From contouring creams to toning moisturizers, there’s no shortage of products that promise to nourish your skin. Despite what cosmetic manufacturers want you to believe, though, you don’t have to apply half a dozen topical ointments to achieve a truly radiant glow. In fact, as long as you lead a healthy lifestyle, all you really need is a good body lotion with SPF.
The right formula will hydrate your skin while blocking harmful UV rays that cause cancer, not to mention fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration. To help you find the perfect product for your skin type and lifestyle, we’ve compiled a list of the best body lotions with SPF that are on the market today.
- What Should You Consider Before Buying a Body Lotion with SPF?
- Top 10 Best Body Lotions with SPF 2024
- 1. Best Overall Lotion: Alba Botanica Very Emollient Daily Shade
- 2. Best Lotion for Dry Skin: Eucerin Daily Hydration Cream
- 3. Best Scented Lotion: Hempz Yuzu & Starfruit Daily Herbal Body Moisturizer
- 4. Best Budget Lotion: Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion
- 5. Best Premium Lotion: Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin Sunscreen
- 6. Best Anti-Aging Lotion: Neutrogena Age Shield Face Oil-Free Sunscreen
- 7. Best Lotion for Active Individuals: Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen Lotion
- 8. Best Lotion for a Sun-Kissed Glow: Coppertone Glow With Shimmer Sunscreen Lotion
- 9. Most Environmentally Friendly Lotion: Alba Botanica Sensitive Sunscreen
- 10. Best Lotion for the Whole Family: Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion With Sunscreen
- Guide to Buying the Best Body Lotion with SPF
- What Is My Skin Type?
- What Ingredients Should I Avoid?
- How Much SPF Do I Need?
- Do You Have to Reapply Body Lotion With SPF for All-Day Protection?
- Do You Have to Reapply Body Lotion After Swimming?
- Does Body Lotion With SPF Expire?
- Is Body Lotion With SPF Safe for Babies?
- Are There Any Other SPF Products I Should Wear Daily?
- Nourish & Protect Your Skin
What Should You Consider Before Buying a Body Lotion with SPF?
When choosing a body lotion with sun protection, make sure to consider the following. SPF lotions vary immensely in their formulas, and different skin types, activities, and personal preferences call for different kinds of ingredients. We’ve factored all such variables into our selection process, and we’ve compiled a list of suitable lotions for virtually every combination.
Sun Protection Factor
Lotions with a higher sun protection factor, or SPF, block more UVB rays. Products that are labeled “broad spectrum” also block UVA rays.
Since both UVA and UVB rays are dangerous—the former cause burns, fine lines, and wrinkles, while the latter play a critical role in the development of skin cancer—dermatologists advise everyone to look for a lotion with broad spectrum protection that has an SPF of at least 15. While an SPF lower than 15 will prevent burning, it won’t protect against skin cancer or premature aging.
If you review our guide to SPF, however, you’ll see that most people could benefit from a much higher SPF. Those who spend a lot of time in direct sunlight, for example, need considerably more protection, as do those who have fair skin and are prone to burning.
Skin Type
Different skin types will respond differently to the same body lotions. As such, it’s important to determine whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin before selecting a body lotion with SPF. If you’re unsure of your skin type, we’ve included a simple test for determining it below.
Ingredients
If you have dry skin, you should look for a lotion that contains emollients. These clinically proven moisturizers form an oily layer on top of the skin that traps and holds moisture. Our two most hydrating picks—Eucerin’s Daily Hydration Cream and Aveeno’s Mineral Sunscreen are loaded with emollients.
If you have oily skin, on the other hand, you’ll want to avoid lotions that contain additional oil and will therefore exacerbate the issue. Instead, opt for a non-greasy, non-comedogenic formula that won’t clog pores, like Neutrogena’s Age Shield Face Sunscreen. Although this is marketed as a face lotion, you can apply it to other areas of your body that are prone to breaking out, like your back.
