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Beauty Break 4 Piece Kit

Sale Price $24.99 $60

4 Piece Classic Suncare Travel Kit

SPF 30 • Organic • Kit

Sale Price $45 $50

Zinc Oxide Liplux® Sunscreen Trio

SPF 30 • Organic • Lip Balm

Sale Price $45 $54

Original Liplux® Lip Balm Sunscreen

Regular Price $12

Tinted Liplux® Lip Balm Sunscreen

Liplux® Hydrating Lip Oil

SPF 30 • Organic • Lip Oil

Regular Price $18

Clear Sunscreen Stick

SPF 30 • Organic • Stick

Regular Price $24

Zinc Oxide Sunscreen Stick

SPF 50 • Organic • Stick

Regular Price $26 $0

Liplux® Tinted Lip Balm Zinc Oxide Sunscreen

Clear Sunscreen Spray

SPF 50 • Organic • Spray

Regular Price $28

Hydrating Sunscreen Lotion

SPF 50 • Organic • Lotion

SPF 30 • Organic • Spray

3 Piece Classic Suncare Travel Set

SPF 50 + SPF 30 • Organic • Kit

Sale Price $25 $38

Refreshing Water Hydration Stick

Regular Price $30

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Travel-Sized Sunscreen Kits & Bundles

Traveling soon? Don't let sun damage be a part of your journey. Our COOLA travel size sunscreen is a must-have for every adventure. Whether you're jetting off to a tropical paradise or exploring a bustling city, our travel sunscreen offers unparalleled sun protection in a convenient size. This isn't just any sunscreen ; it's a blend of science and nature, with active ingredients and Vitamin E working together to shield your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Our travel size sunscreen spray is a game changer for on-the-go protection. It's not just about avoiding sunburn; it's about defending your skin against the long-term effects of sun exposure. With our mineral sunscreen, you can enjoy every outdoor moment without worrying about greasy residue or discomfort on your sensitive skin. It's a cruelty-free solution that respects both your skin and the environment. We understand that sunscreen skin care is a daily necessity, not just for beach days. That's why our range includes options for every skin type, from oily skin to those needing a gentle formula. The travel size SPF products slip easily into your bag, ensuring you're always prepared. And for those who wear makeup, our sunscreen lotions act as a perfect base, protecting your skin while enhancing your natural beauty. Our products go beyond just UVB protection; they're designed to fight free radicals and prevent skin damage. From the hydrating travel size sunscreen spray to the nourishing lip balm, every item in our collection is a testament to our commitment to comprehensive sun protection measures. Choose COOLA for your travel sized sunscreen needs, and embrace every adventure with confidence, knowing your skin is well cared for.

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Why We Made This

Contains: Daily Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 30 1oz, Brightening Face Scrub 1oz, Daily Cleanser 2oz

Daily Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 30: a sheer, lightweight formula that works as a protective base layer for our daily skin routine. This unique blend uses antioxidant-rich Banana, Wild Rosella and Niacinamide to help restore healthy hydration and protect against daily skin stressors.

Brightening Face Scrub: contains Organic Cane Sugar, Vitamin C, and Papaya & Pineapple Enzymes, which work together to gently exfoliate, smooth and brighten the look of skin.

Daily Cleanser: a hydrating cream cleanser that gently, yet thoroughly, washes away dirt, makeup, and daily buildup without drying out skin. Infused with soothing Ginseng, Green Coconut Water and antioxidant-rich Banana, this special blend helps restore skin’s natural health and balance and helps protect against daily skin stressors.

Trust The Bum®

Cruelty-Free, Vegan, For All Skin Types, Dermatologist Tested, Product of the USA

Made Without : Parabens, Phthalates, Sulfates, Mineral Oil, Formaldehyde, Synthetic Fragrance

What's Inside

Daily Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 30: water, polyglyceryl-6 stearate, dimethicone, cetearyl alcohol, capryloyl glycerin/sebacic acid copolymer, hydrated silica, hibiscus sabdariffa fruit extract, niacinamide, cocos nucifera (coconut) fruit extract, helianthus annuus (sunfl ower) extract, lactobacillus, lactobacillus ferment, musa sapientum (banana) fl ower extract, musa sapientum (banana) fruit extract, musa sapientum (banana) leaf extract, musa sapientum (banana) peel extract, musa sapientum (banana) pulp extract, lysolecithin, erythritol, glucose, glycerin, arachidyl alcohol, arachidyl glucoside, behenyl alcohol, cetearyl glucoside, fragrance, polyglyceryl-6 behenate, pullulan, sclerotium gum, tocopherol, xanthan gum, phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin

Brightening Face Scrub: propanediol, sucrose, PEG-7 glyceryl cocoate, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, ananas sativus (pineapple) fruit extract, mangifera indica (mango) fruit extract, carica papaya fruit extract, glycerin, carbomer, aminomethyl propanol, fragrance, water, phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin

Daily Cleanser: water, sodium cocoyl isethionate, stearic acid, glycerin, withania somnifera root extract, cocos nucifera (coconut) fruit extract, helianthus annuus (sunfl ower) extract, musa sapientum (banana) fl ower extract, musa sapientum (banana) fruit extract, musa sapientum (banana) leaf extract, musa sapientum (banana) peel extract, musa sapientum (banana) pulp extract, niacinamide, lactobacillus, lactobacillus ferment, lysolecithin, polyquaternium-7, pullulan, sclerotium gum, tocopherol, xanthan gum, butylene glycol, citric acid, fragrance, phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin

Daily Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 30: Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply: After 80 minutes of swimming or sweating, immediately after towel drying, at least every 2 hours. Children under 6 months: ask a doctor.

Brightening Face Scrub: Apply a dime size amount to skin and gently massage face and neck area in a circular motion. For an even gentler exfoliation, add more water. Rinse off and pat dry. Can be used 2-4 times a week or daily depending on skin type.

Daily Cleanser: Gently massage onto wet skin and rinse thoroughly with warm water. Pat dry. Can be used in the morning and evening.

Brightening Face Scrub / Daily Cleanser:

• For external use only.
• Avoid contact with eyes.
• If any irritation occurs, stop use and consult your physician.
• Use only as directed.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Daily Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 30:

• Helps prevent sunburn
• If used as directed with other sun protection measures (see Directions ), decreases the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun
• Do not use on damaged or broken skin.
• When using this product keep out of eyes. Rinse with water to remove.
• Stop use and ask a doctor if rash occurs.
• Keep out of reach of children.  If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.
• Shake well before use
• Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure
• after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating
• immediately after towel drying
• at least every 2 hours
• children under 6 months of age: ask a doctor
• limit time in the sun, especially from10 a.m.-2 p.m.
• wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, hats, and sunglasses

Other Information

• Protect this product from excessive heat and direct sun.

The Good Stuff

It's simple. We care about the planet. We care about the animals. We care about our families. So, we're always looking for ways to make our products without ingredients that could hurt any of them.

We've Got Answers

Is this tsa- friendly.

Yes, all three of the skin care products are TSA-friendly, making it the perfect travel kit for any occasion!

Is this bag splash-proof?

Yes, this bag will keep all your products protected from any spills or splashes, thanks to our friends at Aloha Collection.

What order should I use the products?

We recommend using our Daily Cleanser, then our Brightening Face Scrub, and finishing off with our Daily SPF 30 Sunscreen Moisturizer before leaving the house.

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• Health and fitness
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The Best Sunscreen

By Nancy Redd

Nancy Redd is a writer who covers health and grooming. She has tested dozens of hair dryers, toothbrushes, and pairs of period underwear.

The best sunscreen is the one you’ll apply liberally and often, so it should be affordable but still feel and smell good on your skin.

After extensive brand-concealed panel testing, we recommend the physical sunscreen Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ and the chemical sunscreen Banana Boat Light As Air Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 , which best suit most preferences.

Everything we recommend

Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+

An easy-to-spread physical sunscreen.

This physical sunscreen lotion absorbs easily and is free of added fragrance. Although it can feel greasy and leave behind a white cast, it’s less visible on skin than most physical sunscreens.

Buying Options

Banana Boat Light As Air SPF 50+

A nongreasy chemical sunscreen.

This easy-to-apply lotion lives up to its name, as it rubs in with a dry, transparent finish and appears nearly colorless on skin. It has added fragrance but not an overpowering sunscreen-y scent.

Budget pick

Equate Sport Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Value Size SPF 50

A lower-price chemical sunscreen.

This store-brand chemical sunscreen is surprisingly pleasant to use. It feels good, rubs in easily, and looks nearly invisible on all skin tones. Its polarizing medicinal smell can be a dealbreaker, though.

Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50

A reef-safe physical sunscreen.

This lotion is formulated with non-nano zinc oxide, an active ingredient known to be safer for marine life. It leaves a minimal white cast, but it’s pricey and has a strong scent.

What to look for

The American Academy of Dermatology suggests wearing sunscreens that advertise a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.

Choose a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB radiation.

Even if you don’t plan to sweat or swim, water-resistant sunscreens have better staying power on skin.

To be well protected, you need to apply sunscreen liberally and reapply it often.

We also recommend a budget pick in a big bottle: Equate Sport Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Value Size SPF 50 , a chemical sunscreen that rubs in effortlessly but has an added fragrance our testers found divisive. (It’s four times less expensive per ounce than Banana Boat Light As Air.)

And for those seeking a "reef-safe" sunscreen, the lightweight Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 is an excellent option.

Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ formula spreads relatively quickly and absorbs easily for a sunscreen containing only physical UV blockers , which tend to be chalky and difficult to rub in. Formulated with both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, this sunscreen contains no added fragrance.

