There’s nothing chic about walking around looking like a bright red tomato thanks to a sunburn. And since using sunscreen is one of the surest ways to avoid getting burnt, it means that SPF is one of the best accessories.
We’ve spent years reporting on what to look for when shopping for sunscreen and experts have consistently told us that you need a SPF of at least 30 and something that offers broad-spectrum protection. Thankfully, hundreds of brands on the market meet this criteria. And while you can very well go with the basic formulas and brands that have been around since you were a kid, there are many newer brands out there that have a bit more of a cool factor.
Below, we’ve rounded up sunscreens that one could call “status sunscreens,” meaning that they instantly broadcast that you are in the beauty know.
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Some of our favorite fancy sunscreens
Supergoop! Superscreen
- Hydrating
- Absorbs quickly
- Higher price point
Think of this as the O.G. when it comes to status sunscreens. While the brand has several formulas, we like this one because it provides broad-spectrum SPF 40 protection while hydrating the skin like a moisturizer. It absorbs quickly into the skin and also filters blue light from devices, according to the brand. NBC Select reporter Zoe Malin, who has sensitive, combination skin, is a big fan and says she likes that it combines two steps of her skin care routine into one.
Dune Bod Guard
- Easy applicator
- Cool packaging
- Not suggested for face
Dune’s Bod Guard, an NBC Select Wellness Award winner, is lightweight and absorbs quickly. It is intended to be used on the body and doesn’t leave behind a white cast. It also contains moisturizing ingredients like vitamin E and hibiscus fruit extract, according to the brand.
Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30
- Cool whipped texture
- Lightweight
- Only for body
Nope, this is not a can of whipped cream—even if it looks like one. Vacation’s Classic Whip SPF 30 looks almost like shaving cream, goes on smooth, and absorbs quickly. According to the brand, it is reef-safe, water-resistant, and good for sensitive skin. The formula also contains coconut oil, vitamin E and aloe vera to hydrate and soothe the skin as you wear it.
Everyday Humans SPF 30 Resting Beach Face Sunscreen Serum
- Skin care ingredients
- Quick absorption
- Not for body
I use this sunscreen every morning and love how it sinks in quickly and leaves my skin feeling soft. It feels more like a serum than a lotion and contains hyaluronic acid to moisturize. I’ve also found that it doubles as a primer and makes my foundation go on smoother when I use it.
Nécessaire The Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
- Mineral formula
- Recyclable bottle
Prefer mineral sunscreen? Try this one from Nécessaire. The brand is known for trying to keep a low carbon footprint and using sustainable practices when formulating its products. This sunscreen is hypoallergenic and contains hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and panthenol to nourish and hydrate skin.
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I’m a writer at NBC Select who covers various topics, including home, tech and beauty. I have covered major shopping events like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday and Cyber Monday for over a decade.
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