The Top 5 Expert-Approved Sunscreens Without White Cast For Summer (And Every Day)

sunscreens with no white cast

POV: It's a hot, summer day and you're enjoying it laying out on the beach. So, just as you normally would, you reapply your sunscreen to make sure you're looking out for your skin in the midst of the high UV rays. But a couple minutes later, you catch a clips of your appearance in a mirror and realize your whole face looks like it's covered in white paint — that's called a white cast, and yes...it's extremely annoying.

Enter in our dilemma: why does sunscreen always leave a white cast? It seems like no matter how much we re-apply, it always leave a white-ish gray shadow on our skin. Instead of agonizing over this all summer, we've asked the skincare experts which sunscreen to grab and how to avoid this pesky problem! Keep reading for the scoop on the best sunscreens without white cast for your everyday use!

What is white cast?

Photo by RF._.studio/PEXELS

White cast is the annoying grayish, white color that some sunscreens leave behind after you've applied them. And sometimes no matter how much you rub them in or blend them, it simply will not go away. Tosin Eyikogbe, MSN and skin expert gave us the full explanation on this. She says, "The active ingredients in mineral sunscreen, zinc and titanium oxide, are large rough, white particles. Because of this, when applied to the skin, traditional mineral sunscreen tend to leave an unwanted, ashy, white or grayish appearance."

Dr. Praveen Guntipalli also weighed in on this topic by saying, "These ingredients are effective at blocking UV radiation but can leave a visible white residue on the skin, especially if the particles are not finely milled or if the formulation lacks certain tinting additives that help the product blend into various skin tones." So, essentially, these sunscreens are working, but they end up leaving particles behind on the skin, ultimately causing a white cast to appear.

How can I avoid white cast?

Photo by Karolina Grabowska/PEXELS

There are a few ways to avoid this problem. You can try a different formula, stay away from certain ingredients, or just try to blend it in as much as possible. A different formula or type of sunscreen will definitely help with this, as mineral sunscreens are more likely to cause the white cast, whereas chemical sunscreens don't. Eyikogbe says, "Chemical sunscreens, which contain organic compounds that are absorbed by the skin then convert UV rays to heat that is released, are offered in a variety of formats and are often paired with moisturizers to increase a light weight feel."

We love the sound of that! She adds, "These formulas typically don’t leave a white cast, however chemical sunscreens aren’t ideal for all skin types, as they can clog pores and irritate the skin, and compounds including oxybezone and octinoxate are harmful to marine animals and can damage fragile coral reef ecosystems."

What ingredients should you look for in your sunscreen to avoid white cast?

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

If you have sensitive skin like me, then you know you always have to double check labels and look into ingredients lists before buying products; especially when it comes to sun care. I'm very sensitive to certain ingredients and perfumes so I have to look carefully. We asked skincare experts what their thoughts were on what ingredients to keep an eye out for and this is what they had to say!

Eyikogbe says,"Mineral sunscreens, which typically contain inorganic compounds, titanium or zinc dioxide, can traditionally leave the notorious 'white cast' due to the reflection of the metal oxides on the skin. But there are newer formulas that have eradicated the old-school white cast and provide excellent mineral protection without a white cast."

Board certified dermatoligst Dr. Divya Sachdev says, "I highly recommend tinted zinc oxide-based pure mineral sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher. These sunscreens are not only effective at protecting against UV rays but also include antioxidants like vitamin C, green tea, and raspberry seed oil that help combat free radicals from oxidative damage caused by sunlight."

What are some helpful tips for sunscreen?

Photo by Mikhail Nilov/PEXELS

If you're looking for something that will blend in seamlessly into your skin, and easily go into your daily routine then I'd really recommend tinted moisturizer with SPF or a CC cream. One of my favorites is the Tatcha SPF which really blends into the skin for a nice glow. I'd recommend using this daily!

Dr. Sachdev says, "Remember, it’s crucial to reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours when spending time in the sun, wear sun-protective clothing such as wide-brim hats and sunglasses, and maintain a diet rich in antioxidants to enhance your skin's defense against sun damage." Duly noted, doctor!

Best Sunscreens Without White Cast To Shop Right Now

Photo via Sephora​

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen

The Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen gives your skin the nicest glow, and it's the perfect base for your makeup. It's definitely a crowd favorite for good reason!

Blendability: 5/5 Doesn't pill and blends so nicely!

