12 Best Sunscreens for Every Person & Skin Concern, Tested & Reviewed
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Ask any dermatologist: The fact that we need to wear sunscreen is not up for debate. But finding some of the best sunscreens for face and body isn’t easy. Sunscreen has a bad rep for being chalky, greasy, and generally all-around annoying to apply. Unfortunately, the sun’s UVA and UVB rays can not only cause sunburn but also lead to premature signs of skin aging—namely, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation—and even skin cancer. The bottom line: Everyone needs a facial sunscreen as part of their skin care routine every single day. Yes, even in the winter.
To bring you the ultimate guide to SPF, we asked dermatologists and Glamour editors to test both tried-and-true broad-spectrum sunscreens and the newest, most promising launches. We analyzed every last detail: type of sunscreen and method of application, consistency and how the formula feels on the skin, how well it rubs in, and whether it leaves any white cast, the finish (is it greasy or mattifying?), and—of course—overall efficacy. Below are the best of the best, tested by editors and experts who wear them daily.
The best sunscreen, at a glance
- Best Face Sunscreen: EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen, $41
- Best Body Sunscreen: La Roche Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Body and Face Sunscreen SPF 60, $38
- Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin: Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Dry-Touch Face Sunscreen, $19
- Best Mineral Sunscreen: Isdin Eryfotona Actinica Daily Lightweight Mineral Sunscreen, $73
- Best Chemical Sunscreen: Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30 Sunscreen Mousse, $22
- Best Sunscreen for Darker Skin Tones: Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30, $16
- Best Sunscreen for Babies and Kids: Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Mineral Sunscreen, $10
Your sunscreen questions, answered
- 1/17
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is, by far, the most widely recommended sunscreen by dermatologists. It’s a face sunscreen we’ve found that’s good for just about everyone. In tests this clear sunscreen was well tolerated by all skin types, including those who need sunscreen for sensitive skin.
What dermatologists say: Dermatologists tell us it’s a go-to because it not only exceeds the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommendation of 30 SPF (sun protection factor) or more but also has a lightweight, comfortable texture. “It’s easy to apply and absorbs into my skin readily—no greasy residue whatsoever,” says Debra Ibrahim, DO, co-owner of Aesthetica Medspa in New Jersey. Translation: It’s the perfect sunscreen for layering under makeup.
Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City, also counts this among her favorites because it works across a wide range of skin types. She even approves it “for acne-prone skin because of its lightweight, noncomedogenic formula. It contains niacinamide, which helps calm and protect sensitive, blemish-prone skin, making it an excellent choice for daily sun protection without causing breakouts,” she says.
What reviewers say: Our testers also gave glowing reviews of this formula. “I like the creamy—but not at all sticky—consistency of this facial sunscreen, since lightweight options can feel kind of goopy and hard to work with,” says Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley. “I like the clear formula but appreciate the option of the brand’s tinted sunscreen too.”
- Type: Chemical
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide
- SPF: 46
- Water-resistant: Yes (80 minutes)
- Fast facts: Creamy consistency; layers well; lightweight and nonsticky
- 2/17
Isdin Photo Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion Mineral Sunscreen
Common complaints about mineral sunscreens usually center on visible white cast or a greasy film, but you won’t find any of that in this skin-care-packed formula.
What dermatologists say: Dr. Garshick calls Isdin Photo Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion Mineral Sunscreen “a standout” when compared to similar mineral formulas. She loves the texture, which feels like an ultralight serum and absorbs in a flash. It also gets high marks for an impressive ingredients list that does significantly more than shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays. That’s thanks to the included DNA Repairsomes, which are enzymes that help repair existing sun damage. “Its added DNA repair enzymes make it a top choice for those seeking both sun protection and skin health benefits,” she says. “It provides broad-spectrum protection while being kind to sensitive skin.”
What reviewers say: “It’s runnier than your usual SPF, and the finish is matte and almost powdery, but it doesn’t leave any white cast behind,” says Glamour commerce editor Jake Henry Smith, who deals with oily, acne-prone skin. “A little goes a long way—my bottle lasted months—so the price tag isn’t quite as shocking as it might appear to be. My skin has since evened out, but I still have a soft spot for this gentle, lifesaving formula.”
- Type: Mineral
- Key ingredients: DNA Repairsomes (enzymes)
- SPF: 50+
- Water-resistant: Yes (40 minutes)
- Fast facts: Serum-like formula; fast-absorbing; contains enzymes that help repair existing sun damage
- 3/17
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen
If you want one formula that covers you from head to toe, pick La Roche Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk body and face sunscreen with SPF 60. True to its name, it features a fast-absorbing texture that melts in just like your favorite body lotion.
