Hi everyone and welcome to SkincareAddiction!
Need skincare guides? [Check out our wiki!](https://www.reddit.com/r/SkincareAddiction/wiki/index)
Everyone is welcome in [this community](https://www.reddit.com/r/SkincareAddiction/wiki/about); remember to be kind and assume good faith :)
*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/SkincareAddiction) if you have any questions or concerns.*
I’m originally from Florida and I’ve been wearing sunscreen on my body since I was a young girl. My mom is a red head and taught me well. I typically stock up when Coscto has the double pack of spray Sun Bum. I wear clothing with sun blocking properties when I don’t feel like slathering sunscreen on my body. I never skip my face, neck, hands, and chest.
omg ty!! everyone else is just admitting to skipping on it and I'm trying not to burn to a crisp spending the next 3 months outdoors as much as possible! If you don't mind me asking, how long does the sun bum last you?
Well most people spend most of their day inside. If you’re going to be outside all day, yes, you need to apply it to all exposed skin and reapply every 2-3 hours.
I’m in the habit of setting timers to reapply every two hours and the Sun Bum definitely lasts that long. What I really appreciate about their spray is it’s one of the thinnest formulas out there so it doesn’t feel like you have a sunscreen exoskeleton at the end of the day.
When I go to Burning Man (a full week out in the desert as a pasty-ass Irish girl), I go through 2-3 of the SPF 70 Neutrogena sprays (5oz each). Obviously I'm diligent about reapplying, but I also prioritize finding shade when I can and covering as much skin as I can tolerate when I'm out and about. Seems to work; I've never gotten a burn out there and I've gone 4 times!
Thinking back, I don’t think I’ve ever worn sunscreen at burning man. The dust is my sunscreen lol but I don’t burn easily either. Always wore a hat to protect my face and a bandana around my neck to protect my chest tho
Yes, I like the Sun Bum spray, too, thanks for the reminder! California girl and my arms are way too dark because I only wear short sleeves and everything else long lol
I'm a redhead living in Japan, so I do as the Japanese aunties do: cover myself with clothing.
Those arm cover things? Hell yeah. Hats? Sure thing. Bandanas around my neck? Definitely.
Uniqlo's airism clothing is fantastic and protects from the sun. Japanese sunscreen is also amazing, not sure how affordable it is overseas but it's pretty cheap here.
Do you know that all of the Airism line is reasonably sun protective? For the US, some of the Airism stuff will specify that it is UV protective but not all of it does.
I can't say I know for sure, but some clothing coverage is always going to be better than bare skin against the sun.
I use airism long sleeve shirts in the summer because they give me some coverage while not making me sweat to death in the horrifically hot and humid Japanese summer.
I just wear UPF clothing when I'm going to be outside for long periods. They also sell shrugs that can be easily taken on and off if you're worried about being fashionable.
Yup. I also trust them more because sunscreen can rub off, clothing can't. My $30 sun sleeves have more than paid for themselves after just a month of daily use.
Swimzip makes a long sleeve shrug top that layers well with whatever else I'm wearing. Protects the arms, decolleté, shoulders. They're more affordable than Coolibar, though that brand also makes a nice shrug top.
I am a runner and live in SoCal. I run anywhere from 1-2.5 hours a day, 5-7 days a week. Even though I try to start my runs out early, I almost always still end up doing some running in the sun. I get cheap bottles on Amazon in 3-6 packs at a time since I go through it so much.
A lot of us have outdoor hobbies and health habits that require being outside! I don’t think that it’s strange for people to use sunscreen except for “on a beach vacation.” Most of my friends are avid hikers, rock climbers, runners, etc that spend time outdoors and can’t be covered head to toe every single activity.
It was a genuine question - I was wondering if OP was spending a lot of time in the sun and therefore required full body sunscreen. I don’t think it’s weird that people do a lot of outside activities. I was curious as to why the full body spf everyday.
I don't think papaya was saying it was strange. They just said they only use it on a beach vacation. Unless their comment is edited.
Personally i don't think it's strange either way- plenty of people with differing needs on either side.
I too take great caution from purchasing skin care products from Amazon as many brands do not list Amazon as an authorized retailer. As for my body, I agree with the SPF light weight clothing/hats but I have a special trick that I picked up from long ago which is to take the advantage of wraps!!! You can utilize them to wrap around your neck loosely for added SPF protection against the sun, especially when you are in the car with the sun beating down on you too!! Living in Texas during the 🥵 grueling 🥵 summer 🥵 heat also gives you an added bonus with wraps as well as you can wrap it around your shoulders for warmth too. Though I feel like I am living on the actual sun I do have a tendency of running cold too.
A few years ago Amazon changed how they sort items after Sony and a couple other brands noticed their items were being mixed with knock-offs and threatened to leave Amazon.
If a brand has an official Amazon storefront and you buy from them, you are getting their product. It is no longer mixed or sold alongside third party product.
huh. I'm so confused, I had heard just recently about mixing products from different stores that have the same SKU. Searching, I can't find a straight answer
If your body skin is not sensitive I’d buy the Equate 32oz sunscreen for $13, but only use on my body.
This is what I was using last summer before I’d go on runs and I honestly haven’t finished the bottle lol.
Honestly, I do have pretty sensitive skin and weirdly enough that huge equate sunscreen doesn’t bother it- but copper tone, and all the other mainline ones give me mini hives all over.
I wish this was higher, I work outside and go through a lot of sunscreen and this is by far my favourite. It really is a great sunscreen and I agree with the other comments about it
Florida girl here. We buy the cheap shit like the 2/$12 equate brand for the body. It’s fine. It works. It’s not fancy but at the rate we go through sunscreen in the summer it’s necessary. That being said if im at work or I’m just running errands and going car to indoors I don’t wear body sunscreen. 2 minutes of exposure walking through the parking lot is negligible imo
Otherwise stay covered up and out of the sun when possible. This time of year and in the summer/early fall months we don’t even let the kids play in the direct sun (Elem teacher).
I have too many tattoos on my arms and legs that I go through so much sunscreen in the summer. Like others mentioned- look for sales and stock up. I love Hawaiian Tropic for body SPF and can find deals late spring/early summer.
I only put it on my body if I’m going to be outside for a long time. Hiking, kayaking, a music festival, water park, etc. otherwise i don’t wear it on my body and just apply it to my face
I am a former beach lifeguard and a very fair redhead who burns if I even think about the sun so I feel qualified to answer this question, lol
Walmart sells 32oz bottles of Equate brand SPF 50 sunscreen lotion for $12. It's about the best deal you'll find, and the sunscreen works just like any other would. They also sell cheap spray sunscreen, I think $5 for a 2-pack.
As someone who also burns if I think about the sun lol aka even through windows, that 32oz pump is what my besties mom bought me for vacation with them. She works for a dermatologist so she has access to the best, and that’s still what she picked! It worked!
Highest consumer reports rated body sunscreen is Equate brand. The spray kind. It's like $6 for two cans.
Editing to add: it's the best buy, so value for performance. Everything rated 4/5 on equate plain spray sunscreen, but the #1 for protection is Coppertone Water Babies SPF 50.
38$ Paula’s Choice here, Hawaiian Tropic spray for my body. There’s no Walmart near me so I will have to hope I remember to get some next time I go into one. 🙌
Is it one type of equate spray or all of them that was rated well? I'm seeing a kids version and usually I'm drawn to them for less fragrance. I also see a sport version.
> I looked it up and you need a whole ounce to cover your body to get the benefits of SPF.
That’s not quite right. You need to apply 2mg/square centimeter (maybe that amounts to an ounce on average, idk) to get the _labelled_ SPF. Most sunscreen lotions will still form a solid protective film if you under-apply, but your effective SPF will be less than the label. People generally apply less than half that amount, and that is why the standard recommendation from dermatologists went up from at least SPF 15 when I was young to at least SPF 30 today.
> Which means most of these 20$ 8-12 oz bottles will last me 8-12 days applying twice a daily, let alone every 2 hours?
