We all know from places like social media, TV ads, and dermatologist that sunscreen is important to protect our skin from the sun. When the sun’s rays hit our skin, they can cause aging, sunburn, dark spots, and other signs of getting older. Knowing this, we realize we need to pick a sunscreen. But when you look at all the choices out there, it’s really hard to figure out which one to buy.

When you’re on the hunt for sunscreen, taking a close look at the ingredients is a wise choice. Remember, don’t mix up ingredients and terms like broad-spectrum, SPF, or PA+++. (For understanding these labels plz refer this link) These aren’t ingredients; they’re ratings given to sunscreen based on the ingredients used and their concentrations.

Sunscreen comes in two main types: mineral (or physical) and chemical. Mineral sunscreens use ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to reflect the sun’s rays off your skin, acting as a protective shield. Meanwhile, chemical sunscreens are made with ingredients that absorb UV radiation, turn it into heat, and then release it from your skin. These ingredients include Homosalate, Octocrylene, Octyl Salicylate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, and octinoxate. Lately, there’s also been the introduction of hybrid sunscreens, which mix both mineral and chemical components for comprehensive coverage.

And here’s the table listing the chemical ingredients:

These are the chemical components ingredients found in chemical sunscreens, which absorb UV radiation to protect your skin.

Physical vs Chemical Sunscreen Ingredient

Category	Ingredients
Chemical Ingredients	1. Homosalate
	2. Octocrylene
	3. Octyl Salicylate
	4. Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane (Avobenzone)
	5. Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
	6. Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
	7. Octinoxate
Mineral/Physical Ingredients	1. Zinc Oxide
	2. Titanium Oxide

How do I choose the right sunscreen?

Choosing the right sunscreen might seem tricky with so many options out there wondering which one is the right fit for your skin type, lifestyle, and wallet. But, here’s a straightforward piece of advice, especially for my fellow ladies over 40 who, like me, are getting serious about skincare. Begin with a sunscreen that aligns with your budget. The reason? Skincare products can get expensive, and it’s a real bummer to spend a lot on something that doesn’t work for you. It’s like throwing your money away.

After mentioning the importance of choosing a sunscreen that suits your budget, let’s dive into some options. I’ve picked out 10 great sunscreens for you. All of them cost less than $30. You’ll find both types here: some use minerals sunscreen to block the sun, and others use chemical sunscreen. People really like these sunscreens, and they’ve got good reviews for doing their job well. But here’s something important to keep in mind: everyone’s skin is different. If you try a few and they don’t seem to work for you, especially if your skin is acting up, it might be a good idea to see a skin doctor (dermatologist). They can figure out what’s going on and suggest something that’ll work better, instead of you spending more money and time trying out different products.

Affordable facial sunscreen 0f 2024

Bondi Sands Sunscreen Lotion Face SPF50+

Bondi Sands is an Australian sunscreen(To read more about Australian Sunscreen, click on this link). It contains Homosalate,  Octocrylene, Octisalate, Avobenzone

 It’s chemical sunscreen. SPF 50, Broad Spectrum, water resistant for 80 minures, reef-friendly. suitable for sensitive skin.

Product Texture: It has a creamy texture, easy to apply on the face. It has bees wax as one of its ingredient.

Bees wax is very thick in nature which is mostly suitable for dry skin, making the skin look hydrated and moisturized. Oily skin people might find it little heavy heavy and greasy on face due to bees wax.

Package: It comes in tube form.

Storage: Store away from sunlight

Fragrance Free: Its fragrance free.

Pricing:It has received a 75% 5-star rating on Amazon, indicating high customer satisfaction.
Priced at $14.80 per fluid ounce, the serum is considered reasonably affordable.

Beauty of Joseon Rice Probiotics Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++

Beauty of Joseon is a Korean Sunscreen. It contains two important sunscreen which are Uvinul A Plus and Tinosorb S both are new generation chemical sunscreen (not available in the US due to impossible FDA regulation.)

 It’s chemical sunscreen. SPF 50, PA ++++ rating suitable for all skin types.

Product Texture: It has a creamy texture, easy to apply on the face. It has glycerine as skin identical ingredient.

Package: It comes in tube form.