Longevity
When it comes to water resistance, cosmetic manufacturers must toe the line between breathability and longevity. Lotions that can withstand total submersion for hours might feel like shellac when applied. Those that are too lightweight, however, will rinse away at the first sign of a sweat.
If the thought of narrowing down the various body lotions with SPF is overwhelming, never fear! We’ve done our research, and we can say with confidence that you’ll find the perfect product for your needs and budget among those listed here.
Top 10 Best Body Lotions with SPF 2024
1. Best Overall Lotion: Alba Botanica Very Emollient Daily Shade
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- SPF: Broad Spectrum 15
- Skin Type: Universal
- Water Resistant: No
Alba Botanica’s Very Emollient Daily Shade body lotion is our top choice for conscientious consumers with all skin types. Comprised of natural ingredients, its formula is 100% vegetarian and cruelty-free.
Gentle enough for daily use, this lotion can be applied every morning for all-over moisture that soothes and renews. What’s more, its sun protection factor of 15 will block roughly 93% of harmful UVB rays. This provides adequate protection for the average person on the average workday; however, you should consider the chores and errands on your to-do list before applying it in the morning. On days when you’ll be spending a lot of time in direct sunlight, opt for something that’s resistant to sweat and has a higher SPF, like Alba Botanica’s Sensitive Sunscreen.
Ingredients
This lotion’s proprietary blend of botanical emollients, aloe vera, green tea, chamomile, antioxidants, and alpha hydroxy acids replenish the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Your skin will drink up its non-greasy formula, absorbing the rich cream that’s free of parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances in a matter of minutes. Safe for topical application all over your body, its natural scent won’t overpower your perfume or cologne of choice.
Pros
- Paraben and Phthalate Free
- Cruelty Free
- Suitable for All Skin Types
- Non-Greasy Formula
Cons
- Low SPF
- Not Sweat/Water Resistant
2. Best Lotion for Dry Skin: Eucerin Daily Hydration Cream
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- SPF: Broad Spectrum 30
- Skin Type: Dry
- Water Resistant: No
Eucerin’s Daily Hydration Cream will quench your skin while providing broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection all day long. Its luxurious formula can revive even cracked and scaly patches, like those found on the elbows and heels. Since it’s not resistant to sweat or water, though, you should supplement it with a more durable sunscreen like Aveeno’s Mineral Sunscreen for optimal protection when spending the day at the beach, zoo, or water park.
Free of dyes and fragrances, this lotion is ideal for men, women, and children whose skin demands continuous moisture. Those without dry skin, however, may find the formula too thick. If you’re looking for a more versatile body lotion with SPF that’s suitable for the whole family, try Lubriderm’s Daily Moisture Lotion.
Ingredients
Eucerin’s Daily Hydration Cream has a lightweight, non-greasy formula that contains provitamin B5 and sunflower oil, among other nourishing ingredients. Its deeply moisturizing emollients can hydrate even the driest patches of skin, providing both immediate itch relief in the short term and less cracking and scaling in the long term.
Pros
- Gentle Enough for Daily Application on Chronic Dry Skin
- Delivers 24-Hour Hydration After Application
- Free of Dyes & Fragrances
- Non-Greasy Formula
Cons
- Not Sweat/Water Resistant
- Too Thick for Oily & Combination Skin
3. Best Scented Lotion: Hempz Yuzu & Starfruit Daily Herbal Body Moisturizer
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- SPF: Broad Spectrum 30
- Skin Type: Sensitive
- Water Resistant: No
If you often forget to put on lotion when you hop out of shower, make it an indulgent ritual with Hempz Yuzu & Starfruit Daily Herbal Body Moisturizer. Gentle fruit, flower, and herb extracts give this sunscreen lotion its signature unisex fragrance without irritating sensitive skin. And like our best overall pick, Alba Botanica’s Very Emollient Daily Shade body lotion, you can feel good about buying this product because it’s comprised of only vegan ingredients.