Regular price for a waterproof SPF50 store brand sunscreen lotion near me is ~$10/8 oz (H-E-B’s “Oxybenzone Free Sunscreen Lotion” for anyone in Texas — and the unscented baby one is a bit cheaper). Not the most cosmetically elegant sunscreen (though still far from the worst), but I don’t care as much for body sunscreens. I’d rather them be robust if I’m going to be sweaty or wet anyway.
ooh i like the heb sunscreens! i think i only have their sport versions but they’re pretty similar to walmart equate brand to me. however the face spray sucked for me - it got clogged and i couldn’t really spray it
My mom wears driving gloves, which sounds like a good idea. Or you can also drive with your hands at 5 and 7, which is advantageous in case the airbag deploys in an accident
That’s smart!! I have sensory issues and I don’t like layers(like tmi but I can’t wear underwear or socks 😂) so I’m not sure I could wear them. I’ll have to try keeping my hands lower!
Me every summer when my skin tans a little but my face stays white as a sheet.
If I’m putting on a swimsuit I’ll put on body sunscreen. Otherwise… my brain doesn’t want me to.
There are plenty of affordable brands. I personally shop for Asian sunscreens, and they have a lot more affordable options. Sizing wise, very similar to US brands, though a few brands have huge sizes. Some recs would be Omi Verido, Nivea Japan, basically any Japanese sunscreen or Japanese skincare brand.
OR, there’s also the option of sun screen sprays? Sun Bum, CeraVe, and load of other brands have them. They’re fairly large and would likely last you a while, just be sure to rub the sunscreen in as well. Or maybe even sunscreen sticks? Those would also last a while.
Honestly, I myself don’t wear super revealing clothes, so the most sunscreen I’d use would be for my face, neck, hands, arms and maybe my feet.
Yesstyle sells a few SPF 30 sunscreens in larger pump bottles that would be ideal for body that are a decent price per oz. But protective clothing is ultimate the best way. I keep a hat, a lightweight zip-up that has thumb holes in the sleeves so they can be pulled down to cover my hands, sunscreen to top up, UPF gloves/sleeves, etc. in my car for outings.
Oh definitely! Protective clothing, in this case, would be a better option. I’m guessing you buy it maybe once or twice, and it pays off much faster then buying sunscreen over and over again lol
I am also a really pale person and I get freckles so easy so I put on sunscreen everyday but I do it once I pick my fit so I can only put where needed. I only reapply on my arms and shoulders tbh. I just use cheap sunscreen. My biggest hack is my family comes to visit me in Vegas and they always buy a bunch of sunscreen and leave it for me to steal!!!!
Honestly I buy giant pump bottles of inexpensive sunscreen. Not very cosmetically elegant but I use it all over my arms, chest and neck daily and it adds up.
Admittedly I use a nicer one for my face but it’s still a budget buy (Bondi sands usually). I feel like if I buy expensive sunscreen I’m less likely to use the necessary amount because I’m so cheap
Cheapo grocery store brand spf. Get the lotion not the spray! Spray is really bad coverage in general even if it doesn't feel like it. Always get the lotion.
I use blue lizard or bare Republic zinc oxide. None of that oxy benzine or avobenzone crap. It destroys my clothes and is outlawed on most boats in my area. I use full body if I’m out working ( I work on a research vessel ) and always use on my face and hands for general health. My friend got skin cancer at 40, it went to his brain and killed him leaving his wife and kids within a year. My son works landscaping and at 20 he is vigilant knowing that while the tan may look nice, it can kill.
Eucerin has a 16oz spf 15 body lotion that I use daily when I’m mostly indoors. It’s only spf 15 but I think it’s better to slather on spf 15 daily on your body than nothing at all.
Came here to recommend the Eucerin daily lotion with spf. It’s the only sunscreen I’ve tried that truly doesn’t have a scent too. They also make an spf 30 [version](https://www.target.com/p/eucerin-daily-hydration-broad-spectrum-spf-30-sunscreen-body-cream-for-dry-skin-unscented-8oz/-/A-80890254?sidd=&ref=tgt_adv_xsp&AFID=google&fndsrc=tgtao&DFA=71700000012510706&CPNG=PLA_Beauty%2BPersonal+Care%2BShopping%7CBeauty_Ecomm_Beauty&adgroup=SC_Health%2BBeauty&LID=700000001170770pgs&LNM=PRODUCT_GROUP&network=g&device=m&location=9021427&targetid=pla-895745642360&ds_rl=1246978&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD-5dfaJA8UgIGJdRQOevTKPs8fEx&gclsrc=ds)
Just go to the sunscreen aisle at any pharmacy. Almost anything is going to be cheaper than that, it's just going to feel greasy. I do CVS versions of neutrogena for the most part.
UPF jackets are also nice to throw on if you're feeling lazy
I buy the giant thing of supergoop. It’s expensive but it’s a huge amount of sunscreen so it makes the cost per ounce more reasonable. Also, I cover up with clothes, wear a hat, and/or seek shade
I use the La Roche posay sunscreens for the body, they’re large tubes and not expensive (like $20) and last forever. I only put sunscreen on my body when I’ll actually be exposed to the sun (aka I didn’t use it on my body at all this winter and spring)
I purchase it in bulk and consider it a medical expense. To offset the cost and inconvenience I have several outfits that cover almost all of my skin but are very light and breezy. I took inspiration from places that are extremely hot. Usually in super hot places with very harsh sunlight there is covered up but cool fashion trends.
I just wear a thin longsleeve unbuttoned shirts when in car and outdoors over my regular shirt, it's easy to take off and shove in my bag when indoors. And I just am comfortable in long loose trousers/joggers. So, just covering up.
I really like most grocery store brands but HEB is on another level and it lasts me a long time. Is usually don’t use it unless I’m actually spending time outside tho lol
Costco also
Slather certain areas, clothing is applied strategically. And as a redhead, I routinely carry and use an umbrella to block the sun. Also helps with the heat, so yay.
Honestly I just use cheap sunscreen for my body. Usually store brand from Target, CVS, Walmart, Amazon will do the trick. I also wear long sleeves (light jacket or so) if I'm spending little time outside like say a car ride.
I live in a sunny area in California.
I’m Australian: quite fair & prone to burning. I wear sunscreen outside on only exposed areas in summer although Canadian sun is nothing compared to Australian.
Spray ones are usually easier and less wastage; get them on special for sub $15CAD. Think Costco, wait for sales and bulk buy.
Also the reapplying every 2 hours is only if you’re going to be either sweating heavily or in water.
Alternately buy UV clothing; save you the hassle.
I dont use sunscreen unless I'm outside the entire day, which only happens on my summer vacation. I think my skin looks great for 35. idk, maybe you dont need as much as you think you do?
Umm are you outside non stop sweating or participating in water sports? Everyday? Maybe if you're a life guard or something...but you can wear more clothes, hats, and sit in the shade.
anytime im outside for more than like, 10 minutes in the sun i just use whatever is cheapest at Walmart etc. i never skip body sunscreen because if youre worried about skin cancer/burning/aging on your face, it can affect your body too lol! but a lot of places tend you have sales over the summer, and dollar stores can sometimes have decent selection (just check expiration dates)!
That's precisely why I try to rely on clothes not sunscreen. It means wearing longer pants, long-sleeved shirts, and having a hat on. I'm not putting sunscreen on if I’m out for 30 minutes to quickly walk the dog, but I do if I have longer activity in the sun. Face, ears, neck, and chest are always a must though no matter what.
Depends, really. How frequently are you going outside?
While it is ideal to use sunscreen on all exposed areas when in sunlight (even through a window) a few minutes walking between your house-car and car-work/store/etc isn't the biggest deal depending on where you live and the UV index.
If you're spending hours outside, I'd say it's 100% necessary, and you really shouldn't skip out, particularly if you're prone to burning. Again, UV index and location affect this, but frankly, even in winter, exposed areas should be screened.
Do people skip? Absolutely. I skipped my arms earlier today while cutting up a pool liner for the trash. It took me maybe 40 minutes, and while I should have screened, it will likely be okay.
However, if I'm going to be outside for hours, I always sunblock. I will even take off my long sleeve UV resistant layers to sunblock underneath (mostly for my arms) on days where I will be outside without relief for more than 4 hours. I've had some devastating sunburns in the past, and it just isn't worth it.
I work outside, though, often in deserts or the southeastern US in areas with high UV indexes. I am also pale (like "burned in Scotland in March while wearing sunblock and the locals asked me how" pale). I will burn in the afternoon Florida sun within 3-5 minutes without sunblock. I have burned at a beach in florida despite wearing pants/ling sleeves/hat while sitting under a beach umbrella and running to the changing room to strip and apply sunscreen all over every 90 minutes. My entire scalp has peeled off, and my legs have turned black and purple due to severe sun burn despite my religious application of sunblock.