SPF: 50+ Type of protection: physical Active ingredients: zinc oxide (10%) and titanium dioxide (8%) Broad spectrum: yes Reef safe: no Price per ounce (at the time of publication): $2.85 per ounce in the largest bottle size (8.75 ounces)

Banana Boat Light As Air Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ is our favorite chemical sunscreen that doesn’t contain oxybenzone (a common active ingredient that some advocacy organizations have expressed concern about). It’s lightweight, nongreasy, and blends seamlessly into a variety of skin tones. Although it contains added fragrance, testers weren’t put off by its fruity scent. It costs less per ounce than our physical sunscreen picks—although much more than our budget pick.

SPF: 50 Type of protection: chemical Active ingredients: avobenzone (3%), homosalate (9%), octisalate (4%), octocrylene (5%) Broad spectrum: yes Reef safe: no Price per ounce (at the time of publication): $1.67

Walmart’s oxybenzone-free Equate Sport Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Value Size SPF 50 was very popular in our brand-concealed panel testing, during which many testers rated its translucence and skin feel as highly as sunscreens that cost 10 times as much. However, some found its medicinal odor a dealbreaker.

SPF: 50 Type of protection: chemical Active ingredients: avobenzone (3%), homosalate (15%), octisalate (5%), and octocrylene (7%) Broad spectrum: yes Reef safe: no Price per ounce (at the time of publication): 39¢

Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 is easier to rub in than our physical-sunscreen pick from Blue Lizard, and its feel and transparency on all shades of skin is better, too—on par with most chemical sunscreens. In our testing we found that it leaves less of a white cast on skin than any of the other 15 reef-safe formulas we’ve tested. But this sunscreen is much more expensive than our other picks and contains a strong added fragrance.

SPF: 50 Type of protection: physical Active ingredient: non-nano zinc oxide (23.5%) Broad spectrum: yes Reef safe: yes Price per ounce (at the time of publication): $4.30

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked and tested, our favorite physical sunscreens, our favorite chemical sunscreens, other good sunscreens, what does spf mean, what’s in sunscreen, how much sunscreen should i use, do i need a separate face sunscreen, does sunscreen expire, the competition.

To find the best sunscreens, we spoke with multiple cosmetic chemists, dermatologists, and other medical professionals.

We read studies on FDA-approved active ingredients, investigations into how people apply sunscreen (spoiler: poorly), and literature reviews. Over years of work on this guide, we have consulted the FDA several times to learn more about its regulation of sunscreens .

We also read through sunscreen reviews from nonacademic publications—and then tossed most of them out because of their utter lack of basis in science. Although we previously considered independent SPF testing from Consumer Reports , we’ve concluded that lab simulations tell us very little about sunscreen efficacy during real-world use.

Sunscreen is for everyone over 6 months of age, including people with darker skin . Experts recommend keeping young infants out of the sun altogether; if that’s impossible, using sunscreen is better than not .

“Just because some cultures don’t have a long-standing history of wearing sunscreen doesn’t mean there can’t be a benefit from wearing it,” said Vinod Nambudiri, a dermatologist in Boston. “Darker-skinned people can absolutely get skin cancer as well as other skin problems caused by UV ray damage.”

Applied properly, sunscreen lowers your risk of skin cancer and helps prevent wrinkles (video) ; it’s arguably the most effective anti-aging product available. You’re getting hit by a fair amount of the sun’s rays every day, even overcast ones, “unless you are a spelunker,” said Rachel Herschenfeld, a Wellesley, Massachusetts–based dermatologist. “I put it on every single day. I will leave the house in smelly workout wear, but I never leave the house without my sunscreen.”

Many sunscreens meet our basic requirements . If you’re satisfied with what you already use and it’s not past its expiration date, continue using it. Particularly if you’ve developed an allergic reaction to a certain formula in the past, you ultimately know which sunscreen is best for you.

For this guide, we considered physical and chemical sunscreen formulas containing FDA-approved active ingredients that are widely available for purchase in the US. We focused our search on:

• formulas with a listed SPF of 30 or higher
• formulas that offer broad-spectrum protection
• formulas that are water resistant, per the American Academy of Dermatology’s recommendation

We prioritized lotion formulas without added fragrance, which can be a potential skin irritant, but did not exclude those that contain it.

Although we’ve tested continuous-spray sunscreens in the past, we no longer recommend them. While aerosolized sprays seem to be an appealing option for covering hard-to-reach parts of your body, every expert we asked said that you can’t just spray your own back and be good to go (you still have to rub the sprayed sunscreen into your skin). Aerosol-spray sunscreens are also easy to accidentally inhale, posing a significant health risk. “If you can smell your spray sunscreen, you’re inhaling it,” warned pediatric dermatologist Lawrence Eichenfield.

Along with continuous sprays, we also skipped foams and powders, since those formats are less common, and it can be hard to tell how much to apply. Stick sunscreens are semi-solids, so their formulas often differ from the lotion versions from the same brands. We’ve tried a variety of stick sunscreens and concluded that they are best for spot treatment. No stick we’ve tried is the best choice for full-body application, and all of them cost significantly more per ounce when compared with sunscreen lotions.

We’ve tested nearly 90 sunscreens since 2015 (including over 25 reef-safe formulas and even more facial sunscreens ). We considered but ultimately decided against commissioning an independent lab to assess SPF, broad-spectrum, and water-resistance claims because the results of even the most sophisticated lab tests can’t predict how a given sunscreen performs in the real world, where application amount and frequency matter much more than a subtle difference in SPF. Instead, we’ve focused our testing on the factors that affect people’s sunscreen use: namely, how the formulas feel and smell.

In each round of testing, a panel of testers tried the sunscreens in swatches on their arms. All of the bottles were covered in tape to avoid the influence of brand names and marketing claims. Testers rated the texture, feel, appearance, and smell of each formula, assessing if it was a pain to rub in, either because it took too long or it was not spreadable enough. We wanted to account for how different sunscreens might work for people with different skin tones and body-hair textures, so we made sure to assemble a diverse panel.

Physical sunscreens available for sale in the US contain varying concentrations of the FDA-approved active ingredients zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or both . The FDA recognizes these ingredients as safe and effective .

Physical sunscreens are also commonly called mineral sunscreens.

Formulated with both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, the water-resistant Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ offers broad-spectrum protection and was a staff favorite in our tests for a few key reasons.

It rubs in easily: Testers found it easy to apply. Compared with most mineral sunscreens, this sensitive formula is especially runny, which makes application and absorption much easier. It rubs in almost as smoothly as a chemical sunscreen (like our pick from Banana Boat ), and many people find this sunscreen to be near colorless on the skin (though people with darker skin are more likely to see a white cast).

It’s inexpensive: Our pick from Blue Lizard is less expensive than many mineral sunscreens we’ve considered. And it’s even less expensive per ounce if you buy it in a larger bottle (8.75 ounces) than the 5-ounce bottle pictured above. A feature unique to all Blue Lizard sunscreens is that part of the packaging turns from clear or white to blue (or for baby formulas, pink) in the presence of UV light, which the company says provides a helpful visual reminder of sun exposure.

It’s free of added fragrance: Our testers appreciated that this formula is fragrance-free (many didn’t like formulas with added scents).

Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ is also available in a ½-ounce semi-solid stick. Like the lotion, it is fragrance-free. Unlike the lotion, which contains both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, zinc oxide (20%) is the lone active ingredient in the stick version. Like all sticks, we think this is best for spot application (especially because of this stick’s small size).

Flaws but not dealbreakers

Although the formula doesn’t contain chemical UV filters that can harm aquatic life, Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ lotion is not reef safe, according to one of the strictest definitions of the term, because it contains nanoparticles of zinc oxide (10%) and titanium dioxide (8%). If you prefer a mineral sunscreen containing only non-nano UV blockers, consider the more expensive (but even more translucent and lightweight) Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 .

The feature that sets Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ apart—its runniness, compared with the thicker mineral sunscreen lotion competition—can also feel like a bug. It’s easy to dispense too much with too hard a squeeze. The formula comes in bottles and tubes, ranging in volume from 1.7 ounces to 8.75 ounces. (The 5-ounce bottle with a blue cap is pictured throughout this guide. There’s also a 5-ounce tube with a translucent, color-changing cap.) In our experience, the blue-cap bottles are slightly less messy overall. Lotion tends to accumulate in the translucent caps of the tubes. And, as with all lotion sunscreens, there is some risk of leakage .

For people who don’t mind spending more for a “reef-safe,” mineral-only sunscreen , we recommend Thrive’s Bodyshield SPF 50 . Unlike most mineral sunscreen formulas we’ve tested (including our pick from Blue Lizard ), Thrive’s sunscreen, which is formulated with non-nano zinc oxide, is easy to rub in and didn’t leave a white cast on any of our panel testers.

Like our other picks, it’s water resistant for up to 80 minutes and offers broad-spectrum protection. However, Thrive’s sunscreen lotion costs more than double our physical pick from Blue Lizard and our chemical pick from Banana Boat , and more than 10 times as much per ounce as our budget chemical pick from Equate . It also contains added fragrance that leaves a strong, sweet smell on the skin that takes up to several hours to fully dissipate.

This formula only comes in a 5.8-ounce tube with a seal-tight cap, but it is also sold in multipacks that lowers the price per ounce, sometimes by about 20%.

The single active ingredient is non-nano zinc oxide (23.5%).

Most chemical sunscreens available for sale in the US contain varying concentrations of the FDA-approved active ingredients avobenzone, ecamsule, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, oxybenzone, or some combination of these. The FDA is evaluating additional data to further determine the safety and efficacy of these ingredients . The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents consider avoiding using sunscreens containing oxybenzone on kids . (Neither of our chemical picks contain oxybenzone.)

