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Sunscreen in the summer is even more important for seniors

A consumer group ranks the best

Updated:

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By:
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Mark Huffman
Reporter

Mark Huffman has covered consumer issues since 2004, with a special focus on protecting and empowering older adults. A former news correspondent for the Associated Press Radio Network, Westwood One, and ConsumerAffairs, Mark brings decades of journalistic experience to RetirementLiving.com. He is passionate about giving consumers a voice and helping them make informed decisions. Mark has also created educational content, including Senior Scam Alert, a video resource designed to help seniors recognize and avoid fraud. He holds a B.A. from the University of Kentucky and lives with his family in Richmond, Virginia.

Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

Key Insights

  • Not all sunscreens are created equal, but there are options out there for shoppers that are good for your skin and good for your budget. 
  • The Environmental Working Group created a 2025 Sunscreen Guide that can help consumers choose the best sunscreen for their needs.
  • Consistent sunscreen application is key to achieving the most protective benefits from the sun.

Summer often finds retirees in the sun, whether on the golf course or by the pool. But as summer temperatures rise, so do the risks of sun-related skin damage, especially for older adults. 

Aging skin becomes more vulnerable to the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays, making proper sun protection more essential than ever. But with thousands of sunscreen products on the market, how do you know which ones are truly effective, gentle on mature skin, and budget-friendly?

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has released its 2025 Sunscreen Guide, offering updated insights to help consumers—especially older Americans—make informed choices.

Why sunscreen is crucial for seniors

As we age, our skin becomes thinner and more prone to damage. Sunburns, age spots, and even skin cancer, such as melanoma, become more concerning with age. And for those managing chronic health conditions or medications that increase sun sensitivity, the need for protective skincare is even more urgent.

Unfortunately, not all sunscreens provide the protection they promise. According to EWG’s new report, only about one in four of the more than 2,200 products reviewed met their strict criteria for safety and effectiveness.

Affordable, senior-friendly sunscreens

The EWG highlighted seven top-performing sunscreens under $20 that are free from harmful ingredients, easy on the skin, and effective at shielding you from UV rays. Each product is EWG Verified, meaning it meets the highest standards for health and transparency.

Here are their picks:

  • ATTITUDE Sunly Mineral Sunscreen Stick, Unscented, SPF 30
    $18.37 at Amazon – Great for sensitive skin, fragrance-free.
  • Babo Botanicals Sheer Zinc Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30
    $13.78 at Walmart; $18 at Amazon – Smooth application, gentle formula.
  • Happy Ocean Water Sport Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30
    $15.44 at Amazon – Water-resistant and ideal for active lifestyles.
  • Mustela Mineral Sunscreen Stick, Face and Body, SPF 50
    $10.89 at Amazon, Target, Walmart – Small, portable, and high protection.
  • Solara Suncare Go! Mineral Defense Sport Superfruit Body Lotion, SPF 50
    $19.99 at Target – Antioxidant-rich and designed for outdoor activities.
  • Stream2Sea EcoStick Sport Sunscreen Stick, SPF 35+ $14.99 at Walmart; $15.75 at Amazon – Eco-friendly and long-lasting.

Smart sun protection tips for older adults

  1. Make sunscreen part of your daily routine. Apply it even on cloudy days or when just stepping out for errands.
  2. Opt for lotions or sticks instead of sprays. These are easier to control and offer better coverage.
  3. Look for mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide, which are gentle and provide broad-spectrum protection.
  4. Avoid high SPF traps. Anything over SPF 50 provides minimal additional benefit but may come with questionable ingredients.
  5. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating, even if your sunscreen says it’s water-resistant.
  6. Check medication side effects. Some prescriptions can make your skin more sensitive to the sun—consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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