Claire Tries It: Sunscreen Edition (+ My Sun Care Must-Haves)
It’s 8:07 AM. I’ve packed snacks, chased down shoes, and lathered at least one wiggly child in sunscreen while somehow still trying to slap on mascara and get out the door. And somewhere between the third “MOM, WHERE’S MY SWIM GOGGLES?” and “Can you help me zip this rash guard?” I remembered: Oh yeah... I need sunscreen too.
I’ve tested a lot of sunscreens lately, some were instant yeses, some... immediate hard passes. So for this round of Claire Tries It, I’m sharing the ones that made the cut. The ones I keep in the car, in my bag, by the back door. The ones that work for me, my husband, my kids, and my always-slightly-burn-prone shoulders.
And because I love a good shortcut, you can shop everything directly from my Amazon storefront. You know I’ve got you covered.
My Face Favorites (No White Casts, No Eye-Sting)
Let’s be real, face sunscreen is where the drama lives. If it pills under makeup or stings your eyes when you sweat? Immediate rejection. Here are my current ride-or-dies:
IT Cosmetics Hello Sunshine Invisible Sunscreen
Lightweight, hydrating, and actually invisible. I use this when my skin’s feeling dry and I want something that feels more like skincare.EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46
This is my “just trust me” option. Super gentle, derm-recommended, and always reliable. Great for breakout-prone skin or when I just need a fuss-free win.
Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40
The glow is real. I wear this when I want to look slightly put together even when I’m just running errands. Layer it under makeup or wear it solo, it always hits.Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
This one is totally clear and goes on like a primer. Velvety, weightless, and perfect for layering under foundation without a greasy feel. Makeup grips to it like magic.
Okay, a bit of a splurge. But this one adjusts to your skin tone and gives such a smooth finish. I save it for days when I need to feel extra polished.
La Roche-Posay Double Repair Moisturizer with SPF 30
If you’re a “one product and done” person in the morning, this one. It’s creamy, hydrating, and doesn’t leave a trace of white.
Makeup + Reapply-Friendly Options
We’ve all been there, your makeup looks good, and then you remember… You need to reapply sunscreen. Instead of ruining the whole situation, try these:
e.l.f. Suntouchable! Whoa Glow Sunscreen and Makeup Primer
Adds that glowy look under makeup (without breaking the bank). Think “clean girl aesthetic,” but with sun protection.e.l.f. Suntouchable! All Set for Sun SPF Setting Spray
A setting spray and SPF?! This lives in my diaper bag. A few spritzes and I’m good to go, no mirror needed.Sun Bum Sunscreen Facial Mist
Smells like vacation. Works like a charm. Perfect for a midday spritz at the pool or before heading to a backyard BBQ. Loaded with Vitamin E, this stuff will make your skin glow.
Body SPFs I Actually Reach For
Sunscreen for the body has to check three boxes:
1. easy to apply
2. not sticky
3. smells nice (but not too nice)
These do just that:
Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50
My go-to for all-over sun protection. It’s water- and sweat-resistant, spreads like a dream, and doesn’t leave you feeling sticky. I use this on me and the kids for full-coverage beach days.Kopari Sunglaze Sheer Body Mist SPF 42
A dry oil mist that feels more like skincare than sunscreen. Makes my legs look glowy and doesn’t leave that weird tacky film.JM Solution Marine Luminous Pearl Sunscreen
Lightweight and hydrating, with a subtle brightening effect (thanks to pearl extract). I use this on my face when I want SPF + radiance in one easy step. Great under light makeup or on bare skin days.JM Solution Glow Luminous Flower Sun Spray
This one’s the MVP of mist-on-the-go. It has a soft floral scent, fine mist, and gives a natural glow without feeling greasy. I love this for quick reapplications on my shoulders and chest when I’m out and about.Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Lip Balm, SPF 50 Sunscreen
Classic. Affordable. Gets the job done. My lips have gotten fried one too many times, and they always get forgotten when it comes. So now I keep one of these bad boys in my car and purse at all times.
Coppertone Face + Body 4-in-1 Performance SPF 50
When we’re doing playground time, sports camps, or anything sweaty, this is the MVP. Water-resistant and seriously reliable.
After-Sun Saviors
Because sometimes… we miss a spot.
Solacaine Cool Aloe Burn Relief Spray
Instant cool down. I keep this in the fridge and it’s a game-changer after a little too much sun.Banana Boat Soothing After Sun Gel
It’s giving nostalgia and relief. I use this after beach days or if someone’s looking a little red.La Roche-Posay Double Repair Moisturizer (again)
It’s so hydrating I sometimes use it again after the after-sun gel. My skin soaks it up.
For the Littles (And Buggy Evenings)
We live in Maryland, which means summer = sunscreen + bugs.
Fairy Tales Sun & Swim Shampoo + Conditioner
Removes chlorine and smells amazing. My kids love it, I love it, it’s a win all around.Babyganics Natural Insect Repellent
Safe, gentle, no gross chemicals. Doesn’t make me feel like I just walked through a citronella cloud.Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Spray
When we need the big guns, this is it. Still DEET-free, but much stronger. I use it on myself and my husband before evening walks or s’mores night.
Last Thoughts (A.K.A. Let Me Mom-Splain Sunscreen Real Quick)
I used to think sunscreen was just “grab one from the store and go,” but the truth is, t’s so personal. Skin type, sweat level, makeup or no makeup, even your mood... it all plays into what you reach for.
So my advice? Try a few. Keep one in every bag. Reapply even when it feels annoying. And make it easy on yourself, shop my full list of faves on my Amazon storefront so you’re not chasing down that mist you saw on TikTok two weeks ago.
Stay protected, stay glowy, and I’ll see you out in the sunshine (hat on, obviously).