Banana Boat Light As Air Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+

If you prefer a chemical sunscreen, the broad spectrum, water-resistant Banana Boat Light As Air Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ stood out as the overall favorite in our brand-concealed testing. In addition to being less expensive than our physical sunscreen picks, we like the Light As Air formula because:

You can forget you’re wearing it: This formula is easy to apply, blends well, and has a nongreasy, dry finish that is translucent and truly feels light as air. The formula doesn’t contain oxybenzone, which some people want to avoid.

It’s scented, but nicely so: Although the formula does contain added fragrance, our testers did not find its scent overpowering. One described it as a “light, fruit-like smell.”

Currently, this formula only comes in a 6-ounce tube with a seal-tight cap.

The active ingredients are homosalate (9%), octocrylene (5%), octisalate (4%), and avobenzone (3%).

Walmart’s Equate Sport Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Value Size SPF 50 earned top marks in our brand-concealed panel testing, which was surprising considering it is the least expensive sunscreen we’ve ever tested at just 39¢ an ounce (when purchased in the 32-ounce pump bottle). The majority of testers loved how easy it was to apply and considered it nearly as comfortable, translucent, and nongreasy on the skin as our top pick from Banana Boat (as well as other sunscreens that cost over 10 times as much per ounce, including Supergoop Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50 ).

Like our other picks, it is oxybenzone free, broad spectrum, and is water resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Since this sunscreen is only available for purchase at Walmart, it’s not as easily obtainable as the other sunscreens we recommend.

Like our picks from Banana Boat and Thrive, Equate’s sport sunscreen contains added fragrance, which proved polarizing during our testing. Some testers either didn’t notice it or enjoyed its short-lived medicinal smell (“reminds me of childhood,” one tester said), whereas others—in particular those who only needed to purchase sunscreen for themselves instead of a household—refused to consider it for long-term use despite giving its feel and appearance positive marks, all because of the “hospital-esque odor.”

For first trying this sunscreen, consider buying the 8-ounce version . In our testing, even when properly closed, a small amount of sunscreen leaked out of the 32-ounce pump bottle when the container was jostled around.

The active ingredients are avobenzone (3%), homosalate (15%), octisalate (5%), and octocrylene (7%).

Physical sunscreens

If you want a relatively affordable reef-friendly sunscreen but can’t find or don’t like Thrive’s formula: Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50 (active ingredient: 23.4% non-nano zinc oxide) is a reliable, affordable choice (and the runner-up pick in our guide to reef-safe sunscreens). But it is more difficult to rub in and appears chalkier on skin than our other sunscreen picks. Thinksport also has a 0.64-ounce SPF 30 stick, containing 20% zinc oxide.The applicator is sized such that it’s only practical to use on small patches of skin. Our testers liked applying the Thinksport SPF 30 stick sunscreen to their faces and ears, but we don’t see much practical value to this format beyond that.

If you want a reef-friendly sunscreen without added fragrance: Badger Adventure Mineral Sunscreen Cream SPF 50 (active ingredient: zinc oxide 25%) is a four-ingredient formula that is more expensive, more difficult to spread, and has more of a greasy, heavier feel on the skin than Thrive Bodyshield. However, it contains no fragrance and, like our pick, is water resistant for up to 80 minutes. A semi-solid “sport” version comes in a packable tin. Some testers found the semi-solid formula difficult to spread for adequate coverage anywhere other than on the face.

Chemical sunscreens

If you want a huge bottle of luxe sunscreen that will last for weeks, if not for a season: Consider Supergoop Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50 (active ingredients: avobenzone 3%, homosalate 10%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 7.5%), a pick in our guide to face sunscreens . It’s moisturizing, nicely scented, and normally under $4 per ounce when bought in an 18-ounce jug .

If you want a budget-friendly option and can’t find or don’t like Equate’s formula : No Ad Sport 50 Sunscreen (active ingredients: avobenzone 3%, homosalate 10%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 5%), a former pick which was discontinued in 2020, is available again. It’s more than double the price per ounce when compared with our pick from Equate (and almost identical in terms of ingredients, scent, and skin feel) but half the price of our Banana Boat pick .

All sunscreens have a sun protection factor, or SPF. It’s a measure of how well sunscreen protects against UVB rays, the type that causes sunburn.

Many sunscreens also protect against UVA rays, the type of rays that cause wrinkles. Both types of radiation can lead to cancer, and sunscreens that protect against both are labeled “broad spectrum.” The SPF rating, though, only applies to UVB protection.

The relationship between SPF and protection is not linear: SPF 15 filters 93% of UVB rays, whereas SPF 30 filters 97% and SPF 50 filters 98%. No sunscreen blocks 100% of UVB rays. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends choosing sunscreens that list a minimum SPF of 30. However, your chances of getting an effective SPF above 30, regardless of what the label claims, are better if you buy a sunscreen labeled SPF 50 or even 70. (All of our picks are labeled SPF 50.)

A sunscreen with a higher SPF can’t make up for poor application. An SPF 15 lotion that you apply liberally and often can protect you better than an SPF 50+ lotion that you put on only once in eight hours.

The two main kinds of sunscreen formulas are physical (reflects rays away from your skin) and chemical (soaks up rays so your skin doesn’t). Some companies also make combination sunscreens, which have both physical and chemical UV filters.

Physical sunscreens, which are also commonly called mineral sunscreens, tend to be thicker and go on whiter. Chemical sunscreens (which are sometimes called “organics” because of the structures of the molecules they’re made of, not because of how the ingredients are sourced) tend to be greasier but go on translucent. Most combination sunscreens strike a balance between those textures and appearances.

Physical (aka mineral) sunscreens deflect UV rays using the active ingredients zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, often in tandem.

• Zinc oxide protects against both UVA and UVB. It tends to make sunscreen whiter. Dermatologists often recommend this active ingredient because it does a great job of protecting against the whole spectrum. Look for formulas with 5% or more zinc oxide.
• Titanium dioxide protects against UVB and some UVA rays.

These FDA-approved active ingredients often come in micronized—finely ground—nanoparticles, which, according to cosmetic chemist Ron Robinson , are easier to apply and more sheer on the skin. Sunscreens that rely on non-nano particles of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide tend to be thicker and more chalky. But the trade-off is that those larger particles cannot penetrate the skin (there is no published evidence that nanoparticles of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are harmful, except, possibly, when inhaled ).

Chemical sunscreens absorb the photons of the sun’s rays before they reach your skin; the photons’ energy goes into breaking down those chemicals rather than into penetrating your skin. Avobenzone, oxybenzone, ecamsule, and octocrylene are the four main FDA-approved filters (PDF) , though several other active ingredients work similarly.

• Avobenzone , like zinc oxide, protects against UVA1—most other UV filters in chemical sunscreens do not. Avobenzone is also what typically causes some sunscreens to stain white and light-colored clothing yellow. According to scientists at Merck, avobenzone protects about as well as zinc oxide . Avobenzone also goes by the name Parsol 1789. Look for formulas containing 3% or more avobenzone.
• Oxybenzone protects against a portion of the UVA spectrum that avobenzone does not, plus it protects against UVB rays. Many chemical sunscreen formulas contain oxybenzone. (People who experience photoallergic contact dermatitis may have an allergic reaction to oxybenzone or another sunscreen ingredient.)
• Ecamsule protects against some UVA rays and also goes by the name Mexoryl SX.
• Octocrylene protects against UVB and some UVA rays.
• Homosalate protects against some UVB rays.
• Octisalate , or octyl salicylate, protects against UVB radiation.

Currently, the FDA only acknowledges the mineral active ingredients zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as generally recognized as safe and effective (GRASE) . The agency has said it needs additional data to determine the GRASE status of 12 additional active ingredients.

Globally, there are many other effective UV filters approved for use as active ingredients in sunscreens. “The complexities—time, cost, toxicological tests—of getting new sunscreen actively approved in the US have left some effective molecules in limbo for nearly two decades has deterred many companies from attempting to put other new ingredients through the process,” Kelly Dobos, an independent cosmetic chemist who has advised personal care companies that manufacture lotions, hand sanitizers, and SPF-containing lip balms, wrote in an email.

To improve the efficacy and appearance of their sunscreen formulas, some companies include inactive ingredients that are sometimes called SPF boosters (video). These, Dobos explained, are likely how sunscreens that contain differing concentrations of the same active ingredients can provide the same level of stated SPF. One commonly found SPF booster, butyloctyl salicylate , is similar to the FDA-approved UV filter octisalate . Because it is not considered an active ingredient, some “mineral” sunscreens are functionally combination formulas.

Many sunscreens also contain added fragrance. You may want to avoid fragrances because they can be irritating, and fragrance preferences are largely personal. That said, the sunscreen active ingredients themselves still have a scent, so it’s hard to find a sunscreen that has absolutely no scent (even if it’s labeled fragrance free).

To get the SPF listed on the bottle, the average-size adult needs roughly a shot glass’s worth (1 ounce) of sunscreen for their mostly naked body (excluding areas that swimwear typically covers). So as you may have just concluded, you are almost certainly not using enough sunscreen.

Apply your sunscreen at least 15 minutes before sun exposure, since it takes that long for the formula to fully sink into your skin. Then reapply once every hour (or two hours , per the American Academy of Dermatology), as well as after each time you work up a sweat or go in the water. Consider setting a phone alarm or a timer to remind you when it’s time to reapply.

There’s no reason a body sunscreen can’t work on your face. Face sunscreens are often simply body sunscreens repackaged, according to independent cosmetic chemist Perry Romanowski.

If you don’t want to spend the extra cash on a specific face lotion, keep in mind this caveat to using one of our body-sunscreen picks on your face: Water-resistant formulas contain more oil. That’s what makes them water resistant, Romanowski said. Face sunscreens tend to be formulated with less oil. We recommend several options in our guide to face sunscreens , but we wouldn’t hesitate to use a body sunscreen on the face for a beach day. No matter what you use, keep in mind that your level of protection depends on how much and how often you apply.

