Here’s your daily reminder: The best sunscreen for your face is the expert-recommended key to healthy, glowing skin. Wearing SPF year-round is the most effective way to protect your skin from cancer-causing UV rays and prevent premature aging—the main cause of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven tone, and texture issues.
### Vogue’s Top Facial Sunscreens
– Best for Everyday: Chanel UV Essentiel Complete SPF 50 ($60)
– Best Mineral: SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 ($42)
– Dermatologist-Approved: EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 ($41)
– Best Drugstore: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen Milk SPF 100 ($27)
– Best Chemical: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 ($38)
– Best for a Glow: Kosas DreamBeam SPF 40 ($40)
– Best for Mature Skin: Isdin Eryfotona Actinica Mineral SPF 50+ ($60)
“We’re seeing more skin cancer in younger people,” warns dermatologist Dr. Julie Karen. “If health risks aren’t enough motivation, consider this: The sun causes 90% of visible skin changes we blame on aging.”
While everyone knows sunscreen is essential, finding one you’ll actually wear daily can be tricky—that’s where we come in. After testing dozens of sunscreens (from cult favorites to new releases) and consulting top dermatologists and estheticians, we’ve narrowed it down to the absolute best.
### What to Look for in a Face Sunscreen
– Broad Spectrum: Protects against UVA and UVB rays.
– SPF Level: Dermatologists recommend at least SPF 30.
– Mineral vs. Chemical: Mineral (zinc/titanium) sits on skin, while chemical absorbs UV rays.
– Texture: Should feel comfortable for daily wear.
### Best Mineral Sunscreen: SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF 50
Why We Love It: This lightweight mineral sunscreen blends seamlessly, thanks to zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. It also contains artemia salina (plankton extract) to boost UV defense and reduce redness.
Key Features:
– Type: Mineral (5% zinc oxide, 6% titanium dioxide)
– Texture: Serum-like
– Finish: Matte
– White Cast? No
– Size: 1.7 oz
Pros: Lightweight, no white cast
Cons: Can feel greasy on oily skin
### Best Drugstore: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50
Why We Love It: A beloved drugstore pick, this mineral sunscreen is packed with antioxidants, vitamin E, and thermal spring water. The universal tint blends well without streaking.
Key Features:
– Type: Mineral (titanium dioxide)
– Texture: Ultra-light
– Waterproof? Yes
– Tint: Subtle, works for most skin tones
Pros: Affordable, weightless, great for sensitive skin
Cons: Limited shade range
### Final Thoughts
No matter your skin type or budget, there’s a sunscreen out there for you. The key is finding one you’ll use every single day—rain or shine. Your skin will thank you!Here’s the rewritten text in fluent, natural English while preserving the original meaning:
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A true favorite!
Type: Mineral (The tinted version contains 11% titanium dioxide, while other shades have 17% titanium dioxide and 8% zinc oxide.)
Key Ingredients: Cell-Ox B3 Shield Technology, iron oxides, vitamin E
SPF Level: SPF 50
Texture: Lotion
Broad Spectrum: Yes
Tinted: Yes, four shades
White Cast: No
Finish: Matte
Size: 1.7 oz / 50 mL
Love It: Lightweight yet hydrating—great for most skin types.
Leave It: Shade range may be too limited for deeper skin tones.
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### Best Chemical Sunscreen: Chanel UV Essentiel Complete UV Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Price: $60 at CHANEL
Why We Like It: Chanel’s UV Essentiel sunscreen has become a favorite among Vogue editors.
– Madeline Fass (Senior Shopping Market Editor): “I don’t wear much makeup, so this SPF 50 is the perfect final step in my skincare routine. It glides on like a light-to-medium moisturizer and feels just as comfortable. Plus, it doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin or eyes!”
– Talia Abbas (Senior Shopping Editor): “I’m not always consistent with sunscreen, but when I do wear it, this is my go-to. I love the subtle fragrance it leaves behind!”
Despite its milky texture, it absorbs instantly without leaving a white cast, giving a natural glow. The formula also includes Chanel’s “skin-strengthening complex” with blue ginger and Tahitian gardenia extract to help protect the skin barrier.