What dermatologists say: “I love this SPF for the body, as it offers robust protection with a smooth, nongreasy texture that feels comfortable on the skin,” says Dr. Garshick of the water-resistant formula. Along with its lightweight feel, it also features a gentle formula that won’t cause irritation whether you’re slathering it on your arms or all over your face. “It’s perfect for sensitive skin due to its gentle formulation, ensuring effective sun defense without causing irritation,” she says.
- Type: Chemical
- Key ingredients: Senna alata leaf extract, thermal spring water
- SPF: 60
- Water-resistant: Yes (80 minutes)
- Fast facts: Oil-free; fast absorbing; works on both face and body
- 4/17
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen
It doesn’t get much more satisfying than finding a drugstore sunscreen that works as hard as CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen does.
What dermatologists say: It’s suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, says Dr. Garshick. And here’s what it delivers: broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection, as well as ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid to moisturize the skin barrier and keep dry skin hydrated. It’s also fragrance-free so you don’t need to worry about irritation if you have sensitivities to fragrance.
What reviewers say: Our testers love just how lightweight it is and tell us the noncomedogenic formula didn’t irritate even the most sensitive of the bunch. Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle regularly reaches for this one—typically for a no-makeup beach day. “The consistency is thick, but after some rubbing, it settles in nicely and leaves a glow,” she says. And if you don’t want a tinted sunscreen, no problem. It’s available in an untinted formula.
- Type: Mineral
- Key ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid
- SPF: 30
- Water-resistant: No
- Fast facts: Light coverage; nonsticky formula; noncomedogenic; tinted and untinted options
- 5/17
Hero Cosmetics Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen
Don’t be put off by the unique green color of Hero Cosmetics Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen; that’s a key reason it’s such a worthy SPF for acne-prone skin. The hue helps cancel out any redness associated with irritated or acne-prone skin. And because it’s a gel-cream formula, it lends a soothing effect as it settles into the skin.
What reviewers say: “My skin type (combination and prone to breakouts) and skin tone (olive) have made it hard for me to find a good sunscreen,” says Glamour contributor Deanna Pai. “Most tend to feel cloying or prove hard to blend out invisibly.” This lightweight sunscreen is different, she says, noting it blends in seamlessly. It’s not at all heavy or shine-inducing—even if you skew oily and acne-prone, she says.
- Type: Mineral
- Key ingredients: Purple sweet potato root extract, green tea leaf extract, red algae extract, raspberry seed oil
- SPF: 35
- Water-resistant: No
- Fast facts: Lightweight; nongreasy; great for making redness and rosacea less visible
- 6/17
Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Dry-Touch Face Sunscreen
You can find Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Dry-Touch Face Sunscreen at any drugstore, but it’s a far cry from basic.
What dermatologists say: The 100% clear formula is a favorite of Zaineb H. Makhzoumi, MD, a director of clinical services and head of dermatologic surgery and oncology at University of Maryland Medical Center, who notes the brand’s spray sunscreen is also a great option for protecting the scalp.
What reviewers say: “This feels just as lightweight as more expensive formulas and leaves no white cast or grease behind,” says Glamour contributor Bella Cacciatore. Our testers, Cacciatore included, say the formula has a mattifying effect that makes it a great sunscreen for oily skin. It dries essentially upon contact and is great for layering with makeup. We like that it has a higher SPF than most of the other formulas on our list too.
- Type: Mineral
- Key ingredients: Glycerin, colloidal oatmeal
- SPF: 50
- Water-resistant: Yes (80 minutes)
- Fast facts: Widely available drugstore pick; oil-free; noncomedogenic; doesn’t leave a white cast
- 7/17
Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex
Tinted sunscreens tend to hold far less pigment than tinted moisturizers, but we still appreciate a shade range that considers a wider set of skin tones. Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex has four supersheer offerings: fair, medium, tan, and deep. Each goes on sheer and then adapts to your skin tone with transforming pigments. It also features a finish that acts like a blurring filter, making your skin look smoother and glowier. We picked it as one of our favorite sunscreens for dry skin, too, because of its hydrating ingredients, such as niacinamide.
What dermatologists say: This is the tinted sunscreen Dr. Garshick most frequently recommends. “It’s an exceptional tinted sunscreen that adapts to your skin tone, offering a natural finish and even coverage,” she says. She also likes how gentle the mineral formula is, making it a safe choice for all skin types. “It’s ideal for sensitive skin, as it combines mineral protection with skincare benefits, ensuring you look great while staying protected,” she says.
What reviewers say: Glamour's Calle is a fan of this viral color-changing sunscreen. “It comes out as white and quickly blends to tinted and leaves a nice glow. When I want to wear minimal makeup, this is my go-to tinted SPF pick.”