Yes, sunscreen expires. Usually there is an expiration date stamped on the bottle. If there’s not one, know that sunscreen is generally OK to use for up to three years from purchase . You should discard unused sunscreens that are beyond their expiration dates or more than three years old: Beyond that, the FDA warns, “there is no assurance that they remain safe and fully effective.”

Alba Botanica Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 contains no added fragrance and is generally less expensive than other nanoparticle-free physical sunscreen lotions we considered, but most of our testers did not like it due to its difficulty to rub in and sticky skin feel.

The All Good Mineral Sport Sunscreen SPF 30 contains less non-nano zinc oxide than the Thrive formula we recommend , and it leaves more of a white cast.

Testers disliked the artificial, syrupy scent of Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen SPF 50 , which left a whitish cast on our skin.

We found that Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Sensitive Skin Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 took significantly longer to rub in compared with most other physical sunscreens we’ve tried, and it consistently left a white cast. Aveeno’s Protect + Soothe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 and Kids Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 offer the best values among physical sunscreen sticks we’ve considered. (Even so, the former regularly costs just north of $9 per ounce.) These Aveeno sticks are larger than the Blue Lizard and Thinksport sticks—more like the size of a stick of deodorant—yet still impractical for full-body coverage.

Babo Botanicals Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 , a sunscreen lotion with non-nano zinc oxide as the lone active ingredient (and with butyloctyl salicylate as a possible SPF booster), feels and smells good. But it’s currently nearly $6 an ounce—significantly pricier than our picks.

Badger Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 is a reef-friendly, unscented formula that looks and feels nice on skin but is rated water resistant for only 40 minutes.

Banana Boat Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ , Banana Boat Kids Mineral SPF 50+ , CVS Health Baby Sun Lotion SPF 50 , and  Equate Kids SPF 50 all contain less of the active ingredients (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) than other physical sunscreens we recommend. However, they are well priced and, in general, highly rated by customers. On a per-ounce basis, the Equate Kids is the least expensive sunscreen containing only mineral active ingredients we’ve ever tried—just 61¢ an ounce. However it contains only 3.1% titanium dioxide and 4% zinc oxide by volume (whereas our pick from Blue Lizard, which is also labeled SPF 50, contains 10% zinc oxide and 8% titanium dioxide). When we shared both brand-concealed ingredients lists of both formulas with cosmetic chemist Kelly Dobos, she posited that an SPF booster in the Equate formula, butyloctyl salicylate, may have contributed to the total SPF. (Banana Boat Baby and CVS Health Baby also contain butyloctyl salicylate.)

The separated, watery consistency of Bare Republic Mineral Body Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 made it difficult to use. It, too, contains butyloctyl salicylate.

Many of our testers found Coppertone Pure & Simple Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 , a physical sunscreen that contains the SPF booster butyloctyl salicylate, to be goopy. While its zinc oxide percentage is among the highest of the sunscreens we tested (over 24%), most testers found that the runny formula made complete absorption nearly impossible.

Test panelists rated the fragrance-free Eucerin Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 (active ingredient: 24% zinc oxide) highly. It costs roughly 40% more per ounce than our pick from Blue Lizard , though, and contains butyloctyl salicylate.

Of the physical sunscreens we’ve tested, Goddess Garden Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 was by far the most polarizing. Testers either absolutely loved or positively hated the way it felt as well as its strong, cinnamon-like smell (one tester said it reminded them of Big Red chewing gum).

Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Skin Nourishing Milk SPF 50 is a nice-feeling, near-odorless, physical sunscreen that comes in a convenient pump bottle. But it’s available only in a 3.4-ounce quantity, and it’s more expensive than the Blue Lizard sunscreen we recommend. Some people may find it worth the extra cost.

We liked Hello Bello Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 for its price and skin feel; it’s similar to our pick from Blue Lizard and usually costs a bit less. But it’s frequently out of stock or difficult to find (either at Walmart or on the company’s website—the only two places it is sold), and several of our testers actively disliked this sunscreen’s scent. The Hello Bello formula contains the SPF-boosting inactive ingredient butyloctyl salicylate.

Kōkua Sun Care Hawaiian Natural Zinc Sunscreen SPF 50 , which contains the same concentration (25%) of active ingredient non-nano zinc oxide as our reef-safe pick from Thrive , looks and feels as nice on skin. But it costs twice as much.

Somewhat confusingly, the Supergoop Play SPF 50 sunscreen stick is a mineral formula. (Another Supergoop Play formula we recommend is a chemical sunscreen lotion.) We found it a bit more difficult to spread and took longer to dry down on the skin when compared with a less-expensive stick sunscreen from Blue Lizard .

Test panelists appreciated the lack of added fragrance in Vanicream Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ , a non-nano physical sunscreen formulated for sensitive skin that is beloved by people with eczema, rosacea, and related conditions that sunscreens can aggravate. But this formula costs much more per ounce than the sensitive formula from Eucerin we like .

Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Body Lotion SPF 60 felt watery and difficult to rub in, with many panelists noticing a white cast after application.

Most panelists disliked the sweet scent of Banana Boat Sun Comfort Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 , another chemical sunscreen lotion.

The deodorant-stick-size Banana Boat Ultra Sport Sun Stick SPF 50 is among the least expensive and most user-friendly sunscreen sticks we’ve tried, but it is still difficult to use and apply anywhere other than small swaths of skin.

Neither Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 nor Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen Lotion SPF 70 ranked as well as our chemical picks in terms of translucence, skin feel, and ease of application.

Coppertone WaterBabies Lotion SPF 50 , a chemical sunscreen, is easy to apply and wear, but the flowery scent of this formula isn’t for everyone.

Coppertone Ultra Guard Sunscreen Lotion SPF 70 was a beloved pick for years until it was discontinued.

We found that Fruit of the Earth Block Up Sport 50 rubbed in easily, but not as easily as our other chemical-sunscreen picks.

Hawaiian Tropic AntiOxidant+ Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 , a chemical formula, felt nice on skin, but testers found its traditional sunscreen smell to be overly strong.

Early on in our testing, we eliminated one chemical sunscreen lotion, Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Lotion Sunscreen Weightless Face SPF 30 , because of its bottle. With one drop on the floor, the pump broke, making it difficult to use.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60 is a much-revered chemical sunscreen lotion. Per ounce, it tends to cost more than 10 times as much as our picks. In a practical sense, each hour spent wearing this formula costs a few dollars.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 45 comes in a bottle that’s small enough to toss in a purse, but despite the marketing, the feel was not significantly drier than that of other sunscreens we tried.

Combination sunscreens

CVS Health Clear Zinc Broad Spectrum Sun Lotion SPF 50 is a fine choice for sunscreen but we found that it does not appear colorless on all skin tones.

Coppertone Pure & Simple Baby SPF 50 felt thick and took a while to fully absorb into our skin.

Panelists generally liked EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 , rating its feel and appearance highly. But at over $7 an ounce, it’s expensive if applied often enough to be effective.

Shannon Palus contributed reporting. This article was edited by Tracy Vence and Kalee Thompson.

Perry Romanowski, cosmetic chemist , phone interview

Rachel Herschenfeld, MD, doctor at Dermatology Partners in Wellesley, MA , phone interview

Ron Robinson, cosmetic chemist , email interview , June 25, 2019

Henry Lim, MD, MD, former president of the American Academy of Dermatology , email interview , June 26, 2019

Vinod Nambudiri, MD, assistant professor of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School , phone interview , April 23, 2021

Lawrence Eichenfield, MD, chief of pediatric and adolescent dermatology at Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego , phone interview , April 23, 2021

Kelly Dobos, cosmetic chemist , email interview , March 20, 2024

Meet your guide

Nancy Redd is a senior staff writer covering health and grooming at Wirecutter. She is a GLAAD Award–nominated on-air host and a New York Times best-selling author. Her latest nonfiction book, The Real Body Manual , is a visual health and wellness guide for young adults of all genders. Her other books include Bedtime Bonnet and Pregnancy, OMG!

Further reading

Lots of People Apply Sunscreen Wrong. Here’s How to Do It Right.

For optimal sun safety, you need to apply (and reapply) sunscreen to uncovered skin. Most people don’t use nearly enough. We’ve got you covered.

The Best Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 is our favorite reef-safe sunscreen. It’s also a great option for anyone who prefers sunscreens without chemical UV filters.

The Best Sunscreens for Your Face

Sunscreen is personal, and the one you choose to slather on your face is even more so. Here are 10 options to suit different preferences and budgets.

Surprise: We Really Like Whipped Cream Sunscreen

Yes, it’s gimmicky, but Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30 is exceptionally easy to apply and feels great on skin.

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• Travel Products

The 11 Best Reef-safe Sunscreens of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our favorite sunscreens keep the oceans safe and are protective, nourishing, and fast-absorbing.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

You may also need.

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

As more and more tropical destinations ban harmful chemicals often found in traditional sunscreen, like oxybenzone and octinoxate, one of the best ways to help preserve aquatic wildlife is to wear reef-safe sunscreen. These products don't contribute to coral bleaching, and they're just as protective and nourishing as regular sunscreen. When you aren’t headed to the beach, using reef-safe sunscreen lessens the chance that you're sending damaging chemicals to water sources through your sink and shower drains.

There are a variety of reef-friendly sunscreens out there, so we thoroughly researched options that exclude chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate and found 32 options from trusted skincare brands. We tested them in our New York City lab, in everyday settings, and during sun-soaked getaways. Whether you’re surfing, snorkeling, or swimming in the ocean waves, our wide-ranging list has something to suit your needs. Plus, we have tips and tricks for buying reef-safe sunscreen to give you the best possible protection from the sun without environmental consequences.

