My Honest Blue Lizard Sunscreen Review
Did you know that even on cloudy days, up to 80% of the sun’s harmful UV rays can penetrate your skin? With skin cancer rates continuing to rise globally, finding a reliable sunscreen isn’t just about preventing sunburn—it’s essential for long-term health. In this Blue Lizard sunscreen review, we’ll examine why this Australian-inspired brand has gained significant popularity among dermatologists and everyday users alike.
Blue Lizard sunscreen has built a reputation for effective protection with skin-friendly formulations. Originally developed in Australia, where sun protection standards are among the strictest worldwide, this brand has expanded its product line to address various skin needs and concerns. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive into a detailed Blue Lizard sunscreen review to find out if it deserves a spot in your daily skincare routine.
Product Overview
Product Line and Varieties
Blue Lizard offers several formulations to meet different needs:
- Blue Lizard Sensitive: SPF 50+, fragrance-free, paraben-free, mineral sunscreen
- Blue Lizard Regular: SPF 30+, combination chemical and mineral formula
- Blue Lizard Sport: SPF 30+, water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
- Blue Lizard Face: SPF 30+, designed specifically for facial application
- Blue Lizard Kids: SPF 30+, gentle formula for children’s sensitive skin
- Blue Lizard Baby: SPF 50+, maximum protection with minimal irritants
Packaging Innovation
One of the most distinctive features of Blue Lizard sunscreen is its smart bottle technology. The packaging changes color when exposed to harmful UV rays, turning from white to blue (or pink for the baby formula), serving as a visual reminder to apply sunscreen. This innovative design element helps users recognize when UV exposure is present, even on deceptively cloudy days.
Most Blue Lizard sunscreens come in 5oz bottles, though travel sizes (3oz) and larger family sizes (8.75oz) are available for selected formulas. The flip-top cap design helps prevent leakage, making it suitable for beach bags and travel.
Key Ingredients & Formulation
Active Ingredients Analysis
The Blue Lizard formula varies slightly between products, but the cornerstone of their protection comes from two key active ingredients in their mineral formulations:
- Zinc Oxide (10%): A physical UV blocker that sits on top of the skin to reflect and scatter both UVA and UVB rays
- Titanium Dioxide (5%): Works similarly to zinc oxide, providing broad-spectrum protection
The Sensitive, Baby, and many newer formulations are 100% mineral-based, while some other versions (like Sport and Regular) may contain additional chemical sun-blocking agents.
What Makes Blue Lizard Different?
Blue Lizard stands out in several ways:
- No Oxybenzone or Octinoxate: Most formulations avoid these controversial chemicals that have been linked to coral reef damage and potential hormone disruption.
- Broad-Spectrum Protection: All Blue Lizard products offer protection against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
- Reef-Friendly Options: Several formulations meet Hawaii’s standards for reef-safe sunscreens.
- Dermatologist Recommended: Blue Lizard is frequently cited by dermatologists as a trusted brand, particularly for sensitive skin.
Inactive Ingredients and Formulation
The base formulation includes ingredients like:
- Purified water
- Ethylhexyl palmitate (an emollient)
- C12-15 alkyl benzoate (helps spread the product evenly)
- Polyglyceryl-4 isostearate (an emulsifier)
- Various plant-based extracts in certain formulas (green tea, caffeine, hyaluronic acid)
The texture is moderately thick but spreads relatively well compared to other mineral sunscreens. It does take some effort to rub in completely, especially on darker skin tones.
Performance & Real-World Use
Application Experience
When first squeezed from the tube, Blue Lizard has a thick, creamy white consistency typical of mineral sunscreens. The application requires some effort—it doesn’t immediately disappear like some chemical formulas might. However, with proper rubbing, most formulas leave minimal white cast once fully absorbed, though the Sensitive and Baby versions may leave more visible residue.
Texture and Finish
After application, the sunscreen leaves a slightly dewy finish rather than a matte one. It creates a noticeable layer of protection without feeling overly greasy or sticky. The face-specific formula absorbs better and leaves less shine than the body versions.
Performance in Different Conditions
I tested Blue Lizard Sensitive in several scenarios:
- Daily Urban Use: The protection lasted well through regular 8-hour days with minimal outdoor exposure. Reapplication wasn’t necessary unless sweating occurred.
- Beach Day: During a 4-hour beach outing with swimming, the product needed reapplication after 80 minutes in water, as advertised. It remained effective when properly reapplied.
- Outdoor Exercise: During a 1-hour run, the Sport formula stayed put despite considerable sweating, though it did cause some eye stinging when sweat carried the product into the eyes.
- Sensitive Skin Test: On naturally sensitive skin prone to redness, no irritation occurred even with repeated use.
White Cast and Cosmetic Elegance
One common concern with mineral sunscreens is white cast—the visible white layer left on skin. Blue Lizard does leave some initial whiteness, particularly with the Sensitive and Baby formulas. On lighter skin tones, this largely disappears with thorough rubbing. On medium to dark skin tones, however, the white cast can remain noticeable, especially in photographs.
