Spring has officially sprung! As you’re likely spending more time outside these day, remember that the best sunscreen for face is the undisputed, expert-recommended step to maintaining healthy, glowing skin. Year-round, SPF is the most effective way to shield skin from cancer-causing ultraviolet radiation, as well as premature aging, which is the primary cause of fine lines, deeper wrinkles, blotchiness, discoloration, and textural abnormalities. To find the best of the best, we spoke to four esteemed dermatologists and revisited some new and old Vogue editor favorites (all of which have been tested and worn IRL!). Read on to find your best facial sunscreen.
“We are increasingly seeing skin cancer in younger individuals,” cautions dermatologist Julie Karen, MD. “If that doesn’t convince someone to protect themselves, then we can rightfully appeal to their vanity. The sun is responsible for 90% of the visible changes we see within the skin that are often attributed to aging.”
As if the most common science-backed truths are not enough of an impetus, let this sink in: “Fresh off of winter, our skin has diminished capacity to protect itself from damaging UV rays, which are becoming ever stronger,” explains Karen. Moreover, there are specific skin reactions that can happen during early summer with the first exposure to ultraviolet radiation, such as polymorphous light eruption (or PMLE), a reaction of sun sensitivity that happens when our skin is not exposed to the sun for long periods of time. “It can manifest in different ways, but is typically a itchy red rash that appears on sun-exposed areas that have been recently exposed, typically at the beginning of summer,” explains dermatologist Dr. Rachel Nazarian. “We don’t know why some people are more prone to this, but most people are likely to experience some form of increased sensitivity to sunlight after the wintertime.”
Our Favorite Face Sunscreens
In This Article
Best Mineral Sunscreen
SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
- Why We Like It: Looking for a featherweight, blends-right-in mineral option? The SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF 50 fluid is just that, with special ingredient artemia salina, a plankton extract that naturally boosts skin’s UV defense and fights against redness brought on by heat.
- Endorsed By: Dr. Murphy-Rose: “It contains a combination of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide in an elegant formulation that is very protective and yet feels so light on the skin. This is well-designed for normal to combination skin. It blends easily into skin without looking cakey or leaving a white cast.”
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Lightweight Cream
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No, but the brand does offer a tinted alternative.
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Matte
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (Zinc oxide 5%, Titanium dioxide 6%)
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50
- Why We Like It: One of the industry’s most beloved drugstore mineral suncreens, La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios combats broad-spectrum UVA and UVB rays through sensitive skin-friendly titanium dixoxide. Antioxidants, silica, vitamin E, and thermal spring water are featured too; plus, iron oxides which deliver a universal tint suitable for most skin types.
- Editor’s Review: Senior shopping editor, Talia Abbas: “The ‘ultra-light’ in La Roche-Posay’s tinted sunscreen is accurate: It has a weightless texture, while still delivering a subtle tint (which doesn’t streak or stain clothes) with SPF50 coverage. It’s also waterproof—on vacation earlier this summer, I would use this one before swimming and it wouldn’t budge. A true fave!”
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Lotion
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: Yes
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Matte
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (titanium dioxide 11%)
Lesse Every Tone SPF 30
- Why We Like It: Crafted with 100% natural ingredients, Lesse’s recently-launched sunscreen is a thoughtful choice for the clean beauty enthusiast. Alongside mineral sun protection, there are Australian super berries and botanical oils to nourish and calm skin sans irritation (or white cast).
- SPF Level: SPF 30
- Texture: Lotion.
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Dewy
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (non-nano uncoated zinc oxide, 17%)
Best Dermatologist-Approved Sunscreen
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
- Why We Like It: Both all-business in terms of protection and impressively lightweight on the skin, this dermatologist favorite blocks UVA and UVB rays with clear zinc-oxide while gently addressing skin-care needs. Doses of sodium hyaluronate and niacinamide restore hydration, while lactic acid helps to unclog pores and control shine.
- Endorsed By: Dr. Murphy-Rose: “I frequently recommend UV Clear to my acne-prone or oily skin patients for excellent sun protection that won’t promote breakouts. And my patients love it! UV Clear is non-comedogenic and formulated with lactic acid and niacinamide to prevent acne and reduce inflammation.”
