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Whether it's the dead of winter or the middle of July, any dermatologist will tell you to wear sunscreen on the daily. “Many people assume you only need to wear sunscreen on sunny summer days, though it really should be applied year-round,” says dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD.
But, because there are so many options out there, it can be a little tricky to find the perfect formula for your skin, especially if you struggle with skin sensitivities like acne and redness. Below, dermatologists break down what to look for in an everyday face sunscreen, and the exact products to shop depending on your skincare needs.
What to look for in a face sunscreen
There's a lot to consider when it comes to buying a new face sunscreen, from the ingredients to the SPF number. Here's everything derms want you to know before shopping:
- Mineral or chemical SPF: Dr. Gohara and dermatologist Julie Russak, MD both prefer mineral sunscreens over chemical sunscreens because they work for all skin types (even acne-prone or sensitive skin), aren't as irritating, and create a barrier to block UV rays. While mineral sunscreens reflect the sun's rays off the skin, chemical sunscreens absorb them. But "chemical and mineral sunscreens are theoretically both equally effective," Dr. Gohara says.
- Ingredients: Mineral sunscreen has filters like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide that are responsible for protecting against UV damage, so they're the most important ingredients to look for. In chemical sunscreens, the filters are benzone and oxybenzone. These active ingredients are "the most valuable for skin health and cosmetic benefit, seeing as a majority of the signs of aging come from unprotected UV exposure," Dr. Gohara says. Make sure the sunscreen also says it is "broad spectrum" so it protects against all types of UV rays.
- Formula: Choose a formula that you'll actually enjoy wearing. If you have oily skin or just like using more lightweight products, opt for a serum or gel. Those with dry or sensitive skin will want to opt for a more traditional cream formula, or something that adds a nice glow to the skin.
- SPF number: The most important part about shopping for sunscreen is to choose a broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher so that the face is protected from all rays, says Dr. Gohara.
Whether you want a dewy glow, prefer a matte finish, or even want something with a tint to it, there's a facial sunscreen for you. To find the best options, we talked to a panel of nine board-certified dermatologists to provide their recommendations. Our commerce and beauty editors have also tested countless amounts of sunscreens over the past year, adding in their top choices. Additionally, we sought a panel of testers who have different complexions and skincare concerns. Keep reading for our 23 favorite sunscreens for every skin type.
Best Face Sunscreen For Acne-Prone Skin
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46
Pros
- Great for hyperpigmentation and acne
- Moisturizes face
Cons
- Reviewers say it's hard to rub in, but it spreads easier into moisturized skin
This sunscreen from Elta MD was originally recommended to WH lifestyle director Lindsay Geller a few years ago by her dermatologist for her hormonal breakouts. Her dermatologist told her that it's awesome because it reduces the appearance of blemishes and discoloration. And according to her, it's been a game-changer.
"I've definitely noticed an improvement in my skin since incorporating this sunscreen into my daily routine, and I love that it doesn't leave a white cast or irritate my eyes (which others have in the past)," she says. "My doc told me that the best sunscreen for you is simply the one you'll actually use daily and, from firsthand experience, I can confirm that's true."
Our testers are also big fans of this formula, noting that it doesn't leave a white cast and it moisturizes super well. Bonus points: Dr. Gohara is a big fan of the brand.
SPF | 46 |
---|---|
Protection type | Mineral |
Active Ingredients | Niacinamide, zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid |
Water-Resistant | No |
Skin Type | Acne-prone, rosacea |
Size | 1.7 oz |
Best Face Sunscreen With The Highest SPF
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen
Pros
- Non-greasy, matte finish
- Affordable
Cons
- Not ideal for super dry skin
Looking for the highest amount of protection possible? "This sunscreen has been clinically shown to provide better sunburn protection compared to products with a lower SPF," says dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD. "It dries fully on the skin without leaving a greasy feeling on the face."
Testers adore that it's lightweight, doesn't have a strong smell, has a high SPF, and doesn't leave an oily feel or white cast on the face. Plus, it melts into the skin easily and does not leave a greasy or oily residue on the skin."
SPF | 70 |
---|---|
Protection type | Chemical |
Active Ingredients | N/A |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
Skin Type | Oily, acne-prone, combination |
Size | 3 oz |
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Best Face Sunscreen For Under Makeup
Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Now 22% Off
Pros
- Won't leave a white cast
- Made for and by people of color
Cons
- A bit oily, a reviewer wrote
This sunscreen was made for and by people of color, and testers love that it doesn't leave a white cast on the skin. Since it doesn't have a white or grey tint, it's a great option to wear alone or under makeup.
