Are you looking to take your summer beauty routine to the next level? We've got just the thing. Incorporating glowing sunscreen into your sun protection plans can help give you that gorgeous, golden glow while also keeping unwanted UV rays at bay. With today's advanced formulas, there are so many options on the market - how do you decide which is right for you?
To make it easier, we've rounded up our top five glowing sunscreen selections and why each one stands out from the rest. Read on for everything you need to know about finding a radiant and refined sunscreen product for this season and beyond.
We take the guesswork out of finding the best products. Each product was individually selected by our editors. Some may have been sent as samples for us to try out for ourselves and some we combed through thousands of reviews to find, but all opinions in this article are our own.
P.S. LindsaysReviews may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something at no extra cost to you (that's how we stay in business and keep bringing you the best finds to save you time).
How We Chose The Glowing Sunscreen
When it comes to finding the best glowing sunscreen products, we look for a few key elements. We focus on sunscreens that are made with natural ingredients and offer broad-spectrum SPF protection. We also consider the texture of the product - does it absorb quickly and leave skin feeling hydrated?
Finally, we look at how well each formula offers a glowing finish without leaving skin feeling oily or greasy. The top five glowing sunscreens make the cut because they meet all of these criteria, plus they come with an affordable price tag to boot. Also, when purchasing these products, it is important to be aware of any additional ingredients that could irritate or cause allergic reactions. So without further ado, let’s take a look at the top five glowing sunscreens.
TULA Skin Care Protect + Glow Daily Sunscreen
Why It's Our Top Pick
TULA Skin Care Protect + Glow Daily Sunscreen Gel is top pick because it offers SPF 30 protection without leaving a white, pasty cast on the skin. The formula contains natural ingredients like pineapples, papayas and wild butterfly ginger root which help to strengthen and protect the skin while giving it a beautiful, instant glow finish.
It's also non-comedogenic, so it won't clog pores or leave a greasy residue. Plus, you can rest assured that your purchase is backed by TULA's worry-free return policy. Also, this product is reef-safe, so you can feel good about protecting the environment when using it. So if you're looking for a sunscreen that gives you the perfect dewy look without compromising on protection, this is top pick!
All The Details
TULA’s Protect + Glow Sunscreen Gel Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is the perfect way to protect and nourish your skin at the same time. This non-greasy, non-comedogenic and reef-safe sunscreen is infused with probiotic extracts, pineapple, papaya, and wild butterfly ginger root to strengthen and protect skin while promoting a dewy finish that wears well under makeup or on its own.
With UVA/UVB protection and added pollution and blue light protection, this sunscreen was designed to keep you glowing skin all season long. TULA’s Protect + Glow Sunscreen Gel Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is perfect for all skin types and comes in a 1.7 fl oz size, giving you plenty of product to get your glow on.
Supergoop! Glowscreen
Why It's Our Top Pick
Supergoop! Glowscreen - SPF 40 is our top pick because it provides the perfect combination of sun protection and glow-giving ingredients. Not only does this sunscreen keep you protected with 40 SPF, but it also helps to filter blue light and contains added hydration benefits due to its blend of hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, and niacinamide.
The addition of sea lavender helps to provide antioxidant protection while leaving skin looking naturally dewy. All of this in one easy-to-apply product makes it the ultimate choice for your summer beauty routine. So if you're looking for a sunscreen that not only provides reliable sun protection but also helps your skin look radiant and gorgeous, Supergoop! Glowscreen is the perfect choice.
All The Details
The Supergoop! Glowscreen is the perfect primer and sunscreen in one. With SPF 40, it helps protect your skin from UVA/UVB rays, blue light and pollution. The hydrating formula is enriched with Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin B5 and Niacinamide to help boost hydration in the skin and give it a healthy glow. Plus, the lavender scent makes for a luxurious application experience.
So you can get that gorgeous sun-kissed look, while also protecting your skin at the same time. A sunscreen you can trust to provide long-lasting protection, plus a radiant glow. The Glowscreen is the perfect addition to your summer beauty routine. So go ahead and start glowing.
COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream
Why It's Our Top Pick
This sunscreen is perfect for those who want a lightweight and breathable sun protection that still gives skin an unbeatable glow. The aloe extract prevents skin from drying out, leaving it looking smooth and hydrated. This is the perfect sunscreen for those with sensitive skin who still want to get a sun-kissed look.
The SPF 50+ PA+++ rating also ensures you’re protected against UVA and UVB rays, so you can stay out in the sun for longer with peace of mind. Also, the 55,000ppm of aloe extract gives this product a broad spectrum protection and helps soothe any skin irritation. So if you want a summer glow without compromising on your skin health, the COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream is the perfect choice.
All The Details
COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 PA+++, 50ml is a multi-action sunscreen that protects you from UVA and UVB rays while providing a deep skin tones moisture to your skin. This sunscreen also contains aloe extract which helps soothe and moisturize the skin. The lightweight, non-greasy formula is easily absorbed into the skin without leaving any white residue or feeling too heavy on the face.
It's perfect for everyday use and applying under makeup for a beautiful, glowing complexion. The product also promises to remain on your skin for up to 12 hours and is water-resistant. This product is free from parabens, synthetic fragrances, artificial colors, mineral sunscreen oils, and alcohol. Also, it has a gentle aloe scent that won't be too overwhelming.
Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen
Why It's Our Top Pick
Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Oil is a must-have for anyone looking for a lightweight, moisturizing and glowing sunscreen that won't clog pores or leave a white residue. This reef friendly formula is free of Oxybenzone and Octinoxate, making it perfect for those looking to protect their skin while also keeping oceans safe. It's hypoallergenic and suitable for all skin types, plus the addition of Vitamin E helps prevent premature aging and provides extra hydration.