Type: Chemical (Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 5%)
Key Ingredients: Glycerin, moringa oil, jojoba esters, squalane, ginger root extract, licorice root extract, shea butter extract
SPF Level: SPF 50
Texture: Lightweight cream
Broad Spectrum: Yes
Tinted: No
White Cast: No
Finish: Natural
Size: 1 fl. oz
Love It: Creamy and nourishing—ideal for dry skin.
Leave It: Contains fragrance, which may not suit sensitive skin.
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### Best Korean Sunscreen: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+ PA++++
Price: $18 at YESSTYLE
Why We Like It: Korean sunscreens often outperform American ones with their advanced filters and pleasant textures. Beauty of Joseon’s formula stands out for its high SPF protection and skin-loving ingredients like probiotics, niacinamide, and rice extract, which improve skin over time.
Dr. Claire Chang (Board-Certified Dermatologist): “This sunscreen doesn’t leave a white cast and feels moisturizing—perfect for daily use.”
Its lightweight, soufflé-like texture absorbs instantly, leaving a natural glow.
Type: Chemical (Ethylhexyl triazone, diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, diethylhexyl butamido triazone, methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol)
Key Ingredients: 30% rice extract, grain-derived probiotics
SPF Level: SPF 50+
Texture: Lightweight cream
Broad Spectrum: Yes
Tinted: No
White Cast: No
Finish: Natural
Size: 50 mL
Love It: Creamy yet lightweight—works for all skin types.
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### Best Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Price: $44 at AMAZON
Why We Like It: This sunscreen offers serious protection while feeling impressively lightweight on the skin.
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Let me know if you’d like any refinements!Here’s a rewritten version of your text in fluent, natural English while keeping the meaning intact:
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### Dermatologist-Favorite Sunscreen
This sunscreen blocks UVA and UVB rays with clear zinc oxide while gently addressing skincare needs.
“I often recommend UV Clear to my acne-prone or oily-skinned patients because it provides excellent sun protection without causing breakouts,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “My patients love it! It’s non-comedogenic and contains lactic acid and niacinamide to prevent acne and reduce inflammation.”
Sodium hyaluronate and niacinamide restore hydration, while lactic acid helps unclog pores and control shine. It’s also our top pick for sensitive skin.
Details:
– Type: Chemical & Mineral (Zinc oxide 9.0%, Octinoxate 7.5%)
– Key Ingredients: 5% niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E
– SPF: 46
– Texture: Silky lotion
– Broad Spectrum: Yes
– Tinted: No
– White Cast: No
– Finish: Natural
– Size: 1.7 oz
Pros:
✔ Dermatologist-recommended, gentle yet effective formula
Cons:
❖ Lotion texture may feel thick on combination or oily skin
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### Best Feel: Summer Fridays Shade Drops Mineral Milk Sunscreen
“This is one of my favorite mineral sunscreens—it offers strong SPF protection with a lightweight, silky texture,” says celebrity esthetician Kristin Gunn. “It blends in without a white cast, making it great for all skin tones. Plus, with squalane and antioxidants, it feels more like skincare than just sun protection.”
Vogue’s social media manager Taylor Lashley also loves it for its “lightweight, serum-like consistency that hydrates without feeling heavy.” Unlike many mineral sunscreens, it absorbs seamlessly with no white residue.
Details:
– Type: Mineral (Zinc oxide 9.4%)
– Key Ingredients: Squalane, vitamin E, bisabolol
– SPF: 30
– Texture: Serum
– Broad Spectrum: Yes
– Tinted: No
– White Cast: No
– Finish: Natural
– Size: 1.7 fl. oz / 50 mL
Pros:
✔ Weightless, serum-like texture
Cons:
❖ May pill if layered with too many products
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### Best for Mature Skin: Isdin Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+
Users love this dermatologist-approved sunscreen because it works well with retinol and tretinoin.
“It’s a lightweight mineral sunscreen that provides excellent protection while repairing existing damage with DNA Repairsomes,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. It combines zinc oxide with a plankton-derived enzyme and vitamin E to fight aging and prevent future damage.