Some of the ingredients include avocado, which deeply moisturizes the skin, as well as cacao, which has anti-oxidants to even out your skin tone. Plus, one tester notes that it leaves the most beautiful glow once applied.
"This is by far the most moisturizing sunscreen I’ve ever used," says our tester. "I love the smoothness and glow it adds to my skin, especially my face. I will definitely keep this product on re-order."
SPF | 30 |
---|---|
Protection type | Chemical |
Active Ingredients | Jojoba, cacao, avocado |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
Skin Type | Aging, hyperpigmentation |
Size | 3 oz |
Most Hydrating Face Sunscreen
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
Pros
- Highly-rated on Amazon
- Has active ingredients that support the moisture barrier
Cons
- It's a bit thick, so it's hard to spread on the face, several reviewers wrote
This sunscreen is beloved by WH contributer Olivia Evans. "It moisturizes and protects and goes on really nicely," she says, adding that it doesn't leave too much of a white cast.
This sunscreen is extremely highly-rated with over 75,000 ratings on Amazon and an average of 4.5 stars. It's non-comedogenic, so it's suitable for acne-prone skin, and it has niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to support your moisture barrier.
Evans's skin is super sensitive to the sun, but she says she has never gotten a sunburn while wearing this formula. "I also typically go for Cerave products because they don't irritate my skin and they aren't super pricey."
SPF | 30 |
---|---|
Protection type | Chemical and mineral |
Active Ingredients | Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid |
Water-Resistant | No |
Skin Type | All |
Size | 3 oz |
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Pros
- Won't leave a white cast
- Unscented
Cons
- Not super suitable for those with dry skin, as it's matte
Sunscreens that leave a greasy film on the skin are a total bummer. That's why this mattifying gel formula is so perfect, especially if you have an oilier skin type. "With so many different sunscreens on the market, there is a formula and texture to suit every preference and need," Dr. Zeichner says.
This gel sunscreen applies clear for invisible coverage—one of our testers notes that you only need a pea-sized amount for full face coverage. (Total W!) Plus, it protects well against the sun with a high SPF of 50.
"I love that it has no scent," says another tester. "It’s also non-greasy and doesn’t leave a film. If you’re sensitive to scent and need sun protection, this is the one to get."
SPF | 50 |
---|---|
Protection type | Mineral |
Active Ingredients | Vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
Skin Type | Normal, dry |
Size | 3.4 oz |
Pros
- Makes skin look like silk
- Protects from external pollutants
Cons
- In my experience, the old packaging could be improved as it can get super messy
I struggle with dull skin, so when it comes to SPF, I always look for something that's going to brighten and add a fresh-faced glow without excess shine. And this mineral formula from Tatcha does exactly that. Made from silk (yes, real silk), niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, this light-as-air SPF makes skin look flawless. It also provides an invisible layer on top of the skin that protects pollutants from entering and moisture from escaping.
I also love that this formula has a super slight tint—it's not enough to cover anything, but it blurs imperfections in one swipe. I re-purchase this formula every time I run out. If that's not saying something, I don't know what is.
SPF | 50 |
---|---|
Protection type | Mineral |
Active Ingredients | Silk, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid |
Water-Resistant | No |
Skin Type | All |
Size | .5 oz |
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Best Face Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin
Sun Bum Mineral SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen
Pros
- Great for all skin types
- Very light feel
Cons
- Needs to be shaken before use
"This tinted sunscreen uses mineral-only protection in a hydrating base enriched with moisturizing botanicals," says Dr. Zeichner. A bonus? He says it can be used on all skin types, including those with sensitive skin. "It also fully rubs in without leaving behind a white cast on the skin," he notes.
With over 4,000 ratings on Amazon and an average of 4.5 stars, it's tried-and-true by many online reviewers. It's great for one reviewer's rosacea, while others love that it's not sticky or greasy, even on oily skin.
One tester says it's the "best stuff on the market" because it's a great sunscreen and the tint does a good job of hiding blemishes. "Once it dries, it feels like it's not even there," they add.
SPF | 30 |
---|---|
Protection type | Mineral |
Active Ingredients | Zinc oxide |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
Skin Type | All |
Size | 1.7 oz |
Best Face Sunscreen For Skin That Breaks Out From Everything
Face Reality Skincare Daily SPF 30 Lotion
Pros
- Tube lasts a long time
- Great primer for applying makeup over
Cons
- SPF is only 30
My skin breaks out from nearly every product I apply to it, but fortunately my mom (with the same issue) found this amazing sunscreen and recommended it to me. Needless to say, it's totally rocked my world.