Underneath Makeup: 5/5 It's glowy perfection!

Protection: 4/5 It's lower in SPF, but still does the job!

EltaMD UV Elements

Dr. Divya Sachdev, "Favorites of mine include EltaMD UV Elements and Suntegrity 5-in-1 Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen, which avoid any white cast. These tinted formulations also contain iron oxides that provide additional protection against UV damage and blue light exposure." I'm a big fan of the EltaMd sunscreen, and feel like it always makes my skin feel light and not too heavy with products!

Blendability: 5/5 I love how creamy it is!

Underneath Makeup: 5/5 Feels like a moisturizer!

Protection: 4/5 A higher SPF is always better, but this is still great!

Photo via Sephora

Summer Fridays SPF Milk Sunscreen

Another sunscreen that I looove is the Summer Fridays SPF Milk Sunscreen. Every time I let one of my friends use it, I never get it back because it is that good. Genuinely is so milky and smooth, and it looks amazing underneath makeup or other skincare products!

Blendability: 5/5 Blends beautifully!

Underneath Makeup: 5/5 Doesn't feel and works as a primer!

Protection: 3/5 It isn't as high in SPF as I would like, but it works nonetheless!

Innisfree Daily SPF Broad Specturm SPF 36

My personal favorite is the Innisfree Daily SPF, which blends in like moisturizer! It's genuinely so thin and creamy!

Blendability: 5/5 Blends into your skin within seconds.

Underneath Makeup: 5/5 Genuinely could be a primer for how well it sits.

Protection: 3/5 Wish it was higher SPF, but it's so thin, so it makes sense!

ColorScience Sunforgetabble Face Shield

We asked Tosin Eyikogbe, and she says, "My personal favorite at the moment is ColorScience Sunforgettable Face Shield Flex SPF 50, which contains all mineral active ingredients and comes in four shades that cover a wide range of skin tones. It has a light weight feel and provides a luminous and even skin tone. A lot of patients have told me it has replaced their need for foundation!"

Blendability: 5/5 Melts into the skin!

Underneath Makeup: 5/5 Blends in with your foundation and base great!

Protection: 5/5 It's high in SPF so definitely a winner!

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Header image via Sephora

The best summer fragrances are meant to remind you of the promise of carefree days that are filled with limitless adventures and pink-hued sunset nights. They're basically sunshine in a bottle — especially if the top, middle, and bottom notes complement each other well. If you're in the mood for a new summer scent that gives your whole vibe a boost, we've got 8 summer fragrances that range from warm gourmands to citrus.

P.S. Be sure to bookmark our fall fragrances so you're prepared for something a little moodier once summer ends!

Best Summer Fragrances: Gourmands And Florals

Steve Madden

Steve Madden GOLDIE Fragrance

We didn't know Steve Madden would join the ranks of the best summer fragrances this year, but we're fans of this sultry scent. In addition to sparking your feel-good emotions, the golden pear, jasmine, and amberwood scents will wrap your confidence in a warm hug.

Sephora

Brown Girl Jane Carnivale Eau de Parfum

Fruity florals are an absolute summer favorite to layer on our skin, and this fragrance from Brown Girl Jane is no exception to that! This fragrance has Caribbean Mango, whipped musk, and vanilla in it, making it the perfect blend of floral and gourmand — just right for the anyone who doesn't want to overpowered by either!

Macy's

Marc Jacobs Daisy Wild Eau de Parfum

Marc Jabocs isn't just known for being a talented fashion designer, but he's also associated with some of the best summer fragrances we've ever smelled.

The one we think you should have on your radar this year is Daisy Wild. Though it has Banana Blossom in it, you can also smell hints of Jasmine, Macadamia, Sandalwood, and Vetiver des Sables.

P.S. This is fragrance you wear to that brunch meeting.

Neiman Marcus

Maison Francis Kurkdijan Amyris Femme Eau de Parfum

This is another fruity floral fragrance that smells like a fun Caribbean or European vacation in a bottle. Normally we only care to drink lemon drops or have them drizzled over our mediterranean recipes, but we'll settle for briefly smelling it in our fragrance for now!

