SunBum v Blue Lizard - Which is the Best Sunscreen for Body?

TL;DR: Both Blue Lizard and Sun Bum mineral SPF 50 lotions give strong sun protection, but Blue Lizard feels lighter, blends easier, and holds up better day to day.

You’d think that finding the best sunscreen for body would be pretty easy, right? Unfortunately, it isn’t as simple as grabbing the first bottle on the shelf. With dozens of options promising much, the choice often comes down to comparing two well-known brands: Blue Lizard and Sun Bum.

Both have loyal followings and plenty of positive reviews, but when you dig into the details, you see that it’s really all about what each one does for your skin. That’s what we do here in this article, as we run the rule over both to find out which one wins.

We’ll put Blue Lizard’s SPF 50 Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Lotion up against Sun Bum’s Broad Spectrum SPF 50. Both say they’re the best, but which one offers better overall value and everyday reliability? Let’s break it down.

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Sun Bum vs Blue Lizard for the Best Sunscreen for Body

When you’re judging which of these two major brands comes out on top in the race to be the best sunscreen for body, four things usually determine the decision: ingredients, SPF reliability, water resistance, and texture.

Both Blue Lizard and Sun Bum tick those boxes on the surface, but a closer look shows some important differences to really see what’s going on.

Ingredients and safety profile: Blue Lizard relies on mineral-only active ingredients (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide), which sit on the skin’s surface to reflect UV rays. That makes it a good choice for anyone dealing with sensitive skin.

Sun Bum’s mineral sunscreen also uses zinc oxide, but its overall blend has been flagged by users in reviews as being thicker and harder to rub in, which can make it feel less like you want to put it on your skin every day.

SPF strength and coverage: Both bottles carry an SPF 50 label, but it’s Blue Lizard with the more established name in the industry. It’s long been trusted by dermatologists because its mineral base provides broad-spectrum coverage without added chemical boosters. Sun Bum delivers broad-spectrum too, but customers often note needing to reapply more frequently, especially under intense sun.
Water resistance: A good body sunscreen has to hold up to sweat and time spent in the water. Blue Lizard offers 80 minutes of water resistance, the maximum allowed under FDA rules.

Sun Bum also lists 80 minutes, but real-world testing and user reviews suggest Blue Lizard maintains a more even layer during activity, while Sun Bum’s thicker consistency sometimes leads to patchy coverage after time in the water.

Texture and everyday feel: No one wants to feel sticky or chalky. Blue Lizard is known for a lightweight lotion that blends more easily than many mineral sunscreens, leaving less of that white cast on the skin. Sun Bum’s mineral version can go on heavier, which some find protective, but others describe as greasy or streak-prone.

On paper, the two products look similar. In practice, where it matters, Blue Lizard tends to edge ahead in comfort, ease of reapplication, and suitability for sensitive skin.

The Best Body Sunscreen In Practice

The real test of a sunscreen isn’t on a spec sheet. The real litmus test is how it performs when you use it. That’s somewhere else Blue Lizard’s formula often proves to be the best.

At the beach, their lotion spreads smoothly over large areas of skin, helping you cover shoulders, arms, legs, and back without fighting a heavy texture. Sun Bum does protect well, but the word is, its thicker mineral blend makes putting it on a bit of a chore.

For anyone exercising outdoors, Blue Lizard’s sweat resistance and lightweight feel keep it from clogging pores or sliding off mid-run. On the flip side, Sun Bum’s heavier consistency can feel like a layer sitting on top of the skin, which might not be as comfortable during high activity.

Another group that tends to prefer the popular Australian brand is families. That’s because its mineral filters are completely free of irritating fragrances and nasties like parabens. Sun Bum’s mineral option is safe too, but feedback from users says it’s less smooth, which can matter when you’re trying to keep sunscreen application fuss-free with kids.

And then there’s everyday use, like walking the dog, running errands, spending time in the garden. Blue Lizard feels more like a daily lotion, while Sun Bum leans more toward a thicker, occasional-use product.

Why Blue Lizard Comes Out as the Best Sunscreen for Body

After comparing ingredients, SPF performance, water resistance, and daily comfort, it’s clear that both products deliver decent protection. But when you’re truly looking for the best option for your body, Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 wins out.

It blends faster, feels lighter, and stays effective through water, sweat, and daily activity. Dermatologist-trusted mineral actives give strong UVA and UVB protection without the irritation associated with chemical filters. Families, active people, and sensitive-skinned users can all benefit from that balance of strength and gentleness.

Sun Bum still has its place, especially for fans of the brand or those who don’t mind a thicker texture, but if you want the most reliable protection that feels best on your skin, Blue Lizard takes the win.