Earlier this summer we spoke with several dermatologists about the sunscreens they recommend to patients and the ones they actually use themselves. Some of their picks were from reliably affordable brands — like Neutrogena, Eucerin and Aveeno — but some of their more luxe recommendations for SPF moisturizers from brands like EltaMD and Elemis could easily set you back $30, $70 or even over $100 per bottle!
Fortunately for you, we noticed that many of these fancier SPF products — which never, ever go on sale — just so happen to finally be on sale for up to 25% off during Dermstore’s Anniversary Sale. Now through Aug. 18 you can get up to 25% off select premium skin care and beauty brands during the sales event. If you’re feeling especially splurgy, orders over $275 will receive an Anniversary Beauty Bag that’s worth over $244 in value.
If you’re unfamiliar with Dermstore, think of it like the Sephora or Ulta of premium, dermatologist-backed beauty and skin care. It’s a great first stop for specific beauty and skin care concerns, whether you’re trying to build a new skin care routine for your 60s or want a new anti-aging moisturizer.
But when it comes to your summer skin care needs, SPF is a good place to start. Below are six fancy sunscreens recommended by dermatologists that are finally (finally!) on sale.
La Roche-Posay
Whether you’re looking for a sunscreen that’s kid and baby safe, or want something free of chemicals for your sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens are the way to go. Dr. Ashley Magovern, dermatologist at Manhattan Dermatology, recommended La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Ultra-Light Sunscreen because it includes both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as active ingredients.
As for whether chemical or mineral sunscreens are better, experts say it can be a matter of personal preference and your skin’s unique needs. “Personally, I prefer mineral-based sunscreen because I like the idea of less absorption of chemicals,” Dr. Magovern said. “I’m happy if people just find a sunscreen that they enjoy to use and use it regularly.”
$30 at Dermstore
EltaMD
Anyone who’s lived with acne knows that thick sunscreens can often exacerbate already sensitive skin. To help, Dr. Yoram Harth, dermatologist and Medical Director of MDacne, offers a few key tips. “Look for chemical sunscreens with ingredients like octinoxate, octisalate, and avobenzone in a light, clear, oil-free base. Avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone and phthalates, which can worsen acne.”
Two experts we spoke with — Dr. Elle de Moll, of Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut and Dr. Magovern — recommended EltaMD UV Clear for those with oily, acne-prone skin because of its lightweight, oil-free formula that won’t clog pores. It’s formulated with niacinamide, a known ingredient for soothing irritated, red skin and restoring suppleness.
$34 at Dermstore
Dermstore
EltaMD UV AOX Elements Broad-Spectrum can triple as sunscreen, skin care and a skin tint, which makes it a particularly smart choice for those who want an easy skin care routine that doesn’t require much thought or effort. Plus, it’s an easy way to ensure you wear sunscreen each and every day.
“I recommend wearing sunscreen to your face and neck daily as part of your daily routine to help prevent premature aging and skin cancers on the face,” Dr. Magovern said. “If you are going to be in direct sun and have a chance of sunburn, I recommend applying it to all exposed areas as well.”
$36 at Dermstore
ISDIN
This mineral sunscreen is amped up with 11% zinc oxide for superior protection and it’s packed with sun damage-healing ingredients to help protect against further damage and repair skin from the inside out.
The name may be a mouthful, but Dr. Gary Goldenberg, assistant professor of dermatology at Icahn School of Medicine in New York, swears by this one. He especially recommends it for patients who have known sun damage. Isdin’s Eryfotona Actinica is lightweight, won’t leave your skin feeling greasy and has UVA/UVB protection. It also has DNA repairsomes and vitamin E to help fight UVA-induced skin damage.
$55 at Dermstore
Dermstore
Dr. Magovern uses Natura Bissé Diamond Luminous UV Defense Light Tinted Fluid in her daily skin care routine.
What makes it unique is that it doubles as both SPF and everyday anti-aging skin care. Age-defying ingredients rejuvenate the skin to lessen dark spots, lines and wrinkles. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide protect your skin from the full spectrum of the sun’s harmful rays. It also includes just a touch of color to blur imperfections and smooth the complexion.
$98 at Dermstore
ELEMIS
In our guide to building a skin care routine in your 60s, experts told us that aging skin becomes dry and dehydrated, which is why most anti-aging products contain moisture-boosting ingredients. Dr. Magovern said the same is true when it comes to buying sunscreens for mature skin.
“For aging, mature skin, I recommend SPFs that are formulated with ingredients that hydrate and plump the skin,” she said. ” ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Marine Cream SPF 30 is a great option, as it not only has UV protection, but it also boosts the skin’s hydration levels with antioxidant-rich botanical and marine extracts.”
This particular SPF cream is made with marine collagen that reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles, and helps to improve the look of firmness and elasticity.
That said, this is the only sunscreen on our list that does not provide broad spectrum sun protection.
$105 at Dermstore
Other dermatologist-recommended sunscreens:
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Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Water Resistant Sunscreen
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Neutrogena Beach Defense Spray Sunscreen SPF 70
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Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Face Sunscreen
Sunscreen FAQs
What is a good SPF level for sunscreen?
Every dermatologist we spoke with recommended using an SPF of 30 or higher for optimal protection, but it doesn’t hurt to opt for a sunscreen with higher SPF since most people aren’t applying enough to begin with.
How often should you apply sunscreen?
The general rule of thumb is to reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating. Always reapply after getting out of water.
Does sunscreen expire?
Yes, and the effectiveness of ingredients could degrade over time leading to less sun protection. “I usually say that if the next summer comes around and you still have some [sunscreen], you probably aren’t using enough and it’s probably time to restock on some fresh bottles,” Dr. Magovern told us.
What is the difference between sunscreen and sunblock?
These days they’re the same thing, but they used to refer to the difference in chemical vs. physical products. “In the old days, sunscreen used to refer to the chemical products and sunblocks referred to the physical/mineral products, however, now they seem to be used interchangeably,” Dr. Magovern said.
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