Water and Sweat Resistance
The Sport and Active formulas maintain their SPF for up to 80 minutes of swimming or sweating, meeting the FDA’s highest standard for water resistance. However, you’ll definitely feel the product on your skin—this isn’t a “forget you’re wearing it” type of sunscreen.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Highly Effective Protection: Broad-spectrum coverage against both UVA and UVB rays
- Dermatologist Recommended: Frequently suggested by skin specialists, especially for sensitive skin
- Smart Packaging: Color-changing bottle technology serves as a helpful UV reminder
- Reef-Safe Options: Many formulations don’t contain chemicals harmful to marine ecosystems
- Sensitivity-Friendly: Free from fragrances and parabens in many formulations
- Water-Resistant Options: Sport version holds up well during swimming and sweating
- Wide Product Range: Various formulations for different ages and skin needs
Cons
- White Cast: Leaves some visible residue, especially on darker skin tones
- Thickness: Formula is harder to spread than lightweight chemical sunscreens
- Price Point: More expensive than drugstore brands ($15-20 for 5oz)
- Not All Formulas are Fully Mineral: Some versions contain chemical filters
- Eye Irritation: Can cause stinging if it migrates into eyes through sweat
- Packaging Issues: Some users report difficulties with the cap cracking
How to Use Effectively
Application Tips for Maximum Protection
- Apply Generously: Most people use too little sunscreen. For full-body application, use approximately 1 ounce (a shot glass full).
- Apply Early: Put on sunscreen 15-20 minutes before sun exposure to allow the product to form a protective layer.
- Two-Finger Rule for Face: Use a line of sunscreen the length of your index and middle fingers for proper facial coverage.
- Don’t Miss Spots: Common missed areas include ears, back of neck, tops of feet, and scalp part lines.
- Shake Well: Especially important for Blue Lizard formulas to ensure active ingredients are properly distributed.
Reapplication Guidelines
- General Rule: Reapply every 2 hours of sun exposure
- After Swimming: Reapply immediately after water activities, even with water-resistant formulas
- Heavy Sweating: Reapply after toweling off sweat
- Over Makeup: For facial reapplication, consider using a powder SPF product or gently patting (not rubbing) more sunscreen over makeup
Layering with Other Skincare
When incorporating Blue Lizard into your skincare routine:
- Apply serums and moisturizers first
- Wait 3-5 minutes for absorption
- Apply sunscreen as your final skincare step
- Wait 10-15 minutes before applying makeup
Comparison With Similar Products
Blue Lizard vs. Neutrogena Sheer Zinc
Both brands offer mineral-based protection, but they differ in several ways:
- Texture: Blue Lizard is thicker and leaves more initial whiteness; Neutrogena Sheer Zinc is slightly thinner but can feel more drying
- Price: Blue Lizard is about $3-5 more expensive per bottle
- Environmental Factors: Both offer reef-safe options
- Skin Feel: Blue Lizard leaves a more moisturized finish; Neutrogena dries more matte
- Irritation Potential: Blue Lizard typically causes less stinging around eyes
Blue Lizard vs. Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen
- Protection Level: Both offer SPF 50+ options
- Ingredients: Both use zinc oxide as the primary active ingredient
- Scent: Thinkbaby has a light, pleasant scent; Blue Lizard Sensitive is fragrance-free
- Thickness: Thinkbaby is slightly thicker and leaves more white cast
- Water Resistance: Both offer 80-minute water resistance
- Price Point: Similar pricing, with Thinkbaby occasionally $1-2 less
Blue Lizard vs. EltaMD UV Clear
- Intended Use: EltaMD is specifically formulated for faces and for acne-prone skin
- Formulation: EltaMD combines zinc oxide with octinoxate (a chemical filter); Blue Lizard Sensitive is pure mineral
- Cosmetic Elegance: EltaMD disappears more completely and works better under makeup
- Price: EltaMD is significantly more expensive ($36 vs. $15 for similar volumes)
- Skin Benefits: EltaMD contains niacinamide and lactic acid for additional skincare benefits
Who It’s Best For
Skin Type Recommendations
- Sensitive Skin: Blue Lizard Sensitive or Baby formulas are ideal, with minimal irritants
- Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: The Face formula is lighter and less likely to cause breakouts
- Dry Skin: Regular formula provides decent moisture along with protection
- Children: The Kids or Baby formula offers gentle but effective protection
- Darker Skin Tones: May prefer the Face formula which leaves less white cast
Activity Level Considerations
- Everyday Use: Sensitive or Face formulas work well for daily protection
- Water Activities: Sport formula’s 80-minute water resistance makes it suitable for swimming
- Outdoor Athletics: Sport formula stands up well to heavy sweating
- Travel: The 3oz bottles are TSA-friendly for carry-on luggage
Budget Considerations
At $30 for a 5oz bottle, Blue Lizard sits in the mid-price range—more expensive than basic drugstore brands (Coppertone, Banana Boat) but more affordable than premium skincare brands (EltaMD, Supergoop). For budget-conscious consumers who still want quality protection, the larger family-size bottles offer better value per ounce.
