The Best Sunscreens for Families: Stay Protected and Stylish This Summer

Are you tired of buying sunscreen that makes you look like a ghost or leaves you greasier than a bag of fries? Spring break starts this week in NYC and summer is just around the corner, so I have got you covered (literally) with our favorite sunscreens for families!

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Supergoop! Glow Stick Sunscreen: Best for Face

Here we have a sunscreen that's as fun to say as it is to use: Supergoop! Glow Stick Sunscreen. This magical little stick not only protects your skin from the sun's harmful rays, but it also gives you a beautiful glow. And not the kind of glow you get after sweating through your sunscreen, but a subtle and shimmery one that will make you look like a sun-kissed goddess. Plus, it's compact, easy to apply and lightweight, so even my sensory avoidant child likes the way it feels on his skin and is happy to reapply. So whether you're lounging on the beach or hitting up a theme park, the Supergoop! Glow Stick Sunscreen will have you shining bright like a diamond (and protected from the sun, of course).

SPF: 50 | Active ingredients: Avobenzone, Octisalate, Octocrylene | Reef-safe: Yes

Blue Lizard Sunscreen: Best UV warning special effects

For those of you who prefer a more natural approach, there's the Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen. It's mineral-based and doesn't contain any harmful chemicals, which is great news for anyone with sensitive skin. Plus, the bottle changes color in UV light, which is like a fun little science experiment for your kids (and let's be honest, for you too).

SPF: 50+ | Active ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | Reef-safe: Yes

Thinksport Kids Sunscreen: Safest for humans and oceans

For families who love to swim and snorkel, it's important to choose a sunscreen that's reef safe. This one is free from harmful chemicals and uses natural ingredients like zinc oxide and aloe vera to protect your skin. Thinksport Kids SPF30 has the distinction of nabbing a 1 (the best rating) on EWG Skindeep database. Plus, it's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so your family can enjoy the ocean without worrying about harming the delicate coral reefs. So go ahead, slather on that Thinksport sunscreen and make a splash (while keeping the ocean happy)!

SPF: 50+ | Active ingredients: Zinc Oxide | Reef-safe: Yes

Banana Boat Simply Protect Kids Sunscreen: Best Spray for Sensitive Skin

Banana Boat knows sunscreen with seemingly hundreds of options to choose from. This one is made specifically for kids and provides broad-spectrum protection without any added fragrances or oils. Like the others, it is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. The spray bottle delivery sets it a bit apart. Saves you from wrestling your little ones to the ground to reapply sunscreen.

SPF: 50+ | Active ingredients: Octocrylene, Octisalate, Zinc Oxide, Homosalate | Reef-safe: Yes

UV clothing and accessories

Now, before you head out for a day in the sun, let's talk about an extra layer of protection for you and your family. Covering up with long sleeves and hats will provide an additional barrier between your skin and the sun's harmful rays, and is especially useful for those with sensitive skin or who burn easily. Plus, less areas to have to constantly reapply sunscreen!

Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating of 50+, which means it blocks 98% of UV rays. And don't forget to throw on a cute hat to protect your face and scalp from the sun. Besides keeping skin cancer at bay, good protection from the sun is the secret to keeping a youthful complexion! There are plenty of stylish options out there that will have you looking like a fashionable family while keeping you safe from those UV rays. We're particularly fond of SwimZip which makes an entire line of UV protection clothing that will keep the whole family covered.

Finally, don't forget about your eyes! Sunglasses are a must-have item for any family outing in the sun. Not only do they shield your eyes from harmful UV rays, but they also reduce glare and make it easier to see on bright, sunny days. Look for sunglasses with a UV 400 rating, which means they block 99.9% of UVA and UVB rays. We like our Goodr sunglasses because they do double duty, great for lazing about on the beach AND for going the distance while running.

For kids, there are plenty of colorful options made from nearly indestructible flexible rubber frames that will survive even the most adventurous toddlers. So don't forget to pack those shades and keep your family's eyes safe and stylish in the sun!

These fun in the sun tips are sure to keep your family protected from those pesky UV rays, without any of the hassle. Now go forth and soak up some vitamin D!