Storage: Store away from sunlight

Fragrance Free: Its fragrance free.

Pricing: It has received a 77% 5-star rating on Amazon, indicating high customer satisfaction.
Priced at $14.99/1.7 fl

ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF 50

ISNTREE: is a chemical sunscreen with SPF 50  containing chemical filters such as Avobenzone , Homosalate (10%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (2.75%). It has SPF 30 and suitable for dark skin. Its a chemical sunscreen so it will not leave any white cats on face, Sunscreen’s which contains zinc or Titanium oxide generally leaves a white cast on face.

Product Texture: It has a creamy texture and is easy to apply on the face. It contains the famous aloe vera. A great moisturizer and anti-inflammatory ingredient that also helps wound healing and skin regeneration

Package: It comes in a black  tube form.

Storage: Store away from sunlight

Pricing: 
Priced at $19.76/2fl

BLACK GIRL SUNSCREEN – Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30

BLACK GIRL SUNSCREEN: with SPF 50, PA ++++. . It contains two important sunscreen which are Uvinul A Plus and Tinosorb S both are new generation chemical sunscreens (not available in the US due to the impossible FDA). It contains 4 types of plant extract. . Its light weight non greasy. Its a chemical sunscreen so it wont leave a white cast on face, generally sunscreens containing zinc oxide/titanium oxide leaves a white cast.

Product Texture: It has a creamy texture and is easy to apply on the face. It contains Ceramides, glycerine, sodium hyaluronate, and hyaluronic acid which are skin identical ingredients

Package: It comes in tube form.

Storage: Store away from sunlight

Fragrance Free: Its fragrance free.

Pricing: 
Priced at $18.99/1.69 fl

Cetaphil Dermacontrol Oil Control Moisturizer SPF 30 Z

Cetaphil :It is a chemical sunscreen  with SPF 30 , broad spectrum. It contains ZINC GLUCONATE which has anti acne properties. People with acne issue will ding this sunscreen helpful.

Product Texture: It has a creamy texture and is easy to apply on the face. It contains glycerin.

Package: It comes in pump bottle.

Storage: Store away from sunlight

Fragrance Free: It has fragrance.

Pricing: 
Priced at $13/4 fl

Malibu Sun Protection Face Cream with SPF 30 & Water Resistant

Malibu Sun Protection :It is a chemical sunscreen  with SPF 30 , broad spectrum. It contains  Homosalate, Octocrylene, Avobenzone, Oxybenzone, Octisalate as chemical filters.

Product Texture: It has a creamy texture and is easy to apply on the face. It contains glycerin.

Package: It comes in tube form.

Storage: Store away from sunlight

Pricing: 
Priced at $17.90/14 gms

Affordable Physical sunscreen 0f 2024

Vanicream Facial Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Vanicream Sunscreen:  :It is a Physical/mineral sunscreen with SPF 30 , broad spectrum. It contains  Zinc oxide as sunscreen filter.

Product Texture: It has a creamy texture and is easy to apply on the face. It contains glycerin, ceramide, squalene as skin identical ingredients, which is too good.

Package: It comes in tube form.

Free of dyes, fragrance, masking fragrance, lanolin, parabens and formaldehyde releasers

Storage: Store away from sunlight

Pricing: 
Priced at $12.97/2.5 fl oz

Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen

Thinksport Mineral Sunscreen:  :It is a Mineral sunscreen  with SPF 50 , broad spectrum and reef friendly. It contains  Zinc oxide as sunscreen filter.

Product Texture: It has a thick, creamy texture. It contains Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid.

Package: It comes in tube form.

Fragrance free

Storage: Store away from sunlight

Pricing: 
Priced at $14/6 fl oz

Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Mineral Sunscreen SPF50

Neutrogena Sunscreen: It is a Mineral sunscreen  with SPF 70 , broad spectrum, containing Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate  Octocrylene 

Product Texture: It has a watery texture, containing jojoba esters .

Package: It comes in tube form.

Fragrance free and oxybenzone-free. 

