Sunscreen w/ Benefits: the Picks You Need for Summer!

You already know how important sunscreen is, right?

And I know you're diligent about applying sunscreen when you're in the sun.

Certainly, if you've followed me for any length of time, you've heard me talk about it over and over again.

Sunscreens protect you from painful sunburns, combat aging, and even help prevent skin cancer.

Without a doubt, powerful broad spectrum sunscreens are your first line of defense against the damaging rays of the sun.

But with so many sunscreen varieties and brands available these days, choosing the best one for your skin type and needs is more than a wee bit overwhelming.

What sunscreen is best for my skin?

Will sunscreen aggravate my acne-prone skin?

Can sunscreen also provide anti-aging benefits?

And what about wearing makeup with a sunscreen? Will it make my skin look oily?

These are just some of the questions you may be asking yourself, depending on your skin type.

That's why I'm super excited to share with you some of my favorite double-duty sunscreen formulas that go far beyond mere sun protection.

Speaking of which, my NEWEST product is a moisturizing, everyday sunscreen with anti-aging benefits!

Check out my Alana Mitchell Daily Matte Physical Defense SPF 47!

As if that isn't enough! :)

These products work to improve the look and feel of your skin every time you use them!

How To Choose Your Best Double-Duty Sunscreen

Choosing the right sunscreen for your skin can make all the difference when it comes to the look and feel of your skin.

If you're acne prone, you'll want a sunscreen that protects without causing breakouts.

If it's anti-aging you're concerned with, look for a sunscreen with powerful antioxidants and an ultra-rich moisture content.

While acne and anti-aging are among the most common skin problems people ask me about, there are also sunscreens that double as foundations, act as skin treatments, and some that are water resistant and well suited to sports activities and swimming.

There's a sunscreen that's just perfect for you and I'm going to help you find it!

Acne - If your skin is oily and prone to acne flare-ups, select a sunscreen specifically designed to protect your skin without added oil.

One of my favorite sunscreens for acne-prone skin is Epicuren X-Treme Cream Propolis Sunscreen SPF45.

This sunscreen's potent blend of all-natural ingredients works to both correct the look of your skin and protect it from the sun.

Fruit oils and zinc oxide provide powerful protection against the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays while also giving your skin a supple radiance, all without aggravating acne-prone skin.

One word of caution: This product contains propolis, a resin-like substance provided by honeybees, and shouldn't be used by those prone to bee allergies. If that's you, let your skincare professional help you choose another formula to protect your lovely skin.

Perhaps Rhonda Allison eZinc Protection Cream would be the one to try.

I just love how this lightweight sunscreen absorbs so easily into the skin. A blend of zinc oxide and other natural ingredients helps protect your skin from the sun and other harsh environmental elements and is perfect for acne-prone skin.

A little note on this product: the SPF Factor is 18.

Anti-Aging - If anti-aging is your primary skin concern, add some antioxidants and potent hydration into your sun protection.

It goes without saying that sun protection is the best defense against aging, but why not choose a sunscreen that also adds a powerful anti-aging punch? 

One anti-aging sunscreen product I love is Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50.

As a triple-action skin protector, moisturizer, and anti-aging treatment all in one, this product helps turn back the clock on your complexion while preventing damage from the sun and environment that can age your skin.

It's truly an anti-aging powerhouse for beautiful, younger-looking skin! Check this page out for more anti aging skincare products

Another product I'm absolutely loving is Image Skincare Prevention+ Daily Ultimate Protection Moisturizer SPF 50. This sunscreen provides high-level anti-wrinkle and UV protection for your skin. It even adjusts to your skin's color to make your skin look its absolute beautiful best!

Smoothing - To revitalize skin and prepare for makeup application, smooth on a healthy dollop of Dermalogica Skinperfect Primer SPF 30.

Wear it alone or under makeup to smooth fine lines and wrinkles for a youthful look.

And of course, it goes without saying that it also protects against those harmful UV rays.

Sports - If you're an outdoor sports enthusiast or spend a lot of time at the pool or beachside, a sunscreen that stays put when in the water or when sweating is essential.

You need a water-resistant sunscreen that provides powerful broad spectrum UV protection without melting away.

Word to the wise: Don't be fooled into believing you needn't reapply your sunscreen. Even water-resistant sunscreens lose effectiveness over time so be sure to replenish every 80 minutes or so while you're in the sun; more often when in the water.

One of my favorite sunscreens for fun in the sun is Coola Sport Continuous Spray Sunscreen Citrus Mimosa SPF30. Apply liberally to keep your skin burn-free while you play!

Eyes and Lips - When it comes to the delicate skin around your eyes and lips, you definitely want to up the sun protection ante.

Look for products with non-irritating ingredients that were designed specifically for your lips and eyes.

Two to try: SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50 for your delicate eye area and June Jacobs Lip Renewal Spf 50 for your beautiful, kissable lips!

Use sunscreens on your lips and eye area daily, year-round, as part of your overall skincare routine for a youthful, radiant complexion.

Coverage/Foundation - I absolutely love makeup products that double as sun protectants!

One of my favorites is Image Skincare Conceal Flawless Foundation SPF30.

This foundation will leave you with flawless looking skin while also healing and protecting your skin from the environment and the sun.

It's lightweight, water resistant, and comes is six gorgeous shades!

It is the ultimate in beauty and protection for your gorgeous skin!

Another one you might like is La Bella Donna Minerals On The Go.

This portable foundation comes with a nifty built-in brush you can take on the go.

Add just a little or a lot, depending on the amount of coverage you desire.

You decide! No matter what, your skin will positively glow!

Bonus: This mineral foundation is formulated for all skin types and has an SPF 20 for lightweight, flawless, protective coverage.

Final Thoughts

Any of these sunscreens are sure to both protect and beautify your skin.

They'll enhance, moisturize, heal, and of course, protect your fabulous skin against environmental damage as well as the sun.

But I've only scratched the surface. Be sure and visit your skincare professional to find the product that's perfect for you!

And if you do, unfortunately, happen to get sunburned, I have the products you need to bring your skin back to its healthy self.

Your turn! What are your favorite sun protection products? Share your best go-to sunscreen in the comments below.