The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. Why trust us?
Consider this selection to be tried, tested and thoroughly approved
Trying to find sunscreen for your body isn’t the easiest of tasks, and to say we’re all likely somewhat scarred from the thick, white, gloopy formulas that were once the norm is an understatement.
But times – and formulas – have improved tenfold, especially over the last few years. No longer do you need to walk around with telltale white finger marks on your arms, and no longer do you need to worry that your skin will feel caked in product, oily or greasy until that end-of-the-day shower that’s always necessary after a day soaking up the sun.
Instead, modern sunscreens are just as hydrating as any good body lotion, they absorb quickly, aren’t sticky and, crucially, you’ll actually want to apply – and reapply – as often as is necessary.
Experts agree that ideally you’ll be wearing a minimum of SPF30, and will be topping up every few hours, or after excessive sweating or swimming. You also need to make sure that you’re applying the right amount, which is at least six to eight teaspoons worth to cover your body, but more is always better when it comes to sunscreen.
If you’re in the market for a really good, protective body sunscreen that you can wear in the UK, or for when you hit sunnier shores on an upcoming summer holiday, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a beauty editor’s tried and tested picks.
Each of these body sunscreens has been put through its paces by our tester and her friends on their recent holiday to Menorca. As SPF-obsessives, they regularly top-up their sun protection throughout the day, and as a result have taken note of how these formulas applied initially, how they absorbed, their smell, value for money, and how they fare when more product is applied on top – paying attention to whether or not they pilled.
Wearing SPF doesn’t prevent tanning, as formulas aren’t able to protect your skin entirely from UVA. Factor 50 will protect you from 98 per cent of rays, while factor 30 shields you from 97 per cent of rays. This means it is still possible to get a tan while helping to protect your skin from sunburn.
Sunscreen has a shelf-life of between two and three years, with most formulas remaining at their original strength for at least three years. However, once opened, sunscreen generally starts to lose its SPF efficacy after 6-12 months – make sure to read the label for clear guidance. So, although you can use leftover sunscreens the following year, it’s best to purchase a new one. Unopened sunscreen will also have an expiration date, telling you when it’s no longer effective.
In our guide to how much money you should spend on an SPF, dermatologist Dr Preema Vig took us through the ingredients that are beneficial to have in the best sunscreens, explaining that there are often notable differences between facial and body sunscreens.
“You may like a more moisturising formulation for your body and a special formulation for your face, where you are applying make-up or have oilier skin,” she said. Likewise, if you experience sensitive skin on your face and not your body, Dr Vig suggests using a mineral sunscreen for this area.
“This means that it doesn’t use chemicals like a chemical sunscreen does to block UVA and UVB rays, instead they use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to form a broad spectrum filter that block UV rays,” she adds.
Ultimately, the main difference between the two product categories is the additional skincare ingredients they contain, or don’t contain, but Dr. Vig assures that most SPFs – be they budget, high-end, face or body – offer the same level of UV protection.
All in all, you won’t go far wrong with any of these formulas as long as you are applying the right amount and reapplying it when necessary. If you’re looking for something affordable then Hawaiian Tropic is a great option, but Ultrasun is always our failsafe. However, the scent of Sol de Janeiro’s SPF makes it a delight to apply, and E45’s offering is definitely worth checking out if you, or somebody you’re going away with, suffers from sensitivity.
Looking for more SPF recommendations? We’ve rounded up the best facial sunscreens