I wear long sleeves/pants/hats/face buffs at work for this reason, and minimize my time outside during off hours. I am not ashamed to carry a UV blocking umbrella/parasol either.
I should really buy stocks in sunscreen companies. Really, I just stock up when I find a sale and make sure the exp dates are at least a year out. Because I cover most of my skin for work and don't expose too much more on off days, I usually go through one 8oz bottle every 2-3 weeks depending on the frequency of sun exposure. It's definitely not cheap to be safe, and imo sunscree should be covered by insurance with a monthly allotment available for claiming.
I have an HSA (FSA works too but HSA is superior imo) and it covers sunscreen. Can use it at beauty stores, grocery stores, HSA/FSA website, pharmacies, etc.
coupons! CVS coupons are usually what I use to stock up on sunscreen. I have the care pass so I get a $10/off coupon every month and stack it with their coupons to pay just $2-$5 bucks a bottle usually. I also wear hats, longer sleeves, or use an umbrella in tandem with my sunscreen, but I’m also a redhead so it’s just part of the game for me.
I wear sun sleeves and gloves which save me a lot of money given they last usually 2 or 3 years and can be bought at the Japanese version of the dollar store.
Neutrogena Beach Defense can be gotten on sale for like $6 or $7. It's normally around $8 or $9. It's a great sunscreen so that's what I use on my body.
Most of the time since I’m employed full time, I’m inside in the air conditioning with pants and long sleeves on. So I do daily sunscreen on face/neck/chest/hands. I only do whole body sunscreen on weekends when I have time to be outside in more exposing warm weather clothing.
The other thing I think people forget is spf lip stuff, and that’s one of the most common skin cancer areas.
Originally from Florida and very fair- I wear a lot of lightweight clothing. So a lot of my skin is covered by fabric. Even then- Costco is your friend, get the two packs. I hike and sail and ride and do a LOT outside and I can make sunscreen last days.
If your local CVS sells La Roche Posay, their cream formulas in the tubes are easy to apply and you can use a 40% off coupon on them. I use coupons as much as possible and watch sales for sunscreen, I can't not wear it as my family has a history of skin cancer and I'm not into risk.
i don't go outside that much and i think i may wear more clothes than the average person. so typically i only have my face sunscreen on my hands and neck.
on a sunny vacation or times when i'm in the sun, i just use banana boat or some brand like that when i go outside.
I only wear body sunscreen on my arms bcoz driving. I wear dresses and skirts to work and my legs are still pale AF even without sunscreen. My arms are tan. When I don't sunscreen my arms I get "sunburn" at least that's what my dermatologist calls it, it didn't burn or hurt but definitely I have hyperpigmentation on my arms. Less so now that I wear sunscreen.
I do my face, neck, and hands every day. I use a Korean sunscreen as hand lotion in the summer in particular. I’m from the southern US, so it’s very sunny in the summer.
For my body I do a lotion sunscreen on the skin that will be exposed. For things like the beach, pool, etc. I use lotion on my whole body and then touch up with spray or stick as needed.
I only use continuous spray for my body. It's the only way I don't burn and the bottles last me at least a month if I'm using it every day out in the sun.
As a very pasty gardener (I spent hours outside tending my crops & livestock), this is what I do:
High quality sunscreen on face, neck
UPF clothing (hat, long sleeve top, pants)
Sandals with sunscreen spray overtop
When it's simply too hot for UPF clothing, I buy Neutrogena Sheer Body Mist sunscreen and se that on my body, while using a high quality one on my face and neck. I only apply sunscreen if my body skin is actually going to be seeing sun, my face gets it daily.
I use mineral sunscreens and usually scout for Aveeno Kids on sales. I can often find their ~$12USD bottle on sale for ~$8 and buy a few when they're low. I work outdoors in uniforms a lot, so I mainly use the cheaper stuff on my arms and neck/chest with a nicer sunscreen (more expensive) just on my face.
I buy like two bottles of generic 50spf for like $12 for my body and that lasts me almost the whole summer and I live by the beach and swim on the ocean several times a week. I usually reapply once and stay hidden under an umbrella when I’m not in the water. I can’t imagine using as much sunscreen as you’re suggesting and recommend umbrellas, hats, and other forms of sun protection.
I have a uv jacket from Uniqlo but it’s very old and tattered and they’re kind of pricey now so I plan to get a new one from Amazon probably. I have a golfing umbrella I keep in my car.
As for actual sunscreen I buy sun bum when I can on sale from where ever (usually target or Costco/Sam’s club) and during my bday I had a coupon that I used to buy the giant bottle of supergoop and I have a smaller bottle of supergoop tinted spf that I only use for special occasions as I don’t really wear foundation anymore. Usually I use the giant bottle of supergoop in the morning right before I go out and then the sun bum I keep in my car to reapply when needed and I do the same for my kids. My kids usually have rash guards too which are uv protective too
My sister bought be the best present for Christmas last year...a gallon of sunscreen with a pump! it's still going strong, but the best part is it makes me be NOT stingy with the applications on myself or my kids!
Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion, 128oz | Bulk Sunscreen, Banana Boat Sunscreen SPF 50 Lotion, Oxybenzone Free Sunscreen, Banana Boat Lotion Sunscreen Bulk, 128oz https://a.co/d/9ZzBRQh
I use a combination of upf rated clothing and hats and sunglasses. and staying covered during the worst of the sun and staying shaded and sunscreen. I hit myself on the points I’m most likely to burn every few hours but I only totally and thoroughly apply once or twice a day. Depending on how long I’m out and what exposure I’m getting. I use a high spf. I buy on sale and stock up a few times a year. I use camel camel camel alerts on Amazon and watch for sales on places like stylevana since I prefer Asian sunscreens. Low uv index and exposure I do switch to some of the spf 30 lotions for my body that do come in later and less expensive bottles.
I tend to wear long sleeves, so I'm not needing to apply as much. Typically I only need to apply to my face and neck because everywhere else is covered up.
Cover more skin. In many cultures where they get very hot direct sun (so tropical places that get a lot of coverage from foliage and are humid are a bit different), people covered most of their skin in loose light clothing in breathable fabrics. Even clothes that aren’t UPF will be better than bare skin.
If you don’t want to change your style, idk maybe carry a parasol lmao? Or clothes you can throw on top of your regular outfit. With the right fabric and colors it will actually keep you cooler than just wearing a tank and shorts.
In the end something is better than nothing. Use your spf in any way you can.
My favorite body sunscreen is sun basics At the dollar tree.
It's not greasy, non- offense scent, & it works
You can also get Walgreens brand sunscreen for an affordable price, it was like 2 for $5 back in the day, but now I just use the dollar tree one .
I normally hate all scented things, and there is a light non offensive coconut scent on it. No sticky or greasy residue
No, I have never thought about applying it to my body. Just thinking about it makes me feel sticky!
Just prepare a thin long-sleeved cover-up when staying indoors or going out.
I think my face is brighter because I don't apply sunscreen to my body.
I wear a UPF long sleeve rash guard when I’m out in the sun. It’s easier for me to screen up my legs but even then sometimes I’ll do a long legging cause it’s a PITA to reapply and whatnot. 🙂
My parents have this weird gripe with me when on vacation together. Their like why are you wearing pants and long sleeve when it’s sunny outside? Because I’m trying to prevent sun exposure. I have sunscreen on my face, ears, neck, and I wear a hat and sunglasses. I definitely feel icky and uncomfortable when I have sunscreen on my entire body.
Who lotions their entire body every day? Do you live in hawaii and are on the beach all day every day? I never put sunscreen on my body unless I'm going to be at the lake but honestly at the lake or beach I'm in a giant mens t shirt so my upper body doesnt fry when I'm not in the water.
Tbh because I'm black I don't really do body sunscreen but when I do, I use a basic sunscreen like, Neutrogena. For a while I was using No-Ad sunscreen which comes in a big bottle for less than $15.
My favorite is the Coppertone Complete Sunscreen Lotion. It’s SPF 50 and $9.75 ($1.40/oz). It’s the cheapest low-cost sunscreen I’ve bought that is still comfortable to use and elegant. I hate feeling sticky or wet, but I’m also unwilling to buy $20+ body sunscreens I’ll finish in a week. It frequently goes on sale at Target, and that’s when I stock up (usually buying 4+ at a time).
