Products You Need for Sun Protection This Summer

Whether you're heading to the beach, going on a hike, or simply enjoying a sunny day outdoors, protecting your skin and body from the sun's harsh UV rays is essential. Choosing the right sun protection products can help you avoid sunburn, premature aging, and long-term skin damage. From the best sunscreen for summer to the top-rated UV protection sunglasses, here are the products that will keep you cool, safe, and stylish all summer long.

Sunscreen: Your First Defense Against Sun Damage

If you’re serious about sun protection, nothing is more essential than a good sunscreen. Wearing sunscreen daily is the best way to defend your skin from both UVA and UVB rays, which can cause premature wrinkles, sun spots, and even skin cancer. A high SPF product protects exposed areas—especially your face, shoulders, and arms—whether you’re spending hours outdoors or just running errands. For full-body defense, dermatologists recommend a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, applied every two hours and after swimming.

Our Pick: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 60

This Neutrogena sunscreen is a trusted classic, it offers strong SPF 60 protection in a non-greasy formula that dries to a clean, matte finish.

reasy formula that dries to a clean, matte finish.

Where to Buy: Amazon.ca

Price: ~$14.69 CAD

Why we love it: Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and perfect for sensitive or acne-prone skin

Size: 88 mL

Pros: Oxybenzone-free, lightweight, dermatologist-recommended

Our Pick: Anthelios Ultra-Fluid SPF 50+ by La Roche-Posay

This ultra-light facial sunscreen features NETLOCK Technology for a high-performance matte finish without clogging pores.

Where to Buy: Amazon.ca or La Roche-Posay Canada

Price: ~$32.95 CAD

Why we love it: Clinically tested for sensitive skin and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes

Size: 50 mL

Pros: Fragrance-free, fast-absorbing, great under makeup

Sunglasses: Block the Glare, Save Your Vision

A quality pair of UV protection sunglasses is not just a fashion statement—it’s a health essential. UV rays can cause serious damage to your eyes, including cataracts and macular degeneration. The best sunglasses for sun protection come with polarized lenses and block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, all while reducing glare and eye strain. Whether you're lounging by the pool or out on a scenic drive, wearing sunglasses will protect the delicate skin around your eyes and keep your vision safe.

Our Pick: Ray-Ban RB2132 New Wayfarer Polarized Sunglasses

A timeless silhouette with modern-day eye safety, these shades offer style and serious UV protection in one.

Where to Buy: Amazon.ca

Price: ~$213.00 CAD

Why we love it: Polarized lenses reduce glare and enhance clarity

Style: Unisex, multiple colors and sizes

Price: ~$213.00 CAD

Pros: Durable acetate frame, 100% UV protection, iconic fashion choice

Our Pick: Oakley Men’s Flak Beta Rectangular Sunglasses

Built for performance, these Oakleys are ideal for athletes or hikers needing durable, comfortable coverage.

Where to Buy: Amazon

Price: ~$114.72 CAD

Why we love it: Lightweight and made for active wearers

Style: Matte Black/Grey (non-polarized)

Pros: Interchangeable lenses, strong impact resistance, sleek design

Sunhats: Fashionable Shade with Function

A packable sunhat is the ultimate summer must-have for stylish sun protection. Unlike sunscreen, a sunhat provides instant shade wherever you go, especially for your scalp, ears, and the back of your neck—spots we often forget to apply SPF. Lightweight, breathable hats also help regulate your body temperature, keeping you cool while reducing your risk of heatstroke.

Our Pick: Women’s Global Adventure™ Packable Hat III

Classic style meets practicality in this lightweight, travel-ready sunhat made for everyday wear and summer getaways.

Where to Buy: Columbia

Price: ~$44.99 CAD

Why we love it: Foldable, adjustable, and fashionable—this hat travels well and protects even better

Material: Straw color with wide brim and chin strap

Pros: Packable design, sun-resistant fabric, secure fit with chin strap

Handheld Fans: Stay Cool on the Go

Even with all the sun protection essentials, summer heat can be intense. That’s why a portable handheld fan is the perfect way to keep your cool on scorching days. Whether you’re at a festival, in line at a theme park, or hiking a sunny trail, these compact fans provide instant airflow. Some even come with extra features like flashlights and power banks, making them multi-use gadgets you’ll never want to leave home without.

Our Pick: JISULIFE Mini Handheld Fan (3-in-1)

This powerful mini fan is the ultimate warm-weather sidekick—perfect for concerts, festivals, or mid-day commutes.

Where to Buy: Amazon

Price: ~$24.99 CAD

Why we love it: Functions as a fan, flashlight, and power bank

Battery Life: 12–19 hours on one charge

Pros: Long-lasting, foldable, ultra-quiet, USB-rechargeable

FAQs About the Best Sun Protection Methods and Products

What is the best sun protection method? 

The best sun protection method is a combination of broad-spectrum sunscreen, UV-protection sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and physical shade, along with avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Is SPF 30 or SPF 50 better?

While both provide strong protection, SPF 50 offers slightly better defense against UVB rays than SPF 30—blocking about 98% of UVB compared to SPF 30’s 97%. However, the difference is small, and consistent application every 2 hours matters more than the number alone.

What forms of sun protection are most effective?

The most effective forms of sun protection include:

• Sunscreen (SPF 30+ broad-spectrum)
• Sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection
• Sun-protective clothing and wide-brim hats
• Seeking shade during peak sunlight hours

What is the best sun protection product?

From our picks, the suncreens we chose would protect you the most from the sun:

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 60 – great for full-body use, non-greasy, and water-resistant

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Fluid SPF 50+ – ideal for facial use, lightweight, and perfect under makeup

Must-Have Summer Sun Protection

If you're planning to enjoy the outdoors this summer, make sure your bag is packed with the best sunscreen for summer, a sturdy pair of UV-blocking sunglasses, a lightweight sunhat, and a handheld fan. These products offer essential protection and cooling relief so you can stay safe, stylish, and sweat-free. From affordable Amazon finds to dermatologist-loved skincare, these summer essentials will help you enjoy the sunshine without the sunburn.