Summer Health Features


Best and Worst Sunscreens

By TOTAL BEAUTY
We all know it: Sunscreen is a must. Fun? Nah. But with these reader-approved products, maybe it won't seem like such a chore.

We need an SPF "of at least 15 daily," says Heidi Waldorf, M.D., of Waldorf Dermatology & Laser Associates in Nanuet, NY. Going to the beach? You need "a higher SPF (30 or above), and a water-resistant formula," she says -- preferably one containing titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, avobenzone, or mexoryl.

Make sure you apply enough, too. The average adult needs "a shot glass full of sunscreen" reapplied every hour or two you're outdoors.

The Worst: No. 4: Eminence Sun Defense Minerals, $58 Avg. rating: 6

Why: This powder sunscreen caused one reader to "breakout with all these whiteheads everywhere." Others complain that it "is too orange" and "the brush bristles break off and shed" onto their faces.

The Worst: No. 3: Philosophy A Pigment Of Your Imagination SPF 18, $30 Avg. rating: 5.5

Why: Although this claims to fade sun spots, readers say "I didn't really notice any kind of difference in my skin." They also didn't like the "thick and sticky" formula and hue, which "turns my skin yellowish and made me look like I was sick," one reader says.

The Worst: No. 2:Banana Boat UltraMist Sport SPF 15 Continuous Clear Spray, $10 Avg. rating: 5.3

Why: The biggest complaint: the spray "does not go on evenly." One reader says, "A bunch of us used this while on vacation at the beach, and we all burned in splotches and streaks."

The Worst: No. 1:DDF DAILY MATTE SPF 15, $40 Avg. rating: 3.8

Why: Instead of the "flawless finish" the product claims, readers said it "seemed to clump." It also did "not help to control oil" and gave one reader an "ashy, sickly look." Others complained of increased breakouts.

The Best: No. 6:Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion, $12 Avg. rating: 9.3

Why: This sunscreen has added protection against insects, without DEET. Readers say "it worked great at preventing bug bites" and they "could definitely see the difference between the protected and unprotected areas of skin." They say it's "one of the best all-around products on the market."

The Best: No. 5: Clinique Super City Block Oil-Free Daily Face Protector SPF 40, $16.50 Avg. rating: 9.3

Why: Readers say this is the "best sunscreen to use under makeup by far." "It works great alone or as a base under makeup" and it "stays put and protects no matter what I'm doing!" readers say. They also like "that it's oil-free and doesn't clog" pores. It also gives one reader "a healthy protective glow."

The Best: No. 4: Obagi Nu-Derm Healthy Skin Protection SPF 35, $37.60 Avg. rating: 9.5

Why: Even though this has a high SPF, readers say they "actually forget that I'm wearing [it]" since their "skin is just smooth and wonderful." "It fully protected my skin from sun and I never have breakouts!" one reader says. It also "lasts a super-duper long time" and "works well as a moisturizer before applying your makeup."

The Best: No. 3: DDF Enhancing Sun Protection SPF 30, $32 Avg. rating: 9.8

Why: One reader sums it up: "Goes on easily, lasts all day, doesn't get shiny, evens skin tone … while letting your skin come through." Others say they like "that it does not [have] that sunscreen smell" and that the "bottle lasts a good six months."

The Best: No. 2: Jan Marini Skin Research Antioxidant Daily Face Protectant, $48 Avg. rating: 9.8

Why: Readers love the "sponges" in the formula "that absorb oil." They also appreciate "the texture and performance" and that it works well for even "very sensitive skin" without causing breakouts. "If I could only have one product on a desert island this would be it!" one reader says.

The Best: No. 1: ZO Skin Health Oclipse Sunscreen + Primer SPF 30, $85 Avg. rating: 9.9

Why: This sunscreen has titanium dioxide and zinc oxide and readers say "it is the best sweat-proof sunscreen" they've ever used. Also, since it can act as a primer and has a slight tint, "it has replaced my sunscreen, my primer and my tinted-moisturizer!" one reader says. "It gives me great sun protection, is not at all greasy and evens my skin tone as well."

Wait! There are 19 more top-rated sunblocks here.

Diet Dangers

fork, cup, butter knife

Are you in the diet danger zone? See all the warning signs.

    What Are You Eating?

    label

    Do you really want to put that in your body? Take a closer look at what you're choosing to eat.

      Celebrity Diet Tricks

      Penelope CruzGetty Images

      Get the inside scoop on how your favorite leading ladies get those hot Hollywood bodies.

        Your Best Body Now

        woman on computer

        Keep up with the latest diet and health trends with AOL Health's weekly newsletter.

          Bookmark