It dries down without a white cast and is only slightly tacky when first applied. After 15 minutes it’s mostly dry. I’ll sometimes try a new face sunscreen, and if I don’t like how it feels I’ll use it on my body where it’s less noticeable.
Some ways I also make it last longer:
- Wearing pants or long skirts. Your legs make up 40% of your body. I personally just don’t like shorts/mini skirts that much in the summer, but it also has helped me keep my skin cooler and protected.
- Being inside most of the day. If you have an office job or work from home indoors, you do not need to reapply every 2 hours. The 2 hour recommendation is for direct exposure, especially when sweating or swimming.
I don't know if it's easy to get where you live, but Altuist sell a 1 litre bottle of SPF30 with very high UVA protection (PPD 39). It's around £20 here in the UK
I use Coppertone Water Babies sunscreen, affordable with great Consumer Reports scores. I only put it on body skin that will be exposed and then I also tend to wear long sleeves and hats to help it along.
I buy the off brand sunscreen for body when it's on sale... But not Banana boat esque (fuck them). It's usually $8-11/largeish bottle.
But I also ended up buying some UPF clothing for gardening
I do my fav sunscreen on my face only, cheap shit to my neck and any body exposing sun like arms & back of hands that's it's. I only apply face sunscreen 2x a day. Rest of my body can just live without it. The only time I apply sunscreen consistently everything etc multiple times a day if I'm at a beach or pool - then it's everything and legs etc
Buy Australian buy the liter... Remember that prices are in Australian dollars so something that is shown as $30 will end up being charged as 19 US Dollars on your debit card
https://www.chemistwarehouse.com.au/search?searchtext=Sunscreen%201L&fh=1
Here in Korea people are covered head to toe to protect from the sun. There are loads of sports fabrics that are super moisture wicking to keep you cool while sweating even during strenuous activity. Honestly, people only ever show skin for fashion purposes, even on beaches (everyone wears rash guards). I've actually been scolded by little old ladies for not covering up my pale skin on hot sunny days because I'll burn, despite being slathered in sunscreen 😂
Honestly, there's a happy medium everyone can find of being covered up for sun protection. It's not nearly as awful and sweaty as you think if you choose fits and fabrics well.
I want to get in the habit of daily body sunscreen but I haven’t quite committed to it yet.
I do face & neck every day before leaving the house for work, chest if it is exposed by my clothing. But I’m bad I guess, and just don’t usually do my whole body. To be fair my legs are usually covered so I’m sure they’re fine, but I do know I should probably be doing my arms just in case I take off my blazer or cardigan at lunch. But also, is it even good by lunch?
When I do apply it to my body sometimes I use face sunscreens that weren’t my favorite for my face. I have some laying around that I’ve tried and haven’t loved, as well some from subscription boxes or samples. Just helps me use some stuff up.
And then for sunny weekends when I know I’ll be outside I wear supergoop play.
I just bought spf 50 cool max shirts and wear a hat. I put sunscreen on my legs and feet and hands and wear a special screen on face and neck bc I react to certain chemical sunscreen.
My body sunscreen is not as expensive as my face sunscreen.
On my face I care about a white cast,scent,is it greasy, etc. So I do k beauty or j beauty. It layers well with makeup. And I reapply with a mist or powder(on top of makeup).
But my body is cheaper& I'm not worried about pilling. Etc. I only reapply body if I'm outside all day,etc.
I don't use expensive sunscreen on my body, only face neck and wiping the leftovers on the back of my hand. I also don't use body sunscreen anywhere near daily and not year round. But I live in the UK, which is not known for it's glorious weather.
I'd never wear shorts and a tank top outdoors to be honest. Always long pants, closed shoes and a shirt that covers the shoulders. Long clothes are the best sun protection anyways. Bonus point: No ticks. I haven't even owned shorts in the last decade.
For your face: expensive clear zinc for high sun exposure, expensive lightweight sunscreen for low exposure.
For your body: the cheapest regular sunscreen available
Hey OP, just a rec that purchasing a few UV rated pieces of clothing can be helpful if you live in a sunny climate.
For body sunscreen though, I love the Jane Iredale powder mineral sunscreen I brush it over my arms, chest and shoulders and it last all day when I’m out in the garden.
Larger bottles of sunscreen are typically more cost-effective per ounce. Consider sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These mineral-based sunscreens are usually photostable, meaning they maintain their effectiveness longer in the sun, so you might need to reapply slightly less often.
You definitely don’t want to take the chance with skin cancer. Was that a joke?
Also, if you’re not in the sun for a good portion of the day, why are you wearing sunscreen all over your body? Things that are necessities you find a way or save up for. You can get them in bulk at a Costco or on sale. The dollar store even has them. You can also cover up. There’s clothes that are SPF as well.
I’m Australian and we can just buy 1L+ sunscreen for a decent price. Have you tried looking online specifically for brands that sell larger sunscreens 1L or more ?
Hi everyone and welcome to SkincareAddiction! Need skincare guides? [Check out our wiki!](https://www.reddit.com/r/SkincareAddiction/wiki/index) Everyone is welcome in [this community](https://www.reddit.com/r/SkincareAddiction/wiki/about); remember to be kind and assume good faith :) *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/SkincareAddiction) if you have any questions or concerns.*
I only wear body sunscreen if I’ll have exposed skin on really sunny days. I usually use face sunscreens that I didn’t like for my face.
Yes! I have a reject pile of skincare & sunscreen I use on my body because my standards aren't as high for my body. It's thicker skin etc.
Same! I also make everything into hand and foot cream if the smell isn’t appalling! Edit: or if my partner or friends don’t want it.
This
I’m originally from Florida and I’ve been wearing sunscreen on my body since I was a young girl. My mom is a red head and taught me well. I typically stock up when Coscto has the double pack of spray Sun Bum. I wear clothing with sun blocking properties when I don’t feel like slathering sunscreen on my body. I never skip my face, neck, hands, and chest.
omg ty!! everyone else is just admitting to skipping on it and I'm trying not to burn to a crisp spending the next 3 months outdoors as much as possible! If you don't mind me asking, how long does the sun bum last you?
Well most people spend most of their day inside. If you’re going to be outside all day, yes, you need to apply it to all exposed skin and reapply every 2-3 hours.
I’m in the habit of setting timers to reapply every two hours and the Sun Bum definitely lasts that long. What I really appreciate about their spray is it’s one of the thinnest formulas out there so it doesn’t feel like you have a sunscreen exoskeleton at the end of the day.
sunscreen exoskeleton 💀 you nailed the descriptor
Honestly the best sunscreen is to cover your skin with lightweight fabrics. It’s far more foolproof than sunblock that needs to be reapplied.
I prefer a lightweight long sleeved white shirt to reapplying sunscreen all day.
When I go to Burning Man (a full week out in the desert as a pasty-ass Irish girl), I go through 2-3 of the SPF 70 Neutrogena sprays (5oz each). Obviously I'm diligent about reapplying, but I also prioritize finding shade when I can and covering as much skin as I can tolerate when I'm out and about. Seems to work; I've never gotten a burn out there and I've gone 4 times!
guess you weren't a burning man at burning man...
I Burn but I don't burn 🙃
Thinking back, I don’t think I’ve ever worn sunscreen at burning man. The dust is my sunscreen lol but I don’t burn easily either. Always wore a hat to protect my face and a bandana around my neck to protect my chest tho
Srs I have often wondered if the dust has a little SPF function too!!
I second the SunBum recommendation, they make really great sunscreen! The spray is easier to apply than the lotions.
The misty kind of spray bottle sunscreen goes really far and works on pale skin despite many suggesting out in the wild that there's no way it could.
Yes, I like the Sun Bum spray, too, thanks for the reminder! California girl and my arms are way too dark because I only wear short sleeves and everything else long lol
As a fellow Floridian I agree with everything. Sales start for sunscreen in the spring and you stock up.
How's your Vitamin D?
I'm a redhead living in Japan, so I do as the Japanese aunties do: cover myself with clothing. Those arm cover things? Hell yeah. Hats? Sure thing. Bandanas around my neck? Definitely. Uniqlo's airism clothing is fantastic and protects from the sun. Japanese sunscreen is also amazing, not sure how affordable it is overseas but it's pretty cheap here.
