When it comes to seriously great sunscreens, the U.S. has always lagged far behind the global competition. Here, five outstanding SPFs to seek out on your next trip overseas
By Jane Sung /
Photograph by Brian Klutch /
September 17, 2024
Any dermatologist will tell you the best sunscreen is the one that you’ll actually wear. That’s not to say you shouldn’t aim a little higher — or wider, as the case may be. Many of the more effective chemical sunscreens are not available in the United States, because their more sophisticated, broad-spectrum formulas contain newer UV filters not yet approved by the FDA. “These filters are applied more easily — so you don’t feel like you have glue on your face — and have less white cast, less eye sting, and less irritation,” says aesthetician Charlotte Palermino, cofounder of skincare line Dieux. They also tend to provide better protection against sun damage. Below, a few global sunscreens worth scouring pharmacies for on your next trip abroad.
ISDIN FOTOPROTECTOR FUSION WATER MAGIC
Hailing from Barcelona, Isdin is a dermatologist favorite for its potent formulas; only its mineral sunscreens are readily available in the U.S. This chemical formula absorbs right away, is noncomedogenic, and has a silky finish, making it especially ideal for oily skin since it leaves it looking matte. It also comes in three tinted versions.
ULTRA VIOLETTE SUPREME SCREEN
Palermino loves this lightly tinted Australian sunscreen that’s lightweight yet moisturizing and ideal for normal to dry skin. In addition to a strong barrier against burning UVB rays, it has two filters that are especially defensive against aging UVA rays, which Palermino says can both “cause cancer and degrade collagen through DNA damage.”
BEAUTY OF JOSEON RELIEF SUN
“Sunscreens from South Korea and Japan are lighter and less greasy because they’re formulated to be used daily,” says biomathematician and skincare expert Dr. Julian Sass. Case in point: this wildly popular offering from Seoul-based Beauty of Joseon, which incorporates four chemical filters for broad-spectrum SPF 50 as well as vitamin- and mineral-rich extracts of rice and green tea.
BIORÉ UV AQUA RICH WATERY ESSENCE
Although it looks rich, when applied this Japanese sunscreen has a watery texture that makes it feel as light as a fragrance, while still providing the highest PA (Protection Grade of UVA, a rating system used in Asia). Sass likes that it “hydrates without being greasy, suits all skin types, and offers powerful protection against both UVA and UVB rays.”
LA ROCHE-POSAY ANTHELIOS UVMUNE 400 HYDRATING CREAM
Gentle enough for sensitive skin, this fragrance-free SPF 50 from the popular French pharmacy brand has a creamy consistency that helps it blend easily; it also layers well under makeup. It’s non-irritating to eyes and sweat- and water-resistant, making it especially great for use on vacation and during outdoor activities.
Jane Sung is a lifestyle writer who covers travel, beauty, and style content for print and digital media. She is currently a deputy editor at Forbes Vetted and lives in Los Angeles.
Link copied!