Storage: Store away from sunlight

Pricing: 
Priced at $14/6 fl oz

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	Product	Anti-acne	Antioxidant	Cell-communicating ingredient	Skin brightening	Skin-identical ingredient	Soothing	Sunscreen
1	Bondi Sands Sunscreen Lotion Face SPF50+	–	–	–	–		Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice	Homosalate (10.00%), Octocrylene (8.00%), Octyl Salicylate (5.00%), Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane (3.00%)
2	Beauty of Joseon Rice Probiotics Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++	Niacinamide	–	Niacinamide, Adenosine	Niacinamide	Glycerin	Lactobacillus Ferment	Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
3	ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF 50	NiacinamidePinus Pinaster Bark Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Tocopherol, Astaxanthin, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer		Niacinamide, Adenosine	Niacinamide	Ceramide NP, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer	-Centella Asiatica Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract	Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Homosalate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, Polysilicone-15, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
4	BLACK GIRL SUNSCREEN – Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30		Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate	–	–	Glycerin	Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice	Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (10%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (2.75%)
5	Cetaphil Dermacontrol Oil Control Moisturizer SPF 30	Zinc Gluconate	Tocopheryl Acetate	–	–	Glycerin	Zinc Gluconate, Allantoin, Panthenol	Octocrylene (7%), Ethylhexyl Salicylate (5%), Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane (Avobenzone) (3%)
6	Malibu Lotion with SPF50 100 ml		Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E)				Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera Leaf Juice)	Homosalate, Octocrylene, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Benzophenone-3, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor
7	Vanicream Facial Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30	–	Carnosine	Carnosine	–	Squalane, Glycerin, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide NG, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP	–	Zinc Oxide
7	Thinksport Mineral Sunscreen Everyday Face – SPF 30		Ascorbic Acid, Tocopherol, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil		Ascorbic acid	Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid	Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice	Zinc oxide
8	Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Mineral Sunscreen SPF50		Chrysanthemum Parthenium (Feverfew) Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice			Glycerin		Zinc oxide (21%)
9	Malibu Face Cream SPF 50 Offers high protection UVA/UVB sunscreen		Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E)				Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera Leaf Juice)	Homosalate, Octocrylene, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Benzophenone-3, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor

You can look up these ingredients on INCIDecoder to find out which products are best for you. Brands like Neutrogena, Thinksport, and Vanicream offer mineral sunscreens that use Zinc oxide to block UV rays. These sunscreens are great for outdoor activities. Zinc oxide provides broad-spectrum protection, shielding you from both UVA and UVB rays.

Bondi Sands. Beauty Of Joseon, ISNTREE hyaluronic acid watery sun gel, Cetaphil, and Mallibu are all physical sunscreens. These give you a nice look without the white residue.

Black Girl sunscreen is actually a hybrid sunscreen because, if you look at the ingredients, it contains physical as well as chemical blockers, this one is my favorite because it gives you a nice shiny look.

Here’s wishing you all the best in finding the perfect sunscreen that not only suits your budget but also enriches your skin’s health. Remember, every small step you take today contributes to your skin’s well-being tomorrow. Good luck, and may your skincare journey bring you joy and confidence!

Ingredients for UVA & UVB Protection

I’ve made a chart below to make it easier for you to understand which ingredients protect against UVA and UVB rays.

Sunscreen Agent	Coverage	New Age Sunscreen
Homosalate	UVB	No
Octocrylene	UVB and UVA II	No
Octyl Salicylate	UVB	No
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane (Avobenzone)	UVA	No
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate	UVA	Yes
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (Tinosorb S)	UVA and UVB	Yes
Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol (Tinosorb M)	UVA and UVB	Yes
Zinc Oxide	UVB and UVA II (less good at UVA I)	No

Australian sunscreen brands available on amazon USA

Looking for a sunscreen that provides strong protection without irritating your skin? Try Blue Lizard Sunscreen. This mineral-based option uses zinc oxide (10%) and titanium dioxide (8%) for gentle, effective sun defense. Ideal for sensitive skin and environmentally conscious users, Blue Lizard is a top choice for reliable sun protection.

1.1. Physical Blockers for Gentle Protection: Blue Lizard uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to reflect UV rays away from your skin, offering strong protection without the harsh chemicals found in some sunscreens. This makes it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies to chemical sunscreens.

