Imagine stepping out into the sunshine, ready for a day of fun, but also wanting to protect your skin. Now, what if you could do that while adding a touch of sparkle? Yes, we’re talking about glitter sunscreen! It might sound like something out of a fairy tale, but it’s a real thing, and it’s becoming super popular. But choosing the perfect glitter sunscreen can feel like a treasure hunt, and not always a fun one. You want something that shines without feeling sticky, protects your skin without leaving a white cast, and maybe even smells amazing.
It’s tough to know which ones actually work and which ones are just for show. Do they really protect you from the sun’s rays? Will the glitter wash off in the water? These are the questions that pop into our heads when we see those shimmering bottles. We want to glow, but we also need to stay safe from sunburn and long-term skin damage. That’s why we’ve done the digging for you.
In this post, we’re going to dive deep into the world of glitter sunscreen. We’ll break down what makes a good one, highlight some of the best options out there, and give you tips on how to use it so you can shine bright and stay protected. Get ready to discover your new favorite summer essential!
Our Top 5 Glitter Sunscreen Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Glitter Sunscreen Detailed Reviews
1. Coppertone Glow with Shimmer Sunscreen Spray
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready to shine with Coppertone Glow with Shimmer Sunscreen Spray! This isn’t just any sunscreen; it’s your secret weapon for sun-kissed skin that also looks amazing. It offers great protection and leaves you with a beautiful, healthy glow.
What We Like:
- It gives your skin a lovely, shimmering glow.
- The spray goes on easily and dries fast.
- It protects your skin from the sun with SPF 50.
- It’s water resistant for up to 80 minutes, so it stays on while you swim or sweat.
- Your skin feels silky, smooth, and hydrated after using it.
- It’s made without parabens, PABA, phthalates, octinoxate, and oxybenzone.
What Could Be Improved:
- The shimmer might be too much for some people who prefer a matte finish.
- The 5 oz size might not last very long if you use it frequently or have a lot of skin to cover.
Coppertone Glow with Shimmer Sunscreen Spray is a fun and effective way to protect your skin while adding a touch of radiance. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants to look and feel good in the sun.
2. Unicorn Snot Glitter Sunscreen Lotion – SPF 30 Shimmer Sunscreen for Face & Body Glow – UVA/UVB Protection – Water Resistant
Rating: 8.5/10
Get ready to sparkle and shine with Unicorn Snot Glitter Sunscreen Lotion in Rose Gold Shimmer! This isn’t just any sunscreen; it’s a fabulous way to protect your skin while adding a touch of magic. It offers SPF 30 protection and a beautiful shimmer, making it perfect for both your face and body. You can feel good about using it because it’s made with plant-based ingredients and is kind to the environment.
What We Like:
- Everyday Glow: It gives you a subtle, sophisticated shimmer that you can wear every single day, not just for special occasions.
- Eco-Friendly Shine: The glitter is plant-based and the formula is free from harmful chemicals like parabens, oxybenzone, and octinoxate, making it safe for Hawaii’s coral reefs.
- Lovely Scent: It has a light, pleasant scent that isn’t too strong, and it smells like a sweet treat for your senses.
- Super Moisturizing: Packed with aloe vera, orange peel oil, and tangerine leaf oil, it leaves your skin feeling soft, hydrated, and silky smooth. The glitter is also super fine for a creamy feel.
- Cruelty-Free Fun: This sunscreen is vegan and never tested on animals, so you can enjoy your glow guilt-free.
- Strong Protection: It provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection to keep your skin safe from the sun’s rays.
- Water Resistant: It stays on for up to 80 minutes in water, so you can swim and play without worry.
What Could Be Improved:
- Reapplication is Key: You need to remember to reapply it every 2 hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating, to stay protected.
This Unicorn Snot sunscreen is a fun and effective way to protect your skin while adding a touch of shimmer. You’ll love how it makes your skin look and feel!
3. Seastar Sparkle – Cosmic Marshmallow Scented Glitter Sunscreen Lotion – SPF 50 – Biodegradable Sunscreen
Rating: 9.2/10
Get ready to shine bright with Seastar Sparkle Cosmic Marshmallow Scented Glitter Sunscreen Lotion! This SPF 50 sunscreen isn’t just about sun protection; it’s about making sun-safe fun. It smells like cosmic marshmallows and has biodegradable glitter, so you can look dazzling while being kind to the planet. Plus, it’s made right here in the USA!