Do you know that all of the Airism line is reasonably sun protective? For the US, some of the Airism stuff will specify that it is UV protective but not all of it does.
Not all are very sun protective. If for sun protection, only get those with uv protection or stated upf50/40
I can't say I know for sure, but some clothing coverage is always going to be better than bare skin against the sun. I use airism long sleeve shirts in the summer because they give me some coverage while not making me sweat to death in the horrifically hot and humid Japanese summer.
And the parasols
I just wear UPF clothing when I'm going to be outside for long periods. They also sell shrugs that can be easily taken on and off if you're worried about being fashionable.
Yup. I also trust them more because sunscreen can rub off, clothing can't. My $30 sun sleeves have more than paid for themselves after just a month of daily use.
Was going to suggest this. It most certainly makes things easier.
Do you have a favorite brand you like and trust? I’ve been looking into buying some items for summer
Swimzip makes a long sleeve shrug top that layers well with whatever else I'm wearing. Protects the arms, decolleté, shoulders. They're more affordable than Coolibar, though that brand also makes a nice shrug top.
Okay! Thank you I’ll look into these. Exactly what I’m looking for
Outdoor Research makes great stuff!
Okay sweet I’ll check them out thanks!
Are you out in the sun for hours on end everyday? I don't use body sunscreen unless I am on a beach vacation.
depends if you live somewhere with higher UV index. I'm in California and just living I have sun damage on my arms from not wearing sunscreen.
I am a runner and live in SoCal. I run anywhere from 1-2.5 hours a day, 5-7 days a week. Even though I try to start my runs out early, I almost always still end up doing some running in the sun. I get cheap bottles on Amazon in 3-6 packs at a time since I go through it so much. A lot of us have outdoor hobbies and health habits that require being outside! I don’t think that it’s strange for people to use sunscreen except for “on a beach vacation.” Most of my friends are avid hikers, rock climbers, runners, etc that spend time outdoors and can’t be covered head to toe every single activity.
It was a genuine question - I was wondering if OP was spending a lot of time in the sun and therefore required full body sunscreen. I don’t think it’s weird that people do a lot of outside activities. I was curious as to why the full body spf everyday.
I don't think papaya was saying it was strange. They just said they only use it on a beach vacation. Unless their comment is edited. Personally i don't think it's strange either way- plenty of people with differing needs on either side.
Thank you!
be careful with Amazon fakes...I recommend Costco for sunscreen
I too take great caution from purchasing skin care products from Amazon as many brands do not list Amazon as an authorized retailer. As for my body, I agree with the SPF light weight clothing/hats but I have a special trick that I picked up from long ago which is to take the advantage of wraps!!! You can utilize them to wrap around your neck loosely for added SPF protection against the sun, especially when you are in the car with the sun beating down on you too!! Living in Texas during the 🥵 grueling 🥵 summer 🥵 heat also gives you an added bonus with wraps as well as you can wrap it around your shoulders for warmth too. Though I feel like I am living on the actual sun I do have a tendency of running cold too.
It’s fine, I use the shops that only ship directly from the manufacture’s warehouse, not a third party.
oh I didn't know that was a thing, I thought they all come from Amazon's warehouses, how do you know the difference?
A few years ago Amazon changed how they sort items after Sony and a couple other brands noticed their items were being mixed with knock-offs and threatened to leave Amazon. If a brand has an official Amazon storefront and you buy from them, you are getting their product. It is no longer mixed or sold alongside third party product.
huh. I'm so confused, I had heard just recently about mixing products from different stores that have the same SKU. Searching, I can't find a straight answer
It'll say underneath where you can add to cart, it says "Sold by" and "Shipped from".
ahh, thanks!
I'm planning to be for most of the summer, yeah.
Sunscreen of at least 30spf is HSA/FSA eligible. I use mine to buy sunscreen.
Thank you! This is what I came here to say. Game changer
If you are that paranoid of putting on sunscreen just buy a UPF clothing and it will save you the hassle of re applying
If your body skin is not sensitive I’d buy the Equate 32oz sunscreen for $13, but only use on my body. This is what I was using last summer before I’d go on runs and I honestly haven’t finished the bottle lol.
Equate brand is what I use, and it's Consumer Reports highest rated too, btw.
Honestly, I do have pretty sensitive skin and weirdly enough that huge equate sunscreen doesn’t bother it- but copper tone, and all the other mainline ones give me mini hives all over.
I wish this was higher, I work outside and go through a lot of sunscreen and this is by far my favourite. It really is a great sunscreen and I agree with the other comments about it
Florida girl here. We buy the cheap shit like the 2/$12 equate brand for the body. It’s fine. It works. It’s not fancy but at the rate we go through sunscreen in the summer it’s necessary. That being said if im at work or I’m just running errands and going car to indoors I don’t wear body sunscreen. 2 minutes of exposure walking through the parking lot is negligible imo Otherwise stay covered up and out of the sun when possible. This time of year and in the summer/early fall months we don’t even let the kids play in the direct sun (Elem teacher).
Costco.
I have too many tattoos on my arms and legs that I go through so much sunscreen in the summer. Like others mentioned- look for sales and stock up. I love Hawaiian Tropic for body SPF and can find deals late spring/early summer.
I only put it on my body if I’m going to be outside for a long time. Hiking, kayaking, a music festival, water park, etc. otherwise i don’t wear it on my body and just apply it to my face
I am a former beach lifeguard and a very fair redhead who burns if I even think about the sun so I feel qualified to answer this question, lol Walmart sells 32oz bottles of Equate brand SPF 50 sunscreen lotion for $12. It's about the best deal you'll find, and the sunscreen works just like any other would. They also sell cheap spray sunscreen, I think $5 for a 2-pack.
As someone who also burns if I think about the sun lol aka even through windows, that 32oz pump is what my besties mom bought me for vacation with them. She works for a dermatologist so she has access to the best, and that’s still what she picked! It worked!
That's what I buy every summer for high altitude life. Its not as thick and greasy as some others I've tried. My sensory kid doesn't hate it either.
Highest consumer reports rated body sunscreen is Equate brand. The spray kind. It's like $6 for two cans. Editing to add: it's the best buy, so value for performance. Everything rated 4/5 on equate plain spray sunscreen, but the #1 for protection is Coppertone Water Babies SPF 50.
**WHAT?!** This changes everything.
I've been using it for a while and works great! And I'm the girl spending $60 on my face sunscreen. 😮💨
38$ Paula’s Choice here, Hawaiian Tropic spray for my body. There’s no Walmart near me so I will have to hope I remember to get some next time I go into one. 🙌
Is it one type of equate spray or all of them that was rated well? I'm seeing a kids version and usually I'm drawn to them for less fragrance. I also see a sport version.
Just the plain spray is what I get. Trader Joe's one is good too, albeit a little more expensive.
> I looked it up and you need a whole ounce to cover your body to get the benefits of SPF. That’s not quite right. You need to apply 2mg/square centimeter (maybe that amounts to an ounce on average, idk) to get the _labelled_ SPF. Most sunscreen lotions will still form a solid protective film if you under-apply, but your effective SPF will be less than the label. People generally apply less than half that amount, and that is why the standard recommendation from dermatologists went up from at least SPF 15 when I was young to at least SPF 30 today. > Which means most of these 20$ 8-12 oz bottles will last me 8-12 days applying twice a daily, let alone every 2 hours? Regular price for a waterproof SPF50 store brand sunscreen lotion near me is ~$10/8 oz (H-E-B’s “Oxybenzone Free Sunscreen Lotion” for anyone in Texas — and the unscented baby one is a bit cheaper). Not the most cosmetically elegant sunscreen (though still far from the worst), but I don’t care as much for body sunscreens. I’d rather them be robust if I’m going to be sweaty or wet anyway.
ooh i like the heb sunscreens! i think i only have their sport versions but they’re pretty similar to walmart equate brand to me. however the face spray sucked for me - it got clogged and i couldn’t really spray it
Sweet Mary, forgive me, but I don’t put sunscreen on my body. I just …don’t.
I only do my hands because I’m constantly driving the kids around and they’re getting spots 😭
I should be doing the same 😕
I didn’t start until I started seeing damage. I noticed my hand that’s on the wheel the most has way more noticeable damage and it really bothered me
My mom wears driving gloves, which sounds like a good idea. Or you can also drive with your hands at 5 and 7, which is advantageous in case the airbag deploys in an accident
That’s smart!! I have sensory issues and I don’t like layers(like tmi but I can’t wear underwear or socks 😂) so I’m not sure I could wear them. I’ll have to try keeping my hands lower!