- Editor’s Review: Shopping writer Laura Jackson: “Not only does EltaMD’s sunscreen keep my skin safe from the sun, but it also helps prevent any unwanted acne or blemishes. For me, this is a two-in-one staple that really works and forever has a spot in my beauty cabinet.”
- SPF Level: SPF 46
- Texture: Silky lotion.
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Natural
- Chemical or Mineral: Both (Zinc oxide 9.0%, Octinoxate 7.5%)
Best Chemical Sunscreen
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++
- Why We Like It: Supergoop!’s Unseen goes on crystal clear, which makes it so popular amongst beauty enthusiasts and people of color. The oil-free formula feels almost like a primer—enriched by red algae, frankincense, and a meadowfoam oil complex to soothe, protect, and moisturize.
- Endorsed By: Dr. Murphy-Rose: “While it is not a physical blocker, it does afford great broad spectrum chemical protection in a very popular formulation that does not leave a white cast and blends seamlessly.”
- SPF Level: SPF 40
- Texture: Silky primer.
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Matte
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 8%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 4%)
Chanel UV Essentiel Complete UV Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 50
- Why We Like It: Chanel’s recently reformulated UV Essentiel sunscreen has quickly captured the hearts of Vogue editors. One might expect the milky cream to leave a white cast, but instead, it disappears almost immediately upon application to reveal a weightless glow perfect for daily wear. Not to mention, the formula features blue ginger sourced from Chanel’s laboratory in Madagascar and Tahitian gardenia extract to help fortify the skin barrier.
- Editor’s Review: Senior shopping market editor Madeline Fass: “As someone who doesn’t wear much makeup, Chanel’s SPF 50 is the perfect top layer to my skin care routine. It goes on smoothly like a light to mid-weight moisturizer, and feels like one on the skin too. Plus, I have sensitive skin and eyes, yet this one doesn’t irritate my skin or make me tear up!”
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Lightweight cream.
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Natural
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 10%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 5%)
Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin
Paula’s Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50
- Why We Like It: Despite its fluid, satin-matte texture (meaning it will not congest oily skin), Paula’s Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid offers broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection and an array of antioxidants and soothing plant extracts, such as green tea and oat extract, to treat signs of aging while shielding from rays.
- Editor’s Review: Beauty shopping writer, Kiana Murden: “Whenever my skin is feeling particularly oily I reach for this option by Paula’s Choice. It has a milky, serum-like texture that sinks into skin instantly, leaving a matte finish.”
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Water-like liquid.
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Dewy
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (Avobenzone 2%, Octinoxate 7.5%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 2%)
Thank You Farmer Sun Project Light Sun Essence
- Why We Like It: As the name suggests, this is a lightweight sunscreen great for oily or combination skin types. Aside from protecting against UVA and UVB rays, this Korean sunscreen uses nelumbo nucifera flower water and botanical extracts to hydrate, soften, and smooth skin.
- SPF Level: SPF 50+
- Texture: Watery Lotion
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Dewy
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate 6.8%, homosalate 6.00%, ethylhexyl salicylate 4.50%, octocrylene 2.50%)
Best Sunscreen for Dry Skin
Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30
- Why We Like It: Designed to impart a sheer, non-ashy cast of protection for darker skin tones, Black Girl Sunscreen’s hero formula offers SPF 30 protection while its blend of avocado, jojoba, cacao, carrot juice, and sunflower oil work to soothe and heal the skin.
- SPF Level: SPF 30
- Texture: Cream
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Natural
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical ( Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 2.75%)
Yon-Ka Paris Skincare Solar Care Sunscreen Cream SPF 50
- Why We Like It: Yon-Ka’s sunscreen is a rich solution perfect for someone with dry skin. Enriched with licorice extract, vitamin B5, botanicals (green tea, white tea, and red tea), and SPF 50 whipped into a sumptuous cream, this delivers skin nourishment while protecting against UVA and UVB rays.
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Rich Cream
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Natural
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (Octocrylene 8%, Oxybenzone/Benzophenone-3 5%, Avobenzone/Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane 3%, Ensulizole/Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid 3%)
Best Drugstore Sunscreen
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 100
- Why We Like It: Whether you’re about to face harsh sunlight or have a complexion that’s especially vulnerable to UV rays, look no further than this SPF 100 formula, which is formulated specifically for skin that burns easily. The fact that it’s water-resistant and doesn’t leave a chalky residue with its featherweight, melts-right-in texture makes it that much more impressive.
