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As warmer, sunnier days descend, it’s only natural to want to find the best sunscreen for face protection. 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. “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.”
Best Sunscreen for Face
How to Apply Sunscreen Properly
The first step to ensuring you’re doing the utmost to safeguard your skin during this especially vulnerable time? Stock up on a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher. “It is a common issue that consumers are not applying it correctly; whether applying a product that is substandard, applying an insufficient amount, or neglecting to reapply appropriately,” dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose explains. “A good guideline for sufficient coverage is about a shot glass worth of product for one application for the whole body or the equivalent of 2 finger lengths for the face.” If you’re in direct sunlight, you must reapply every two hours, or anytime you get wet or perspire. According to Dr. Chris Tomassian, another misconception is that makeup with SPF is sufficient for your daily sunscreen: your SPF-laced makeup must be layered on top of a layer of sunscreen. “Always remember the sunscreen that you will use is the one that is going to be most effective!” Karen adds.
When it comes to choosing a formula, it’s important to consider the sensitivity of your skin, particularly when deciding between a chemical sunscreen and a physical sunscreen, and your overall skin type. 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 worn IRL!). Read on to find your best facial sunscreen.
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.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 8%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 4%)
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
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (Zinc oxide 5%, Titanium dioxide 6%)
Lesse Every Tone SPF 30
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- 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.
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (non-nano uncoated zinc oxide, 17%)
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.
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Water-like liquid.
- 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 uses nelumbo nucifera flower water and botanical extracts to hydrate, soften, and smooth skin.
- SPF Level: SPF 50+
- Texture: Watery Lotion
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate 6.8%, homosalate 6.00%, ethylhexyl salicylate 4.50%, octocrylene 2.50%)
Best Sunscreen for Dry Skin
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
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (Octocrylene 8%, Oxybenzone/Benzophenone-3 5%, Avobenzone/Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane 3%, Ensulizole/Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid 3%)
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
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical ( Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 2.75%)
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (Octinoxate 7.5%, Octisalate 3.0%) plus Zinc Oxide 8.0%.
Best Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin
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.”
- SPF Level: SPF 46
- Texture: Silky lotion.
- Chemical or Mineral: Both (Zinc oxide 9.0%, Octinoxate 7.5%)
Kinship Self Reflect Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 32
- Why We Like It: To ensure the pH of skin stays balanced, Kinship’s sheer and hydrating Self Reflect mineral sunscreen features the brand’s special Kinbiome complex, a plant-based probiotic that helps strengthen the skin barrier, reduce acne outbreaks, and keep skin clear.
- SPF Level: SPF 32
- Texture: Lightweight lotion.
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (non-nano zinc oxide 22.4%)
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Cream.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (homosalate 10.0%, octisalate 5.0%, avobenzone 3.0%)
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 10%, titanium dioxide 8%)
Best for Exercise
Supergoop! Every. Single. Face. Watery Lotion SPF 50
- Why We Like It: With its lightweight wear and cooling sensation, its no wonder this Supergoop! is worthwhile for the active person. The elixir uses cress sprout extract and wild butterfly ginger root extract to strengthen the skin barrier combat both blue light and free radical damage.
- Endorsed By: Dr. Tomassian: “This is a lightweight SPF lotion which easily blends well into the skin and does not leave a residue.”
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Watery lotion.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 9%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 9%)
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.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 2.3%, homosalate 10%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 5%)
Best for Reapplication
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.
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (titanium dioxide 22.5%, zinc oxide 22.5%)
Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF 35
- Why We Like It: Supergoop!’s mineral powder seeks to set makeup in place and mattify skin. When you dust on for sun protection, expect reduced shine and smoothed pores.
- SPF Level: SPF 35
- Texture: Powder.
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 24.7%)
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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