Your hands guide you throughout your day. They are the connection between you and so many parts of your world. Yet they are often overlooked in terms of proper skincare.
While it is common to apply various hand creams in order to avoid dryness, sun protection is less considered when it comes to your hands. Maybe in the past you’ve searched for the best drugstore hand cream with SPF. This is a good idea, but the truth is that you will find more useful products in the sunscreen section!
Anytime you’re in the sun, it is advisable to follow the guidelines suggested by the Skin Cancer Foundation: wear UV protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses, and seek shade when possible.Skin Cancer Foundation: wear UV protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses, and seek shade when possible.
However, when it comes to your hand sunscreen is the only thing that can offer you protection. Let me help you to protect your hands against UV rays by finding the right product for your skin!
After thorough exploration into how to properly protect your hands from the sun, SimplySunSafe recommends Vanicream Sunscreen SPF 30 as the best sunscreen for hands. Keep reading for a detailed buyer’s guide, comparison table, and in-depth reviews of the top 5 sunscreens for hands.
Buyer’s Guide
To be sure that your hands are sufficiently and comfortably protected from the sun’s UV rays, there are a few must-have features that you should look for in your sunscreen:
Broad spectrum protection
If there is only one thing you remember about what you need in a good sunscreen, let it be that you want broad spectrum protection.
This means that you will receive balanced protection against both UVA and UVB rays. You need protection against both types of rays because they work differently:
- UVB rays damage the outer layer of your skin causing burning or tanning
- UVA rays penetrate the deepest layer of your skin (the dermis) and cause premature aging
Exposure to both types of rays increases your risk of skin cancer so it’s imperative that the sensitive skin of your hands is properly protected.
Luckily, it is not difficult to find sunscreens that provide broad spectrum protection.
They are available everywhere and are quite easy to spot. Just check the sunscreen’s label and the ingredients list.
The label often has words such ‘broad spectrum’ or ‘UVA/B’ making it clear that sufficient protection is provided.
You can also search the ingredients list for zinc oxide. Sunscreens with zinc oxide are always a safe and effective choice as they protect against the full range of UVA/B rays!
Best SPF for hands
Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is one of those things that you know is important, but you don’t entirely understand it.
Knowing how SPF works (and then what each rating means) will enhance your sunscreen search. Let me give you a simple explanation:
SPF tells you what fraction of the sun’s rays will reach your skin if you have properly applied with your sunscreen.
This means if you’re wearing a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 50 then only 1/50th of the sun’s rays will reach your skin. I know that it sounds like an amazing level of protection, but you still need to be careful!
Wearing a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 50 does not mean that you can stay in the sun 50 times longer than if you weren’t wearing sunscreen. The skin on your hands is fragile and you don’t want to risk damaging it.
There are many factors which influence the effectiveness of SPF including the time of day, amount of properly applied sunscreen, and even reflections from surfaces like water or sand.
Check out this table below to better understand how much protection you get from different SPF ratings:
| SPF Rating | UVB Protection |
| None | 0% |
| 2 | 50% |
| 15 | 93% |
| 30 | 97% |
| 50 | 98% |
| 100 | 99% |
Surprised by what you see?
The truth is that there is little difference between a SPF rating of 30 and one of 100. So how do you know which to choose for your hands?
SimplySunSafe recommends that you always choose SPF ratings no lower than 30 and no higher than 50, in accordance with relevant experts.
And remember not neglect your hands when you reapply your sunscreen every two hours!
Physical is better than chemical
It’s helpful to know that sunscreens can be divided into two main groups – chemical and physical.
The differences between these two groups lie in their active ingredients and in the ways work to protect your skin:
- Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays as they reach your skin
- Physical sunscreens reflect UV rays before they reach your skin
Physical sunscreens reflect UV rays before they reach your skin
There are many reasons to choose physical sunscreens over chemical ones. Physical sunscreens:
- Stop more light reaching your skin
- Work across a larger portion of the UV spectrum
- Work immediately upon application
- Last longer
- Are less likely to cause irritation
- Have a longer shelf life
If these reasons aren’t enough to convince to choose physical sunscreens for your hands, listen to this:
Chemical sunscreens often contain ingredients that mess with your hormones. There’s no knowing what that will mean for you, and it’s not something you want to risk!
