The Savvy Five: Sunscreens

Technically there can only be one ‘best’, we know, but since we are all unique and special in our own ways, it’s hard to choose just one thing for everyone. That’s why we are introducing our new monthly feature, the SavvyFive. So just in time for the first long weekend of the summer, this month we’re delivering our top five sunscreen choices for the whole family.

Neutrogena UltraSheer Body Mist Sunscreen SPF60
Good for: Every body (everybody too) in the family
Why it made the list: The spray-on formulation means it’s easy to put on, and the easier it is to put on, the more likely you are to do so (and the less time the kids have to wait to start having fun). Plus it’s got Helioplex in it, a new dermatologist-recommended sunscreen ingredient that provides complete UVA/UVB spectrum protection. ($16.99, available at major drugstores)

La Roche Posay Anthelios XL SPF 45
Good for: Your face
Why it made the list: It makes us feel like we are ‘en vacances’ in the south of France when we use it (even if we’re just pushing the swing at the local park), and the fragrance-free, non-greasy formulation makes it perfect for daily face use, even on sensitive skin. And, to boot, it’s very effective (contains dermatologist-recommended sunscreen agents Mexoryl SX and Mexoryl XL). ($23.99, available at major drugstores and online at well.ca)




Ombrelle Sport Gel SPF30
Good for: The man of the house
Why it made the list: Clear (no more ghost face), fast-drying, non-greasy, and waterproof, this new addition to the always savvy Ombrelle line is great for sporty types, those with oily skin and for application on hairy body parts—a perfect sunscreen for your beloved’s golf bag. (Is it just us, or are we the only moms who have the job of making sure that it’s well stocked for summer?) ($16.99, available at major drugstores and at well.ca)

Ombrelle Face Stick SPF60
Good for: Little faces
Why it made the list: Kids need sunscreen on their faces, not in their eyes, so use this water-resistant stick to swipe around their eyes and forehead area to provide easy and effective sun protection (it also contains Mexoryl XL) without the dripping, stinging, burning or screaming. ($16.99, available at major drugstores or well.ca)




Lavera Family Sun Spray SPF 15
Good for: Those wanting to avoid parabens
Why it made the list: Lavera’s natural, mineral-based sunscreens create a physical layer of protection (100% Titanium Dioxide) on the skin which reflect UVA and UVB rays immediately on application (no waiting 20 minutes like with chemical sunscreens), are paraben and pseudo-estrogen free and don’t harm the environment when they are washed off. ($31, available at lavera.com)

Now that you’re armed with the list of the best, we wish you sunny days ahead…at least until after the long weekend. (And keep in mind, if you have to go ‘off-list’, take the advice of our sunscreen expert, Dr. Sandy Skotnicki-Grant, SavvyMom of three and director of the Bay Dermatology Clinic, and look for the ‘Recognized by the Canadian Dermatology Association’ seal on any sunscreen you buy.)

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