Coppertone

Overview

Coppertone is a sunscreen brand offering lotions, sprays, and mineral-based products for sun protection. It holds a position in the mass-market skincare segment focused on UV defense, with products tested in independent reviews showing variable performance.

History

Founded in 1944 by Benjamin Green, a pharmacist who developed the first commercial sunscreen using red veterinary petrolatum for U.S. troops in World War II. The brand gained popularity post-war and was acquired by Schering-Plough in 1957. It changed hands to Merck in 2009 via Schering-Plough acquisition, then to Beiersdorf in 2014, and finally to Bayer in 2019.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Manufacturing details for Coppertone products are not publicly specified on the brand's site. Production occurs under Bayer's global supply chain, likely involving contract manufacturers in the United States and internationally.

Notable Products

• Coppertone Pure & Simple 100% Mineral SPF 50 - Mineral-based lotion for sensitive skin providing SPF 50 protection.
• Coppertone Kids Tear Free Lotion SPF 50 - Tear-free formula tested at lower effective SPF in Consumer Reports.
• Coppertone Every Tone Invisible Finish Face SPF 55 - Facial sunscreen compared to premium invisible finishes in reviews.
• Coppertone Sport Lotion SPF 50 - Sweat-resistant option for athletic activities.

Reputation

Coppertone receives mixed consumer feedback, with a 2.1-2.4 star rating from review sites indicating widespread dissatisfaction.¹ Independent tests by Consumer Reports highlight inconsistent UVA and SPF protection in products like Kids Tear Free Lotion.² Some users praise mineral variants for sensitive skin compatibility.³