2. Reef Safe and Eco-Friendly: With increasing awareness about the impact of sunscreen on marine life, Blue Lizard is a responsible choice. It is reef-safe, meaning it does not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate, which can harm coral reefs.

3. Effective Even Under Extreme Conditions: Users have tested Blue Lizard under intense conditions, like Caribbean vacations and long hours in the sun, and have reported excellent protection against sunburn. Its water-resistant formula holds up against sweat and water, making it ideal for beach days or outdoor sports.

4. Comfort and Care: Despite being a bit thicker than some other sunscreens, which is typical for mineral-based options, it does not feel oily or heavy. It is also non-irritating around sensitive areas such as the eyes – a significant advantage for those who struggle with stinging or irritation from other products.

Invisible Zinc Sunscreen

Pros:

• Effective UV Protection: Users report excellent sun protection, even in harsh conditions like beach environments or during outdoor sports activities. It was effective during long days at a tennis camp, with a user noting that sunburn only occurred when the sunscreen was not applied.
• Suitable for Sensitive Skin: The sunscreen is well-received by those with sensitive skin, providing protection without causing irritation or breakouts. Its formulation is free from harmful chemicals, relying on zinc oxide as the active ingredient.
• Water Resistance: Many reviewers highlighted its water resistance, making it suitable for activities like swimming and working out without needing frequent reapplication.

Cons:

• Visibility and Texture: Despite its name, Invisible Zinc does leave a white cast on the skin, which can be particularly noticeable on darker skin tones. It requires significant rubbing to blend into the skin and minimize the white cast.
• Thick Consistency: The sunscreen’s thick formula makes it difficult to spread evenly on the skin, with some users feeling they have to tug at their skin during application. It also takes a while to absorb fully.

User Tips:

• Application Techniques: For those concerned about the shine it leaves, applying translucent powder over the sunscreen can help mattify the appearance.
• Usage Recommendations: Due to its thickness and visibility, some users prefer to use it exclusively on beach or outdoor days rather than for daily use in urban settings.

Conclusion

Invisible Zinc Sunscreen is recommended for those looking for robust, mineral-based sun protection, particularly for fair-skinned individuals or those engaging in water activities. Its dermatologist-recommended formula is effective but may require some adjustments in application technique due to its consistency and the visible white cast.

Cancer Council Australia Sensitive Sunscreen SPF50+ 110 ml.

Key Benefits:

• High SPF Rating: This sunscreen has been independently tested by the Hong Kong Consumer Council and found to offer an SPF of over 60, surpassing its labeled protection claims. It is lauded as one of the most effective sunscreens available.
• Suitable for Sensitive Skin: Users with sensitive skin or allergies to certain chemicals have reported positive experiences, noting that it does not cause breakouts or dry out the skin.
• Key Ingredients and Their Benefits:
  • Zinc Oxide (5%): A physical/inorganic sunscreen providing broad-spectrum protection across UVB and UVA II rays. While it offers less protection against UVA I rays, it is highly stable and doubles as a skin protectant and anti-irritant. However, it may leave a whitish tint on the skin.
  • This sunscreen features Zinc oxide, a physical blocker, along with Tinosorb S and Tinosorb M. Tinosorb S is a next-generation chemical sunscreen celebrated for its broad-spectrum coverage and outstanding photostability, making it one of the leading sunscreen agents globally. However, Tinosorb S and Tinosorb M are not FDA-approved and therefore not available in U.S. sunscreens due to regulatory constraints. These ingredients are, however, widely used in other regions like Europe, Australia, and Asia. Tinosorb M is a “hybrid” sunscreen that blends physical and chemical properties to provide comprehensive and highly stable broad-spectrum protection.

         Considerations:

• Texture and Feel: While effective, the sunscreen has a somewhat oily texture that does not dry down quickly. However, users have found simple workarounds like applying powder over the sunscreen to prevent any pilling and achieve a matte finish, making it suitable under makeup.
• Application Tips: For those who find it greasy, dabbing the face with a paper tissue before applying makeup can help remove excess cream without affecting the sunscreen’s efficacy.  

         User Recommendations:

• Users recommend setting the sunscreen with a powder, like Joah Blurfection, to enhance the cosmetic outcome. They also suggest layering primer, foundation, and setting spray without issues of pilling, highlighting its compatibility with a full makeup routine.