Sephora

Nette Rose Parade Eau de Parfum

Though this one is inspired by a sprawling spring afternoon, we think it can be transitional since it's still the beginning of a new season. You'll smell like rose essential, ylang ylang, and ambertonic so don't be surprised if the bees mistake you for their favorite flower. No, seriously...be careful. 👀

Moodeaux

Moodeaux Brand New Eau de Parfum

We don't know about you, but we love fragrances we can wear to bed. Personally, this is good to lightly spritz after you've applied a body oil or body butter post-shower. It's got all the right blends of cardamom, pink pepper, coconut, and neroli petals, so you'll feel like you're sleeping on a bed of sweet-smelling flowers.

Best Summer Fragrances: Citrus

Saks Fifth Avenue

Tom Ford Costa Azzura Eau de Parfum

Not everyone likes warm gourmands or florals, so citrus fragrances are a great option! This scent is still a little woodsy, but it'll remind you of the the time you vacationed in Cabo and spent some quality time near the Pacific Ocean.

It's luxurious á la Gwen Stefani's famous single. You'll be quietly humming, "In champagne kisses, hold me in your lap of luxury," to yourself as you smell the oakwood, lemon, and cypress scents on your skin.

Sephora

Gucci Bloom Profumo di Fiori Eau de Parfum

This is as classic of a citrus summer fragrance as you're going to get. It's equal parts tuberose flower, ylang ylang, jasmine, and rangoon creeper. Don't let that last scent fool you though — you'll feel like anything but a creeper while wearing this gorgeous perfume.

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TV can be the ultimate escape — especially when it features an insane plotline you'd likely never find yourself in IRL. That's the case for Netflix's new dark comedy Sirens, a limited series that dives into the world of socialites, scandal, and power struggles. And the best part is that it all takes place on a HUGE beach property. It's basically Gossip Girl meets The O.C. meets The White Lotus, which totally promises to give us the unhinged drama TV has been missing. Here's everything you need to know about the new TV show— andWhere To Stream The Best New TV Shows Of 2024 (So Far).

What is Sirens on Netflix?

Roberto Nickson/Unsplash

Sirens is a limited series coming to Netflix soon. The new TV show follows Devon, who is more than concerned with the relationship between her little sister Simone and Simone's boss, socialite Michaela Kell. But when Devon finds herself at the Kells' beach estate one weekend (with the intention of getting Simone out of there), she realizes Michaela might be more powerful than she expected.

The series is based on Maid showrunner Molly Smith Metzler’s play Elemeno Pea.

When is Sirens coming out?

Mollie Sivaram/Unsplash

Sirens is currently in pre-production, so we don't have an official release date quite yet. Check back here to find out when it'll hit Netflix!

Who's in the Sirens cast?

Fabio Lovino/HBO

The cast of Sirens is out of this world. So far, we know we'll see Julianne Moore, Meghann Fahy, Milly Alcock, Kevin Bacon, and Glenn Howerton. We'll keep you updated on any additions to the cast, but one thing's for sure: they're going to knock it out of the park.

Stay tuned here, and our Facebook, for the latest news on Sirens, and read up on The Most-Anticipated Summer TV Shows Of 2024.

Lead image via Fabio Lovino/HBO

There are tons of skincare trends that come and go – such as skin cycling and hypochlorous acid sprays – but exfoliation is one wave I'll never stop riding. Exfoliating the skin on a regular basis (and not just the skin on your face) can help buff away pesky dead skin cells, often revealing brighter, cleaner skin after the fact.

Hitting your legs, arms, back, and booty with a body scrub 2-3 times a week is the easiest way to ensure your body's getting that good care to look as glowy as possible. I find that following up each body scrub sesh with a thick body lotion or even a hydrating body oil is absolutely crucial to maintaining unmatched radiance. The first step to glow is exfoliation, so check out the 5 best-ever body scrubs I've tried. They're all super luxe, non-irritating, and most importantly, effective!

Amazon

Selfmade True Grit Scalp & Body Scrub

This body scrub is made with biodegradable grit beads (!) to help remove dead skin and product build-up. I find that they're not super fine, but not super big, either, which makes it easily usable for a lot of different areas around my body (you can even use it on your scalp). More often than not, I'll use it like a hand soap in order to buff away the tough spots and callouses I get on my hands from rock climbing.

This body scrub is also bolstered by gentle fruit AHA chemical exfoliants that further dissolve any dead skin. It's equally replenishing, though, as the formula includes a blend of holy basil, tea tree oil, and vitamin C that all work to brighten, soothe, and protect the skin. I also love the smell of this Selfmade body scrub. It has woody palo santo vibes that really add to the overall experience.

