5 and $10 to purchase a good sunscreen at your local store.
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