The key to protecting your skin consistently is making sun protection a seamless part of everyday life. That means finding products you actually enjoy using—and applying them generously, every day. Below is a curated guide to building a complete sun protection toolkit, from daily SPF to water-resistant formulas and beyond.
A note on product selection: the best sunscreen is the one you'll use regularly. Choose formulas that suit your skin type and lifestyle, and apply liberally—this is not the time to conserve product.
Daily Sunscreens
Physical + Chemical Formulas
These hybrid formulas offer broad-spectrum protection and tend to be well-tolerated across a range of skin types.
- EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 — A moisturizing daily formula ideal for normal to dry skin.
- EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 — Formulated with niacinamide; a top pick for acne-prone and rosacea-prone skin.
- Revision Intellishade Original SPF 45 — A tinted moisturizer with SPF that simplifies your morning routine.
- Revision Intellishade Matte SPF 45 — The same broad-spectrum coverage with a shine-free finish, ideal for oily or combination skin.
Physical (Mineral) Only Formulas
Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide to physically block UV rays—a great option for sensitive skin or those who prefer to avoid chemical filters.
- Revision Intellishade TruPhysical SPF 45 — A tinted, 100% mineral formula with a skin-perfecting finish.
- Colorescience Sunforgettable Mineral Brush SPF 50 — A portable brush-on powder for easy reapplication throughout the day.
Water-Resistant Sunscreens
For outdoor activities, swimming, or any day you expect to sweat, reach for a water-resistant formula and reapply every 80 minutes or after toweling off.
Physical + Chemical
- EltaMD UV Sport SPF 50 — Designed for active use; water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- EltaMD UV AOX Mist SPF 40 — An antioxidant-infused mist for convenient, on-the-go reapplication throughout the day.
Physical (Mineral) Only
- Colorescience Total Protection Face Shield Glow SPF 50 — A water-resistant mineral formula with a luminous finish.
- EltaMD UV Active SPF 50 — Lightweight and water-resistant; ideal for outdoor sports and activities.
Sun Protection from the Inside Out
Topical sunscreen is essential, but oral photoprotection can offer an additional layer of defense—particularly on high-exposure days.
Heliocare Advanced is derived from Polypodium leucotomos, a Central and South American fern with potent antioxidant properties that help the skin resist UV-induced damage. It's best used as a complement to—not a replacement for—topical SPF.
Heliocare Advanced is particularly recommended for those with a history of actinic keratoses or nonmelanoma skin cancers, as it contains vitamin B3 (niacinamide), which has been shown to help reduce the risk of additional precancers and skin cancers over time. Studied in adults 18 and older.
Sun-Protective Clothing & Accessories
On high-exposure days, clothing is your most reliable form of sun protection. Look for garments labeled with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating—the higher the number, the more UV radiation the fabric blocks. Long-sleeved swimwear, rash guards, and wide-brimmed hats with UPF ratings are especially useful for extended time outdoors.
Popular UPF clothing brands include Coolibar, Cabana Life, Mott50, UV Skinz, and Bloq UV, among others. Many mainstream retailers now carry UPF-rated options as well.
The Bottom Line
Sun protection doesn't have to be complicated—it just has to be consistent. Find the formulas that work for your skin and your lifestyle, apply them every morning, and reapply when you're spending time outdoors. Your skin will thank you for it.
Have questions about which sunscreen is right for you? Browse our full sun protection collection or reach out—we're happy to help.