The worst of these ingredients is called oxybenzone and it’s still legal despite concerns expressed by the FDA. I advise to check all ingredient lists for this one and avoid it at all costs!
The sensitive skin on your hands will be best protected with a physical sunscreen!
Suitable for daily use
Your hands are used daily for a variety of things and they need to be well-tended to. Part of proper skin care for your fragile hands is making sure that you use sunscreen daily.
You’ll want to find a product that will fit easily into your skincare and won’t leave your hands feeling sticky or greasy. Ask yourself these questions before beginning your search:
- Do you want one sunscreen that can be used on your hands, face and body?
It will need to be a gentle formula appropriate for various areas of the body, not just the hands. For use on the face you might want it to also have a pleasant finish and be compatible with cosmetics.
- What skin sensitivities or conditions do you need to accommodate for?
You may need to steer clear of specific ingredients to ensure you don’t irritate your skin.
- Will you be taking part in any rigorous athletic activity?
Water resistance will be a must – you can choose between 40 and 80 minutes.
Answering these questions in advance will streamline your search process and lead you to find the perfect sunscreen for your hands faster.
SimplySunSafe has recommended a range of sunscreens below that provide fantastic protection using gentle formulas. Read through the detailed review of each to find the best sunscreen for you as I’ve tried to accommodate everyone’s needs with at least one product.
Sensitive formulas
Your hands are used consistently throughout the day, being exposed to everything life can throw at them. This means when you’re choosing a sunscreen, you don’t want to add to the trauma your hands experience. This is where sensitive sunscreen formulas come in.
‘Sensitive’ sunscreens are often gentler on the skin and contain fewer ingredients, meaning there’s very little chance your skin will react to them. This is vital as you’ll be wearing this sunscreen a lot considering your hands are exposed to the sun at all times when you’re outside.
Plus, using many skin care products (moisturizers, soaps etc.) can sometimes have adverse affects on your skin. By choosing a sensitive formula sunscreen for protection of your hands, you will minimize the risk of dryness and irritation.
Best Sunscreen for Hands Comparison
 Vanicream Sunscreen |  Badger Sport Sunscreen |  Exuviance Sheer Daily Protector |  EltaMD UV Pure |  Blue Lizard Sensitive | |
| SPF | 30 | 35 | 50 | 47 | 30+ |
| Broad spectrum | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Active ingredients | Zinc Oxide (6%) & Titanium Dioxide (3.4%) | Zinc Oxide (22.5%) | Titanium Dioxide (7%) & Zinc Oxide (6%) | Zinc Oxide (10%) & Titanium Dioxide (5.5%) | Zinc Oxide (10%) & Titanium Dioxide (5%) |
| Water resistance | 80 minutes | 80 minutes | No | 80 minutes | No |
| Price | $ | $$ | $$$ | $$ | $ |
5 Best Sunscreens for Hands
After extensive research into what is needed for proper sun protection for your hands which included discussing issues with customers, reviewing customer feedback, examining manufacturer specifications, and participating in skincare forums, SimplySunSafe has compiled a list of the 5 best sunscreens for hands.
Each product provides physical, broad spectrum protection with an SPF rating of 30 or greater. They are suitable for daily use!
1. Vanicream Sunscreen SPF 30
SimplySunSafe’s first pick for sunscreen for your hands is Vanicream Sunscreen SPF 30!
With this sunscreen you are provided with broad spectrum protection through its active ingredients zinc oxide (6%) and titanium dioxide (3.4%).
As its name suggests, this formula is designed specifically for use on sensitive skin, which makes it a great option for your hands. The sunscreen is also a dependable option for your face and other areas of your body.
The formula is free of fragrances so it will not interfere with any hand cream or perfume that you use in your skincare routine.
Vanicream has a very thick formula. This means that it will double as a moisturizing hand cream while protecting your hands from UV rays.
As long as you don’t apply too much, the formula will rub into your hands and absorb well, and you will not be left with a sticky or greasy feeling.
Vanicream can also be relied upon for hot weather or outdoor exercise, as it provides 80 minutes of water resistance.
This is a sunscreen that will sufficiently and gently protect your hands throughout the whole year!