How we chose our products

When looking at ingredients, we always looked for the two main chemicals that should not be in reef-safe sunscreens first: oxybenzone and octinoxate. Non-nano (larger than 100 nanometers) zinc oxide and titanium dioxide is safe for reefs and marine life, but nano zinc oxide particles (smaller than 100 nanometers) can be ingested by marine animals including coral, causing internal damage.

Best Overall

Thrive natural care body mineral sunscreen.

This sunscreen absorbs quickly and feels like a luxe moisturizer on the skin.

Although midrange compared to other items on this list, the sunscreen is still pricey for swimmers on a budget.

While many reef-safe sunscreens have a grainy texture or leave a white cast, Thrive's Body Mineral Sunscreen felt like a moisturizing lotion, impressing us enough to give it our top spot. It came out of the container easily and rubbed into our skin smoothly. It absorbed within a minute on our hands, arms, and other parts of our body and took longer to fully absorb into our face and neck areas, but within 15 minutes it felt like a silky moisturizer on our skin. The scent was mildly herbal and floral, and did not smell artificial, which we appreciated. It never felt cloying, oily, or sticky, and there was no irritation or dryness.

This sunscreen does not transfer to other fabrics or surfaces and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. We reapplied after this time and didn't burn at all in the hot Mexican sunshine. We were also impressed with how long the bottle lasted — we used it extensively during a five-day vacation to Mexico , applying it three times daily, and only went through half of the container. This does help offset the high price, although those on a budget may have a hard time with the price tag. That being said, we think it is worth the investment considering how great it feels on our skin and how well it works.

The Details: 50 SPF | 5.8 ounces | 80 minutes of water resistance

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jess Hoffert

Best for Water Sports

Maui naturals surfer honey all natural sunscreen lotion spf 30.

This lightweight formula doesn't transfer after sweaty workouts or water sport activities.

It has a slight white cast that goes away after a few minutes.

Whether you're swimming, surfing, or snorkeling, you need a sunscreen that will continue to protect your skin long after it's become wet. While Hawaii officially banned non-reef-safe sunscreens in 2021, Maui Naturals has been making our top-scoring Maui Surfer Honey sunscreen since 2009, thanks to its quick absorption qualities and its ability to stay put. We love that the sunscreen didn’t transfer or come off after a sweaty workout , and we think the formula sets in perfectly for a variety of outdoor activities.

The formula is creamy and hydrating and reminds us of a daily moisturizer thanks to its lightweight texture. It's easy to apply and feels gentle even on sensitive skin. Made in Hawaii , the reef-friendly formula is free of harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, petrochemicals, and nanoparticles, and includes natural ingredients like aloe vera, jojoba oil, and honey. We’re big fans of the hint-of-marshmallow aroma that comes from the sunscreen, as we found it to be subtle and sweet. The sunscreen is an off-white shade and left a little white cast that went away after the lotion had a few minutes to set into the skin.

The Details: 30 SPF | 3 ounces | Up to 80 minutes of water resistance

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Sun Milk Body Lotion SPF 50

The texture of the sunscreen is milky and smooth, and it smells like a tropical breeze.

The bottle is prone to leaking, which may be messy for travel.

This Hawaiian Tropic sunscreen will instantly transport you to the beach thanks to its subtle but deliciously tropical scents. The milky texture applies like silk on the skin and, although it’s a little watery, it absorbs quickly without leaving a pesky residue behind. Plus, it didn't transfer at all when we rubbed our arms with a black T-shirt after application. While working out and swimming in the pool , none of the sunscreen came off or felt slimy, which led us to believe that this sun lotion lives up to its 80-minute water resistance.

We love the button applicator for applying the sunscreen, but we wish the bottle was more durable to avoid any possibility of spills occurring in a suitcase. That being said, we still think this is one of the best sunscreens we tried thanks to the silky texture, moisturizing effect, and sweet island aroma.

The Details: 50 SPF | 1.7 ounces, 3.4 ounces | Up to 80 minutes of water resistance

Best Fragrance-free

Blue lizard sensitive mineral sunscreen spf 50.

The watery formula is superhydrating and free of any scents.

It doesn’t absorb easily and leaves a bit of a residue, which isn’t great for oily skin combinations.

For travelers looking for sunscreen that doesn’t have any added scent, this tube of Blue Lizard lotion is your best option. We’re big fans of the hydrating liquid texture that comes out of the bottle seamlessly and easily spreads around the body. Blue Lizard uses smart-cap technology that makes the cap of this tube change from translucent to blue if there is a harmful level of UV rays outside, so all you have to do is take the bottle out of your bag to see if applying is urgently needed. Because the formula is very watery, it might take some extra rubbing in to get the sunscreen to absorb, so we think the formula is best designed for dry skin rather than oily skin combinations. The sunscreen has a slight white cast and a residual greasiness, but it still feels hydrating and lightweight.

The Details: 50 SPF | 5 ounces | Up to 80 minutes of water resistance

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Pipette Mineral Sunscreen

The mineral formula is thick but rubs in more sheer than other sunscreens we tried.

Some of the sunscreen ran off in the water and transferred onto a T-shirt during testing.

Mineral sunscreen has a bad rap for being overly thick and pasty, but the Pipette Mineral Sunscreen defies expectations by absorbing quickly without leaving any white cast or greasy residue behind. The non-nano zinc oxide formula provides broad-spectrum protection from harmful UV rays without damaging coral reefs, so you can feel good whether you’re swimming or snorkeling in the ocean . Other natural ingredients include sugarcane-derived squalene to help make the texture extra spreadable and red gooseberry extract for sun protection to create a formula that is designed to be gentle enough for babies, toddlers, and children. We did notice that after getting out of the water, some of the sunscreen ran off and transferred to a shirt, but it didn’t cause any skin irritation or stinging in the eyes.

The Details: 50 SPF | 4 ounces

Best for Families

Reef repair reef safe sunscreen spf 50.

The sunscreen is easy to rub in and comes with two 1.7-ounce bottles to travel with.

It feels a little chalky once it dries on the skin.

We think the gentle and natural ingredients in Reef Repair’s Suncream make it an excellent choice for the entire family. The purchase includes two 1.7-ounce tubes of sunscreen that you can easily pack in a carry-on or personal item bag without having to worry about stocking up when you arrive at your destination. We loved that a little bit of the thicker-consistency sunscreen provides plenty of coverage, and it blends in quickly. It did feel a little sticky during application and slightly chalky when it dried, but the sunscreen stayed put when the skin came into contact with water, so it will work well for water activities. In addition, the formula is kid- and reef-friendly. It doesn’t include oxybenzone or octinoxate, so you can relax on vacation knowing you’re protecting reefs and wildlife as well as your family, too.

The Details: 30 SPF | 1.7 ounces | Up to 40 minutes of water resistance

Best for Sensitive Skin

Mdsolarsciences mineral creme.

The formula is designed for skin sensitivities like acne and rosacea.

It has a slight white cast if it’s not rubbed in well.

We love that this TSA-approved MDSolarSciences sunscreen uses ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc that are designed for sensitivities like acne- or rosacea-prone skin but are still reef-friendly. For extra transparency, you can click on the name of every ingredient included in the sunscreen to learn more about its purpose on the MDSolarSciences site. When it comes to mineral sun lotions, this one was a bit thick, but after rubbing it in thoroughly, the white cast went away, and it absorbed into the body and face evenly. When on vacation, many people bring sunscreen for the face and another tube for the rest of the body, but this product does it all so you can pack less. Since the formula is gentle on the body and face, we think this is an excellent all-in-one sunscreen that is easy to travel with, too.

The Details: 50 SPF | 1.7 ounces, 3.4 ounces | 80 minutes of water resistance

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Stella Yu

Best Splurge

Isdin eryfotona actinica mineral spf 50+ sunscreen.

This lightweight formula absorbs quickly for a glowing, slightly matte finish on the face.

It's the most expensive option on this list, and it's meant for your face.

If you like to splurge on your skincare, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better sunscreen than Isdin's mineral sunscreen. Although this lightweight formula does leave a slight white cast when first applied, it absorbs into the skin quickly and turns into a sheer effect. The watery texture — a welcome difference from thick, goopy sunscreens — also helps you cover more surface area with a smaller amount.

"I put on a ton of sunscreen on the back of my hand (more than two fingers worth), and it disappeared pretty much instantly once I spread it on," said Travel + Leisure testing editor Jackie Cucco . "This makes it more realistic to actually apply the real amount you're supposed to use since it doesn't get messy."

Since this sunscreen is meant for your face, Cucco loved that it didn't feel greasy or oily on her skin, and instead gave a slight matte effect that worked great under makeup. When it came time to wash her hands or apply hand sanitizer , the sunscreen stayed put and didn't need reapplication. She never saw it run while sweating out in the sun, either. The only downside to this product is its high price point, but it's well worth the money in our opinion, and the size is decent for skincare.

The Details: 50 SPF | 3.4 ounces | Up to 40 minutes of water resistance

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jackie Cucco

Vertra Invisible Sunscreen Face Stick

This solid stick is easy to apply without touching your face.

It's so small that it can easily get lost in your bag.

If you're looking for easy sunscreen application, it doesn't get much simpler than Vertra's Invisible Sunscreen Stick. T+L editor Taylor Fox described it as "ChapStick for your face" and loved that she didn't have to rub it in to get good coverage. "It doesn't feel dry at all, and I wouldn't really say it's greasy either," she says.

Fox tested the clear version of this sunscreen and found that it didn't rub, transfer, or create any white cast. You can also purchase tinted options that will provide more coverage if you wish. The sunscreen didn't run due to sweat or water, and Fox didn't feel like she had to reapply it more frequently than advertised. That being said, she wouldn't suggest applying it over makeup because it would probably smear due to the application design. The stick is quite small, which was handy for packing but could get a little annoying if it falls to the bottom of your bag, and you have to dig around to find it. Overall, we feel like this is a good option for light packers and people who don't want to touch their face when applying and reapplying sunscreen.