If getting your children to wear sunscreen has always been a hassle, this Yuzu & Starfruit lotion may be the answer. Kids love its fun, fruity scent, and they can apply its lightweight, streak-free formula with ease. As such, you can send them out with confidence on days they lotion up.
If your family will be sweating or swimming, though, you’ll want to supplement this moisturizer with a water-resistant sunscreen like Neutrogena’s Beach Defense Sunscreen Lotion. And if you’ll be hiking or camping, layer an unscented moisturizer like Aveeno’s Daily Moisturizing Lotion under the sunscreen instead, as this lotion’s fragrance may attract mosquitoes, bees, or other insects.
Ingredients
Thanks to its pure hemp seed oil base, this lotion—which is free of THC—boasts a number of benefits. The fatty acids in hemp seed oil nourish the skin while preventing inflammation, oxidation, and the earliest signs of aging. This moisturizer is also enriched with shea butter and vitamins A, B, C, and E, all of which promote beautiful, radiant skin.
Pros
- Paraben Free
- 100% Vegan
- Gentle Enough for Daily Application on Sensitive Skin
- Lightweight Streak-Free Formula
Cons
- Not Sweat/Water Resistant
- Fruity Fragrance May Attract Insects
4. Best Budget Lotion: Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- SPF: Broad Spectrum 15
- Skin Type: Universal
- Water Resistant: No
Lubriderm’s Daily Moisture Lotion should be a staple in every medicine cabinet across the country. Brought to you by a dermatologist-developed brand, this non-greasy formula is clinically proven to hydrate the skin for 24 hours after application.
Containing broad spectrum SPF 15, this product will protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays as you go about your day. Like most of the items on this list, though, it will wash off in sweat or water.
Ingredients
Enriched with essential moisturizers and gentle ingredients like vitamin B5, this product doesn’t leave a scent that lingers. What’s more, it can be used on your face if you have dry or combination skin. If you have sensitive or oily skin, however, do not apply it above your collarbone as it may cause irritation or breakouts. Instead, try something non-comedogenic, like Neutrogena’s Age Shield Face Sunscreen.
Pros
- Suitable for All Skin Types
- Non-Greasy Formula
- Delivers 24-Hour Hydration After Application
- Dermatologist Developed Brand
- Gentle Enough for Daily Application on Face With Dry to Combination Skin
Cons
- Low SPF
- Not Sweat/Water Resistant
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- SPF: Broad Spectrum 50
- Skin Type: Sensitive
- Water Resistant: Yes
A brand recommended by dermatologists, Aveeno saw the need for a product that could withstand UVA and UVB rays, not to mention sweat and water, while remaining gentle enough for sensitive skin, and they delivered! Although you’ll find it on the costlier end of the spectrum—you might pay as much as $3 or $4 an ounce for a travel size tube—Aveeno’s Positively Mineral Sensitive Sunscreen can’t be beat.
In addition to its soothing formula, this lotion has one of the most powerful sun protection factors on our list. As such, it’s ideal for those who have a higher risk of skin cancer because their skin is on the fairer side. In other words, if you burn easily following sun exposure, it’s worth investing in a product like this over the others on our list.
Despite its clinical properties, this hypoallergenic lotion is as luxurious as any cream or serum you’ll find at high-end department stores. Your skin will soak up its hydrating formula rapidly, becoming soft and supple before your eyes. What’s more, it can be applied to the face to ensure all-over protection. Start with just a pea-sized dab, though, because it goes on thick and demands a lot of rubbing in to ensure even application.
Ingredients
This sheer mineral sunscreen lotion contains everything you need and nothing you don’t. Free of fragrances, dyes, parabens, and phthalates, its formula includes 100% zinc oxide and soothing oat flour. The former sits on top of the skin, keeping irritants out while reinforcing the skin’s natural moisture barrier. The latter penetrates the skin to nourish every layer.
