The Most Popular SPF Beauty Buys at CVS This Summer

1. Upcycled ingredients

Alec Batis, CEO and co-founder of Sweet Chemistry, confirmed to Popsugarthat upcycled ingredients will be “gaining significant traction” in 2025.

Upcycled ingredients favor the health of the environment since they repurpose elements that might otherwise be considered as waste. Univar Solutions notes that olive oil, coconut, and coffee are a few of the most popular upcycled ingredients for producing skincare formulas like scrubs, oils, and cleansers.

In conjunction with this first 2025 skincare trend, I predict that eco-friendly skincare products will continue to rise, which not only includes 100% vegan and animal cruelty-free formulas (shout out e.l.f.), but also products with recycled packaging (Lush is my go-to) or ones with “refillable” features, like the ones below.

Vegan and cruelty-free: e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Face Cream

This lightweight $13 face cream hydrated with evening niacinamide, nourishing hyaluronic acid, and boosting peptides. It even provides an extra layer of protection against harmful UV rays with SPF 30.

Vegan and cruelty-free: Pacifica Vegan Collagen Overnight Recovery Cream

This $12 face cream is fully vegan and cruelty-free. It's packed with moisturizing ingredients and even antioxidants that work against free radicals that cause pore blockages and breakouts.

Refillable: Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Facial Cleanser Refill Pouch

This $15 refill pouch of Aveeno cleanser takes it real easy on the skin with a milky gel texture and a gentle formula that's suitable for all skin types.

2. Peptides on peptides

Peptides have grown to be a total holy grail ingredient when it comes to skincare. They can encourage collagen production, strengthen and protect the skin barrier, and even out skin tone, in addition to other benefits.

While tons of luxury skincare brands like Caudalie and Drunk Elephant have embraced peptides in their products, the trend has trickled down to plenty of drugstore mainstays, too. Cetaphil and CeraVe offer some truly affordable formulas that provide the same benefits as the ones you’d pay $50+ for.

If you’re looking for stronger, healthier skin in 2025, these products are the way to go.

For improved firmness, texture, and tone: Cetaphil Healthy Renew Anti Aging Face Serum

This gentle peptide formula does all the things a higher-end product would – for only $15!

For a stronger skin barrier: CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream

Made with three essential ceramides and peptides, this $16 night cream helps renew and strengthen your skin's barrier overnight.

For anti-aging: Good Molecules Super Peptide Serum

This $12 serum is packed with several different kinds of peptides to help target fine lines and wrinkles. If anti-aging products are your jam, you've got to try this.

3. All things anti-wrinkle

Howard Sobel, MD, told Popsugarthat preventative Botox treatments are in "tremendous demand,” especially among Gen Z-ers. These treatments typically have to do with all things anti-wrinkle.

Though there’s no drugstore solution for injectables like Botox, there’s no shortage of affordable formulas geared toward preventing wrinkles before they drive deep. Most notably, products with retinols can help your skin generate more collagen and elastin, providing a stronger structure against wrinkles and fine lines.

Check out the best drugstore formulas below.

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Face Moisturizer Cream

This $22 bottle filled with potent retinol and hyaluronic acid helps hydrate the skin and target wrinkles for a more youthful appearance.

Differin Acne Treatment Gel + Retinoid Treatment

This popular $19 (pack of two) pick employs retinol to encourage a faster cell turnover rate, which can help prevent new acne from forming and even out texture like fine lines and wrinkles.

Eucerin Pro-Retinol Night Cream

For just $13, this retinol-infused night cream helps hydrate your skin and reduces the look of fine lines while you sleep.

4. Mineral sunscreen > chemical sunscreen

Also known as physical sunscreen, mineral sunscreen will eclipse chemical sunscreen formulas in popularity this year. Bobbi Brown, renowned makeup artist and founder of both Bobbi Brown Cosmetics and Jones Road Beauty, recently told Harper’s Bazaarthat it’s “going to be big in 2025.”

While chemical sunscreen formulas tend to soak into the skin to block harmful UV rays, mineral sunscreen formulas include physical components that sit on top of the skin to prevent UV damage. This element can be especially beneficial for people with sensitive skin!

Not all mineral sunscreens are made the same, though. It’s common for formulas to leave a white cast after application, as well as have ingredients that aren’t necessarily kind to the environment. Look for sunscreens with SPF 30 or more, zinc oxide in the formula, plus labels indicating that they’re “reef-safe.” As far as the white cast goes, these drugstore mineral sunscreens also leave your skin protected from the sun’s rays without a noticeable trace.

