Are you under the impression that you need to worry about sunburn only while you’re at the beach? Then think again! The truth is that most of the UV damage that your skin receives isn’t always from when you spend time outside on a sunny day. Usually, it happens during your day-to-day activities, such as driving in your car. What’s more, it could even take place on cooler days when you’re likely not thinking about sun protection at all. That’s why you have so many excellent options for a Dermstore sunscreen kit, such as one from Elta MD, that keep your skin protected all year long. These dermatologist-recommended sunscreens can be used every day, even if you’re not spending too much time outdoors. Moreover, most good ones are broad-spectrum ones with an SPF of at least 15-30, with SPF 50 ones perfect for more extended outdoor activities.
No matter how high the SPF is, the FDA and many other skin specialists recommend that you reapply your sunscreen every two hours for optimal protection. So, stow away the notion that you only need to apply sunscreen once in the day to stay protected. To that end, here are the 13 best Dermstore sunscreens kits, including ones from Elta MD.
Revision Skincare Intellishade Original
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Those looking for a great Dermstore sunscreen for tinted coverage can’t do better than the Revision Skincare Intellishade Original sunscreen. This travel-sized sunscreen, which comes in a 1.7 fl. oz. tube is the perfect all-in-one product that can provide makeup coverage, protect against the sun, moisturize, and fight signs of aging! What’s more, this tinted sunscreen even features vitamin C that brightens and protects the skin from environmental factors (think blue light and pollution). Add to that; it has a beautiful blend of peptides that improve the look of wrinkles and fine lines. All in all, it has the power of five products in one that can help correct, protect, conceal, brighten and hydrate your skin.
Pros
- Looks natural and moisturizes skin.
- Power of five-in-one.
- Tinted sunscreen protection.
Cons
- Expensive.
Dermalogica AGE Smart Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50
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For those looking for a great Dermstore sunscreen kit that fights the effects of aging, the Dermalogica AGE Smart Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50 is perfect. This brand and sunscreen have it covered when it comes to mature skin. The sunscreen features SPF 50 specifically formulated to lessen the signs of skin aging. This is thanks to the peptides formula that prevents wrinkles and fine lines.
“I purchased this after receiving a free sample and it’s been worth every penny. Super luxurious feel, but not too rich or heavy that I feel like I can’t wear it every day. I mix two pumps with one pump of my foundations every morning. It’s my new go to and will become a regular purchase.”
By Melissa
Plus, it even stimulates the production of collagen and glucosamine HCL that reduce age-related hyperpigmentation. And to top it all, this daily sunscreen promotes firmer-looking skin that’s both smooth and supple.
Pros
- Blends smoothly into skin.
- Helps control the triggers that lead to skin aging.
- Provides critical protection against UV rays and long-lasting hydration.
Cons
- Some users said that it irritated their eyes.
Colorescience Total Eye™ 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy SPF 35
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The Colorescience Total Eye™ 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy SPF 35 is an excellent Dermstore sunscreen kit for those who want protection around the eye area. But why is the eye area so important? That’s because when you protect the delicate skin around the eyes, it helps ward off sun side effects such as dark spots, wrinkles, fine lines, and more. So, this product is a must-have as it’s convenient to apply, has a brightening formula, and even has an anti-aging formula. Finally, the applicator is luxurious, and the product blends nicely to brighten the under-eye area.
Pros
- Chemical-free.
- Improves the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and dark circles.
- Immediately brightens and corrects imperfections.
Cons
- Expensive.
SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen
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If you’re suffering from hyperpigmentation, then the SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen is the best Dermstore sunscreen kit that you can have. After all, you need to take additional care with sunscreen for hyperpigmentation. That’s why this formula features the other benefits of phenylmethyl resorcinol, niacinamide, and tranexamic acid. Together, they reduce the appearance of uneven skin tone, discoloration, and brown spots, all while protecting your complexion from harsh UV rays. Besides targeting hyperpigmentation, the added 7 percent reflective mica and glycerin give your complexion a refreshed and brightened look with wear.
Pros
- Provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays.
- Immediately hydrates skin.
- Brighten’s the skin’s radiance.
- Reduces visible discoloration.
Cons
- Some people with very oily skin say that the product pilled.
Dermstore Collection Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40
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The Dermstore Collection Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40 is yet another excellent Dermstore sunscreen, especially for those who love makeup. Shopping for mineral sunscreens that don’t leave behind a white residue is challenging as it is. Luckily, this facial sunscreen doesn’t go chalky, thanks to its lightly tinted, zinc oxide-based formula. Thus, it protects the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays and blurs imperfections. However, the best bit about this sunscreen is that you can wear it alone as well as under makeup. Thus, it doubles as a smoothening makeup primer too!
Pros
- Reef-friendly.
- Leaves no white residue.
- Lightly tinted formula that matches most complexions.
Cons
- Some users complained of a greasy texture.