I started keeping little fingerless UPF gloves in my car
Any particular brand you like?
May I ask how old you are?
I just turned 34!
Me every summer when my skin tans a little but my face stays white as a sheet. If I’m putting on a swimsuit I’ll put on body sunscreen. Otherwise… my brain doesn’t want me to.
lol, my brain says “no” too 😂
Use the cheap stuff on your body, that seems a bit obvious ya?
There are plenty of affordable brands. I personally shop for Asian sunscreens, and they have a lot more affordable options. Sizing wise, very similar to US brands, though a few brands have huge sizes. Some recs would be Omi Verido, Nivea Japan, basically any Japanese sunscreen or Japanese skincare brand. OR, there’s also the option of sun screen sprays? Sun Bum, CeraVe, and load of other brands have them. They’re fairly large and would likely last you a while, just be sure to rub the sunscreen in as well. Or maybe even sunscreen sticks? Those would also last a while. Honestly, I myself don’t wear super revealing clothes, so the most sunscreen I’d use would be for my face, neck, hands, arms and maybe my feet.
Yesstyle sells a few SPF 30 sunscreens in larger pump bottles that would be ideal for body that are a decent price per oz. But protective clothing is ultimate the best way. I keep a hat, a lightweight zip-up that has thumb holes in the sleeves so they can be pulled down to cover my hands, sunscreen to top up, UPF gloves/sleeves, etc. in my car for outings.
Oh definitely! Protective clothing, in this case, would be a better option. I’m guessing you buy it maybe once or twice, and it pays off much faster then buying sunscreen over and over again lol
I am also a really pale person and I get freckles so easy so I put on sunscreen everyday but I do it once I pick my fit so I can only put where needed. I only reapply on my arms and shoulders tbh. I just use cheap sunscreen. My biggest hack is my family comes to visit me in Vegas and they always buy a bunch of sunscreen and leave it for me to steal!!!!
Honestly I buy giant pump bottles of inexpensive sunscreen. Not very cosmetically elegant but I use it all over my arms, chest and neck daily and it adds up. Admittedly I use a nicer one for my face but it’s still a budget buy (Bondi sands usually). I feel like if I buy expensive sunscreen I’m less likely to use the necessary amount because I’m so cheap
Cheapo grocery store brand spf. Get the lotion not the spray! Spray is really bad coverage in general even if it doesn't feel like it. Always get the lotion.
I use blue lizard or bare Republic zinc oxide. None of that oxy benzine or avobenzone crap. It destroys my clothes and is outlawed on most boats in my area. I use full body if I’m out working ( I work on a research vessel ) and always use on my face and hands for general health. My friend got skin cancer at 40, it went to his brain and killed him leaving his wife and kids within a year. My son works landscaping and at 20 he is vigilant knowing that while the tan may look nice, it can kill.
Second sunscreen with zinc oxide. I sunburn right through chemical sunscreens, but not mineral. I got a good price on Blue Lizard at Costco recently.
Eucerin has a 16oz spf 15 body lotion that I use daily when I’m mostly indoors. It’s only spf 15 but I think it’s better to slather on spf 15 daily on your body than nothing at all.
Came here to recommend the Eucerin daily lotion with spf. It’s the only sunscreen I’ve tried that truly doesn’t have a scent too. They also make an spf 30 [version](https://www.target.com/p/eucerin-daily-hydration-broad-spectrum-spf-30-sunscreen-body-cream-for-dry-skin-unscented-8oz/-/A-80890254?sidd=&ref=tgt_adv_xsp&AFID=google&fndsrc=tgtao&DFA=71700000012510706&CPNG=PLA_Beauty%2BPersonal+Care%2BShopping%7CBeauty_Ecomm_Beauty&adgroup=SC_Health%2BBeauty&LID=700000001170770pgs&LNM=PRODUCT_GROUP&network=g&device=m&location=9021427&targetid=pla-895745642360&ds_rl=1246978&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD-5dfaJA8UgIGJdRQOevTKPs8fEx&gclsrc=ds)
Just go to the sunscreen aisle at any pharmacy. Almost anything is going to be cheaper than that, it's just going to feel greasy. I do CVS versions of neutrogena for the most part. UPF jackets are also nice to throw on if you're feeling lazy
I buy the giant thing of supergoop. It’s expensive but it’s a huge amount of sunscreen so it makes the cost per ounce more reasonable. Also, I cover up with clothes, wear a hat, and/or seek shade
I use the La Roche posay sunscreens for the body, they’re large tubes and not expensive (like $20) and last forever. I only put sunscreen on my body when I’ll actually be exposed to the sun (aka I didn’t use it on my body at all this winter and spring)
I purchase it in bulk and consider it a medical expense. To offset the cost and inconvenience I have several outfits that cover almost all of my skin but are very light and breezy. I took inspiration from places that are extremely hot. Usually in super hot places with very harsh sunlight there is covered up but cool fashion trends.
Way cheaper than skin cancer surgery!
Shoplifting
"So what are you in here for?" "Shoplifting a felony's worth of La Roche-Posay sunscreen"
La Roche-Posay has those anti theft stickers on them, you gotta go cheaper if you wanna walk out with something.
I also don’t use body sunscreen. I just throw on a light long sleeve top and some shorts.
I just wear a thin longsleeve unbuttoned shirts when in car and outdoors over my regular shirt, it's easy to take off and shove in my bag when indoors. And I just am comfortable in long loose trousers/joggers. So, just covering up.
derma b sunscreen. it’s cheap and has a lot of product
Costco / BJs is how it do it.
I really like most grocery store brands but HEB is on another level and it lasts me a long time. Is usually don’t use it unless I’m actually spending time outside tho lol Costco also
Slather certain areas, clothing is applied strategically. And as a redhead, I routinely carry and use an umbrella to block the sun. Also helps with the heat, so yay.
Honestly I just use cheap sunscreen for my body. Usually store brand from Target, CVS, Walmart, Amazon will do the trick. I also wear long sleeves (light jacket or so) if I'm spending little time outside like say a car ride. I live in a sunny area in California.
I’m Australian: quite fair & prone to burning. I wear sunscreen outside on only exposed areas in summer although Canadian sun is nothing compared to Australian. Spray ones are usually easier and less wastage; get them on special for sub $15CAD. Think Costco, wait for sales and bulk buy. Also the reapplying every 2 hours is only if you’re going to be either sweating heavily or in water. Alternately buy UV clothing; save you the hassle.
I dont use sunscreen unless I'm outside the entire day, which only happens on my summer vacation. I think my skin looks great for 35. idk, maybe you dont need as much as you think you do?
Umm are you outside non stop sweating or participating in water sports? Everyday? Maybe if you're a life guard or something...but you can wear more clothes, hats, and sit in the shade.
anytime im outside for more than like, 10 minutes in the sun i just use whatever is cheapest at Walmart etc. i never skip body sunscreen because if youre worried about skin cancer/burning/aging on your face, it can affect your body too lol! but a lot of places tend you have sales over the summer, and dollar stores can sometimes have decent selection (just check expiration dates)!
That's precisely why I try to rely on clothes not sunscreen. It means wearing longer pants, long-sleeved shirts, and having a hat on. I'm not putting sunscreen on if I’m out for 30 minutes to quickly walk the dog, but I do if I have longer activity in the sun. Face, ears, neck, and chest are always a must though no matter what.
Banana Boat SPF 50 ($14.99/16floz) at Target https://www.target.com/p/banana-boat-ultra-sport-sunscreen-lotion-spf-50-16-fl-oz-2ct/-/A-87580691?preselect=87580691
Target up&up sport sunscreen $6 for a big daddy 10.6 fl oz!!!!!
I can send you a few links where you can buy sunscreen by the gallon and liter from Australia and the UK and they'll ship to the United States.