The Details: 45 SPF | 0.35 ounces | Up to 80 minutes of water resistance

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Best for Face

Tatcha the silk sunscreen.

This sunscreen is safe to use on your face, with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.

The bottle spilled when we traveled with it.

Finding a sunscreen that looks and feels good on your face can be tricky, but luxury brand Tatcha makes the choice much easier. This sunscreen performs double duty by providing SPF 50 sun protection and offering a host of benefits for your face thanks to skin-friendly ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which help with hydration and creating an even complexion. Silk extracts leave a smooth finish and help skin look radiant alone or under makeup.

We found this sunscreen easy to get out of the container and liked the watery texture that didn't feel sticky or thick. It is incredibly lightweight and truly lives up to its name — we felt like there was nothing on our skin after applying. Regardless, the sunscreen still provided excellent protection when reapplied correctly. It is fragrance-free, which we appreciated as a face sunscreen worn so close to our nose, and it has a slight peach tint that disappears after blending. We did take this sunscreen with us on a trip and found that the bottle had exploded in our suitcase during our flight, which was a hassle to clean up and made us lose quite a bit of product. We would love to see a bottle design in the future that would prevent something like this from happening. Otherwise, we loved how this felt on our face and will be using it again.

The Details: 50 SPF | 1.7 ounces

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Heer Chaudri

Other Reef-safe Sunscreens We Liked

The reef-safe sunscreens highlighted below are still editor-approved, but due to some minor issues during testing, they didn’t quite surpass our top performers when it came to slight issues with texture, opacity, and water resistance.

All Good Face & Body Sport Sunscreen Lotion : We love that the formula was non-irritating for our team member with sensitive skin and that it absorbs into the skin within seconds. However, similar-performing sunscreens performed better in both our lab and real-world tests.

Thinksport Clear Zinc SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen : This sunscreen doesn't feel greasy and doesn't run on sweaty or wet faces, making this a great option for surfers, body boarders, and even divers. That being said, the white cast remains after 15 minutes, despite the fact that it feels dry to the touch.

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Sea & Summit SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion : We were impressed with how quickly the white cast disappeared and that it didn't stain our clothing, but this ultimately felt like a standard mineral sunscreen with no special features that made it stand out among the others.

Urban Skin Rx SheerGlow Even Tone Daily Defense Mineral Moisturizer : We really enjoyed how sheer the sunscreen is once completely rubbed into our skin but found that it can be a bit greasy. It would work best for those with dry skin.

Kokua Sun Care Sunscreen : Designed with outdoor activities top of mind, this sunscreen from Kokua has a plant-based formula and water resistance for up to 80 minutes. We like the natural ingredients but found that it takes quite a bit of effort to rub in.

We began by thoroughly researching sunscreens made with reef-friendly ingredients, which don’t leave behind harmful chemicals, like oxybenzone or octinoxate, that cause damage to coral reefs. We tested 32 tubes of reef-safe sunscreen in our New York City lab and in our everyday lives, paying close attention to the texture, opacity, transfer, and water resistance of each lotion to compare and contrast a variety of reef-friendly sunscreens on the market.

In the lab, we spritzed our arms with water and rubbed them with black T-shirts to test water resistance and product transfer. Whether our team members were working up a sweat at the gym, swimming in the ocean, or lounging poolside, the best sunscreens we tried had hydrating formulas that absorbed quickly, didn’t leave any sticky or oily residue behind, and proved to be water- and sweat-resistant without irritating the skin or stinging the eyes.

When you're heading out for a full day in the sun, be sure to protect more than just your skin with some of these stylish products to keep you comfortable so you can enjoy even longer days in the sand.

Maui Jim Women's Capri Polarized Cat Eye Sunglasses : These stylish sunglasses feature PolarizedPlus2 lenses to provide the ultimate protection from UV rays while enhancing colors, so you'll want to wear them all day long.

Pacific Breeze Easy Setup Beach Tent : Beach canopies provide protection from the sun and heat on long beach days. Along with its breathable, UPF 50+ material, this canopy is designed with two adjustable windows for airflow control.

Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Chair : This compact chair weighs less than eight pounds and can be worn comfortably as a backpack so you can transport it hands-free. The chair feels durable and comfortable to sit in and even reclines all the way flat so you can enjoy a nap on the beach without getting down in the sand.

Tips for Buying Reef-safe Sunscreen

Carefully read the ingredients.

Some destinations have stricter ingredient bans for sunscreen than others, so the first thing you should do is look up the regulations before you start shopping. Tropical destinations like Palau, Hawaii, and Aruba have bans on chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, homosalate, parabens, and more, so you’ll want to research the specific prohibited ingredients ahead of time. Similarly, if you’re looking for organic or all-natural sunscreen, find certifications on the label to ensure you’re getting the sunscreen you need.

Look at the sunscreen's active ingredients

When you’re buying reef-safe sunscreen, it’s essential to look at the active ingredients. Reef-friendly sunscreen will only have non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as the active ingredients, which are the two ingredients that will protect you from harmful UV rays without affecting coral reefs. Inactive ingredients include water, oils, or extracts, so you look for those to find out which ones are natural or organic if that’s important to your sunscreen shopping.

Prioritize water resistance and SPF levels

Depending on how you’ll be spending your vacation, you’ll want to buy sunscreen that will protect your skin for a range of activities. If you’re planning on spending most of your time in the water, consider getting a lightweight sunscreen with higher SPF and water resistance of up to 80 minutes. For those looking for an everyday sunscreen, a sheer and more watery sunscreen will be easy to apply and not super noticeable on the skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Reef-friendly sunscreens don’t use any chemicals that can cause harm to ocean wildlife by bleaching coral reefs — oxybenzone or octinoxate, for example. There are several tropical destinations like Palau and Hawaii that enforce bans on sunscreens that contain certain chemicals known to cause damage. A lot of sunscreen brands will be advertised as reef-friendly or reef-safe, but you’ll want to read the ingredients list to make sure the sunscreen doesn’t include harmful chemicals or nanoparticles and microplastics like exfoliating beads.

Generally, the ingredients that can cause harm to coral reefs include oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are two common chemicals found in sunscreen. In addition, octocrylene, homosalate, 4-methyl benzylidene camphor, Triclosan, parabens, nanoparticles, and microplastics are all harmful ingredients you don’t want in your sunscreen if you want to protect aquatic life.

Currently, nonreef-safe sunscreens are banned in Hawaii, Palau, the U.S. Virgin Islands, parts of Mexico, Key West, Aruba, and Bonaire. However, if you’re planning on snorkeling or scuba diving near coral reefs elsewhere, you may be advised to bring reef-safe sunscreen.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at T+L, where she writes about and reviews travel products. She has been travel writing since 2018 and product testing since 2021. Anna tested reef-safe sunscreen herself and worked with travel editors to determine the results for the best reef-safe sunscreens on the market.

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Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria: More than Mt. Elbrus!

If you’ve traveled to the North Caucasus before, there is a good chance you’ve already been to Kabardino-Balkaria, and you didn’t even know it!  Kabardino-Balkaria lies in the center of the North Caucasus region, is home to Mt. Elbrus, but more than that is a treasure chest of travel possibilities.  Here is our guide to traveling through the republic of Kabardino-Balkaria, or 9 travel tips to this beautiful land:

1. How do I get there?

Kabardino-Balkaria hosts a large number of both foreign and Russian travelers every year, and has an improving infrastructure able to handle the incoming masses.  Let’s start with the obvious.  You might be a mountain climber or skier coming to enjoy the slopes of Mt. Elbrus.  That means you’re likely arriving on an airplane to Russia.  Here are your travel options:

A. Plane – We advise you fly into the Mineralni Vodi (MRV) airport in the Stavropol Region, which is about 45 minutes from the border of Kabardino-Balkaria.  MRV is the largest airport in the North Caucasus, and has daily direct flights to and from all 3 airpots in Moscow (SVO, DME, and VKO), direct flights from St. Petersburg, and several international flight routes as well, including from Istanbul, Dubai, Greece, Tel Aviv, and Bishkek.  The MRV airport has a growing infrastructure and is the most obvious choice to fly into if going to Elbrus.  From MRV, it’s a 2 hr. drive to Nalchik, and a 3.5 hr. drive to Mt. Elbrus.

That being said, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, Nalchik (NAL), also has a small regional airport with a daily flight to/from Moscow as well as weekly flights to Istanbul. As is to be expected in most smaller, regional airports around Russia, the service standard at a small airport like this will be minimal.  As a result, we recommend you flying in and out of MRV if able.  It’s a 2 hr. drive to Elbrus from Nalchik.  You can also fly into other regional airports which are 2 hrs. from Nalchik, such as OGZ in North Ossetia (Vladikavkaz) or IGT in Ingushetia (Magas).

B.  Car/Public Transport – If you have a car, are using a taxi, or are hitch-hiking your way to Kabardino-Balkaria, the region is accessible by a variety of roads and vehicles.  A major Russian federal highway E50 runs through Pyatigorsk into Kabardino-Balkaria, and can take you towards Mt. Elbrus, Nalchik, and deeper into the North Caucasus.  There are daily mini-buses, or “marshrutkas”, that travel to Nalchik from Pyatigorsk, Vladikavkaz, Grozny, and Magas, if you’re coming from a neighboring republic.  From the main Nalchik bus station, there is a marshrutka that goes to Terskol (i.e. Mt. Elbrus) daily around 12:30 pm; for that matter,  marshrutkas run daily into every valley of this beautiful republic.  For the seasoned international traveler, you can drive from the country of Georgia up the famed “Georgian Military Highway” through the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, cross the border into Russia at the “Verkhni Lars” border stop, and be in Nalchik in about 2.5 hours as well. 

