The Best Sunscreen
A cheap, fragrance-free, sheer-finish SPF 50 that's easy to actually slather on every part of you. · Updated June 25, 2026
Banana Boat Sheer Sensitive
Banana Boat Sheer Sensitive Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
★star.shop pickWirecutter pick
Pros
- Rubs in with a dry, sheer, nearly colorless finish — minimal white cast
- No added fragrance, making it friendly for sensitive skin
- Broad-spectrum SPF 50 suitable for full-body recreational use
- Very affordable at around $9, so you'll actually apply enough
- Easy to spread, which encourages full coverage and reapplication
Cons
- Reddit and r/SkincareAddiction overwhelmingly favor EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 instead — especially for the face
- r/BuyItForLife crowd leans toward EltaMD and La Roche-Posay Anthelios for cleaner long-term formulas (though sunscreen is a consumable, not a true BIFL item)
- Wirecutter recommends separate face-specific picks; this is more of a body sunscreen
- As a lotion it still needs frequent reapplication, like all sunscreens
- Texture and finish can vary by skin type compared to pricier mineral options