Pros
- Dermatologist Recommended Brand
- Free of Fragrances, Dyes, Parabens, & Phthalates
- Gentle Enough for Daily Application on Sensitive Skin
- Sweat/Water Resistant
Cons
- Relatively Expensive
- Thick Formula Inhibits Even Application
6. Best Anti-Aging Lotion: Neutrogena Age Shield Face Oil-Free Sunscreen
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- SPF: Broad Spectrum 110
- Skin Type: Oily
- Water Resistant: Yes
We thought it important to include a face lotion on this list because the skin on your face absorbs the most UV rays of all. During the colder months, for example, when the rest of your body is covered in layers, your face is still exposed to the elements. With that in mind, we set out to find the best face lotion with SPF that we could—and Neutrogena’s Age Shield Face Oil-Free Sunscreen fit the bill!
Although this non-comedogenic formula was designed with oily skin in mind by the #1 dermatologist-recommended suncare brand, it’s generally suitable for all skin types. Being non-comedogenic simply means it won’t clog pores, even for those who are especially vulnerable to breakouts.
Because the face receives the most sun exposure, this product has the highest SPF on our list. The folks at Neutrogena didn’t just want to stop the clock when formulating this lotion, though; they actually set out to turn back time. In addition to preventing fine lines and wrinkles, the Age Shield Face Oil-Free Sunscreen contains conditioners that penetrate six layers deep to rejuvenate and plump skin at the cellular level. In other words, it can actually reverse some of the earliest signs of ages with diligent application.
This product also happens to be sweat and water resistant. It can withstand roughly 80 minutes of swimming or sweating before it needs to be reapplied. Since such benefits don’t come cheap, though, this happens to be one of the most expensive products on our list.
Ingredients
Free of PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid), which can cause stinging, burning, and irritation, this sunscreen is a must for those with sensitive skin. And since it doesn’t contain any oil, either, it won’t cause breakouts for those who are prone to acne. Instead, its formula contains skin conditioners that deliver anti-aging benefits and advanced helioplex technology, which provides superior UV protection.
If you’ll be swimming, however, it’s best to opt for a different product because one of this lotion’s active ingredients—oxybenzone—threatens sea life.
Pros
- Non-Comedogenic
- High SPF
- Anti-Aging Properties
- PABA Free
- Sweat/Water Resistant
Cons
- Relatively Expensive
- Not Reef-Safe
7. Best Lotion for Active Individuals: Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen Lotion
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- SPF: Broad Spectrum 70
- Skin Type: Universal
- Water Resistant: Yes
Neutrogena’s Beach Defense Sunscreen Lotion can put up with the demands of even the most adventurous outdoorsmen. Like their Age Shield Face Sunscreen, this product uses advanced helioplex technology to ensure superior UV protection.
With the second highest SPF on our list, though, it’s a sunscreen first and a lotion second. That means it doesn’t nourish the skin like the other products here. As such, you may want to apply a primary layer of enriched lotion that will hydrate the skin before applying this.
Formulated with the whole family in mind—everyone needs sun protection, after all—this lotion is lightweight, oil-free, and easy to apply. And since it can withstand up to 80 minutes of sweating or swimming, you won’t have to reapply as often as you would other products to ensure continuous protection. When you finally do have to reapply, its fast-absorbing formula will ensure you can get back to the fun right away.
Ingredients
Because this sunscreen lotion is free of PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid), which can cause irritation, it’s safe for all skin types. It’s not reef-safe, however, as it contains 4% oxybenzone. As such, you should apply Alba Botanica’s Sensitive Sunscreen instead if you’ll be swimming in the ocean.
Pros
- Suitable for All Skin Types
- High SPF
- Dermatologist Recommended Brand
- Oil and PABA Free
- Sweat/Water Resistant
Cons
- Not Reef-Safe
- Minimal Moisturizing Properties
8. Best Lotion for a Sun-Kissed Glow: Coppertone Glow With Shimmer Sunscreen Lotion
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- SPF: Broad Spectrum 30
- Skin Type: Universal
- Water Resistant: Yes
If you’ve always wanted a nice tan without the risks that come with extended sun exposure, you’re in luck. Coppertone’s Glow With Shimmer Sunscreen Lotion will protect your skin from harmful UV rays while also giving you an enviable, sun-kissed glow. Safe for daily use, this silky body lotion with SPF contains shimmer particles that provide a buildable tan.