Details:
– Type: Mineral (Zinc oxide 11%)
– Key Ingredients: DNA Repairsomes, vitamin E
– SPF: 50+
– Texture: Lightweight lotion
– Broad Spectrum: Yes
– Tinted: No
– White Cast: No
– Finish: Natural
– Size: 3.4 fl. oz / 100 mL
Pros:
✔ Extremely gentle, even on sensitive skin
Cons:
❖ Can feel greasy on combination or oily skin
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### Best for a Glow: Kosas DreamBeam SPF 40
Already a hit since its 2023 launch, Kosas DreamBeam now comes in a “Sunlit” shade for a golden glow—perfect for deeper skin tones.
This clean, non-comedogenic, silicone-free sunscreen uses non-nano zinc oxide for gentle UV protection.
“It combines mineral protection with skin-smoothing peptides,” says Gunn. “It works beautifully under makeup—never heavy or chalky.” Plus, it’s packed with peptides, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and allantoin to keep skin nourished and fresh.
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Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!Here’s a more natural and fluent version of your text while keeping all the original information:
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Calm
Type: Mineral (non-nano zinc 21.7%)
Key Ingredients: Peptides, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, allantoin
SPF Level: SPF 40
Texture: Lotion
Broad Spectrum: No
Tinted: Yes, two shades—Original (peachy-pink) and Sunlit (golden bronze)
White Cast: No
Finish: Dewy
Size: 1.3 oz / 40 mL
Love It: Radiant finish works well under makeup
Leave It: Can pill if layered with too many products
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Best for Combination Skin: Ultra Violette Future Screen SPF 50
Price: $40 (available at Ultra Violette and Sephora)
Why We Like It:
Australian brand Ultra Violette has arrived in the U.S., bringing its silky, UV-protective sunscreens. Future Screen is a standout with its lightweight, serum-like texture that leaves a natural finish. It hydrates and soothes with squalane and hyaluronic acid. Dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp notes it uses advanced mineral filters (20% zinc oxide) for gentle, white cast-free SPF 50 protection—ideal for sensitive and normal-to-oily skin.
Type: Mineral (zinc oxide 20%)
Key Ingredients: Squalane, vitamin E
SPF Level: 50
Texture: Serum
Broad Spectrum: Yes
Tinted: Slightly, but minimal and no white cast
White Cast: No
Finish: Natural
Size: 50 mL / 1.7 fl. oz
Love It: Nourishing formula for all skin types
Leave It: Slight tint may be too warm for very fair skin
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Best Invisible Sunscreen: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++
Price: $38 (available at Nordstrom and Amazon)
Why We Like It:
Supergoop!’s Unseen Sunscreen is a cult favorite for its clear, weightless application—ideal for all skin tones. Dermatologist Dr. Murphy-Rose praises its broad-spectrum chemical protection without a white cast. The oil-free formula feels like a primer, infused with red algae, frankincense, and meadowfoam oil to soothe and hydrate.
Type: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 7%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 9%)
Key Ingredients: Meadowfoam seed oil, chamomile-derived bisabolol, licorice root
SPF Level: 40
Texture: Silky primer
Broad Spectrum: Yes
Tinted: No
White Cast: No
Finish: Matte
Size: 50 mL / 1.7 fl. oz
Love It: Completely clear—no white cast
Leave It: Primer-like texture may not suit those who prefer traditional creams
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Best for Oily Skin: Coola Refreshing Water Plumping Gel Serum SPF 30
Price: $48 (available at Nordstrom)
Why We Like It:
This water-gel sunscreen is a dream for hydration lovers. Its refreshing formula absorbs quickly, thanks to hyaluronic acid, aloe, and coconut water. Dr. Camp highlights its marine-derived algae extract, packed with amino acids and antioxidants. Perfect for dehydrated skin needing lightweight SPF.