- Type: Mineral
- Key ingredients: Lipochroman (antioxidant), Vital ETTM (vitamin E), niacinamide
- SPF: 50
- Water-resistant: Yes (40 minutes)
- Fast facts: Four sheer shades; filtered finish; safe for sensitive skin
- 8/17
Aquaphor Lip Protectant + Sunscreen Lip Balm
Your lips are one of the most overlooked areas when it comes to sun protection. This is especially problematic, since the skin here is the thinnest of anywhere on our faces, making it more susceptible to sun damage, says Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Facet Dermatology. That’s why we suggest keeping this lip balm with SPF on you at all times. Aquaphor Lip Protectant is one of our favorite drugstore picks that pairs excellent value with the recommended SPF 30 (many other formulas fall short at 20 or even lower). It’s also as hydrating as you’d hope a lip balm would be.
What dermatologists say: The ingredients list boasts skin nourishers including shea butter, vitamin E, and castor seed oil, says Jeremy Brauer, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York.
What reviewers say: “I’ve been using this lip balm for as long as I can remember,” says Earley. “Sure, it’s a little bit greasy upon application, but it’s not at all sticky, and there’s really nothing that compares when it comes to hydration. I must have a half dozen tubes around the house and in my car.”
- Type: Chemical
- Key ingredients: Glycerin, castor seed oil, shea butter
- SPF: 30
- Water-resistant: No
- Fast facts: Hydrating; budget-friendly; contains recommended level of SPF protection
- 9/17
Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing Sunscreen for Face and Body
Sunscreen is a must no matter what shade your skin is. But those with darker skin tones know how difficult it can be to find a high-quality SPF that doesn’t make their skin look chalky. Enter Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion, made by a woman of color to address this very issue. Think of it as a moisturizer-sunscreen hybrid. Though it packs the SPF 30 you need, the formula also counts nourishing ingredients like jojoba and avocado oils.
What reviewers say: Our testers raved about this sunscreen for darker skin. “Life-changing would be an understatement,” Glamour contributor Brionna Jimerson told us when she first tried it. “It’s not ashy, greasy, or sticky. And most important, it’s completely invisible. I can’t tell you what a relief it is to be able to sweat without worrying that my sunscreen is leaving gray-purple streaks down my face. Most of all, though, I love that it’s a sunscreen made for me.”
- Type: Chemical
- Key ingredients: Aloe vera leaf juice, carrot seed oil, avocado oil, jojoba seed oil
- SPF: 30
- Water-resistant: Yes (80 minutes)
- Fast facts: No white cast; hydrating; completely invisible; hydrating formula
- 10/17
Vertra Invisible Face Stick
Do men need a category of sunscreen dedicated just for them? Absolutely not, but Vertra Invisible Face Stick SPF 45 happens to be both popular with men and also a really great formula for anyone. This sunscreen stick is compact, making it portable enough to stash in a pocket (truly, it’s that small).
What dermatologists say: It’s easy to apply—no fingers required, something Deeptej Singh, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Sandia Dermatology in Albuquerque, tells us his male patients say is key when they seek out sunscreen for men. It also goes on 100% clear and is water-resistant for a full 80 minutes.
What reviewers say: “This SPF is tiny—smaller than the palm of my hand,” our tester said. “My biggest problem with traditional sunscreen is that I forget to apply it, because I don’t carry a bag with me. But I spend a lot of my workday outside. I keep this one in my pocket or the cup holder in my car, which helps me remember.”
- Type: Mineral
- Key ingredients: Shea butter, coconut oil, avocado oil, rice bran oil
- SPF: 45
- Water-resistant: Yes (80 minutes)
- Fast facts: Totally clear; very portable; easy to apply; travel-friendly and TSA-approved
- 11/17
ThinkBaby Zinc Oxide Sunscreen
It’s no surprise ThinkBaby Zinc Oxide Sunscreen is the overall best-selling baby sunscreen on Amazon. Parents just want what’s best for their little ones, and ThinkBaby’s mineral sunscreen earned the highest rating you can get from the Environmental Working Group (EWG), an independent organization that tracks chemical safety in products. When it comes to sunscreen, that’s not an easy accolade to earn.
And though it’s considered safer than the vast majority of sunscreens out there, this SPF50 motion doesn’t sacrifice a gentle formula for efficacy. The kid-friendly formula delivers water-resistant protection from non-nano zinc particles—important, because this type of zinc doesn’t absorb into skin. The price you pay for this kind of protection is a slight white cast, but our tester said the formula spreads well and isn’t at all oily or goopy.