Neutrogena Clear Breakout-Free Liquid Sunscreen

This $15 tube is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores that lead to pesky breakouts.

CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion

CeraVe's sunscreens are so good. This $16 lotion adds an extra dose of skincare with hyaluronic acid and ceramides, in addition to the SPF 30.

Hawaiian Tropic Weightless Hydration Sunscreen

This $21 pick sits on the skin so lightly, but still provides beneficial sun protection with SPF 30.

5. Décolletage care

The décolletage area – AKA your neck and chest where the skin is thinner and typically harder to treat with skincare products – will shift into the limelight when it comes to 2025 skincare trends.

The décolletage area can be especially sensitive to sun damage, pigmentation, and dryness, and skincare fiends of all kinds will be attuned to caring for it in 2025. You don’t necessarily need décolletage-specific products to help lift, smooth, and firm the skin there.

Products with hyaluronic acid, peptides, and chemical exfoliants like AHAs that you typically use on your face will also keep the area bright, tight, and healthy. Check out these drugstore finds that’ll treat your neck and chest right.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Multi-Depth Hydration Serum

This tiny (but mighty) $10 bottle packs a punch for your skin by hydrating, plumping, and smoothing out unwanted texture and wrinkles.

COSRX AHA + BHA Treatment Toner

Chemical exfoliants like AHA and BHA help refresh your skin by dissolving dead skin cells, giving newer, fresher skin the opportunity to soak in all the benefits from the rest of your skincare routine. This $19 toner formula works well for your face and décolletage area.

6. Passive patches

I predict that the abundance of pimple patch peel videos on everyone’s Instagram discover pages won’t be going anywhere in 2025. Not only are pimple patches super satisfying by nature (that peel though!), they’ve become the ultimate skincare accessory, thanks to brands like Starface. Plus, breakouts are always going to be a skin concern, no matter who you are (or your skin type).

Pimple patches aren’t the only patches on the skincare market, though. Patch brands like Frownies have engineered their products to smooth and lift everything from forehead wrinkles to smile lines. Beloved brand Hero Cosmetics even just launched a new big patch for body breakouts.

Any kind of skincare patch allows you to passively treat your personal skin concerns, which plays into the 2025 trend Harper’s Bazaar calls “the simplification of self-care.”

So, don’t be afraid to rock a patch or two! These drugstore finds will give you the perfect peel.

Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Original

Ah, a classic. These $20 hydrocolloid patches effectively draw out impurities from whiteheads and help protect active breakouts from the elements (dirt, dust, germs, and grime) by providing an impenetrable barrier.

Starface Hydrocolloid Pimple Patches

These stylish $11 patches do the same exact thing, though you'll feel uber-cool wearing 'em since they're star-shaped.

Hero Cosmetics Mighty Body Patch

If you tend to break out on your bod, these $15 XL-sized patches immediately come to the rescue.

Lush Sticky Dates Shower Gel

This shower gel from Lush is undeniably sweet-smelling. I think it smells like straight-up dessert – I had to fight off the intrusive thoughts to eat it when I was in the store checking it out (don't judge, okay?). It lathers up luxuriously, and always feels nourishing and hydrating on my skin. It's formulated with organic date syrup, sandalwood oil, and orange juice to properly cleanse off your bod. I already know I'm going to buy a bigger bottle once my sample size one runs out!

Promising review: "The scent of this body wash is sooo mouthwatering. I love the light lather and the soft scent left on the skin after rinsing off. Definitely worth the hype!"

Saltair Seascape Serum Body Wash

You won't be able to stop sniffing this heavenly body wash. It smells spot-on to a dreamy island getaway! I love this formula in particular because it's crafted with hyaluronic acid, which helps add even more moisture to the skin. Extra points to this body wash since the bottle's so cute!

Promising review: "Oh man. Boy do I love this scent. Reminds of the fresh smell of the sea when I visit the Carribbean Islands. Im just in a trance when I'm in the shower."

OUAI St. Barts Body Cleanser

If there's one thing OUAI absolutely nails, it's their scents. From their hair oil to shampoo, I fall in love with the products over and over again after every use. Their body wash is no exception, especially this one in the scent St. Barts. You get a little bit of every note: floral dragonfruit, orange blossom, and tuberose, plus a nice gourmand dose of and Baltic amber that feels oh-so sophisticated. The formula is made with jojoba oil, which expertly hydrates the skin, deep down. Dreamy!