Type: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 6%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 7%)
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, organic aloe, coconut water
SPF Level: 30
Texture: Water-gel
Broad Spectrum: No
Tinted: No
White Cast: No
Finish: Natural
Size: 30 mL / 1 fl. oz
Love It: Refreshing water-gel feel
Leave It: Bottle and pump design could be improved
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Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!Best Drugstore Sunscreen: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 55
Photo: Courtesy of Ingu Chen & Fujio Emura
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 55
$20 | [AMAZON](https://www.amazon.com)
Why We Like It:
This affordable drugstore sunscreen is a crowd favorite. “This lightweight chemical (organic) sunscreen offers SPF 55 protection in a non-greasy, oxybenzone-free formula that complies with Hawaii’s Act 104. It’s enriched with vitamin E and leaves a shine-free finish,” says Camp. Gunn adds that it’s “perfect to toss in your bag for the beach, hiking, and more.” It’s also non-comedogenic, oil-free, and water-resistant while providing strong UV protection and a smooth, invisible application.
– Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (Avobenzone 3%, homosalate 10%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 10%)
– Key Ingredients: Hydrolyzed jojoba esters
– SPF Level: SPF 55
– Texture: Lightweight lotion
– Broad Spectrum: Yes
– Tinted: No
– White Cast: No
– Finish: Matte
– Size: 3 fl. oz
Love It
✔ High SPF and water resistance make it great for active days
Leave It
✖ Lotion texture can feel thick during application
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Best Powder Sunscreen: Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50
Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50
$69 | [AMAZON](https://www.amazon.com)
Why We Like It:
This brush-on powder sunscreen is perfect for easy reapplication throughout the day. Available in four shades, it’s sweat- and water-resistant. “This lightweight SPF powder applies smoothly over makeup,” says Dr. Tomassian. “A simple way to reapply!” Murphy-Rose also loves it: “When you have a full face of makeup but need sun protection, this Colorescience product is a reliable choice.”
– Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (Titanium dioxide 22.5%, zinc oxide 22.5%)
– Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, grape seed extract, green tea leaf extract
– SPF Level: SPF 50
– Texture: Powder
– Broad Spectrum: Yes
– Tinted: Yes (four shades)
– White Cast: No
– Finish: Matte
– Size: 0.21 oz. / 6 g
Love It
✔ Mattifies without looking cakey
Leave It
✖ Limited shade range
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What to Look for in a Face Sunscreen
SPF Level:
“Choosing sunscreen doesn’t have to be complicated!” says Tomassian. “Look for SPF 30 or higher and broad-spectrum protection (blocking both UVA and UVB rays). Apply at least two finger-lengths of sunscreen to your face, and reapply every two hours when outdoors. Apply 20 minutes before sun exposure.”
Type:
Murphy-Rose explains that physical sunscreens (also called sunblocks) create a barrier on the skin, while chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays. “Both are effective, but chemical sunscreens may irritate sensitive skin,” says Dr. Nazarian. “Physical sunscreens are more stable but can feel heavier and trap heat.” Look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide in mineral sunscreens.
Texture:
The right texture depends on your needs. Lightweight or primer-like formulas work well under makeup, while richer, creamier options suit dry skin. Consider your skin type and routine when choosing.
White Cast:
Some sunscreens leave a white or purplish tint, especially mineral formulas with zinc oxide. Fortunately, many modern sunscreens—even mineral ones—now minimize this effect.Sunscreen Without a White Cast
Choose a sunscreen that blends seamlessly without leaving a white residue.
Broad Spectrum Protection
“Broad spectrum” means the sunscreen shields against both UVA and UVB rays. Without this label, it only protects against UVB rays, leaving your skin vulnerable to UVA damage.
Editors’ Review
Our team has tested every sunscreen on this list (and many more that didn’t make the cut) to evaluate texture and sensitivity. If our editors or dermatologist experts strongly recommend a product, you’ll see their notes in the descriptions.
Top Picks
Our favorites include:
– Chanel UV Essentiel Complete UV SPF 50
– EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
– Naturium Dew Glow Moisturizer SPF 50
– SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
### What Is Broad Spectrum Sunscreen?
Dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose explains: “Broad spectrum means the sunscreen protects against a wide range of UV wavelengths, including both UVA and UVB rays.”
### How Much Sunscreen to Use on Your Face
Dr. Murphy-Rose recommends applying two finger-lengths of sunscreen to your face each time. “A common mistake is not using enough product. Cover your entire face, including brows, ears, and around the lips—areas often missed where pre-cancerous growths can develop.” She also suggests using an SPF lip balm.
### Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen
There’s ongoing debate about which type is best. Here’s the breakdown:
Mineral Sunscreen
– Contains zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide.
– Forms a physical barrier that blocks UV rays.
– Less likely to irritate sensitive skin.
– Considered reef-safe (non-nano particles are best).
Chemical Sunscreen
– Uses ingredients like avobenzone, octocrylene, and oxybenzone.
– Absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat.
– Must be applied 15 minutes before sun exposure to work.
– Can wash off easily if you swim immediately after applying.
### Dermatologist-Recommended Sunscreens
Dermatologists often recommend broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreens from brands like EltaMD, SkinCeuticals, La Roche-Posay, and Supergoop!. Check the “endorsed by” notes for expert insights on the best sunscreens of 2024.
### Should You Wear Sunscreen Every Day? Even Indoors?
Yes! Dr. Murphy-Rose emphasizes daily sunscreen use to prevent cumulative sun damage, which affects both health and appearance. “Applying sunscreen daily is one of the best ways to protect your skin.”Daily Sunscreen Benefits
Wearing sunscreen every day significantly lowers your risk of skin cancer and helps keep your skin looking youthful for longer. “We’re also learning more about the harmful effects of blue light from LED lighting and devices like phones and computers,” she adds. “That’s why wearing sunscreen indoors also protects your skin.”
How to Apply (and Reapply) Sunscreen Correctly
Now that you know what to look for in a sunscreen, proper application is key. “Many people don’t apply it correctly—whether they’re using a low-quality product, not applying enough, or forgetting to reapply,” says dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose. “A good rule of thumb is to use about a shot glass worth for your whole body or two finger-lengths’ worth for your face.”
If you’re in direct sunlight, reapply every two hours—or immediately after swimming or sweating. This means applying the same amount as your first application (remember the two-finger rule!) or following the directions for sunscreen sprays or powders. Dr. Chris Tomassian notes another common mistake: relying solely on makeup with SPF. “Your SPF makeup should be layered over a separate sunscreen,” he says. Karen adds, “The sunscreen you actually use is the one that works best!”
How Long Does Sunscreen Last?
“Sunscreen loses effectiveness after exposure to air and light, so reapply every 90 minutes in the sun,” Green previously told Vogue. “Also reapply after sweating or swimming.” In short, sunscreen doesn’t last long, so frequent reapplication is essential.
What SPF Is Best for Your Face?
With so many sunscreens available, it’s natural to wonder: does SPF really matter?
“SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures how much UV radiation it takes to burn protected skin (with sunscreen) versus unprotected skin,” explains dermatologist Dr. Michele Green. “Higher SPF means your skin can handle more UV exposure before burning.” Most experts recommend SPF 30 or higher, but Green suggests at least SPF 50.
How We Tested
Our product reviews take a comprehensive approach. We consult dermatologists, estheticians, and other experts to identify top-performing products—ones professionals actually use and recommend. We combine their insights with our own testing and editorial standards to bring you trusted recommendations.
For sunscreens, we evaluate ingredients, texture, finish, SPF level, and how well they address specific skin concerns. Our testing includes personal trials, expert advice, and customer feedback to determine the best options for you.
Meet the Experts
– Dr. Brendan Camp: A double board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist practicing in New York and Long Island.
– Kristin Gunn: Celebrity esthetician and owner of Halcyon Skincare and Beaux Medspa.
– Dr. Michele Green: A board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, offering advanced skincare treatments.Here’s a more natural and fluent version of your text:
Dr. Julie Karen is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, specializing in laser surgery, skin cancer, and cosmetic dermatology.
Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, with expertise in facial rejuvenation and non-invasive body contouring.
Dr. Rachel Nazarian is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, focusing on laser treatments, injectables, skin cancer screenings, dermatologic surgery, and body contouring.
Dr. Melanie Palm is a board-certified dermatologist at The Art of Skin MD in San Diego, California.
Dr. Chris Tomassian is a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles and the founder of The Dermatology Collective.
This version keeps all the original information while making it smoother and easier to read. Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!