Its sheer, lightweight formula is easy to apply and remains waterproof for up to 40 minutes. As much a body lotion as a sunscreen, this hydrating product can quench even the driest skin. Watch your skin absorb it in a matter of minutes, and revel in the smooth, silky feeling and natural-looking glow left in its wake. Just keep in mind that the shimmer particles contain pigment, which means they can stain your clothing, sheets, and towels, so let the lotion dry entirely before you get dressed for the day.
Ingredients
Coppertone’s Glow With Shimmer Sunscreen Lotion is safe for all skin types, including those that are sensitive to additives. It’s free of parabens, phthalates, and PABA, or para-aminobenzoic acid, which means it’s unlikely to irritate your skin. It’s also free of oxybenzone, so you can apply it prior to swimming without worrying about harming the sea life around you. It does, however, contain a floral fragrance, which may attract insects.
Pros
- Reef-Safe
- Sweat/Water Resistant
- Free of Parabens, Phthalates, and PABA
- Suitable for All Skin Types
Cons
- Shimmer Particles Can Stain Clothing
- Floral Fragrance May Attract Insects
9. Most Environmentally Friendly Lotion: Alba Botanica Sensitive Sunscreen
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- SPF: Broad Spectrum 50
- Skin Type: Sensitive
- Water Resistant: Yes
If you’re planning a day on the water and your standard body lotion with SPF isn’t up for the job, apply Alba Botanica’s Sensitive Sunscreen instead. Although it’s not a lotion in the traditional sense because it comes in a lightweight, air-powered mist, this product is a must-have for every beach bum.
Produced by the same company as our Best Overall Pick, Alba Botanica’s Very Emollient Daily Shade body lotion, this product is the most environmentally friendly on our list. Not only is it biodegradable and reef-friendly, but it’s not tested on animals. As such, you can feel good about buying it and about applying it before going swimming.
Sweat and water resistant for up to 80 minutes, the misting action makes it easy to reapply as needed. It can, however, feel a bit greasy immediately after applying. And since it’s a sunscreen first and a lotion second, it won’t restore especially dry skin.
Ingredients
Comprised of natural ingredients like chamomile and aloe, this formula is 100% vegetarian. It’s also free of oxybenzone, which means it doesn’t pose a risk to sea life. Designed with both the environment and sensitive skin in mind, its botanical ingredients are safe for all skin types, although those with dry skin may find it lacks the hydration they need.
Pros
- Reef-Safe
- Cruelty Free
- Gentle Enough for Daily Application on Sensitive Skin
- Sweat/Water Resistant
Cons
- Leaves a Greasy Feel Behind
- Minimal Moisturizing Properties
10. Best Lotion for the Whole Family: Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion With Sunscreen
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- SPF: Broad Spectrum 15
- Skin Type: Universal
- Water Resistant: No
While Aveeno’s Daily Moisturizing Lotion With Sunscreen was undoubtedly designed with dry skin in mind, its formula is lightweight and gentle enough for all skin types. Parched skin will drink up this non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula after every shower.
Free of fragrances, this body lotion is the perfect addition to your daily beauty routine if you want to achieve soft, smooth skin while preventing sun damage. Not only is this product clinically proven to replenish the skin’s moisture barrier, but it also comes from a skincare brand that dermatologists have been recommending to patients for more than 65 years.
Although suitable for men, women, and children, those who lead an active, outdoorsy lifestyle should supplement this lotion with a sweat and water-resistant sunscreen like Neutrogena’s Beach Defense Sunscreen Lotion for optimal protection from UVA and UVB rays all day long. It’s also advisable to forego this lotion altogether if you’ll be swimming in a natural body of water because it contains oxybenzone, which threatens sea life.