This oil-based sunscreen is also water resistant for up to 80 minutes - perfect for beach days, pool parties, and outdoor activities. So if you're looking for a glowing sunscreen that's gentle on the skin and easy to apply, Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Oil is the one for you.
All The Details
The Sun Bum SPF 30 Sunscreen Oil offers glowing protection from the sun, so you can look your best all summer long. Made with avacado and coconut oils, this oil-based product will help keep your skin hydrated while also protecting against harmful sun rays. Its broad spectrum sunscreen is octinoxate and oxybenzone free, making it ideal for those who are looking for a more natural formula.
Plus, this sunscreen lotion is vegan and reef friendly, so you can feel good knowing your sunscreen isn’t hurting the environment! With its Hypoallergenic formula and added Vitamin E to help nourish skin, Sun Bum's SPF 30 Sunscreen Oil is the perfect way to protect your skin while also giving it that extra glow. So, don’t forget to add this sunscreen lotion to your summer beauty routine and get ready to enjoy a beautiful golden tan.
Coppertone Glow with Shimmer Sunscreen Spray
Why It's Our Top Pick
Coppertone Glow with Shimmer Sunscreen Spray SPF 50 is the perfect way to get a sun-kissed glow without compromising your skin's safety. This lightweight spray sunscreen offers broad spectrum protection against harmful UVA/UVB rays, while also giving your skin a beautiful shimmering look.
It's easy to apply and dries quickly so you can spend less time prepping and more time enjoying your summer activities.The water resistant formula (up to 80 minutes) ensures that your skin stays hydrated and silky-smooth throughout the day. Plus, it's paraben, PABA, phthalate, octinoxate and oxybenzone free so you can feel good knowing this sunscreen is gentle on both your skin and the environment.
All The Details
The Coppertone Glow with Shimmer Sunscreen Spray SPF 50, Water Resistant Spray Sunscreen, Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray is a great choice if you are looking for sun protection with that extra oomph.
The shimmering spray formula offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection and is water resistant (UPF 80 minutes). The lightweight spray applies effortlessly and dries quickly, leaving skin silky smooth and hydrated. Plus, this formula is free of parabens, PABA, phthalates, octinoxate, and oxybenzone. The 5 oz bottle provides a quick and easy application for on-the-go protection.
Glowing Sunscreen FAQs
Is there a difference between sunscreen and sunblock?
Sunscreens are chemical products that absorb UV rays, while sunblocks are physical barriers that reflect or scatter UV rays. Sunscreens usually come in lotions, gels, sprays, and oils, while sunblocks are typically thicker creams.
Does sunscreen give you glowy skin?
Yes, some sunscreens are formulated specifically to give you a glowing complexion. These sunscreens usually contain reflective particles or shimmery formula particles that help give skin a subtle glow.
What ingredients should I look for in glowing sunscreen?
Look for ingredients such as zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, mica, and iron oxides as these reflect light and help create a glowing look. You should also look for hydrating ingredients such as glycerin, shea butter, avocado oil, and vitamin E to nourish skin. Lastly, opt for formulas that are free from artificial fragrances and oils as these can irritate the skin.
Can sunscreen brighten your face?
Yes, certain sunscreens can help brighten the face by reflecting light and providing antioxidant protection. Look for ingredients such as zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, mica, and iron oxides that reflect light and give skin a subtle glow. You should also look for formulas that contain hydrating ingredients like glycerin, shea butter, avocado oil, and vitamin E to help nourish and brighten skin.
Can sunscreen make me darker?
No, sunscreen cannot make you darker. Sunscreen only helps protect skin from the damaging effects of UV rays, which can cause hyperpigmentation and premature signs of aging. The sun’s exposure is what can cause skin to darken over time. Therefore, wearing sunscreen is important for keeping your skin looking healthy and glowing.
Can I sleep with sunscreen on my face?
No, it is not recommended to sleep with sunscreen on your face. Sunscreen can be slightly irritating and needs to be reapplied every two hours for optimal protection. To avoid any skin irritation, it’s best to wash off your sunscreen before you go to bed.
Can sunscreen remove tan?
No, sunscreen cannot remove tan. Sunscreen helps filter blue light protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can cause premature signs of aging, hyperpigmentation and even skin cancer.
Do I need to wear sunscreen indoors?
Yes, even if you’re indoors, it is important to wear sunscreen. Sun exposure doesn’t just come from the rays of the sun but also from windows, computer screens and other sources of artificial light.
Can I wear sunscreen all year long?
Yes, it is important to wear sunscreen all year round. The sun’s UV rays can damage your skin even on cloudy days and in the winter months. Wearing a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen will help protect your skin from premature signs of aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer.
Are there any natural sunscreens?
Yes, there are many natural sunscreen options available on the market. Natural sunscreens are typically formulated with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as their active ingredients and contain plant-based oils and butters to help nourish the skin. Look for formulas that are free from artificial fragrances and oils as these can irritate the skin.
What Is The Best Glowing Sunscreen For You?
Taking care of your skin is extremely important and sunscreen is one of the most important things we can do to protect our skin from damage, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. So, when it comes to glow up time - there's nothing like reaching for the proper glow sunscreen. Taking care of your skin means making sure that you have the right kind of protection for your unique needs. Our list has comprised some of the best glowing sunscreens currently on the market - all with their own unique benefits.
All five of these products are suitable for a variety of skin tones and type and will leave you feeling refreshed, hydrated, and glowing. So go ahead, take your pick from top 5 glowing sunscreens we've highlighted today and get yourself ready to turn that summer glow up a couple notches.
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