- SPF Level: SPF 100
- Texture: Lightweight cream.
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Natural
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 15%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 10%)
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 55
- Why We Like It: This drugstore steal is a favorite across the board. It’s non-comedogenic, oil-free, and water-resistant on top of yielding robust SPF 55 coverage and gliding on like a dream to undetectable effect.
- SPF Level: SPF 55
- Texture: Lightweight lotion.
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Matte
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 10%)
Best Sunscreen for Mature Skin
Isdin Eryfotona Actinica Daily Mineral SPF 50+
- Why We Like It: Users love the Isdin Eryfotona Actinica sunscreen because of its derm-approved composition that pairs well with supercharged ingredients like tretinoin and retinol. The 100% mineral formula pairs zinc oxide with a plankton-derived reparative enzyme, and vitamin E to combat signs of aging and protect against future damage.
- Endorsed By: Dr. Murphy-Rose: “[A] great lightweight mineral sunscreen that offers excellent sun protection while also repairing some existing damage with enzymes called DNA Repairsomes.” Plus, Emmy Rossum.
- SPF Level: SPF 50+
- Texture: Lightweight lotion.
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Natural
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 11%)
SkinMedica Total Defense + Repair SPF 34
- Why We Like It: For mature skin, SkinMedica’s chemical sunscreen glides on extra smooth, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles thanks to its mix of hydrating and reparative antioxidants, like squalene and niacinamide, and a light, creamy texture that absorbs seamlessly.
- SPF Level: SPF 34
- Texture: Lightweight cream.
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Natural
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (Octinoxate 7.5%, Octisalate 3.0%) plus Zinc Oxide 8.0%.
Best Sunscreen for Combination Skin
Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Refillable Invisible Face Moisturizer SPF 30
- Why We Like It: Fenty Beauty’s Hydra Vizor is excellent for invisible wear, particularly for those looking to wear sunscreen under makeup. It delivers a barely-there feel that smooths the look of pores and fades dark pots through a blend of kalahari melon, aloe, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide.
- SPF Level: SPF 30
- Texture: Watery Lotion.
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Dewy
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 9%, octisalate 4.5%)
Live Tinted Hueguard 3-in-1 Broad Spectrum Mineral SPF 30 Primer
- Why We Like It: Any summertime regimen could be supplemented by a multitasker like Live Tinted’s Hueguard, which boasts 3-in-1 characteristics as a sunscreen meets primer meets moisturizer. Though its nourishing and radiant enough to impart a fresh-faced glow, it feels weightless—making it ideal for combination skin types.
- Endorsed By: “This is a tinted mineral sunscreen formulated for skin of color and does not give that pesky white cast!” says Tomassian.
- SPF Level: SPF 30
- Texture: Priming cream.
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: Yes
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Natural
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 18%)
Best for a Glow
Naturium Dew Glow Moisturizer SPF 50
- Why We Like It: Despite its cream-like texture, Naturium’s Dew Glow Moisturizer blends like a dream into a natural-looking radiance on any skin tone. There’s also niacinamide and ethyl ascorbic acid for added skin-supporting benefits.
- Editor’s Review: Beauty shopping writer, Kiana Murden says “I will literally use this Naturium sunscreen til the very. last. drop. Its weightless, glowing finish is unmatched.”
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Cream.
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Dewy
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (homosalate 10.0%, octisalate 5.0%, avobenzone 3.0%)
Kosas DreamBeam SPF 40 PA++++
- Why We Like It: Kosas’s DreamBeam SPF was already a hit after its 2023 launch; and now, the beloved formula gets a sunkissed upgrade with the introduction of its new Sunlit shade—which delivers a golden glow perfect for sunny days ahead and deeper skin tones. Tint aside, DreamBeam is clean, non-comedogenic, and silicone-free—utilizing a non-nano zinc oxide for a physical UV barrier. All of this makes it excellent for sensitive skin types.
- SPF Level: SPF 40
- Texture: Lotion.