Anyone traveling on their own should download the “Yandex” taxi app, which is Russia’s version of Uber, and has a very user-friendly app with affordable prices.  In smaller villages/towns where Yandex’s service doesn’t reach, just ask a local and they’ll direct you to a friend or relative who can taxi you where you need to go!

C.  Train – Kabardino-Balkaria is also very accessible by the famous cross-country Russian train system if that’s your preferred method of travel.  Almost all trains to the North Caucasus pass through Mineralni Vodi in the Stavropol region to the north, so make sure wherever you are coming from, Mineralni Vodi is one of the stops.  Despite Nalchik having a train station, the city is about 45 minutes from the main railway route that runs diagonal through the North Caucasus, and as a result it’s a bit convoluted to get a train directly to Nalchik.  That being said, the town Prokhladni is a regular stop on trains going to/coming from Baku, Makhachkala, Grozny, Nazran, and Vladikavkaz, so you can always hop off there and find your way by public transport or taxi.

2.  What are the best places to stay?

This list could get exhaustive, fast. 🙂  Let’s first look at an overview of the republic’s geography, followed by hotel recommendations:

A. Nalchik – This is the capital city of Kabardino-Balkaria, with a population of around 250,000.  Nalchik is growing and new, modern hotels are being built regularly.  Here are some of our recommendations:

-Modern and comfortable:  Azimut , Butik Otel

-Budget with less frills:  Hotel Rossia , Korona

You could comfortably spend a week in Nalchik, while doing day trips into Kabardino-Balkaria’s beautiful mountain valleys.

B.  Baksan Valley – This is the most traveled road in Kabardino-Balkaria, the road to Mt. Elbrus.  If you have questions about its safety because of travel warnings, please see our detailed blog here of the drive to erase any doubts or fears.  Needless to say, because of the draw of Mt. Elbrus, there are a huge variety of lodging options at the end of this valley, from 4-star to mid-range to budget to hostel.  Here are just a few we’ll recommend from our experience:

-Modern and comfortable 4-star-ish:  Azau Star , Kristall 139

-Budget with less frills 3-star-ish:   Laguna , Povorot

If you’re a mountain climber with your sites set on the summit of Elbrus, you’ll have to spend at least 3-4 nights at Elbrus’s famous base camp at 13,000 feet.  The “barrel huts” are not easy to book directly with, and we highly recommend you do your climb (and hence, have your bookings handled) through a trusted climbing company.  Here are two shelters at base camp we recommend:

-Modern and comfortable:  Leaprus

-Budget with less frills:  Heart of Elbrus Lodge

If you’re interested in climbing Mt. Elbrus and staying in these barrel huts, click  here  to see our climbing itineraries, pricing, and group dates.

C.  Chegem Valley – Chegem Valley is the adjacent valley to Elbrus’s Baksan Valley, and is famous for its beautiful waterfalls as well as being Russia’s top paragliding location.  The “ Paradrome ” has modest accommodations for those wanting to get to know this beautiful valley for a longer period of time.

D.  Upper Balkaria, or Cherek Valley – This is another beautiful mountain gorge not too far from Nalchik.  There is an authentic lodging complex in Upper Balkaria called Tau-El, with amazing local food for meals as well.

E.  Border Zone lodging – Several of Kabardino-Balkaria’s mountain gorges run into the border zone with neighboring country Georgia, i.e. an area that foreigners cannot enter without a special permit from the local government (often taking 2 months to receive).  There is a famous mountaineering lodge in Bezengi Valley, where several generations of Russian mountain climbers have honed their craft in the Caucasus Mountains.  Perpendicular to Baksan Valley (about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus) is Adyr-Suu Valley, where there is a lodge for back-country skiers to stay, while trying their hands (and feet!) on the untouched snow of that valley.  Both these valleys require border permits for foreigners, but are possible to access for the more adventurous!

3.  Top cities to visit?

Most locals would agree that Nalchik is the main city of significance to visit in Kabardino-Balkaria, but let’s be honest, even more would say, “Just go to the mountains!”  Tirnauz is the capital of the Elbrus district, and is an interesting town to spend some time in, with its unique location in the mountains and place in Soviet history as a once-booming mining town.  The main thing to consider in visiting Nalchik and other cities in the lowlands, is the chance to experience Kabardian culture and food.  Whereas the deeper you go into the valleys, the more you’ll encounter Balkar culture and food.

4.  Best local foods to try?

There are 3 types of food that come to mind, when spending time in Kabardino-Balkaria:

A. Khychiny – This is one of the staple national dishes of the Balkar people, and what you’ll inevitably be served if guests of local Balkars.  It’s a thin buttery flat bread, sometimes cooked with fillings of cottage cheese, fresh greens, or potatoes.  It is often slathered in butter, but wow is that some tasty greasy goodness! 🙂

B.  Shashlik – Shashlik is a MUST for any visit anywhere in the North Caucasus!  Most people would agree that it’s the national food of the entire region.  Shashlik is meat shish kabobs; while pork and turkey can be found in some parts of the Caucasus, lamb or chicken are the preferred shashlik meats of choice in Kabardino-Balkaria. 

C.  Soup – No matter where you are in Russia, you’re sure to find a local soup that people love.  Kabardino-Balkaria is no different.  Especially in the winter months in the mountain valleys, there’s nothing better than to come inside from the cold weather and warm your body up to a bowl of hearty Caucasus soup.  Whether Georgian kharcho or local Balkar lakhman, make sure to try your hand at one of these soups with a side of fresh baked bread/lavash!

5.  Top Hole-In-The-Wall restaurants:

Of course, for a republic of this size, we’re bound to leave at least a few great local joints off our list, but here are a few to get you started. ***Note:  Restaurants in the North Caucasus are much better known for their food than their service, so prepare for tasty food, but manage your expectations about service:

-Elbrus – Kogutai Restaurant at Mt. Cheget – While this isn’t a hole-in-the-wall restaurant per se, it’s one of many to choose from in the Cheget tourist village, and we have found them to provide consistently good food and service.  Kogutai has a nice interior, and maybe most important, an English-language menu with good pictures. 🙂  There also is a nice outdoor patio with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.

-Nalchik #1 – Tameris Restaurant – This is a cafe with a relaxed atmosphere in the capital Nalchik.  Local tour company Elbrus Elevation has taken foreign groups there on multiple occasions and always had good experiences.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 3. 

-Nalchik #2 – Cafe-Bar Oasis – You have to know where this restaurant is to find it, but once inside, you won’t regret it!  There is a unique cafeteria-style ordering process, that includes several dishes being cooked on the spot once ordered.  You can sample local Kabardian dishes here.  The seating area is very modern and a pleasant atmosphere to have a meal in.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 2. 

-Upper Balkaria – Tau-El Restaurant – This is the restaurant part of the Tau-El Tourist Complex in Upper Balkaria.  Whether spending the night or just passing through, make sure to stop here for a meal!

6.  Must-See Sites

This republic is so chock full of “must-see” destinations, it’s impossible to narrow the list down.  Here are just a few suggestions to get you started: (***Mt. Elbrus is a no-brainer and we’re assuming that’s on your list)

A. El-Tyubu and Paradrome – This is an amazing area towards the end of Chegem Valley.  Many tourists visit the famous Chegem Waterfalls and don’t drive any further down this gorge, which really is a shame.  El-Tyubu is a picturesque Balkar village with several historical sites to see, including some ancient mausoleums.  The real gem of the area, though, is the Paradrome , which is Russia’s premier paragliding destination.  The combination of the scenic surrounding mountains and constant winds produces almost daily conditions to sail through the beautiful Caucasus sky.  Highly recommend!

B.  Upper Balkaria – Also known as Cherek Valley, the entire drive to the actual village of Upper Balkaria is one big destination.  First, you can spend time at the 3 consecutive “ Blue Lakes ”, one of which is one of Russia’s deepest lakes with an underground spring.  Then, the drive itself becomes an adventure, as you pass by steep rock walls with a huge drop-off on the other side.  If you’re able to walk this part of the road, that is a bonus!  Once you’ve made your way through the valley walls, the region opens up into a beautiful panoramic view.  Many years ago, there were multiple villages in this region, but they’ve since been condensed into one main village.  You can see some of the ancient Balkar towers that their ancestors used to live in as well.

C.  Djili-Suu – Although hard to pronounce and not easy to get to, Djili-Suu is one of those places in the North Caucasus that people rave about that you “have to” visit.  It’s actually on the North side of Mt. Elbrus, and more accessible from the Mineral Waters region (2 hrs. from Kislovodsk).  The base camp for Elbrus climbers summiting the mountain from the North side is at Djili-Suu.  This area is famous in Russia for its numerous natural healing springs, as well as unique climate conditions that make for beneficial, long holidays for seeking a respite from their daily grind.  There are wide swaths of land available for camping, with probably the most unrivaled views of Mt. Elbrus in the North Caucasus.  Make sure to check this out!

7.  Off-the-beaten path destinations

A. King’s Waterfalls (Tsarskie), or Gedmisht – Probably the valley in Kabardino-Balkaria with the least amount of hype is the Malka Valley, which is the northernmost valley and mainly runs through the Kabardian lowlands.  At the point where the villages end, though (Khabas), the asphalt turns into dirt and the hills start to rise, culminating with the incredible King’s Waterfalls, or as one friend put it, Avatar Waterfalls.  These stunning waterfalls are best visited in the early summer, when everything is lush green and the water flow is strong, with many streams of water flowing down the earth’s surface.  The different colors are incredible and it’s hard to look away.  Once you’ve enjoyed the waterfalls, enjoy a meal of shashlik at one of the nearby lunch huts.  Having an off-road vehicle is ideal to visit these falls, but worth the time and effort!

