Dan Thompson's Best Sunscreen Picks of 2016

Every year I am literally sent hundreds of sunscreens from various companies.  Of course all of them want to be included in my annual sunscreen list. 

This year was no different and after eliminating many of the products sent to me I have come up with my top three sunscreens for the whole family.

Before the list, some disclaimers:

1.  I am not paid to endorse any of these products.  I receive no compensation in any way save product samples for purposes of evaluation.

2.  I accept all samples sent to me, but some are eliminated immediately from the list. To be immediately eliminated a sunscreen will have any of the following criteria:

• contains fragrances - fragrances are the #1 sensitizing ingredients in cosmetics 
• contains dyes - dyes are the #2 sensitizing ingredients in cosmetics
• contains any of the following sunscreen agents: Avobenzone, Ensulizole, Homosalate, Meradimate, Octinoxate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Oxybenzone, Sulisobenzone, Drometrizole Trisiloxane, Enzacamene, Padimate O, Ecamsule, Cinoxate, Diethanolamine Methoxycinnamate. Dioxybenzone, Triethanolamine Salicylate (or any of the trademarked brand names under which these ingredients are marketed) - these are the approved chemical sunscreens allowed for use in Canada.  I do not endorse the use of chemical sunscreens at any time.
• is not water resistant - there is no point in wearing a sunscreen which dissolves in water
• is in a spray format - categorically these are the worst form of sunscreens for proper application and protection

Instructions on using a sunscreen

A sunscreen is only effective when used properly - all sunscreens are used the same way and their effectiveness is negated to an almost 0 rating when used incorrectly.

For all products:

• Apply liberally/generously (and evenly) 30 minutes before sun exposure;
• Reapply at least every 2 hours
• For use on children less than 6 months of age, consult a health care practitioner
• Limit time in the sun, especially from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. - sunscreens have reduced effectiveness during this time and on high UV index days have almost no effectiveness
• Wear a minimum of SPF 15 whenever skin is exposed to light
• Reapply after 40 minutes of swimming or 80 minutes of sweating
• Reapply immediately after towel drying

2016 Top 3 Sunscreens

1.  Badger Unscented Sunscreen SPF 30 ($25 for 90mL)

A biodegradable sunscreen rich in skin care ingredients, water resistant for at least 40 minutes, safe for children of all ages, blocks both UVA and UVB rays, and thoroughly moisturizes the skin while protecting it.

2.  Everywhere Body Sunstick SPF 30 ($35 for 70g)

A great choice for travel - won't spill and easy to apply.   This sunscreen is safe and gentle enough for everyone’s skin.  The creamy formula provides easy-to-blend coverage that never feels sticky and won’t clog pores.

3.  Everyday Face Thinksport SPF 30 ($20 for 90mL)

Enriched with Vitamin C & E and includes a small amount of tint to reduce any whitening effect from minerals. Supremely moisturizing yet gentle enough for sensitive skin, the formula dries very quickly and provides an excellent base layer before makeup application.

 RELATED: Sun Myths and Facts For The Whole Family