A little bit goes a long way and the tube itself lasts a very long time—I go months without having to buy a new one. It's easy to apply and feels great on my face, and not oily at all. And WH assistant love and life editor Addison Aloian would have to agree.
"I've been using this sunscreen for a few years now, and I don't know how I'll ever go without it," she says. "My skin breaks out from nearly every product, but this lightweight sunscreen is magic for my oily, acne-prone skin." It also applies very easily, it's lightweight, and it's the perfect primer to apply makeup over, she adds.
SPF | 30 |
---|---|
Protection type | Chemical |
Active Ingredients | Kukui Nut Oil, allantoin, green tea extract |
Water-Resistant | No |
Skin Type | Acne-prone, oily |
Size | 2 oz |
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Best Face Sunscreen For Sensitive, Melanin-Rich Skin
Pipette Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Pros
- Moisturizing
- Absorbs fast
- Has a high SPF
Cons
- Initially leaves a white cast before absorbing
Dermatologist Adeline Kikam, DO is a fan of this lightweight sunscreen. "It's a moisturizing, non-sticky, and fast-absorbing sunscreen that is aesthetically pleasing on all skin including darker skin types."
She adds that it has no white cast and that it's also great for those who have dry and sensitive skin, as it contains squalane and antioxidants. As an added bonus, it's also under $20.
According to one tester, who typically struggles with mineral suncreens burning their eyes, this is the best SPF in the game. "The price point cannot be better and I love how this feels," they say. "There is a slight white cast when you first put it on but it absorbs quickly."
SPF | 50 |
---|---|
Protection type | Mineral |
Active Ingredients | Squalane, zinc oxide, wild gooseberry extract, antioxidants |
Water-Resistant | No |
Skin Type | Sensitive |
Size | 4 oz |
Best Powder Face Sunscreen
Colorescience Brush-On Sunscreen Mineral Powder
Pros
- Awesome coverage
- Lightweight and compact powder
Cons
- Pricey, but it lasts a long time
"I really like powder brush sunscreens because they're resistant to changes in temperature," says dermatologist Kavita Mariwalla, MD. "I am specifically a fan of the OG brush-on sunscreen from Colorscience," she says, adding that she keeps one in her car at all times in case she's caught out in a sunny situation.
WH assistant social media editor Isabel McMahon is also a huge fan. "The Colorescience Brush-On Sunscreen Mineral Powder is my superpower product," she says. She loves that it's a powder but still has a high SPF and it's a two-in-one product. "This product also lasts me forever, so it's well worth the higher price tag," McMahon continues. She notes that it's perfect for a mid-afternoon touch-up and it's suitable for anyone who is looking to level up their sunscreen use and maximize their SPF efficiency.
SPF | 50 |
---|---|
Protection type | Mineral |
Active Ingredients | Hyaluronic acid, antioxidants |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
Skin Type | All |
Size | .21 oz |
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Best Facial Sunscreen For Kids And Babies
Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Mineral Sunscreen
Now 22% Off
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Great for sensitive adult skin, too
Cons
- Some say it leaves a white cast
Dermatologist Marnie Nussbaum, MD, says that this formula is great for kids and babies or adults with super sensitive skin. "It's mineral-based and very gentle on the skin with effective protection," she notes. So, if you want something suitable for the entire fam or you just have super reactive skin, this one's for you.
And testers agree. "I have super sensitive skin, especially under my eyes, and this is very gentle without stinging my skin or making me tear up," says one tester. "I'm so glad I found this and I never want to be without it!"
SPF | 50 |
---|---|
Protection type | Mineral |
Active Ingredients | Zinc oxide |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
Skin Type | Sensitive |
Size | 3 oz |
Best Facial Sunscreen For Dry Skin
CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen Body Lotion SPF 30
Pros
- Lightweight feel
- Hydrating
Cons
- One reviewer say it's thick and has a white cast
"For winter months, I opt for a hydrating yet lightweight sunscreen that contains ceramides like this one from CeraVe," says dermatologist Lindsey Zubritsky, MD. "Although it's made for the body, this sunscreen is also great for the face because it’s mineral-based and contains three essential ceramides to lock in moisture." It's not just expert-approved, though—the budget-friendly SPF has over 40,000 five-star reviews, too.
One of the happy reviewers notes that this option spreads on the skin super easily, providing good coverage for dark spots and hyperpigmentation. "It isn’t greasy or patchy like white sunscreens can be," they note. "I’ve been wearing it daily for over a week and haven’t had any breakouts so far."