Ingredients
Rich emollients and soothing oat flour give this body lotion nourishing properties that relieve dryness almost immediately. It does, however, contain parabens.
Pros
- Suitable for All Skin Types
- Non-Greasy Formula
- Fast-Absorbing Formula
- Dermatologist Recommended Brand
Cons
- Low SPF
- Not Sweat/Water Resistant
- Contains Parabens
- Not Reef-Safe
Guide to Buying the Best Body Lotion with SPF
Buying the best body lotion with SPF for your needs—and then applying it diligently—will help you maintain soft, supple skin while also reducing your risk of skin cancer. And doing some research before making your selection will ensure you choose the right one for your skin type and lifestyle. To help you get started, we’ve compiled this list of everything you need to make an informed decision right here.
What Is My Skin Type?
The easiest way to determine your skin type is with blotting papers. After washing your face thoroughly with a gentle cleanser and patting the skin dry, apply a blotting paper to your forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin. Inspect it after you’ve touched each portion of your face.
If the sheet picked up little to no oil anywhere, you have dry skin. If it picked up some oil after touching the forehead and nose, you have normal skin, or what’s often called combination skin. If the blotting paper is saturated, you have oily skin.
Dry Skin
If you don’t have any blotting papers, wash and dry your face, leave it bare, and inspect it closely about 30 minutes later. If your entire face feels tight or parched, you have dry skin and should try something like the Eucerin Daily Hydration Cream.
Oily Skin
If your forehead and nose are shiny, you have combination skin. If your cheeks are also shiny, you have oily skin, and the Neutrogena Age Shield Face Oil-Free Sunscreen would likely be your best bet.
Combination Skin
We made sure to include at least one product for each skin type on this list. We’ve also included a few products that are gentle enough for all skin types. If you want to share the lotion with other members of your household—or you have combination skin—opt for a product that’s classified as “universal,” like Aveeno’s Daily Moisturizing Lotion.
Sensitive Skin
It’s important to note that regardless of whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, you may also have sensitive skin. Sensitive skin is skin that’s prone to irritation and inflammation, especially when exposed to certain cosmetics or environmental factors.
If you have sensitive skin, you’ll likely notice the best results with products that are dermatologist-recommended and contain clinically proven ingredients. For this reason, we’ve included a number of products from dermatologist-developed or approved brands, like Lubriderm’s Daily Moisture Lotion.
What Ingredients Should I Avoid?
Regardless of your skin type, try to avoid lotions that contain parabens, para-aminobenzoic acid, or oxybenzone. Parabens are popular additives that extend the shelf life of cosmetics, but they may have adverse effects on the body—primarily in the endocrine system—in large quantities.
Para-aminobenzoic acid, or PABA, is a UVB filter that can cause stinging, burning, and irritation, especially on sensitive skin. What’s more, it also appears to disrupt the endocrine system.
Oxybenzone, on the other hand, doesn’t appear to be harmful to humans, but it can be toxic to marine life. Research indicates it’s especially dangerous to coral reefs. As such, some of the most popular vacation destinations in the world have banned sunscreens that contain oxybenzone and are therefore “reef-safe.”
How Much SPF Do I Need?
A sun protection factor of 15 is the absolute minimum that dermatologists recommend because it’s the lowest SPF that can prevent skin cancer. The SPFs of the products we’ve chosen range from 15 to 110. Before purchasing one of these lotions, we encourage you to consider your lifestyle.
If you work in an office building, for example, Alba Botanica’s Daily Shade body lotion, which has an SPF of 15, may provide all the protection you need. If, on the other hand, you’re a lifeguard, you’ll want something that’s considerably more powerful, like Neutrogena’s Beach Defense Sunscreen Lotion.
Your pigmentation will also influence the total sun protection factor you need. If you have relatively fair skin, for example, you should look for products with a higher SPF because you have a higher risk of skin cancer. For example, check out Neutrogena’s Age Shield Face Sunscreen, which has an SPF of 110.
