Why Body Sunscreen is Your Most Important Daily Accessory
It's a familiar story: you've perfected a multi-step routine for your face, layering serums and creams to keep it flawless. But as you slip on your favorite t-shirt, you might forget about the skin that's just as exposed—your chest, shoulders, and arms. The truth is, the signs of sun damage don't stop at the jawline.
It’s time to start thinking of body sunscreen not as a sticky, beach-day chore, but as the most essential accessory you wear every single day.
Why Trust This Guide? Protecting your skin from the sun is the most important thing you can do for its health and appearance. At Kiana's Skin Diary, we focus on providing scientifically-backed advice to help you build habits that will keep your skin beautiful for life.
The Skin You're Forgetting
The skin on your chest (décolleté) and the backs of your hands are two of the first places to show signs of aging. Why? They are constantly exposed to incidental sun—while driving, sitting near a window, or walking outside.
Consistent protection is the secret to preventing:
Sunspots and Uneven Tone:Especially on the shoulders and chest.
Loss of Firmness:UV rays break down collagen, leading to a crepey texture.
Premature Aging:Protecting your body is just as important as protecting your face.
Our Top 3 Body Sunscreens for a Non-Greasy Feel
We tested the most popular formulas to find the ones that feel like luxurious body lotions, not sticky old-school sunscreens.
Sunscreen | Type | Finish | Price Point |
Supergoop! PLAY Everyday SPF 50 | Chemical | Natural |
|
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk | Chemical | Natural / Velvety |
$ |
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist | Chemical | Natural (Spray) | $ |
The Best Body Sunscreens in Detail
1. The All-Around Favorite: Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50
Why We Love It:This is the holy grail of body sunscreens. It has a lightweight, hydrating formula that absorbs instantly with zero white cast or greasy feel. It's water- and sweat-resistant for 80 minutes and has a clean, subtle scent. You'll actually enjoy applying it.
Best For:Daily use for all skin types; active lifestyles.
Price Point: $
2. The Luxurious Drugstore Option: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60
Why We Love It:This formula feels incredibly elegant and velvety on the skin. It's fast-absorbing and has a unique texture that feels more like a high-end body milk. It provides powerful, long-lasting protection from a brand trusted by dermatologists worldwide.
Best For:All skin types, including sensitive skin, who want a luxurious feel.
Price Point: $
3. The Best Spray-On Option: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist SPF 70
Why We Love It:For hard-to-reach areas like your back, a spray is unbeatable. This formula is ultra-lightweight, oil-free, and absorbs in seconds. It provides high SPF protection in a convenient, non-greasy mist.
Best For:Quick application, reapplication, and covering your back.
Price Point: $
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use my facial sunscreen on my body? You can, but it's not cost-effective. Facial sunscreens are typically sold in much smaller, more expensive bottles. Body sunscreens are formulated for larger areas and give you a better value. If you're in a pinch, any sunscreen is better than no sunscreen!
How much body sunscreen should I actually use? The general rule is to use about one ounce (or a full shot glass) to cover your entire body. For daily use, focus on all exposed areas not covered by clothing. Don't forget often-missed spots like the tops of your feet, ears, and the back of your neck.
Do I need to wear body sunscreen in the winter? Yes. UVA rays, which are responsible for premature aging, are present all year round and can penetrate through clouds and windows. If an area of your body is exposed, it needs protection. Learning about the difference between UVA and UVB is crucial, as we explain in our Sunscreen 101 guide.
Final Thoughts
Treat your body with the same care you give your face. Making a great body sunscreen your final, essential step before you get dressed is the single best investment you can make in maintaining healthy, even-toned, and youthful-looking skin for life.