   Conclusion

Cancer Council Sunscreen is ideal for those seeking high SPF protection without sacrificing        their daily makeup routine. Its proven effectiveness, coupled with its adaptability under cosmetics, makes it a favored choice for continuous use, especially among those with sensitive skin or specific allergies. Users hope the formula remains consistent, reflecting its current popularity and effectiveness

Naked Sundays SPF 50+

Key Features and Benefits:

• Lightweight and Non-Greasy: The sunscreen is praised for its lightweight formula that doesn’t leave a greasy residue or white cast, making it an excellent choice for everyday use, even under makeup.
• Skin-Friendly: It’s suitable for sensitive skin types, though there are reports of breakouts from users with very sensitive, acne-prone skin. It’s also fragrance-free, which is beneficial for those sensitive to scents.
• Moisturizing with a Natural Finish: Many users appreciate the moisturizing properties of the sunscreen, despite it leaving a shiny finish which might not be ideal for those with oily skin types. The product includes a slight tint to prevent any white cast, providing a natural look without coverage.

Application Insights:

• Under Makeup: This sunscreen performs well under makeup if allowed to set for about five minutes before foundation application. It doesn’t pill, making it a favorable base (or primer) for makeup, enhancing the longevity of makeup wear.
• Texture and Consistency: While the product comes out thick and may feel a bit heavy initially, it smooths out after application. Users recommend emulsifying it between fingers before applying to ease the blending process.

Additional Considerations:

• Use with Moisturizer: For those with dry or dehydrated skin, applying a moisturizer underneath is recommended, as physical sunscreens can be drying.
• Seasonal Use: Given its rich texture, some users find it more suitable for cooler months, suggesting that it might feel too heavy for hot and humid summer conditions.

Overall Experience:

• This sunscreen is mostly well-received for its high SPF protection and its dual function as a skincare enhancer and makeup primer. However, its initial thick texture may require some getting used to. Users have creatively paired it with setting powders to manage the shine, indicating adaptability in daily skincare routines.

This sunscreen appears to be a solid choice for those seeking a mineral-based, high SPF product that supports skin health while fitting seamlessly into a makeup regimen.

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Bondi Sands Fragrance Free Sunscreen Body Lotion SPF 50

Key Features:

• No White Cast: Users highly appreciate that Bondi Sands Sunscreen blends seamlessly into the skin without leaving a white residue, making it suitable for all skin tones.
• Fragrance-Free Formula: Ideal for those with sensitive skin and sensitive senses of smell, this sunscreen is fragrance-free, avoiding common irritants found in scented skincare products.
• Eye-Friendly: It does not cause burning or irritation around the eyes, a significant plus for those who struggle with sensitivity in this area.

Performance:

• Texture and Finish: While the sunscreen spreads easily, it tends to leave a shiny, greasy finish. This may not be ideal for users with oily skin or those who prefer a matte look. Despite this, it is notably moisturizing, which could benefit those with dry skin.
• Versatility: The product is available in versions for both body and face, with identical formulations. The facial version offers the convenience of a smaller bottle, suitable for travel.

Key Ingredient

• Avobenzone is a standout in sunscreen technology, recognized as the only globally available chemical agent offering extensive UVA protection, making it the international gold standard. Despite its widespread use, it, along with another advanced agent, Trinosorb S—a hybrid sunscreen—face availability issues in the U.S. due to stringent FDA regulations. This restricts access to these new-generation UV filters in the U.S., unlike in other parts of the world where they are more commonly used.

Reef-Friendly Commitment:

• Environmentally Conscious: Bondi Sands sunscreen is formulated without oxybenzone and octinoxate, adhering to Hawaii’s regulations to prevent coral bleaching. While “Reef Friendly” is not a regulated term by the FDA, Bondi Sands ensures its products meet current environmental standards and is committed to ongoing formulation improvements based on authoritative guidance.
• User Experience:
  • Most users are satisfied with its performance on the face, particularly noting its compatibility with facial hair and sensitive areas around the eyes. However, some may find the greasy finish less desirable and are exploring other options.