- Type: Mineral
- Key ingredients: Aloe vera, jojoba seed oil
- SPF: 50+
- Water-resistant: Yes (80 minutes)
- Fast facts: Better texture than most zinc formulas; high EWG rating; safe for babies and kids; does leave a slight white cast
- 12/17
Vacation Classic Whip Sunscreen Mousse
You know a sunscreen is good when it keeps selling out. Sure, not all viral sensations actually have legs, but we can 100% vouch for Vacation Classic Whip Sunscreen Mousse. The retro-inspired pick won Best Body Sunscreen in our 2023 Glamour Beauty Awards for its unique mousselike formula that absorbs quickly and blends seamlessly into all skin tones. It’s also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
What reviewers say: The scent is unlike anything you’ve ever smelled before, says Glamour contributor Andrea Navarro, who describes the smell as a beachy mix of “banana, coconut, pool water, pool toys, and even swimsuit Lycra.” It’s truly a must-have for your next beach vacation.
- Type: Chemical
- Key ingredients: Aloe vera leaf juice, coconut oil, banana fruit extract, niacinamide
- SPF: 30
- Water-resistant: Yes (40 minutes)
- Fast facts: Lightweight; unique whipped texture; no white cast
- 13/17
What’s the difference between chemical and physical sunscreen?
There are two types of sunscreen formulas: mineral (also known as physical blockers) and chemical. Although both protect your skin from the sun, the way they do that is very different.
“Sunblocks, or physical sunscreens, work by sitting on top of your skin to reflect UV rays, whereas chemical sunscreens sink into your skin to absorb UV rays and convert them into heat,” says Shereene Idriss, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Chemical sunscreens also often include antioxidants that disarm free radicals—which cause UV-ray-based harm—and cut down damage to your skin cells. Their active ingredients can include filters like avobenzone, oxybenzone, and homosalate.
Aside from the “sunscreen” and “sunblock” label, you can tell what type of protection you’re getting by taking a peek at the ingredients label. If you see the sunscreen ingredients titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, you’re dealing with a physical sunblock. Derms say mineral blocks tend to be less irritating for sensitive skin. They also work immediately, and don’t require any downtime before you can go in the sun (chemical sunscreens, meanwhile, take about 20 or 30 minutes to start working properly). Physical blockers also tend to be thicker and more difficult to rub in. Chemical formulas have a history of being more user-friendly since they’re the easiest formula to apply and leave less of a white cast.
- 14/17
What level of SPF do dermatologists recommend?
“I recommend a minimum of SPF 30 daily,” says Dr. Idriss, which is based on the recommendation from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). However, just as formula is not one-size-fits-all, you should also consider your concerns when selecting your SPF level. “SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB, whereas SPF 30 blocks 97%, and SPF 50 blocks 98%,” she says. “Although this increase may seem like a negligible gain in protection, if you are prone to sunburns or skin cancers, that little gain can make a world of a difference.”
It’s also important to consider how much you’re applying. According to the AAD, most people apply only 25% to 50% of the recommend amount of sunscreen. The general rule is to use at least two fingers’ length on your face, and enough to fill a shot glass for your entire body.
- 15/17
How long does sunscreen last?
“The FDA guidelines mandate that SPF directions must say to reapply every two hours when you are outdoors,” says Loretta Ciraldo, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami. “Remember that the AAD recommends a three-pronged approach to sun protection that includes wearing sun-protective clothing, as well as trying to avoid sun exposure during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.”
While waterproof sunscreen options are great for swimming or sports, it’s worth noting that the FDA mandates these formulas can be labeled as water- and sweat-resistant for only up to 80 minutes. Because of this, Dr. Idriss recommends reapplying your water-resistant sunscreens immediately after getting out of the water.
- 16/17
Should I wear sunscreen if I have sensitive skin?
If you’ve made it to the end of this guide, you should already know that the answer is a resounding yes. But just in case you need further expert confirmation, dermatologists agree. “You should wear sunscreen even if you have sensitive skin,” confirms Dr. Garshick. “Sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UV rays, which can cause sunburn, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer.” If you have especially reactive and sensitive skin, try one of our recommended options for sensitive skin like EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen, La Roche Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Body and Face Sunscreen, or CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen. Generally, you’ll want to look for a formula without potential irritants like fragrance.
- 17/17
Meet our experts
- Nava Greenfield, MD is a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City.
- Geeta Yadav, MD is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Facet Dermatology in Toronto.
- Jeremy Brauer, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.
- Melanie Palm, MD is a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon at Art of Skin MD in the San Diego area.
- Deborah Longwill, DO is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of the Miami Center for Dermatology.
- Zaineb H. Makhzoumi, MD is a director of clinical services and head of dermatologic surgery and oncology at University of Maryland Medical Center.
- Marisa Garshick, MD is a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City.
- Shereene Idriss, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.
- Loretta Ciraldo, MD, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist in Miami.
- Debra Ibrahim, DO is the co-owner of Aesthetica Medspa in New Jersey.
- Deeptej Singh, MD is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Sandia Dermatology in Albuquerque.