Promising review: "I’ve been using the OUAI Body Cleanser for a few weeks now, and it has become a staple in my shower routine. The first thing that drew me in was the scent—it’s light, fresh, and lingers subtly on the skin without being overpowering. It makes showering feel like a mini-spa experience."

Nécessaire The Body Wash

For a fancy(ish) body wash that smells downright divine, reach for this one from Nécessaire. It's packed with eucalyptus, which is uber-refreshing for a nice wake up call in the AM! The body wash is boosted with plenty of lipid-rich oils and niacinamide, which can help strengthen the skin's natural barrier.

Promising review: "I have very sensitive skin but I also really like things that smell good! After reading reviews I decided to give this a try. My skin didn’t react to this at all (yay!!) and the smell is great! Super relaxing and perfect for after a long day. The bottle came well packed inside its own box - this was great because it didn’t leak or anything. The bottle is also really big so I think with cleaner ingredients & great smell it’s worth it!"

Olay Cleansing & Firming Body Wash

If you're in love with clean scents, this body wash from Olay delivers. Not only does it smell so fresh and so clean, it's heavy on skincare benefits. The formula includes collagen and a vitamin B3 complex that nourishes for "beautiful, healthy-looking skin."

Promising review: "My new go-to body wash! I so love the smell! I felt so luxurious and soft after each use!"

L'Occitane Cleansing & Softening Shea Shower Oil

Though it's not technically a body wash, this shower oil still lathers up gorgeously to cleanse your skin. Its main ingredients are shea oil and shea butter, which nourish the skin like no other, leaving it as soft as can be. Dry skin-havers will fall in love with this one!

Promising review: "Ten stars. One of my absolute favorite shower indulgences. This smells amazing. A warm, soft musk scent that lingers long after your shower is over. It leaves my skin feeling brand new, so soft and super smooth. I absolutely love going to bed with this scent on my pajamas and even waking up the next day to get dressed and still feeling so soft and smelling pretty. Not a strong scent whatsoever. A very soft, musk like skin scent."

Aesop A Rose by Any Other Name Body Cleanser

You've likely never smelled a body wash like this one before. It combines notes of rose petal, cardamom, and black pepper for a punchy, yet floral-heavy scent. The aroma can come off as super saturated upon first impression, so a little goes a long way.

Promising review: "I love the Aesop products because I have very dry skin and am allergic to perfume soaps. After many trials and errors with other products this was recommended and I love it ! Worth every penny. Wish it also came in travel size because the hotel soap bars don't measure up."

Dove Shea Butter & Vanilla Pampering Body Wash

Forget all the frills and fancy stuff – sometimes a basic vanilla scent works the best! This gentle body wash is friendly on all skin types and boasts the perfect balance of shea butter and warm vanilla for an uplifting shower experience each time. Your skin will look instantly cleaner, fresher, and more moisturized!

Promising review: "My favorite body wash!! It smells amazing and is so affordable. The scent really lingers."

Method Pure Peace Body Wash

If I had to compare this body wash to anything, it'd be Glossier's signature Glossier You perfume. It smells sooo good. The mix of floral peony and pungent pink salt just work together so well! The clean formula is gentle on the skin and always leaves it feeling noticeably soft and moisturized.

Promising review: "One of the standout aspects of this body wash is its formula. It’s paraben- and phthalate-free, which is reassuring for those with sensitive skin or anyone conscious about the ingredients in their skincare products. The wash lathers well, providing a luxurious feel while gently cleansing without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. My skin felt clean and hydrated after use, which is a big plus."

Caribbean

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Beyond beautiful beaches like Condado Beach or Isla Verde, picturesque San Juan, Puerto Rico is absolutely worth a visit. Dollar Flight Club found flights from Atlanta starting at $138 and Los Angeles at $149. Budget guesthouses start at $70/night; mid-range hotels average $150 to $200/night. Walk through Old San Juan's cobblestone streets, visit the San Juan Bautista Cathedral, and explore the historic fort Castillo San Felipe del Morro (shown above) for free or under $10. Enjoy local flavors for $8–$15 per meal, with upscale options starting at just $25, including traditional foods like roast pork (lechón asado), arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), pasteles (similar to tamales), and tembleque (coconut dessert) at one of the many restaurants in bustling San Juan.

Aruba

Known as "One Happy Island," Aruba is perfect for relaxing on the beach and exploring the natural beauty of this Dutch island. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters (Eagle and Palm Beaches are free) or hike through Arikok National Park's rugged landscapes (cost for entry just $10–$20). NYC to Aruba flights are as low as $280, according to Dollar Flight Club. Hostels and guesthouses start at $90 to $120/night; mid-range resorts average $200 to $250. The capital, Oranjestad, is picture-perfect with colorful Dutch architecture and delicious local food shacks offer authentic meals for just $10 to $15.