SPF | 30 |
---|---|
Protection type | Mineral |
Active Ingredients | Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid |
Water-Resistant | No |
Skin Type | All |
Size | 1.7 oz |
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Face Sunscreen With The Best Coverage
Alastin Skincare Broad Spectrum SPF 36 Sunscreen
Now 40% Off
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Smoothing
Cons
- Might not work for all skin tones as there aren't many color options
"This Alastin tinted SPF will forever be an editor favorite, and it's def up there for me, too," says WH associate fashion & commerce editor Lily Wohlner. it's smoothing and water-resistant sunscreen—plus, it's tinted with its mineral formulation. One tester adds that it has an awesome amount of coverage.
Wohlner notes that this water-resistant formula gives you the perfect amount of coverage so you leave the house feeling even and smooth, but not too smooth that it looks unnatural. "It's the perfect everyday tint when you're heading out for the day and want to stay protected," she notes.
SPF | 36 |
---|---|
Protection Type | Mineral |
Active Ingredients | Antioxidants, zinc oxide, ectoin |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
Skin Type | All |
Size | 3.2 oz |
Most Antioxidant-Rich Facial Sunscreen
Isdin Broad Spectrum SPF 50+
Pros
- Works great under makeup
- Reviewers with rosacea love it
Cons
- Errs on the pricer side, but the redness-reducing results make it worthwile
According to dermatologist Morgan Rabach, MD, this formula is 100 percent zinc-based, but it's still super light so it leaves no residue unlike other zinc formulas. Aside from the non-greasy finish, she loves that this product is packed with antioxidants and peptides, so it protects from future damage while also repairing skin at the same time.
One tester, who gave this product five stars, did a patch test to see if this product worsened their rosacea. "This didn't cause any redness and actually felt super calming," they note. "Additionally, my skin is clearer because it has helped the overall redness that I usually have. I couldn’t ask for a better product."
SPF | 50 |
---|---|
Protection type | Mineral |
Active Ingredients | Zinc oxide, vitamin E |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
Skin Type | All, sun damaged |
Size | 3.4 |
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Best Tinted Face Sunscreen
bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturizer
Pros
- Vegan formula
- Gives skin a dewy glow
Cons
- Not ideal for oily skin types
BareMinerals' tinted SPF comes in 20 shades, all of which have a hyaluronic acid-infused formula that gives skin a dewy glow. "This is the all-in-one package," raves dermatologist Sapna Palep, MD. "It protects against pollution, UV, and HEV (blue light), and can be worn alone or as a primer under makeup—it gives the skin an amazing glow!"
And if you need any more convincing, our tester absolutely loved this tinted formula, as it gave them a natural look with a moisturized, dewy finish. "It’s not heavy at all—it really does feel like a moisturizer but it evens out my skin tone," they add. Plus, it looks super natural for those who don’t want a heavy makeup look.
SPF | 30 |
---|---|
Protection type | Mineral |
Active Ingredients | Hyaluronic acid, squalane |
Water-Resistant | No |
Skin Type | Dry |
Size | N/A |
Most 'WH' Beauty Award-Worthy Face Sunscreen
Naturium Dew-Glow Moisturizer SPF 50
Pros
- Leaves a subtle glow
- Works for all skin types
Cons
- Might leave your skin looking oily, multiple reviewers wrote
This sunscreen comes at the recommendation of WH beauty editor Danielle Jackson. And it made the cut for the 2023 WH Beauty Awards, making it even more of a solid pick. Why? It blends into all skin tones, leaves skin looking glowy, and comes with a measuring cap so you know exactly how much to apply. Plus, testers say it moisturizers very well.
"I didn't know a moisturizing sunscreen could be 'perfect,' but this one is," says our tester, who has mature, very sensitive skin. "My skin does not react negatively at all with the Dew-Glow moisturizer. Not only is it providing sunscreen with excellent hydration, the texture and tone of my skin has dramatically improved."
SPF | 50 |
---|---|
Protection type | Mineral |
Active Ingredients | Niacinamide, ethyl ascorbic acid |
Water-Resistant | No |
Skin Type | Aging, combination, dry, and sensitive skin |
Size | 1.7 oz |
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Best Facial Sunscreen For Smoothing Fine Lines/Wrinkles
SkinMedica Total Defense + Repair Broad Spectrum SPF 34
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Has fine line-smoothing ingredients
Cons
- Some reviewers say it leaves a slight grey cast
SkinMedica claims that its SPF features a formula that actually improves the skin’s ability to heal itself—and Dr. Gohara agrees. “It's combined with the antioxidant vitamin E, which helps to restore the skin and reverse fine lines and wrinkling,” she says.