Supergoop!® Glowscreen Sunscreen SPF 40
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Those with dark skin tones always have issues choosing sunscreens, especially since most seem to leave a chalky white residue that no one wants. Enter the Supergoop!® Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40, the best sunscreen for dark skin tones. This colorless, scentless, and weightless sunscreen is perfect for those who aren’t fans of the gooey, white texture of most sunscreens. What’s more, the oil-free formula features a velvety finish that works for all skin tones and helps grip makeup. Furthermore, this pearlescent formula cream leaves your skin looking glowy and not greasy. Finally, chief ingredients such as cocoa and sea lavender peptides provide antioxidant protection, while niacinamide helps even out tone.
Pros
- Provides blue light and antioxidant protection.
- Acts as a makeup-gripping face primer.
- Leaves luminous finish on the skin.
Cons
- Some people felt that this leaves the face too “shiny.”
SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
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There are many reasons why the SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 is the best Dermstore sunscreen ever. For one, it’s perfect for all kinds and types of skin. Secondly, it’s one of the best sunscreens with the highest sun protection power. Thanks to water resistance for up to 40 minutes, this powerful sunscreen doesn’t disappoint, an SPF of 50, and a broad-spectrum formula. Did you know it has a bonus perk? It even features a sheer tint that flatters a wide range of skin tones from dark to fair and thus makes wearing foundation as good as unnecessary. Finally, the iron oxide spheres act as a color-infused technology and boost radiance and enhance natural skin tone while providing a universal tint.
Pros
- Ideal for all skin types, even sensitive skin.
- Fragrance and paraben-free.
- Water-resistant for up to 40 minutes.
Cons
- It’s more matte and less moisturizing.
TULA Skincare Protect Glow Daily Sunscreen Gel Broad Spectrum SPF 30
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This 1.7 fl. oz. TULA Skincare Protect Glow Daily Sunscreen Gel Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Dermstore sunscreen kit is also one of the best Dermstore products for travel. This reef-safe sunscreen includes probiotic extracts that not only protect your skin from pollution, blue light, and UV rays but also seal moisture and reduce skin inflammation. What’s more, this non-greasy formula features papaya, pineapple, and wild butterfly ginger root extracts that lock in the moisture without clogging your pores or leaving a white cast. Finally, the sunscreen boasts a thin layer of shimmer after application, thus leaving you with a gorgeous sun-kissed glow.
Pros
- No white case residue.
- Non-greasy.
- Perfect for outdoor and indoor use.
- Reef-safe.
Cons
- Some users mentioned that it might pill when used under makeup.
Neocutis JOURNEÉ Revitalizing Day Cream SPF 30
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Yet another excellent Dermstore sunscreen that doubles as a day cream is the Neocutis JOURNEÉ Revitalizing Day Cream SPF 30. Today, day creams are more important than ever, as they give leave your skin softer and smoother, as well as hydrated. What’s more, this multitasker of a fabulous product boasts a multitasking rejuvenation formula that lessens the signs of premature aging palpably, all while maintaining moisture levels. Furthermore, the formula’s hyaluronic acid plumps the skin with lightweight moisture. However, the best feature of this day cream is that it has UV filters that prevent sun damage. Wrapping up the features are the antioxidant blend of vitamins C, E, and green tea extracts that neutralize free radicals, leaving your skin feeling fresh.
Pros
- UV filters prevent sun damage.
- Lessens signs of aging.
- Maintains moisture levels in skin.
Cons
- Expensive.
Obagi Sun Shield Matte Broad Spectrum SPF 50
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Do you have oily skin? The Obagi Sun Shield Matte Broad Spectrum SPF 50 is just the thing for you. Now, sunscreen and oily skin might not always mix. Fortunately, this sunscreen boasts a broad-spectrum mattifying formula that works beautifully and turns up the protection while turning down the oil. Moreover, you’ll love the grease-free and lightweight finish and the addition of free radical–fighting vitamin C. Plus, it even shields your skin from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays to prevent skin cancer, premature aging, and sunburn. All you need to do is apply it liberally half an hour before you’re headed outside. Finally, don’t forget to reapply after swimming or other activities and as needed.
Pros
- Protects the skin.
- Lightweight and non-greasy finish.
- Mattifying broad-spectrum formula.
Cons
- Some people didn’t like the grainy texture.
Sunday Riley Light Hearted Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen
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Yet another excellent Dermstore sunscreen is the Sunday Riley Light-Hearted Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen, especially if you have sensitive skin. The brand understands that sensitive skin requires a no-fuss sunscreen, which gets the job done. What’s more, the formula features protecting and skin-soothing turmeric, which means it doesn’t irritate either. It soothes and calms the complexion and protects the skin with its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Finally, when you apply sunscreen, it leaves your skin with an oil-free and lightweight finish that protects it effectively against the sun’s harsh UVA and UVB rays.
Pros
- Lightweight and broad-spectrum sunscreen.
- Skin-soothing.