Cancún, Mexico

Free access to white sand beaches and natural swimming caverns make Cancun an adventure for the books. Explore the underwater art museum near Isla Mujeres, cultural landmarks like Chichén Itzá, and an incredible art scene in Tulum, plus Playa del Carmen for unforgettable nightlife. Denver to Cancún flights start at just $211. Budget hotels and hostels start at $40 to $70 per night, with mid-range options costing $100 to $150. The ADO buses are a cheap and convenient way to explore, with fares from $5 to $10. Local buses within Cancún are just under $1! Street food is highly affordable too, with tacos or tamales priced at $2 to $5 each.

St. Lucia

Flights from cities like New York to St. Lucia are $255 roundtrip. All-inclusive resorts like Bay Gardens Hotel, Rodney Bay Village are affordable stays near shops and restaurants with rates starting at $208 per night. Famous for its iconic Pitons, twin volcanic peaks that rise from the sea, St. Lucia is also a paradise for travelers who love hiking, zip-lining, and snorkeling in coral reefs. Soak in the therapeutic mud baths of Soufrière, or explore the island's tropical rainforests. The Tet Paul Nature Trail ($10 entry fee) offers stunning panoramic views of the island.

United States

The Florida Keys

All-inclusive resorts like Bungalows Key Largo, an adults-only resort located on the Florida Key’s Northernmost Island, Key Largo, (just 63 miles south of Miami), offer a tropical escape without the hassle of a passport. Find bougainvillea-draped verandas, oversized soaking tubs, outdoor garden showers, and Huffy beach cruisers to explore the island. Their Romance Package includes a Waterfront or Garden View Bungalow, chocolate-covered strawberries at your arrival, a bottle of sparkling wine, and rose petals to set the mood.;) You also get a $200 spa credit toward soothing treatments at Zen Garden Spa and a $200 credit for in-house water sports, like kayak races or Tiki boat cruises. For an extra fee, you can take a Valentine's Day Sunset Dinner Cruise on a luxury catamaran with food and music and fun.

Moab

Located between Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, Moab, Utah was listed on U.S. News & World Report's cheap places to travel in 2025 and for good reason. Hike among the iconic sandstone arches, bike rugged trails like Slickrock, or raft and kayak along the Colorado River for an affordable escape that feels like you'd landed on Mars. Towering 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, catch a breathtaking panorama of Canyonlands’ sculpted pinnacles and buttes at Dead Horse Point State Park, one of the most photographed places in the world. Downtown Moab features a waterfront, charming shops, local art, and delicious eateries. Stay in safari-like tents from Under Canopy for about $200/night in June or book a campground for a more rugged experience.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

This coastal gem is known for its white sandy beaches and warm Gulf waters, and it's an affordable destination for families, couples, and solo travelers. Sun-soak and swim along the iconic Gulf State Park Pier, explore free and affordable activities like hiking scenic trails or kayaking through serene backwaters. Savor delicious Southern seafood on the cheap at places like beachfront The Hangout and The Original Oyster House Boardwalk. Dolphin cruises, paddle boarding, and fun waterparks are also on the itinerary at this affordable hotspot.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Also on U.S. News's cheap places to visit is this charming coastal town and a gateway to Acadia National Park. Hike Cadillac Mountain to catch a stunning sunrise, bike along the scenic carriage roads, or kayak through the sparkling waters of Frenchman Bay. Stroll the Shore Path for breathtaking ocean views, and don’t missBar Island, accessible during low tide. Indulge in fresh lobster at local seafood shacks like Rose Eden Lobster or explore the quaint shops and storybook charm of downtown. Whale watching tours (running around $30-$70) are also a must!

Europe

Bratislava, Slovakia

Traveling to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is ideal for budget-minded travelers. The city offers affordable accommodations, from budget-friendly hotels to cozy guesthouses for less than $150 per night. Stroll along the banks of the Danube River, and explore Old Town, which looks straight out of a Disney princess movie. Use the Bratislava Card to visit more than 20 museums and sites, including the famous Bratislava Castle for panoramic views of the city. Public transport is cheap and reliable, making it easy to explore too. Savor hearty Slovak dishes like halušky and goulash on the cheap at local eateries, and visit free attractions like St. Martin’s Cathedral.

