Guys, we’ve told you before and we’ll tell you again: Sunscreen alone is not enough to keep sun damage away. Before you have a freckle freakout and cry into your EltaMD, we have the solution! In honor of our awesome monthly special we wanted to spread the love about these two skincare BFF’s: antioxidants and sunscreens. So why do they work so well together?  There is significant research to show that antioxidants help prevent free radical damage that causes unhealthy or mutant cells. Sunscreen is still important because it prevents those molecules from getting to your cells in the first place. In short, adding a layer of an antioxidant serum or lotion under your sunscreen can add an extra line of defense for your skin and reduce photo-aging effects of the sun. Protect, apply and reapply!

Here are our favorite combos:

For: Acne or Combination Skin
SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Serum + EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF46
Why it works: The SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF is oil free, containing 2% Phloretin, an ingredient that helps improve cell turnover, and improves the appearance of discoloration. EltaMD UV Clear SPF46 contains niacinamide which can help to calm the angry redness we often see with acne papules. Both have nice light formulations!

For: Dry or Mature Skin
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum + EltaMD UV Daily SPF40
Why it works: The skinceuticals C E Ferulic contains 1% Alpha Tocopherol, a form of vitamin E, helping to neutralize free radical damage and replenish skin lipids. The EltaMD UV Daily (which comes in a tinted and non-tinted option) contains hyaluronic acid, the drink-for-your-skin water molecule to help keep skin hydrated.

For: Men
SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Gel + EltaMD UV Sport Broad Spectrum SPF50
Why it works: The comforting light gel texture is ideal for normal, oily and combination skin. It is proven to be well tolerated by men, particularly post-shaving. The EltaMD UV Sport SPF50 is ideal for swimmers, skiers, runners, golfers or those who just love to be outdoors. UV Sport is water-resistant so it won’t rinse off in water or drip into your eyes and sting when you sweat.

For: One & Done
Neocutis Journee Bio-restorative Day Cream SPF30 + Colorescience Sunforgettable SPF50
Why it works: Neocutis Journee is a multifunctional anti-aging cream containing a potent blend of collagen growth factors, hyaluronic acid, powerful anti-oxidants and a broad-spectrum SPF30 to help rejuvenate, hydrate, protect, nourish and revitalize the skin in just one application! Of course sunscreen requires re-application every two hours, so we recommend topping up with the Sunforgettable SPF50 mineral sunscreen brush, which feels weightless and fits easily into your purse or bag. It is perfect for on-the-go protection and skips the mess of traditional liquid sunscreens. No spills and non-greasy.