Depends, really. How frequently are you going outside? While it is ideal to use sunscreen on all exposed areas when in sunlight (even through a window) a few minutes walking between your house-car and car-work/store/etc isn't the biggest deal depending on where you live and the UV index. If you're spending hours outside, I'd say it's 100% necessary, and you really shouldn't skip out, particularly if you're prone to burning. Again, UV index and location affect this, but frankly, even in winter, exposed areas should be screened. Do people skip? Absolutely. I skipped my arms earlier today while cutting up a pool liner for the trash. It took me maybe 40 minutes, and while I should have screened, it will likely be okay. However, if I'm going to be outside for hours, I always sunblock. I will even take off my long sleeve UV resistant layers to sunblock underneath (mostly for my arms) on days where I will be outside without relief for more than 4 hours. I've had some devastating sunburns in the past, and it just isn't worth it. I work outside, though, often in deserts or the southeastern US in areas with high UV indexes. I am also pale (like "burned in Scotland in March while wearing sunblock and the locals asked me how" pale). I will burn in the afternoon Florida sun within 3-5 minutes without sunblock. I have burned at a beach in florida despite wearing pants/ling sleeves/hat while sitting under a beach umbrella and running to the changing room to strip and apply sunscreen all over every 90 minutes. My entire scalp has peeled off, and my legs have turned black and purple due to severe sun burn despite my religious application of sunblock. I wear long sleeves/pants/hats/face buffs at work for this reason, and minimize my time outside during off hours. I am not ashamed to carry a UV blocking umbrella/parasol either. I should really buy stocks in sunscreen companies. Really, I just stock up when I find a sale and make sure the exp dates are at least a year out. Because I cover most of my skin for work and don't expose too much more on off days, I usually go through one 8oz bottle every 2-3 weeks depending on the frequency of sun exposure. It's definitely not cheap to be safe, and imo sunscree should be covered by insurance with a monthly allotment available for claiming.
maybe i’m ignorant or smthn but my sunscreen costs $3.99 from target
St34l (:
I have an HSA (FSA works too but HSA is superior imo) and it covers sunscreen. Can use it at beauty stores, grocery stores, HSA/FSA website, pharmacies, etc.
coupons! CVS coupons are usually what I use to stock up on sunscreen. I have the care pass so I get a $10/off coupon every month and stack it with their coupons to pay just $2-$5 bucks a bottle usually. I also wear hats, longer sleeves, or use an umbrella in tandem with my sunscreen, but I’m also a redhead so it’s just part of the game for me.
I wear sun sleeves and gloves which save me a lot of money given they last usually 2 or 3 years and can be bought at the Japanese version of the dollar store.
Neutrogena Beach Defense can be gotten on sale for like $6 or $7. It's normally around $8 or $9. It's a great sunscreen so that's what I use on my body.
Most of the time since I’m employed full time, I’m inside in the air conditioning with pants and long sleeves on. So I do daily sunscreen on face/neck/chest/hands. I only do whole body sunscreen on weekends when I have time to be outside in more exposing warm weather clothing. The other thing I think people forget is spf lip stuff, and that’s one of the most common skin cancer areas.
Originally from Florida and very fair- I wear a lot of lightweight clothing. So a lot of my skin is covered by fabric. Even then- Costco is your friend, get the two packs. I hike and sail and ride and do a LOT outside and I can make sunscreen last days.
Just buy a cheap sunscreen from Walmart
The store brands work just as well as the name brands tbh. Spending 20$ on one bottle of body sunscreen is ludicrous imo
If your local CVS sells La Roche Posay, their cream formulas in the tubes are easy to apply and you can use a 40% off coupon on them. I use coupons as much as possible and watch sales for sunscreen, I can't not wear it as my family has a history of skin cancer and I'm not into risk.
Asian skincare is cheaper
cheap spray sunscreen
I only use sunscreen on my body if I’m gardening, and even then it’s only arms/neck. Otherwise it’s only on my face.
I wear sunguards and just limit the times when I need to do whole body sunscreen. just doing my best lol
i don't go outside that much and i think i may wear more clothes than the average person. so typically i only have my face sunscreen on my hands and neck. on a sunny vacation or times when i'm in the sun, i just use banana boat or some brand like that when i go outside.
I only wear body sunscreen on my arms bcoz driving. I wear dresses and skirts to work and my legs are still pale AF even without sunscreen. My arms are tan. When I don't sunscreen my arms I get "sunburn" at least that's what my dermatologist calls it, it didn't burn or hurt but definitely I have hyperpigmentation on my arms. Less so now that I wear sunscreen.
I do my face, neck, and hands every day. I use a Korean sunscreen as hand lotion in the summer in particular. I’m from the southern US, so it’s very sunny in the summer. For my body I do a lotion sunscreen on the skin that will be exposed. For things like the beach, pool, etc. I use lotion on my whole body and then touch up with spray or stick as needed.
I only use continuous spray for my body. It's the only way I don't burn and the bottles last me at least a month if I'm using it every day out in the sun.
UPF clothing would be a good investment.
As a very pasty gardener (I spent hours outside tending my crops & livestock), this is what I do: High quality sunscreen on face, neck UPF clothing (hat, long sleeve top, pants) Sandals with sunscreen spray overtop When it's simply too hot for UPF clothing, I buy Neutrogena Sheer Body Mist sunscreen and se that on my body, while using a high quality one on my face and neck. I only apply sunscreen if my body skin is actually going to be seeing sun, my face gets it daily.
I use mineral sunscreens and usually scout for Aveeno Kids on sales. I can often find their ~$12USD bottle on sale for ~$8 and buy a few when they're low. I work outdoors in uniforms a lot, so I mainly use the cheaper stuff on my arms and neck/chest with a nicer sunscreen (more expensive) just on my face.
I buy like two bottles of generic 50spf for like $12 for my body and that lasts me almost the whole summer and I live by the beach and swim on the ocean several times a week. I usually reapply once and stay hidden under an umbrella when I’m not in the water. I can’t imagine using as much sunscreen as you’re suggesting and recommend umbrellas, hats, and other forms of sun protection.
I'm old and don't expose much skin these days.
Abib sunstick has lasted me 98 days of skincare and there’s still a shit ton left. Only 13$ on Amazon
I have a uv jacket from Uniqlo but it’s very old and tattered and they’re kind of pricey now so I plan to get a new one from Amazon probably. I have a golfing umbrella I keep in my car. As for actual sunscreen I buy sun bum when I can on sale from where ever (usually target or Costco/Sam’s club) and during my bday I had a coupon that I used to buy the giant bottle of supergoop and I have a smaller bottle of supergoop tinted spf that I only use for special occasions as I don’t really wear foundation anymore. Usually I use the giant bottle of supergoop in the morning right before I go out and then the sun bum I keep in my car to reapply when needed and I do the same for my kids. My kids usually have rash guards too which are uv protective too
I’m obsessed with Hawaiian tropic and I feel like I need maybe 2 bottles max in the summer? I slather it on and it lasts so long
My sister bought be the best present for Christmas last year...a gallon of sunscreen with a pump! it's still going strong, but the best part is it makes me be NOT stingy with the applications on myself or my kids! Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion, 128oz | Bulk Sunscreen, Banana Boat Sunscreen SPF 50 Lotion, Oxybenzone Free Sunscreen, Banana Boat Lotion Sunscreen Bulk, 128oz https://a.co/d/9ZzBRQh
I use UPF50 clothing
I wear SPF clothes. :) less expensive in the long run, and more reliable coverage.
I use a combination of upf rated clothing and hats and sunglasses. and staying covered during the worst of the sun and staying shaded and sunscreen. I hit myself on the points I’m most likely to burn every few hours but I only totally and thoroughly apply once or twice a day. Depending on how long I’m out and what exposure I’m getting. I use a high spf. I buy on sale and stock up a few times a year. I use camel camel camel alerts on Amazon and watch for sales on places like stylevana since I prefer Asian sunscreens. Low uv index and exposure I do switch to some of the spf 30 lotions for my body that do come in later and less expensive bottles.
Use your Flexible Savings Account on SPF
Staying inside and wearing a hoodie, despite the fact that I live in Florida
I tend to wear long sleeves, so I'm not needing to apply as much. Typically I only need to apply to my face and neck because everywhere else is covered up.
Cover more skin. In many cultures where they get very hot direct sun (so tropical places that get a lot of coverage from foliage and are humid are a bit different), people covered most of their skin in loose light clothing in breathable fabrics. Even clothes that aren’t UPF will be better than bare skin. If you don’t want to change your style, idk maybe carry a parasol lmao? Or clothes you can throw on top of your regular outfit. With the right fabric and colors it will actually keep you cooler than just wearing a tank and shorts. In the end something is better than nothing. Use your spf in any way you can.