Canary Islands, Spain

The best time to visit the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago off the coast of northwestern Africa, is October through March for warm weather and fewer crowds, and when average airline prices will run you about $300, according to Dollar Flight Club. (Look for midweek flights when prices often drop significantly.) Tenerife, the largest island, offers famous beaches and some of the best stargazing in the world. Explore the colonial architecture ofLa Laguna and La Orotava, or enjoy fresh seafood in the quiet fishing village of Garachico. The island’s volcanic interior provides stunning landscapes perfect for hiking, while Santa Cruz offers a taste of modern art and architecture. Whale watching in late fall can be enjoyed with tours like Whale Wise Eco Tours, which use solar-powered boats.

Madeira Island, Portugal

An emerging destination for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, Madeira Island, often called the "Pearl of the Atlantic," is a stunning Portuguese archipelago located off the northwest coast of Africa. Best time to visit is in the spring for blooming landscapes. (Use layovers in also affordable Lisbon to save on airfare). Renowned for its year-round mild climate, namesake wine, and breathtaking landscapes, Madeira offers lush trails, dramatic cliffs, and exotic botanical gardens. Stroll charming cobblestone streets in the capital, Funchal, hike Pico Ruivo, swim in natural swimming pools, and savor fresh seafood in this affordable destination. In Lisbon, public transport, including the IG-worthy colorful trams and metro, is inexpensive and a great way to explore iconic landmarks like Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, many of which have free or discounted entry on Sundays. Wander through the colorful Alfama District or relax at scenic viewpoints (miradouros) for free.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a stunning medieval city that rivals most popular European destinations. Travel in March to May or September for fewer tourists and better prices, and check nearby airports like Vienna or Berlin for cheaper fares. The Prague Castle and Charles Bridge are all free and many hotels are cheaper than other European cities. People-watch in cozy cafés with a local delicacy like trdelník, a sugary cake, and take a free walking tour around this beautiful historical city.

Malta

This small island nation, located in the Mediterranean Sea between Sicily and northern Africa, is easy to explore, with affordable stays ranging from guesthouses to charming boutique hotels that cost less than $200 per night. Malta's Explore Card is about $25 for unlimited bus travel for seven days. Visit in spring or fall when prices are low but the weather is still perfect. Wander the ancient streets of Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or explore the medieval walled city of Mdina. Golden Bay beach and beautiful Spinola Bay are both free, or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon.

Asia

Bangkok, Thailand

Visit everything from bustling markets and glittering temples to rooftop bars and street food vendors in Bangkok. The Grand Palace is one of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks for 500 baht (about $15). Inside, find Wat Phra Kaew, home to the Emerald Buddha, a highly revered statue. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is the most famous floating market near Bangkok, where you can shop for traditional snacks and affordable gifts from boats. Take a boat ride on the Chao Phraya River; ride a tuk-tuk ride along the Khao San Road; and relax in Lumpini Park for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok (you can rent a paddleboat, enjoy a picnic, or simply take a stroll while watching locals practice tai chi). Keep an eye out for the giant monitor lizards that roam freely in the park! Visit iconic rooftop bars, like Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower, famous for being featured in the movie The Hangover 2, and Vertigo and Moon Bar, located at the Banyan Tree Hotel with stunning 360-degree views of the city.

Coron, Philippines

Traveling to the Philippines on a budget is both easy and rewarding, offering stunning landscapes and rich culture without breaking the bank. Coron, with its stunning lagoons, shipwreck dives, and affordable island-hopping tours, is a must-visit. Feast on delicious street food like pork skewers and halo-halo for just a few dollars. Visit budget-friendly yet breathtaking spots like El Nido’s lagoons, Siargao Island’s surf spots, and Banaue’s rice terraces too. Affordable accommodations, like hostels and beachside cottages, cater to frugal travelers. Public transport, such as jeepneys and tricycles, ensures low-cost travel between destinations.

Africa

Marrakech, Morocco

Watch for budget airlines from major hubs like Paris or Madrid and travel to this stunning destination with everything from the bustling souks of Marrakech to the serene Sahara Desert. Explore ancient medinas, swoon over the intricate architecture of mosques and palaces, or wander through the blue streets of Chefchaouen. Adventure seekers can trek the Atlas Mountains, while beach lovers can relax in coastal towns like Essaouira. Savor flavorful Moroccan cuisine, such as tagines, couscous, and mint tea. According to Dollar Flight Club, average prices are $310 and the best time to visit is March-April or October-November for ideal temperatures.