- Broad Spectrum: No
- Tinted: Yes. Shade Original has a peachy-pink hue, while shade Sunlit offers a golden bronze
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Dewy
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (non-nano zinc 21.7%)
MDSolarSciences Gleam + Glow SPF 50
- Why We Like It: A sheer, natural glow is the expected end result of this MDSolarSciences formula; no white cast here! Enriched with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, this is reminiscent of an illuminating primer that veils fine lines and pigmentation better than your average sunscreen.
- Endorsed By: Dr. Tomassian: “This is my daily sunscreen currently! It’s a moisturizer/SPF combo with SPF 50 and is tinted! It gives a nice glow to the skin, proper SPF coverage, and is hydrating!”
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Radiant cream.
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: Yes
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Dewy
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, octocrylene 2.75%, octisalate 5%)
Best Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin
Aveeno Baby Sensitive Skin Lotion Zinc Oxide Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 50
- Why We Like It: This Aveeno formula is just as gentle on baby’s skin as it is sensitive skin. Fragrance-, paraben-, and phthalate-free, the sunscreen is enriched with oat to keep skin calm and nourished.
- Endorsed By: Dr. Murphy-Rose: “[This] packs powerful broad-spectrum UVA/UVB coverage. It contains naturally-sourced zinc oxide and soothing ingredients like oatmeal. It is also tear-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, and non-greasy.”
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Lotion.
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: Yes
- Finish: Natural
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 21.6%)
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Why We Like It: Expect broad-spectrum mineral UVA and UVB protection with Blue Lizard’s sensitive skin-friendly formula. It’s even designed to be sweat and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, meaning it’s excellent for exercise or active excursions.
- Endorsed By: Dr. Murphy Rose: This formula has earned her stamp of approval for sensitive skin types.
- SPF Level: SPF 50+
- Texture: Lightweight lotion.
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: Minimal
- Finish: Natural
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 10%, titanium dioxide 8%)
Best for Exercise
Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion SPF 50+
- Why We Like It: The draw to Shisedo’s sunscreen is not just its effective SPF 50+, but its technology that somehow adds extra protection when activated by heat, sweat, or water.
- SPF Level: SPF 50+
- Texture: Oily lotion.
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Natural
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 2.3%, homosalate 10%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 5%)
Best Powder Sunscreen
Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50
- Why We Like It: The brush-on powder formula of this Colorescience sunscreen makes it great for reapplication during the day. With four shades to choose from, just swipe on this sweat- and water-resistant SPF on the go.
- Endorsed By: Dr. Tomassian: “This is a lightweight SPF powder that you brush onto your skin and sits well over makeup. Easy way to reapply!” Plus, Murphy-Rose: “For the moments when you have a full face of makeup but need to reapply sunscreen, this Colorescience product is tried and true.”
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Powder.
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: Yes, there are four shades.
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Matte
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (titanium dioxide 22.5%, zinc oxide 22.5%)
Best Spray Sunscreen
Habit N°38 Facial Sunscreen Mist with SPF 38
- Why We Like It: Habit’s ultra-fine sunscreen mist is an excellent way to make the reapplication of SPF easier, particularly on a hot summer day. Perhaps the most cooling, refreshing option on this list, this formula is enriched with cucumber fruit extract to hydrate and soothe skin with ease.
- SPF Level: SPF 38
- Texture: Mist.
- Broad Spectrum: No
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Dewy
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 2.9%, homosalate 9.8%, octisalate 4.9% octocrylene 9.5%)
What to Look for in a Face Sunscreen
SPF Level: “Picking a sunscreen does not have to be complicated!” Tomassian bids. “Look for a sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher and broad spectrum, meaning it blocks both UVA and UVB rays. You want to use at least two finger lengths of sunscreen for the full face, and when you are out in the sun, reapply every two hours to maintain adequate sun protection.” Apply your sunscreen at least 20 minutes before you go outside.
Type: According to Murphy-Rose, physical sunscreens (otherwise known as physical sunscreens, or sunblock) provide a physical barrier between the skin and the sun’s harmful rays, while chemical sunscreens work by chemicals penetrating the skin and then absorb UV rays to prevent sun damage and skin cancer. “Although both can be incredibly effective, chemical sunscreens can be somewhat more irritating to sensitive skin,” explains Dr. Nazarian. “Physical sunscreens are a bit more stable, but are also a little more occlusive and can trap heat, so it may feel a little heavier than the chemical sunscreens.” Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are mineral sunscreen agents to look out for.
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