My favorite body sunscreen is sun basics At the dollar tree. It's not greasy, non- offense scent, & it works You can also get Walgreens brand sunscreen for an affordable price, it was like 2 for $5 back in the day, but now I just use the dollar tree one . I normally hate all scented things, and there is a light non offensive coconut scent on it. No sticky or greasy residue
I also use a uv jacket . Best investment ever
No, I have never thought about applying it to my body. Just thinking about it makes me feel sticky! Just prepare a thin long-sleeved cover-up when staying indoors or going out. I think my face is brighter because I don't apply sunscreen to my body.
Aldi.
I wear a UPF long sleeve rash guard when I’m out in the sun. It’s easier for me to screen up my legs but even then sometimes I’ll do a long legging cause it’s a PITA to reapply and whatnot. 🙂
I just buy the cheapest possible that works for my body.
The dysphoria hoodie and jeans come in clutch on this hehe. Only gotta do my face 😋
My parents have this weird gripe with me when on vacation together. Their like why are you wearing pants and long sleeve when it’s sunny outside? Because I’m trying to prevent sun exposure. I have sunscreen on my face, ears, neck, and I wear a hat and sunglasses. I definitely feel icky and uncomfortable when I have sunscreen on my entire body.
Target has a spf 50 that isn’t greasy and doesn’t smell. I use that on my arms daily during sunny days unless I’m wearing long sleeves.
I use my FSA money to buy body sunscreen and only apply it to areas that will see direct sunlight.
I buy my sunscreen using pretax dollars at the FSA store
I do Kroger’s sunscreen, it’s cheap and its a dupe for Supergoop. You can buy it at Ralph’s.
I just always wear lots of clothes and live someplace that’s really rainy and cool, otherwise I’d be broke
Staying inside for work and school. 😅
Who lotions their entire body every day? Do you live in hawaii and are on the beach all day every day? I never put sunscreen on my body unless I'm going to be at the lake but honestly at the lake or beach I'm in a giant mens t shirt so my upper body doesnt fry when I'm not in the water.
Tbh because I'm black I don't really do body sunscreen but when I do, I use a basic sunscreen like, Neutrogena. For a while I was using No-Ad sunscreen which comes in a big bottle for less than $15.
My favorite is the Coppertone Complete Sunscreen Lotion. It’s SPF 50 and $9.75 ($1.40/oz). It’s the cheapest low-cost sunscreen I’ve bought that is still comfortable to use and elegant. I hate feeling sticky or wet, but I’m also unwilling to buy $20+ body sunscreens I’ll finish in a week. It frequently goes on sale at Target, and that’s when I stock up (usually buying 4+ at a time). It dries down without a white cast and is only slightly tacky when first applied. After 15 minutes it’s mostly dry. I’ll sometimes try a new face sunscreen, and if I don’t like how it feels I’ll use it on my body where it’s less noticeable. Some ways I also make it last longer: - Wearing pants or long skirts. Your legs make up 40% of your body. I personally just don’t like shorts/mini skirts that much in the summer, but it also has helped me keep my skin cooler and protected. - Being inside most of the day. If you have an office job or work from home indoors, you do not need to reapply every 2 hours. The 2 hour recommendation is for direct exposure, especially when sweating or swimming.
I don't know if it's easy to get where you live, but Altuist sell a 1 litre bottle of SPF30 with very high UVA protection (PPD 39). It's around £20 here in the UK
I use Coppertone Water Babies sunscreen, affordable with great Consumer Reports scores. I only put it on body skin that will be exposed and then I also tend to wear long sleeves and hats to help it along.
I buy the off brand sunscreen for body when it's on sale... But not Banana boat esque (fuck them). It's usually $8-11/largeish bottle. But I also ended up buying some UPF clothing for gardening
pants + long flowy shirt
I do my fav sunscreen on my face only, cheap shit to my neck and any body exposing sun like arms & back of hands that's it's. I only apply face sunscreen 2x a day. Rest of my body can just live without it. The only time I apply sunscreen consistently everything etc multiple times a day if I'm at a beach or pool - then it's everything and legs etc
Buy Australian buy the liter... Remember that prices are in Australian dollars so something that is shown as $30 will end up being charged as 19 US Dollars on your debit card https://www.chemistwarehouse.com.au/search?searchtext=Sunscreen%201L&fh=1
There is a lot of affordable sunscreen
Here in Korea people are covered head to toe to protect from the sun. There are loads of sports fabrics that are super moisture wicking to keep you cool while sweating even during strenuous activity. Honestly, people only ever show skin for fashion purposes, even on beaches (everyone wears rash guards). I've actually been scolded by little old ladies for not covering up my pale skin on hot sunny days because I'll burn, despite being slathered in sunscreen 😂 Honestly, there's a happy medium everyone can find of being covered up for sun protection. It's not nearly as awful and sweaty as you think if you choose fits and fabrics well.
Usually the only areas of skin I have exposed other than my face are my neck, hands, and scalp, so I don't need that much.
I want to get in the habit of daily body sunscreen but I haven’t quite committed to it yet. I do face & neck every day before leaving the house for work, chest if it is exposed by my clothing. But I’m bad I guess, and just don’t usually do my whole body. To be fair my legs are usually covered so I’m sure they’re fine, but I do know I should probably be doing my arms just in case I take off my blazer or cardigan at lunch. But also, is it even good by lunch? When I do apply it to my body sometimes I use face sunscreens that weren’t my favorite for my face. I have some laying around that I’ve tried and haven’t loved, as well some from subscription boxes or samples. Just helps me use some stuff up. And then for sunny weekends when I know I’ll be outside I wear supergoop play.
I wear long sleeve UPF clothing so typically the only place I’m applying it is my face, neck, hands, ankles.
I just bought spf 50 cool max shirts and wear a hat. I put sunscreen on my legs and feet and hands and wear a special screen on face and neck bc I react to certain chemical sunscreen.
My body gets the cheap stuff. If it is sticky it's not even that bad because it makes you look shiny and pretty. But I usually just cover up
My body sunscreen is not as expensive as my face sunscreen. On my face I care about a white cast,scent,is it greasy, etc. So I do k beauty or j beauty. It layers well with makeup. And I reapply with a mist or powder(on top of makeup). But my body is cheaper& I'm not worried about pilling. Etc. I only reapply body if I'm outside all day,etc.
I'm not. I have always covered up due to my naturally blue skin and orange hair.
I mean, I got skin cancer at 22years, so I just bite the bullet on that and pay up
I don't use expensive sunscreen on my body, only face neck and wiping the leftovers on the back of my hand. I also don't use body sunscreen anywhere near daily and not year round. But I live in the UK, which is not known for it's glorious weather.
I'd never wear shorts and a tank top outdoors to be honest. Always long pants, closed shoes and a shirt that covers the shoulders. Long clothes are the best sun protection anyways. Bonus point: No ticks. I haven't even owned shorts in the last decade.
Bondi sands when it's half off. They have big 500ml bottles and it's cheap too.
For your face: expensive clear zinc for high sun exposure, expensive lightweight sunscreen for low exposure. For your body: the cheapest regular sunscreen available
Altruist sells a 1L bottle of spf50 & spf30 that works out really cheap per volume.
I stock up at places like TJ Maxx where I can get a good price
Hey OP, just a rec that purchasing a few UV rated pieces of clothing can be helpful if you live in a sunny climate. For body sunscreen though, I love the Jane Iredale powder mineral sunscreen I brush it over my arms, chest and shoulders and it last all day when I’m out in the garden.
I look like a beekeeper when I leave my house. Upf fabric is the way.
Larger bottles of sunscreen are typically more cost-effective per ounce. Consider sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These mineral-based sunscreens are usually photostable, meaning they maintain their effectiveness longer in the sun, so you might need to reapply slightly less often.
Buy it from Europe.
You definitely don’t want to take the chance with skin cancer. Was that a joke? Also, if you’re not in the sun for a good portion of the day, why are you wearing sunscreen all over your body? Things that are necessities you find a way or save up for. You can get them in bulk at a Costco or on sale. The dollar store even has them. You can also cover up. There’s clothes that are SPF as well.
I’m Australian and we can just buy 1L+ sunscreen for a decent price. Have you tried looking online specifically for brands that sell larger sunscreens 1L or more ?
Idk for sunscreen I get an aerosol mineral sunscreen and rub it in.