What We Like:
- It provides SPF 50 broad-spectrum protection, guarding your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
- The sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, perfect for swimming and playing.
- It’s packed with nourishing antioxidants to keep your skin healthy and glowing.
- The glitter is biodegradable, letting you sparkle without harming the environment.
- It’s vegan and cruelty-free, meaning no animal products or testing were involved.
- The lotion is free from PABA and parabens, making it gentle on sensitive skin.
- It comes in a TSA-approved 3.4oz size, making it easy to take on trips.
- The fun marshmallow scent and glitter make it a hit with kids and adults.
What Could Be Improved:
- The glitter might transfer to clothing or surfaces.
- The “cosmic marshmallow” scent might be too sweet for some people.
Seastar Sparkle is a fun and effective way to protect your skin from the sun. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants to add a little sparkle to their sunny days.
4. Coppertone Glow with Shimmer Sunscreen Spray
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to shine this summer with Coppertone Glow with Shimmer Sunscreen Spray! This sunscreen not only protects your skin from the sun but also gives it a beautiful, shimmery glow. It’s perfect for when you want to look good and stay safe at the same time.
What We Like:
- The shimmering particles add a gorgeous, healthy-looking glow to your skin.
- It sprays on easily and dries fast, so you don’t have to wait to get dressed.
- The sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, keeping you protected while swimming or sweating.
- It feels silky smooth and leaves your skin feeling hydrated.
- This formula is free from parabens, PABA, phthalates, octinoxate, and oxybenzone, which is great for your skin.
- Broad Spectrum SPF 30 protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
What Could Be Improved:
- The shimmer might be too much for some people who prefer a matte look.
- The spray can might be a bit messy if not used carefully in a well-ventilated area.
Coppertone Glow with Shimmer Sunscreen Spray is a fun and effective way to protect your skin. You’ll love the radiant glow it gives you while keeping you safe from the sun’s harmful rays.
5. Seastar Sparkle – Rainbow Party Cake Scented Glitter Sunscreen – SPF 50 – Biodegradable Sunscreen
Rating: 9.2/10
Get ready to shine with Seastar Sparkle Rainbow Party Cake Scented Glitter Sunscreen! This SPF 50 sunscreen not only protects your skin from the sun but also adds a fun, glittery touch to your day. It smells like a party cake and is made for everyone, from kids to adults. You can wear it to the beach, pool, or any summer event.
What We Like:
- It offers SPF 50 broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
- The sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- It uses biodegradable glitter, which is good for the environment.
- The formula is vegan and cruelty-free, meaning no animals were harmed, and it’s free from PABA and parabens.
- It has a fun “Party Cake” scent that kids and adults will love.
- The 3.4 oz size is TSA approved, making it perfect for travel.
- It’s made in the USA.
- Nourishing antioxidants help keep your skin looking good.
What Could Be Improved:
- The glitter might be a bit much for those who prefer a subtle look.
- The “Party Cake” scent might be too sweet for some people.
Seastar Sparkle is a fun and effective way to protect your skin. It’s a great choice for sunny days and parties!
Shine Bright, Stay Protected: Your Glitter Sunscreen Buying Guide
Glitter sunscreen isn’t just about looking fabulous; it’s about protecting your skin while adding a touch of sparkle to your day. This guide will help you find the best glitter sunscreen for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for glitter sunscreen, keep these important features in mind:
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): This is the most crucial feature. Look for an SPF of 30 or higher. Higher SPF offers better protection against the sun’s harmful rays.
- Broad-Spectrum Protection: This means the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays cause aging, and UVB rays cause sunburn. Broad-spectrum is essential.
- Glitter Type and Size: Glitter can be made from different materials. Some are very fine, while others are larger. Consider the look you want. Biodegradable glitter is a great eco-friendly option.
- Water Resistance: If you plan to swim or sweat, choose a water-resistant formula. It will stay on your skin longer.
- Skin-Friendly Ingredients: Look for sunscreens with moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera or vitamin E. Avoid sunscreens with harsh chemicals if you have sensitive skin.
- Scent: Many glitter sunscreens have pleasant scents. Pick one that you enjoy.