The Selfmade True Grit Scalp & Body Scrub has earned 4.1 out of 5 stars from reviewers on Amazon. It currently goes for $34.

Amazon

Brooklyn Botany Brown Sugar Body Scrub

Though most of the body scrubs on my list have hydrating properties, I find that this affordable one made with sugar and salt is uniquely moisturizing. I've honestly attributed it to the all-natural, vegan, and cruelty-free formula. It includes vitamin E and sunflower oil to really replenish post-exfoliation skin! I like how big the grit of the sugar + salt blend is, too. It's definitely helpful for tackling rougher spots around my feet, heels, elbows, and even my lips. It also smells so heavenly, like a sweet treat for your skin.

The Brooklyn Botany Brown Sugar Body Scrub boasts 4.2 out of 5 stars on Amazon from over 30,000 real shopper reviews. It's currently on sale for $10 (was $17).

Amazon

Saltair KP Body Smoother

I definitely recommend this Saltair body scrub for people with more sensitive skin. It has the most gentle feel out of all the body scrubs I've listed, thanks to its fragrance-free formulation. It's meant to target keratosis pilaris ("chicken skin" or "KP"), and though I don't have issues with KP, I find that this one leaves me super smooth every time. Plus, it's never irritating.

This product includes both physical and chemical exfoliators – 5% glycolic acid and volcanic sand dissolve and buff away dead skin on the surface, and it feels really good. I think any time you can find a body scrub that incorporates moisturizing and hydrating ingredients, you're set up for success. This one has kukui nut oil to nourish the skin and niacinamide to brighten things up.

This pick feels quite fancy for a reasonably affordable product. It's entirely cruelty-free, vegan, paraben-free, and gluten-free. The Saltair KP Body Smoother has earned 4.1 out of 5 stars on Amazon from over 200 real reviews. It currently goes for $14!

Soft Services

Soft Services Green Banana Buffing Bar

I had never tried a body scrub in bar form before this one, and I love it! I honestly prefer the bar, since it feels like it lasts longer than body scrubs in jars or tubes. This one in particular also just smells stunning. It's got notes of unripe banana, tonka bean, and musk, which makes me feel like I'm in a legit spa when I use it!

This Soft Services bar is made with superfine crystals that get embedded in the scented moisturizing soap. It's primarily meant to target KP, any rough patches, and ingrown hairs. I will say that it's not great for sensitive skin since I find it can be quite abrasive. I typically don't scrub with the bar itself (it's way rougher than using the suds alone) unless I feel like I really need to! Regardless, it leaves me with super soft, smooth skin every time.

The Soft Services Green Banana Buffing Bar has 5 out of 5 stars from reviews on the Soft Services site. A set of 2 bars costs $33. You can also buy the unscented duo for $28.

Mutha

Mutha The Nudist Body Scrub

This body scrub is solely a physical exfoliator. It does have hydrating properties, though. It's essentially a natural brown sugar scrub blended with hydrating oils that benefit sensitive skin! I adore that it smells like straight-up créme brûlée. Other than the heavenly smell, I simply love the experience the packaging brings forth. It feels so luxurious and leaves my skin feeling the same way.

Like the Selfmade body scrub, I like that this one's grit isn't too big nor too small. This quality qualifies it for use in all areas of my body, from my shoulders to my toes.

The Nudist Body Scrub from Mutha is formulated with post-biotics to support the skin's barrier after use and amino acids that help further promote skin's natural moisture. It's earned 4.8 out of 5 stars on the Mutha website. It currently costs $68.

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Lead photo by Meredith Holser.

Scandinavian style is essential for summer, and it's exactly what you're looking for to get the easiest and comfiest look this season. This all-consuming Pinterest and Instagram trend is so effortless, yet still cool and chic at the same time. The outfits are almost always comprised of easy-to-get pieces that are, mots likely, in your wardrobe already. And if not, here's a list of the 10 essential pieces you need in order to nail this #ScandiGirlSummer look.

Djerf Avenue

Djerf Avenue Summer Field Top

How could we talk about Scandi summer style and not mention the Scandinavian style icon herself, Matilda Djerf? She's the queen of the effortlessly cool style that we're talking about. This top is one of their new pieces, and it's just perfect to throw on with a pair of shorts and ballet flats for the summer. I've purchased so many items from this brand, and every single piece is so high quality! It'll definitely make you feel like a Scandi cool girl in no time. 100/10 for me!