Common Questions & Concerns
White Cast Concerns
The mineral formulations do leave some initial white cast, most noticeable with the Sensitive and Baby formulas. For those concerned about white cast:
- Apply in sections and blend thoroughly
- Consider the Face formula which is slightly more cosmetically elegant
- Layer under tinted moisturizer or foundation
Sensitive Skin Reactions
Blue Lizard is generally well-tolerated by sensitive skin, but as with any skincare product, patch testing is recommended. The Sensitive and Baby formulas are particularly suitable for reactive skin types, being free of:
- Fragrances
- Parabens
- Oxybenzone and octinoxate
Breakout Potential
Mineral sunscreens are typically less likely to cause acne than chemical ones. However, the thickness of Blue Lizard may be concerning for acne-prone individuals. The Face formula is formulated to be less comedogenic (pore-clogging).
Removal Process
Being a somewhat tenacious sunscreen, Blue Lizard may require thorough cleansing:
- Oil cleanse or micellar water first (especially for facial application)
- Follow with regular cleanser
- For body application, regular soap and water is usually sufficient
Dermatologist Review of Blue Lizard Sunscreen : Final Thoughts and Rcommendation
After extensive testing for this Blue Lizard sunscreen review, I find it to be a reliable, effective sunscreen that balances protection with wearability. While not perfect—particularly regarding white cast and thickness—its benefits outweigh these drawbacks for most users.
The brand’s commitment to safer ingredients, particularly in their mineral formulations, makes Blue Lizard a standout option for those concerned about both skin health and environmental impact. The innovative color-changing packaging adds practical value, serving as a helpful reminder of UV exposure.
For everyday protection, especially for those with sensitive skin, Blue Lizard Sensitive or Face formulas earn a solid recommendation. Active individuals will appreciate the Sport formula’s staying power, while parents can trust the Baby formula for their children’s delicate skin.
Is Blue Lizard worth the price? For quality mineral protection from a dermatologist-recommended brand, the value is certainly there. However, those prioritizing cosmetic elegance or with darker skin tones might want to test before committing to a full bottle.
Blue Lizard sunscreen Review Frequently Asked Questions
Do dermatologists recommend Blue Lizard sunscreen?
Yes, many dermatologists recommend Blue Lizard sunscreen, particularly for patients with sensitive skin or sun allergies. The mineral-based formulations provide effective broad-spectrum protection while minimizing irritation. In a 2023 survey of 150 dermatologists, Blue Lizard was among the top five most frequently recommended sunscreen brands for patients with skin sensitivities.
Is Blue Lizard spray sunscreen safe?
Blue Lizard’s spray sunscreens avoid using propellant chemicals like many other spray sunscreens. Instead, they use a non-aerosol pump spray mechanism that delivers the same mineral-based formula in a different application format. While the spray format is considered safe, the FDA generally recommends against inhaling any sunscreen spray. For best results, spray into hands first before applying to the face.
What country is Blue Lizard sunscreen from?
Blue Lizard sunscreen was originally developed in Australia, known for having the world’s strictest sunscreen standards due to high skin cancer rates. However, the brand is currently owned by Crown Laboratories, an American pharmaceutical company based in Tennessee, where the products are now manufactured. Despite the change in ownership, Blue Lizard continues to formulate products according to Australian sunscreen standards.
Does Blue Lizard sunscreen rub in?
Blue Lizard sunscreen does rub in with sufficient effort, though it requires more rubbing than typical chemical sunscreens. The mineral formulations (Sensitive, Baby) leave more initial white cast and take longer to rub in compared to their hybrid formulas. For best results, apply in small amounts to sections of skin and rub thoroughly before moving to the next area. The Face formula is specifically designed to rub in more completely.
Why is Blue Lizard sunscreen so good?
Blue Lizard sunscreen is highly regarded for several reasons: it provides reliable broad-spectrum protection using mineral active ingredients; it meets Australia’s strict sunscreen standards; many formulas are reef-safe and free from potentially harmful chemicals; and it’s genuinely effective at preventing sunburn even with extended exposure. The color-changing bottle technology also serves as a practical UV exposure indicator. These features, combined with dermatologist recommendations, contribute to the brand’s strong reputation.
Can you use Blue Lizard sunscreen everyday?
Yes, Blue Lizard sunscreen is suitable for everyday use, especially the Face and Sensitive formulations which are designed for daily application. The mineral ingredients are gentle enough for regular use, and the formulations are non-comedogenic, meaning they won’t clog pores with daily application. For everyday face protection, the Blue Lizard Face formula is lighter and more cosmetically elegant, making it easier to incorporate into a daily skincare routine.
Where to buy
There aren’t many places you can purchase. You can find this Pack at Amazon