Important Materials
Glitter sunscreens contain a few key components that make them work and sparkle:
- UV Filters: These are the ingredients that block the sun’s rays. Common filters include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide (mineral filters) or avobenzone and octinoxate (chemical filters). Mineral filters are often good for sensitive skin.
- Glitter Particles: These are usually made of plastic (like PET) or mica. Mica is a natural mineral. As mentioned, biodegradable glitter is a more sustainable choice.
- Base Formula: This is the lotion or cream that holds everything together. It often includes water, emollients (to soften skin), emulsifiers (to mix oil and water), and preservatives.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things can make your glitter sunscreen better or not as good:
- Improved Quality:
- High SPF and Broad-Spectrum: These ensure strong sun protection.
- Biodegradable Glitter: This is better for the environment.
- Moisturizing Ingredients: These make the sunscreen feel nice on your skin.
- Good Texture: A sunscreen that spreads easily and doesn’t feel sticky is a winner.
- Reduced Quality:
- Low SPF: This won’t protect your skin well.
- Non-Broad Spectrum: You won’t be protected from all harmful rays.
- Chunky or Irritating Glitter: This can feel uncomfortable on the skin.
- Greasy or Pilling Formula: A sunscreen that feels heavy or clumps up isn’t pleasant.
- Glitter That Settles Quickly: If the glitter sinks to the bottom of the bottle, you won’t get an even sparkle.
User Experience and Use Cases
Glitter sunscreen is fun and functional. People use it in many ways:
- Beach Days and Pool Parties: It’s perfect for adding a festive touch to sunny outings.
- Festivals and Concerts: Stand out in the crowd with a touch of sparkle.
- Everyday Fun: Even on a regular day, a little glitter can boost your mood.
- Sensitive Skin: Some formulas are gentle enough for sensitive skin, offering protection without irritation.
- Kids: Children often love the fun sparkle, making sunscreen application more enjoyable.
Applying glitter sunscreen is usually straightforward. You apply it like regular sunscreen, spreading it evenly over exposed skin. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you swim or sweat. Enjoy your protected, sparkling adventures!
Frequently Asked Questions about Glitter Sunscreen
Here are some common questions people ask about glitter sunscreen:
Q: Is glitter sunscreen safe for my skin?
A: Yes, glitter sunscreen is generally safe for your skin. The glitter particles are typically small and inert. The main thing to check is the sunscreen’s SPF and broad-spectrum protection to ensure it effectively shields your skin from the sun.
Q: Can I use glitter sunscreen every day?
A: You can use glitter sunscreen every day, especially if you’re going to be outdoors. It provides the same sun protection as regular sunscreen. The glitter is just an added visual effect.
Q: Will the glitter irritate my skin?
A: Most glitter sunscreens are formulated to be gentle. However, if you have very sensitive skin, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test on a small area of skin first. Look for formulas with moisturizing ingredients.
Q: Is glitter sunscreen bad for the environment?
A: Traditional glitter can be made from plastic, which is not good for the environment. However, many brands now offer glitter sunscreens made with biodegradable glitter. This type of glitter breaks down naturally and is much more eco-friendly.
Q: How much glitter is in glitter sunscreen?
A: The amount of glitter can vary. Some sunscreens have a subtle shimmer, while others have more noticeable sparkle. It depends on the brand and the specific product.
Q: Does the glitter affect the sunscreen’s effectiveness?
A: No, the glitter particles themselves do not affect the sunscreen’s ability to protect your skin from the sun. The effectiveness comes from the UV filters in the formula.
Q: How do I wash off glitter sunscreen?
A: You can wash off glitter sunscreen with soap and water, just like regular sunscreen. Sometimes, you might need a gentle scrub or a cleansing oil to remove all the glitter residue completely.
Q: What SPF should I look for in glitter sunscreen?
A: You should look for glitter sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for adequate sun protection.
Q: Can kids use glitter sunscreen?
A: Yes, kids can use glitter sunscreen! Many children enjoy the fun sparkle, which can make applying sunscreen a more exciting activity for them.
Q: Where can I buy glitter sunscreen?
A: You can find glitter sunscreen at many drugstores, beauty supply stores, and online retailers. Many brands that specialize in sun care or cosmetic products offer these fun options.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.