Djerf Avenue

Djerf Avenue Airy Midi Dress

Another amazing Djerf Avenue find! It's currently number 1 on my wishlist for Scandinavian girl summer given how versatile it is! I love the flowy, effortlessness of the dress, especially styled with dainty flats like above! This will make for the easiest outfit combo to throw on when you're in a hurry, but still want to look chic.

Amazon

Pink Stripe Linen Shorts

Striped linen shorts are the #1 essential of mastering Scandinavian style! They're in practically every Scandinavian cool-girl's closet, and can be worn in a multitude of ways. With flats and a sweater, a matching set with Birkenstocks, the list goes on and on. A versatile essential for the summertime!

Amazon

Havaiana Flip Flops

These flip flops are not only one of the most popular Scandi-girl shoes, but they're also insanely affordable! You may think, "But these are just basic flip flops?" And while yes that is true, they're also just the perfect casual statement to add to a fancier look. Scandi girl aesthetic is all about comfort and looking effortlessly cool, so if you're wearing something traditionally more fancy like a maxi dress, then throw these on to add the signature Scandinavian style to it!

Nordstrom

Topshop Linen Button Down

Another incredibly versatile piece is a linen button down. You can throw it over so many outfit options like a dress or linen pants or even as a cover-up like above! This is a staple to take an outfit to the next level, adding an additional layer or dimension to an otherwise simple look.

Nordstrom

Birkenstock Boston Clogs

You may think that these are more of a fall and winter shoe, but scandi girls love these for the summer! I have to say that I agree as well. I wear these everywhere in the summer. I wear them with matching shorts and button down sets, or to the beach, or even sometimes with denim skirts! They're also insanely comfortable so definitely add this to your "minimalist wishlist."

Abercrombie

Abercrombie Linen Pant

Pajama style is seriously taking off right alongside the rise of Scandi style — and that's because they were the ones to revolutionize it! Really though, pajama sets in public are so in, and I'm here for it! I love these exactly styled how they are above with a white tank (another Scandi basic), flip flops, and a straw bag!

Amazon

Canvas Tote Bag

Scandi girls are always on the go, so they're always carrying a classic, tote bag to carry everything they need! I love this stylish option from Amazon for under $20. You can use it as an everyday accessory, or as a beach bag, in typical Scandi fashion.

Amazon

Oval Sunglasses

The perfect accessory to every Scandinavian outfit? You guessed it, oval sunglasses. These ones from Amazon are so affordable so you can get the Scandi girl look on a budget. They come in black and — my favorite — brown leopard!

Nordstrom

Petal & Pup Linen Set

Scandi girl summer is all about linen. It's breezy, easy, and so comfortable. Bonus points if it comes in a matching set like this one does! You can pair this cute set with your oval sunglasses, tote, and Birkenstock clogs!

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Header image via Abercrombie

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds totally feel like the internet's mom and dad. They take cute red carpet photos, go on vacations together, and incessantly joke on each other. Basically, they prove that you can be both hot and hilarious. The two actors also have major summer movies on the way (It Ends With Us and Deadpool 3, in case you were wondering), and when Ryan's Deadpool co-star Hugh Jackman posted a photo of the actor, Blake had the PERFECT response.

In the Instagram photo, which Hugh Jackman posted on July 2, Ryan Reynolds and the X-Men star appear to be relaxing in a hotel room. In the photo, Ryan, wearing a white tank top, blue pants, and a gold chain necklace, points at the camera with one arm, while showing off his bicep with the other.

"'You want me to put this away?' — Ryan Reynolds, co-star, mouth breather, a—hole," Hugh captioned the post.

If you ask me, this kind of sassy Instagram caption is perfect for two Deadpool co-stars, considering that's exactly the kind of humor you see in the movies. (And exactly the kind of humor I'd expect Ryan to have IRL). While Blake Lively hasn't made a cameo in the franchise (yet), she was more than happy to play along, commenting, "My thirst has been trapped."

"This photo is from my private collection. How dare you?" Ryan added. The idea that Ryan and Hugh take random photos to send each other (or to send Blake) is enough to make me laugh out loud. Best friend goals! Here's hoping the Deadpool 3 press junket gives us plenty of hilarious Ryan and Hugh moments!

Drop your favorite Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds moment in the comments, and read up on Little Known Facts About Blake Lively That Make Us Love Her Even More!

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