While those with darker complexions should still shield their skin from UV rays, they’re not as vulnerable to skin cancer. If you have darker skin, you may get all the protection you need from lotions with lower SPFs, like the Hempz Yuzu & Starfruit Daily Herbal Body Moisturizer, which has an SPF of 30.
Do You Have to Reapply Body Lotion With SPF for All-Day Protection?
If your body lotion is not exposed to water or sweat, it should theoretically last all day. For example, if you apply Lubriderm’s Daily Moisture Lotion in the morning and then head to work, where you sit at a desk in an air-conditioned office, it’s reasonable to assume your skin would still have some level of sun protection when you clocked out at the end of the day.
Do You Have to Reapply Body Lotion After Swimming?
You’ll need to reapply any non-waterproof body lotion after swimming, but while we didn’t prioritize water resistance for every pick on our list—many of these lotions are designed for daily wear, after all, and you generally don’t have to worry about excessive sweating or swimming as you go about your day—we offer a few options for those who lead more active lifestyles.
For example, Neutrogena’s Beach Defense Sunscreen Lotion can withstand about 80 minutes of submersion.
If you’ll be swimming in a natural body of water, opt for one of our reef-safe picks, like Alba Botanica’s Sensitive Sunscreen or Coppertone’s Glow With Shimmer Sunscreen Lotion.
Does Body Lotion With SPF Expire?
It’s important to remember when you actually buy your body lotion because its active ingredients can weaken over time. The Food and Drug Administration requires sunscreen formulas to remain at full strength for at least three years. Beyond that, however, there’s no guarantee that the products you purchased will continue providing the protection they promise.
Since all the products on this list are gentle enough for daily use, you should theoretically use them up before the expiration date has passed. For liberal, all-over coverage when you’re at the beach, experts recommend using about an ounce of sunscreen, which would fill a standard shot glass to the brim. While you won’t need to apply nearly as much when you’re not at the beach, chances you’ll still use up your lotion in a matter of weeks.
Should you purchase different SPF products for different situations, though, you may end up putting some lotions away at the end of the summer. Make sure to review their expiration dates before you do. If it turns out they’ll expire before the following summer, try to use them up instead. If they won’t expire before you need them again, you can ensure their longevity by storing them in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight.
Is Body Lotion With SPF Safe for Babies?
It’s okay to apply SPF products to babies once they reach six months of age. Prior to that, parents should use other means to limit sun exposure, like protective clothing, wide-brim hats, and umbrellas.
If your baby has especially sensitive skin by the time he or she is six months old, ask your pediatrician what kind of SPF products you should use. Otherwise, dermatologists generally recommend formulas that contain zinc oxide, like Aveeno’s Mineral Sunscreen, for babies.
Are There Any Other SPF Products I Should Wear Daily?
Most people are surprised to learn that their skin isn’t the only organ that can develop melanoma. For example, did you know the conjunctiva is also vulnerable to skin cancer? This is the clear, thin membrane that covers part of the front of the eye and the inside of the eyelid. Melanoma can also develop underneath the fingernails and toenails.
As such, applying body lotion with SPF diligently is just one component of preventing skin cancer. You should also don sunglasses that wrap around the sides of your temples whenever you go out during the day. Look for a pair that has a special lens coating that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
As for protecting your fingernails, there’s not much you can do short of wearing gloves, which is impractical during the warmer months. You can protect your toenails all year round, however, by wearing closed-toe shoes.
You should also purchase a lip balm that has an SPF of at least 30. Keep some in your car or purse, and apply it every two hours or so when you’re out. Both sweat and saliva can make lip balm rinse away fairly quickly.
Nourish & Protect Your Skin
While everyone should protect their skin from the sun’s UV rays, there is no single body lotion with SPF that’s suitable for all skin types and scenarios. Instead, there are hundreds of varieties with dozens of active ingredients to choose from.
To keep you from getting overwhelmed, we’ve compiled 10 exceptional products with 10 totally unique formulas that meet 10 different needs so you can choose the perfect one for you with confidence.