7 Best Affordable Sunscreen on a Budget
Sometimes you just want your skin to glow but your bank isn't having it. The sun protection factor is one great way to get that glow but it doesn't come cheap. That doesn't mean you have to break your bank just to get good skin. Sunscreen is very essential in any skincare routine and you can't skip it even if you aren't going out.
However, sunscreen can be quite expensive and it doesn't help that they come in those little 50ml tubes that barely last a month. So how do you find a good quality sunscreen that is also easy on your wallet, or rather purse? Here are the 7 best affordable sunscreens on a budget.
1. Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50
You know how good Asians are with their skincare products. They really don't cut corners on their quality and affordability. The Biore is a Japanese brand with a very good quality affordable sunscreen with SPF 50 that is suitable for all skin types.
It is light on the face thanks to its watery essence so it does not leave residue or any white-cast. It absorbs very well and fast into the skin like a splash of water. It also contains hyaluronic acid which is good for moisturizing the skin.
Pros
- SPF 50
- Hyaluronic acid
- Lightweight
- Costs around $15
Cons
- Contains mild fragrance
2. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Sunscreen SPF 30/ SPF 50
If you've been in the skincare game long enough then you must have heard enough about Neutrogena. There are both good things and bad things to be said about this brand but it didn't get to the top by simply luck. Their products have made a name for themselves and the Neutrogena Hydro Boost sunscreen is no different.
The main focus here is gel. This is an oil-free sunscreen that contains hyaluronic acid that keeps you hydrated for up to 8 hours. Neutrogena Hydro Boost is a chemical sunscreen so it is important to apply it 15 minutes before sun exposure.
Pros
- SPF 30/50
- Hyaluronic acid
- Lightweight
- Costs around $10
Cons
- Contains Alcohol
- Contains Fragrance
3. Bondi Sands Fragrance-Free UV Sunscreen SPF 50
This sunscreen is from an Australian brand and we all know their game is always on point. The Bondi Sands sunscreen is probably the cheapest quality sunscreen I have seen on the market. It provides both UVA and UVB protection.
This sunscreen is especially good for combination skin and sensitive skin since it is fragrance-free. Since it doesn't leave any white cast, it also works well with all skin tones. It is personally my favorite sunscreen and the one I use religiously.
Pros
- SPF 50
- Water Resistant
- No white-cast
- Fragrance-free
- Costs $7!
Cons
- Can be a little greasy
- It burns the eyes
- Contains Alcohol
4. CeraVe Hydrating Face Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30/ SPF 50
CeraVe is a classic when it comes to skincare and you can never go wrong with any one of their products. Their hydrating sunscreen also doesn't disappoint with its oil-free formula that protects from both UVA and UVB rays. It is a 100% mineral sunscreen that is suitable for all skin tones and types including sensitive skin and people with eczema.
Pros
- SPF 50/30
- Contains niacinamide
- Three essential ceramides
- Contains Hyaluronic acid
- Fragrance-fee
- Costs $14
Cons
- Can feel heavy on the skin
5. Pure Block Aqua Sun Gel SPF 50
The Pure Block sunscreen is an underrated one that is a good buy. If creamy sunscreens aren't for you then this should be your go-to with its lightweight gel formula. It is famous for using only organic filters for sun protection.
Please note that some skin types are sensitive to organic filters. It is suitable for all skin types and leaves no residue or white-cast. Another pro is that the sunscreen can be used to cool down sunburns.
Pros
- SPF 50
- Lightweight gel formula
- No white-cast
- Soothing properties
- Costs $10- $15
Cons
- Contains mild fragrance
- Contains Alcohol
- Not suitable for dry skin
6. Sunprise Mild Watery Light SPF 50
The Etude House's Sunprise sunscreen is an organic sunscreen that has a creamy but light texture. It protects from UVA and UVB rays with an SPF of 50 and is suitable for all skin types but most especially oily skin. It is light and absorbs well into the skin so you don't need to rub it too much.
Pros
- SPF 50
- No white-cast
- Hydrating and non-greasy
- Costs around $15
Cons
- Contains Fragrance
- Contains Alcohol
- Not waterproof
7. Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50
Of course, we have to save the best for last! Korean skincare is always on another level and this is no different for the Cosrx brand which also happens to be my favorite.
It is suitable for all skin types and protects from harmful UVA and UVB rays. It also contains soothing properties in the aloe extracts that are good for sunburns and inflamed skin.
Pros
- SPF 50
- No white-cast
- Moisturizing
- Aloe Vera with soothing properties
- Costs $10- $16
Cons
- Contains Fragrance
How to Apply Sunscreen
- It is usually advisable to apply sunscreen after cleansing your face.
- Check the directions on the packaging because they might differ.
- Dot the sunscreen directly onto the face.
- Spread it evenly across the skin and neck.
- Rub gently until it's fully blended into the skin.
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Tips for Wearing Sunscreen
- For mineral sunscreens apply 15 minutes before going into the sun.
- Wear Daily. For the right effects, you should wear sunscreen daily even during winter. Also, beware of indoor UV exposure.
- You need at least SPF 30 for your sunscreen. SPF 30 filters about 97% of harmful rays.
- Use enough. It is usually recommended to use two fingers or a tablespoon of sunscreen for it to be effective, however, you should know best how much coverage you need. Just don't put too little because it'll basically be useless.
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