Are Glitter Sunscreens Safe? We Asked a Dermatologist About the Viral SPF

Sunscreen is undeniably one of the most important products in any skin care routine, but it typically isn’t very fun. Scented scrubs and gimmicky face masks, yes. Sunscreen, not so much. Sunscreen is more serious, and there’s nothing wrong with that, especially since sun protection is nothing to joke about. However, it’s reasonable to assume that by making sunscreen more playful, it might entice people to use it more frequently.

Recently, glitter sunscreens—and even some with unicorn-inspired colors—have received attention for exactly that reason. You get to coat your skin with glitter, while—at the very same time—helping to protect it from the sun’s harmful UV rays. But, one has to wonder whether glittery, shimmer-packed sunscreens are as effective as traditional formulas. We spoke with dermatologist, and Skincare.com consultant, Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali to find out if glitter sunscreen is worth trying.

Are Glitter Sunscreens Safe?

According to Dr. Bhanusali, just because a sunscreen contains glitter doesn’t necessarily mean it won’t be safe or effective. Speaking on the addition of glitter into the formula, he says, it shouldn’t affect the sunscreen.” What’s more important, Dr. Bhanusali says, is whether or not glitter sunscreens have the appropriate studies and research behind them. In a recent Consumer Reports test, many sunscreens fell short on their SPF claims. For this reason, Dr. Bhanusali prefers to stick with sunscreen formulas that have undergone strict testing prior to making it to market.

If you do choose to use glitter sunscreen to stay sun safe this summer, Dr. Bhanusali urges all to apply enough product to completely cover all exposed areas of skin. Another important reminder? You’ll need to re-apply the glitter sunscreen after getting wet or breaking a sweat—even if your skin is still shimmering. If you’re not taking a dip or sweating profusely, be sure to reapply sunscreen at least every two hours and take other skin protection measures. 

If you—like Dr. Bhanusali—would rather use a product that’s tried-and-true, turn to the La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF 60 Melt-In Sunscreen Milk. The broad-spectrum sunscreen earned a perfect score in a recent Consumer Reports test—for the fourth year in a row. And if you aren’t quite ready to give up on your dreams of having protected skin that sparkles, you can always top your collarbones with a loose highlighter (the L’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Shimmerista Highlighting Powder is suitable for face and body) after slathering your skin with broad-spectrum sunscreen.