Protecting your skin from the sun used to mean slathering on a thick, white paste and hoping for the best. Things have changed, to say the least. Now, formulations have improved, and there are entirely new ways to defend against UV damage.
Below, we’ve rounded up some of the techiest and most exciting new sun-protection products, all of which are paving the way for even more innovation to come. Whether you’re looking for a mess-free way to stay protected, a product to remind you when it’s time to re-apply, or the best darn UPF hat around, we’ve got you covered. Literally.
Shop award-winning SPF innovation
SPOTMYUV, UV Defense Sticker—$36 for 48 stickers
Just because we all know we’re supposed to re-apply SPF every two hours doesn’t mean we actually remember to do it. With these stickers, though, there’s no longer an excuse to forget. Simply stick one onto your skin before you apply your SPF, then watch as it turns from clear to purple to clue you in that you’ve achieved proper coverage. As the sticker is exposed to UV light, it will fade from purple back to clear, letting you know that it’s time to re-up your sunscreen.
Pros
- Aids in proper SPF application
Bluestone Sunshields x Pillowtalk Derm, Major Shade Full Lux Sunshield—$70
This Zenon-looking visor isn’t just meant to be a conversation starter on the beach (though it certainly will be that), but it also offers UPF 50 to keep your face protected at all times. The visor is easily adjustable so you can wear it like a hat brim or a full face covering, and is easy to see through while resisting heat and blocking 99 percent of UVA and UVB rays.
Sun Patch, Under Eye UV Protection—$26 for 8 Patches
The delicate skin under your eyes is highly prone to sun damage, which makes it extra-important to keep it protected. But, slathering sunscreen in the area isn’t exactly appealing (hello, stinging eyes!). These patches make it easy to ensure the fragile spot is wholly protected by physically blocking out UV rays. The patches are made from zinc oxide-infused silicone, come in four fun colors, including neon blue, neon pink, neon yellow, and neon white.
Active ingredients
Zinc Oxide-Based Silicone
Pros
- Physical sun protection
- Reusable
- Water and sweat-proof up to 6 hours
- Hypoallergenic
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin
It’s easy to miss a spot or two when applying your SPF and this ultra violet camera is here to help. Plug this tiny camera into the charging port on your iPhone and take a look at yourself in a now-blue screen. The camera makes the areas where you applied SPF appear darker, allowing you to make sure you have full coverage. Once you’re and ready for bed, use this camera to ensure you rinsed off all your SPF before applying your nigthtime serums and creams.
Pros
- Aids in proper SPF application
- Easy to use
Cons
- Expensive
- Must plug into phone
- iPhone only