B.  One-seater chair lift at Elbrus – As the infrastructure at Mt. Elbrus has modernized, some of the more “authentic” experiences have gone to the way-side.  This is one experience still available, though!  From the 2nd (11,000 ft.) to 3rd level (12,500 ft.) of Mt. Elbrus (whether skiing, going to base camp, or just touring), there is a single-seater chair lift for 100 rubles each way (less than $2).  This is an amazing experience if you have the time.  It’s 8-10 minutes each way, and a surreal experience of the majestic Caucasus mountain range surrounding you, skiers silently passing you by underneath, and in general enjoying the silent expanse of nature all around.  The chair lifts are from the Soviet times and so it feels like something from a different era.  For mountain climbers, the newer group cable car gives better access to most of base camp, but several huts are pretty close to this chair lift, so it still may be a good option for you.

C.  Abandoned Mines above Tirnauz – Tirnauz is about 1 hr. from Mt. Elbrus, and a town everyone drives through to and from the mountain.  Although today it looks old and half-abandoned, it was a booming mining town in the 20th century.  About a 45-minute drive above the city with an off-road vehicle, you can see the remains of the mining operations.  Learning about this history combined with the breath-taking views of the Baksan Valley and even into Georgia, you’ll wonder why more people aren’t visiting this place.  This is a great spot to see eagles soaring in the sky, as well as admire the Soviet city plan of Tirnauz from above.

8.  What do I need border zone passes to visit?

In Russia, any area within 5-10 km of a neighboring country, without a clearly delineated border (i.e. in the mountains) is considered a special border zone, and patrolled by Russian border guards.  This area IS accessible to all Russian citizens with their passports, but is NOT legally accessible to foreign citizens UNLESS you have a special permit from the FSB (Federal Security Bureau).  These permits are accessible, either through a tour operator or local friend, but require you to submit your application 45-60 days in advance.

Areas in Kabardino-Balkaria that are worth a visit if you have a border zone pass:

A.  Bezengi Wall – This is at the end of the Bezengi Valley, and holds a place of lore among Russian mountain climbers.  Many mountain guides go through training in this valley.  Five of the Caucasus Mountain’ range’s highest seven peaks are a part of the Bezengi Wall, so you can imagine the draw it has for climbers. There are great areas for trekking and camping in this area. 

B.  Adyr-Suu Gorge – This remote valley runs perpendicular to Baksan Valley and is about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus.  It’s marked at the entrance by a relic of the past, a car lift from Soviet days that auto-cranks your car (and you) about 50 meters up the mountain.  After 45-60 minutes of driving on gravel road, the gorge opens up into a flat valley with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.  The Adyr-Suu Alpine Lodge is at the end of this valley and where back-country skiers base out of during the acclimatization phase of their Mt. Elbrus ski tours.  This is truly a place where you can experience untouched powder!

C.  Mt. Cheget (Elbrus) – Cheget is a neighboring mountain to Mt. Elbrus and where many climbers will acclimatize, both at its base and while doing some hikes.  It also is famous in Russia for its free-ride terrain for more experienced skiers.  Standard access to the chair lifts and mountain are available to all (i.e. mountain climbers don’t need to worry about accidentally crossing into the zone), but anyone wanting to summit the peak of Cheget OR visit the beautiful Cheget Lake needs a border permit. 

Foreigners violating the border zone areas is considered a serious offense in Russia; make sure to do your due diligence if wanting to visit one of these areas!  We highly recommend using a local tour operator and always traveling with a local person if visiting one of these areas.

9.  Any cultural “do’s” or “don’t’s” to be aware of

Kabardino-Balkaria is a fascinating republic with a combination of traditional and modern society.  The more you interact with local people, the more you’ll see a mixture of Muslim faith, post-Soviet mentality, and ancient local traditions all wrapped together.   

Kabardians mainly live in the lowlands (Nalchik, Baksan, and lowland villages), while Balkars primarily live in the mountain valleys (Elbrus, Chegem, Upper Balkaria, etc.).  There is a large population of Russians in the region as well.  Foreigners visit every area of the region regularly, and so local people are used to and will welcome your presence.

Come with an open mind to learn about these peoples, their traditions, and their land.  You won’t regret your trip to Kabardino-Balkaria!

***Want to learn more?  Here are several self-published resources from the podcast “ CaucasTalk ” related to Kabardino-Balkaria:

– Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria (audio version of this blog)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 1)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 2)

– Interview with Local Elbrus guide

– Climbing Elbrus: Interview with American guide

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 1)

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 2)

– Skiing in the North Caucasus (Elbrus and more)

READY TO EXPERIENCE KABARDINO-BALKARIA FOR YOURSELF?

Where to find us.

• +1 704-810-4296
• [email protected]
• 1578 Pine Creek Rd., Gastonia, NC 28056

Travel Information

• We no longer offer travel services to Russia. See Caucasus Quest Tours for new destinations
• Is it Safe to Travel to the Caucasus in 2024?
• Climbing Kazbek & Kilimanjaro: Comparing two 5,000+ meter peaks
• How to Train to climb Mt. Kazbek in Georgia

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ALL Travel Services to Russia and Mt. Elbrus have been indefinitely suspended as of Feb. 2022.

Explore our new tour branch Caucasus Quest to climb Mt. Kazbek (5,054 meters) in Georgia or for immersive cultural touring experiences in Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.

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Classic Liplux Organic Lip Balm Sunscreen SPF 30 Original: Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating, immediately after towel drying and at least every 2 hours

Ingredients

Cucumber Classic Face Organic Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30: Active: Avobenzone 1.75%, Homosalate 2.5%, Octisalate 1.5% Octocrylene 3.75%. Inactive: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Organic), Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Seed Oil, Butylene Glycol, Camelina Sativa Seed Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes, Carthamus Tinctorius (Organic Safflower) Seed Oil, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seedcake Extract, Decyl Glucoside, Dimethicone, Flavor, Glycerin (Organic), Hydrogenated Methyl Abietata, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Jojoba Esters, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Mauritia Flexuosa Fruit Oil, 1,2 Hexandiol, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Flower Extract, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Polysilicone-11, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed Oil, Silica, Sodium Phytate, Squalane, Tropolone, Xanthan Gum.

Radical Recovery Eco-Cert Organic After Sun Lotion: Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice(Organic), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil(Organic), Water/Aqua/Eau, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Glucoside, Saccharomyces/Agave Americana Leaf Ferment Filtrate(Organic), Cetyl Palmitate, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Oil (Organic), Citrus Sinensis (Sweet Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Reticulata (Mandarin Red) Peel Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Cedrus Atlantica (Cedar) Wood Oil, Xanthan Gum, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract(Organic), Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol.

Pina Colada Classic Body Organic Sunscreen Spray SPF 30: Active: Avobenzone 2.8%, Octisalate 4.9%, Octocrylene 7.6%. Inactive: Alcohol (Organic), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil (Organic), Flavor*, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Mauritia Flexuosa (Buriti) Fruit Oil (Organic), Methyl Dihydroabietate, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Seed Oil, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed Oil (Organic).

Classic Liplux Organic Lip Balm Sunscreen SPF 30: Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 2.9%, Octisalate 4.9%, Octocrylene 7.6% Inactive Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Astrocaryum Vulgare Kernel Oil (Organic), Behenyl Behenate, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil (Organic), Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax (Organic), Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Flavor, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil (Organic), Linoleic Acid, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil (Organic), Phospholipids, Phytosterols, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil (Organic), Rosa Canina Fruit Extract (Organic), Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract (Organic), Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed Oil (Organic), Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil (Organic), Stevia Rebaudiana Extract, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Theobroma Grandiflorum Seed Butter (Organic), Tocopherol (Organic).

*Naturally derived.

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Sun Bum Hair Care Travel Essentials Kit | Revitalize Your Hair With Revitalizing Shampoo, Conditioner, and 3-in-1 Leave In Treatment | Includes Aloha Collection Travel Pouch

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

• Hair Care Travel Essentials Kit. Good things come in small packages. Our Hair Care Travel Essentials Kit includes some of our fav hair care products, now in travel sizes, to help keep your locks lookin' great no matter where you go.
• REVITALIZING - Our Revitalizing products feature naturally derived ingredients and are made to help restore essential nutrition and hydration for strong, healthy looking hair.
• HOW TO USE. Revitalizing Shampoo - Wet hair and lather using a gentle massaging motion. Rinse thoroughly and repeat if desired. For best results, follow with our Revitalizing Conditioner.
• PROTECT YOUR HAIR. Formulated to protect the hair from damaging UV rays to prevent dryness and fading while enhancing color and shine. So you can spend less time worryin' about it, and more time enjoying your vacation.
• TRUST THE BUM. What does that mean? It means trust us, the ones who live on the beach and need products that work on the most intense days in the sun. The simple truth is, when you make products to protect the ones you love, you make ‘em better

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Product Description

Essentials Kit includes some of our fave hair care products, now in travel sizes, to help keep your locks lookin' great no matter where you go. Plus - Our neighbors at ALOHA Collection helped us create this custom SPLASH-PROOF pouch to keep your favorite products safe from splashes and spills while you're heading out on your next adventure! Don't trip, we got you.

Product details

• Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 8.43 x 4.96 x 1.77 inches; 11.68 ounces
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ 80-70327
• UPC ‏ : ‎ 840155604520
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Sun Bum
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CNKX74CS
• Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ USA
• #456 in Shampoo & Conditioner Sets

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Important information

Safety information.

For external Use only. Avoid eye contact. Use only as directed. Keep out of reach of children. If any iritation occurs, stop use and consult your physician.

Revitalizing Shampoo: Wet hair and lather using a gentle massaging motion. Rinse thoroughly and repeat if desired. For best results, follow with our Revitalizing Conditioner.

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