From lotions and sprays to gels and sticks, here are readers’ picks for the eight best affordable sunscreens:  

Best Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 15 to 30)
Banana Boat Sport SPF 15, $8
Nongreasy and lightweight, this was definitely effective. “I missed a spot,” reported one tester, “as evidenced by my new red splotch.”

Best Sunscreen Spray (SPF 15 to 30)
Neutrogena Fresh Cooling Body Mist SPF 30, $9.50
Testers from Florida to California unanimously endorsed this fast-absorbing, temperature-beating spray.

Best Sunscreen Gel (SPF 15 to 30)
Neutrogena Fresh Cooling Gel SPF 30, $10
Light on the skin but long-lasting, “it felt weightless” yet “managed to provide all-day protection.”

Best Sunscreen Stick (SPF 15 to 30)
Banana Boat Sport SPF 30, $8
This oil-free, waterproof stick stayed on, even when a tester forgot to reapply it after swimming. “I didn’t get a spot of color,” she said.

Best Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 30+)
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch SPF 55, $9.50
With a nearly imperceptible feel, a subtle fragrance, and a matte finish, “this lives up to its ‘Ultra Sheer’ name.

Best Sunscreen Spray (SPF 30+)
Coppertone Ultraguard QuickCover Lotion Spray SPF 50, $10
“Rich and creamy,” this tropical-scented sunscreen was absorbed easily.

Best Sunscreen Gel (SPF 30+)
Bull Frog Quik Gel SPF 36, $9
With a formula that is “not the least bit sticky” and a “refreshingly citrus scent,” this broad-spectrum, waterproof sunscreen “dried virtually on contact.”

Best Sunscreen Stick (SPF 30+)
Hawaiian Tropic Ozone Oil Free SPF 50+, $6
Testers loved the versatility of this aloe-enriched stick, using it all over or on easy-to-burn areas, like lips and eyelids.