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Moisturizing formula
- 80 minutes of water resistance
- Thick formula
2. Badger Sport Sunscreen SPF 35
Another great option for protecting your hands is Badger Sport Sunscreen SPF 35. This formula provides excellent broad spectrum protection with its high concentration of active ingredient zinc oxide (22.5%).
Badger Sport is the perfect option if you participate in a lot of outdoor athletics and exercise.
The formula is extremely gentle, comprised of a total of only 5 natural ingredients. It will not cause any irritation, and you can use it on your hands, face and other areas of your body.
Badger Sport has a bit of a thick formula that will need to rubbed in well. Just be sure not to apply too much on your hands to avoid greasiness.
It provides 80 minutes of water resistance so sweating or water activity will not compromise the quality of your sun protection. This is a durable sunscreen for hands and legs!
- High concentration of zinc oxide (22.5%)
- Suitable for daily use on hands
- 80 minutes of water resistance
- Thick formula
3. Exuviance Sheer Daily Protector SPF 50
Exuviance Sheer Daily Protector SPF 50 is the best sunscreen for hands and face.
It provides you with broad spectrum protection through its active ingredients titanium dioxide (7%) and zinc oxide (6%).
Exuviance Sheer Daily Protector was developed by dermatologists for daily use on all types of skin, including sensitive areas.
It is free of fragrances and oils and therefore won’t interfere with other skincare products you use daily.
Your hands and face will thank you for using Exuviance Sheer Daily Protector as it contains many nourishing ingredients including vitamin E and green tea.
You will find that your hands are well protected from the sun and softer as time passes when you use Exuviance Sheer Daily Protector!
- Pleasant texture and finish
- Developed by dermatologists
- Skin nourishing ingredients
- Slightly pricey
4. EltaMD UV Pure Broad Spectrum SPF 47
EltaMD UV Pure Broad Spectrum SPF 47 is a versatile sunscreen and a SimplySunSafe favorite. Even though it’s been featured on the site multiple times, it appears here as one of the best sunscreens for your hands!
This sunscreen provides broad spectrum protection with its active ingredients zinc oxide (10%) and titanium dioxide (5.5%).
EltaMD UV Pure is a product that is often used for the face and will transfer nicely to your hands due to its mildness. You will not experience any irritation with EltaMD UV Pure and you will be able to use it on your hands, face and body.
The formula is lightweight and breathable, which means your hands won’t be left feeling greasy or sticky!
EltaMD UV Pure needs to be rubbed in properly in order to avoid leaving a white cast on your skin.
You are also equipped with 80 minutes of water resistance if you find yourself sweating or exercising!
- Suitable for daily use on hands
- Lightweight formula (not sticky or greasy)
- 80 minutes of water resistance
- White cast (avoid by rubbing thoroughly)
5. Blue Lizard Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 30+
Blue Lizard Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 30+ is SimplySunSafe’s final choice for sun protection for your hands. Broad spectrum protection is provided through its active ingredients zinc oxide (10%) and titanium dioxide (5%).
Blue Lizard Sensitive Sunscreen is, as the name suggests, designed especially for sensitive. This makes it a great option for your fragile hands, face and the rest of your body!
You are highly unlikely to experience any irritation with this product so it will fit nicely into your daily routine.
The formula is thick and moisturizing, but will blend in well to your natural skin tone!
Keep in mind that no water resistance is provided with Blue Lizard Sensitive Sunscreen so it may not be your ideal option if you engage in rigorous exercise.
If you’re looking for a simple, sensitive and reliable sunscreen for your hands, Blue Lizard Sensitive Sunscreen could be the one for you!
- Suitable for daily use on hands
- Designed for use on sensitive skin
- Thick and moisturizing formula
- No water resistance
Conclusion
This guide was written for those searching for the best sunscreen for hands. I hope by reading this guide you gained more insight into what you need in order to effectively protect your hands from the sun’s UV rays.
SimplySunSafe recommends Vanicream Sunscreen SPF 30 but all 5 listed products will keep the skin on your hands protected and conditioned.
Now that you have read this guide, you can move on to the next step of the process which is to test different sunscreens.
By trying different products you will learn how your skin reacts to different formulas. Then you will be able to make the most informed decision about which sunscreen will work for your hands!
I love learning new things and hearing about different products from other people! If you use or know of another sunscreen that works well for hands, share it in the comments below. I’ll be sure to look into it and maybe even add it to this list!
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