- Anti-inflammatory.
Cons
- Some people said that it left a very mild white cast.
Elta MD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum Dermstore Sunscreen SPF 46
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An excellent and all-around Dermstore sunscreen kit is the Elta MD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46. The Elta MD Dermstore sunscreen is the best option for acne-prone skin. It boasts an oil-free and lightweight broad-spectrum formula that features the inflammation-calming niacinamide. So, its soothing and lightweight formula makes it perfect for those prone to acne. Apply this Elta MD Dermstore sunscreen liberally to the neck and face 15 minutes before you head out into the sun. If you’re sweating or going swimming, reapply this Elta MD Dermstore sunscreen at least every two hours.
Pros
- Non-oily and non-greasy.
- Broad-spectrum formula.
- Lightweight.
Cons
- This Dermstore sunscreen kit is not for those with very sensitive skin.
ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
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The Ilia Super Serum Skin Tiny SPF 40 tops the best Dermstore sunscreens list. There’s a lot to love about this sunscreen, especially since its tint is like a liquid BB cream, but in the end, it dries down like a lightweight foundation. What’s more, the serum has a hydrating and plumping formula containing hyaluronic acid, plant-based squalane, and niacinamide that softens imperfections. Don’t be put off by the fact that it’s a tinted sunscreen; apply it generously, and the tint will be absorbed by your skin quickly. The best bit? It’s available in a whopping 24 shades that range from fair skin to darker complexions. So, no matter the tint you’re looking for, this sunscreen has it.
Pros
- Comes in 24 skin shades.
- Tinted and absorbing.
- Works like a combination of liquid BB cream and lightweight foundation.
Cons
- None.
How To Choose The Best Dermstore Sunscreens for Travel?
It’s no secret that the best sunscreens are essential for healthy skin throughout the year. However, sunscreens aren’t one-size-fits-all, and there are thousands of options on the market. Plus, different people end up having different sunscreen needs. While some might be looking for sweatproof and waterproof protection, others might need it for everyday wear. Moreover, your skin type is also a huge factor. So, what should you consider when it comes to travel-size sunscreens? Read on.
Look for SPF 30-50
Both UVB and UVA rays could lead to skin cancer. Plus, UVB rays cause sunburns, while UVA rays speed up signs of aging and cause wrinkles. The AAD (American Academy of Dermatology) recommends using a sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 that protects your skin against 97 percent of the UVB rays. Technically, sunscreens with higher SPFs are ideal for those who burn easily or for fair-skinned people. However, remember that any improvements are minimal – so an SPF 15 one might provide 93 percent protection, but the SPF 30 isn’t “twice” as protective or effective. Also, don’t max out your SPF, as no sunscreen can block 100 percent of the sun’s rays.
Check the key ingredients
You need to take a quick look at the ingredients list, which can help ensure that you’re getting the coverage and quality that your skin requires. Firstly, you’ll need to ensure that the sunscreen has “broad spectrum” protection, which means it has both UVA and UVB protection. What’s more, physical/mineral sunscreens use natural minerals such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide to reflect the sun’s rays. Meanwhile, chemical sunscreens use chemical compounds such as biscotizole, avobenzone, and bemotrizinol, all of which provide broad-spectrum protection.
Consider your skin type
Many sunscreens are made specifically to help sensitive, oily, or dry skin. Those who have dry skin should look for ingredients such as alow, silicones, oils, lanolin, and glycerin and avoid sunscreen gels or sprays with alcohol. Those with oily skin should go for gel or lightweight lotions with ingredients such as isododecane and silica. Finally, when it comes to sensitive skin, go for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic sunscreens, and also avoid mineral sunscreens and those with preservatives and alcohols.
Sunscreen and makeup
Finally, we need to consider how your sunscreen will go with your makeup. An excellent way to develop a healthy sunscreen habit is to incorporate it into your morning routine. So, apply a thin coat of sunscreen, after which you let it soak in nicely. Then, wash your hands of any sunscreen left before applying makeup. What about reapplication? Since most of us don’t have time to start, go for a makeup setting spray with SPF.
Is 110 SPF too much?
According to experts, sunscreens with an SPF higher than 50 aren’t worth buying. That’s because they offer only marginally better protection and not a scalable one, according to the SPF. Plus, they might even encourage you to stay out in the sun for a longer time, which isn’t advisable. Instead, go for an SPF between 15 and 50, and apply it liberally and reapply it often.
Which SPF is best for sunscreen?
Experts use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, as anything below that isn’t effective. Also, your sunscreen shouldn’t have an SPF of more than 50, as they only provide a very small increase in UV protection.
What is the difference between Elta MD UV clear and UV daily?
The Elta MD UV Daily SPF40 is a moisturizing Dermstore sunscreen for combination or normal skin types and is also tinted. On the other hand, the UV Clear SPF 46 is formulated for skin types prone to hyperpigmentation, rosacea, and acne.