Even testers have noticed a huge difference after using this sunscreen formula, saying that it smoothes their skin without added oil buildup. "I use it on my face and neck and does not make me feel gross and sticky," says one reviewer. "It is absolutely worth the price!"
SPF | 34 |
---|---|
Protection type | Mineral |
Active Ingredients | Zinc oxide |
Water-Resistant | No |
Skin Type | Oily, combination |
Size | 2.3 oz |
Best Soothing Face Sunscreen
Avène UV Mineral Tinted Sunscreen
Pros
- Works great for darker skin tones, reviewers say
- Very lightweight
Cons
- Some say it's hard to blend
“Personally, I prefer mineral sunscreens because they are less reactive,” Dr. Gohara says. When it comes to sunscreens that protect as well nourish the skin, she loves this tinted SPF by Avène when she wants a bit of coverage. "It's ultra lightweight and contains skin-soothing ingredients like bisabolol, allantoin, and niacinamide," she adds.
Those with darker complexions also love this formula because it doesn't leave a harsh white cast. "Just be sure to give it a quick shake and it should be ready to apply," notes our tester.
SPF | 50 |
---|---|
Protection type | Mineral |
Active Ingredients | Avene thermal spring water, niacinamide, zinc oxide |
Water-Resistant | No |
Skin Type | All |
Size | 1.7 oz |
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Best Face Sunscreen For Outdoor Activities
Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50
Pros
- Water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes
- Double editor-approved
Cons
- Might be greasy, a reviewer said
Both WH love and life editor Lydia Wang and contributer Jennifer Nied love this sunscreen, with Nied using the SPF 30 version. It's solid for outdoor activities, doesn't have a white cast, and is reef-friendly, making it better for the environment. It's water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
"I love this one for snowboarding and any outdoor activities," says Nied. "I never go to a mountain destination without it and always keep one in my backpack on the slopes." It can protect on the brightest days and has the smoothest, lightest texture for blending in quickly," she adds.
SPF | 50 |
---|---|
Protection type | Mineral |
Active Ingredients | Sunflower extract, rice bran extract |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
Skin Type | All |
Size | 5.5 oz |
Best Non-Greasy Face Sunscreen
Lancôme UV Expert Primer & Face Moisturizer With SPF 50
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Features hard-hitting ingredients
Cons
- Expensive, but Underwood says he uses it daily
This rec comes from WH's very own beauty director, Brian Underwood. It's not greasy at all, and it's part fluid, part gel, which makes it tacky (but not sticky!) so it can be used as a primer or a moisturizer. Plus, the ingredients are full of antioxidants, which prevent skin damage.
"I hate greasy sunscreen. Let me say it again: I. Hate. Greasy. Sunscreen. But I love this one, so as you can imagine, it's completely non-greasy," says Underwood. "Part fluid, part gel, the texture is fabulously lightweight and it's chock-full of antioxidants like vitamin E, moringa extract, and edelweiss to scavenge free radicals and offer another layer of protection." According to him, It'll become your everyday go-to.
SPF | 50 |
---|---|
Protection type | Mineral |
Active Ingredients | Vitamin E, moringa extract, and edelweiss |
Water-Resistant | N/A |
Skin Type | Sensitive |
Size | 1 oz |
Addison Aloian
Assistant Love & Life Editor
Addison Aloian is the assistant love & life editor at Women’s Health and a NASM-certified personal trainer (CPT). She covers all things lifestyle, astrology, relationships, and fitness. In her free time, you can find her lifting weights at the gym, running on the West Side Highway in New York City, and watching (and critiquing!) the latest movies that have garnered Oscars buzz. In addition to Women's Health, her work has also appeared in Allure, StyleCaster, L'Officiel USA, V Magazine, VMAN, and more.
Lily Wohlner
Associate E-Commerce Editor
Lily Wohlner is the Associate E-Commerce Editor of Women’s Health. An expert in recommending the best products to add-to-cart, she knows what it takes for a product to receive a solid five stars (especially when it comes to beauty!). Starting her career as a freelance makeup artist, Lily has since moved to the editorial world, where she has generated content for brands including Oribe, NewBeauty, Dermstore, SkinStore, and LOOKFANTASTIC. When she’s not zenning out with a pore-clearing mask, the Lower East Side dweller is cheffing up a new recipe with her roommate or thrifting for the perfect pair of blue jeans. Follow her on Instagram.
Tested byDanielle Jackson
Senior Beauty Editor
Danielle is the senior beauty editor at Women's Health. Her apartment is currently littered with beauty products, but when she's not testing them all out, you can find her watching facial ASMR videos on YouTube, binge-watching The Golden Girls on Hulu, and reading rom-coms.