18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (2024)

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (1)

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Wouldn't it be incredible if there were a way to prevent dark spots, wrinkles—even skin cancer? There is! A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or above helps protect your skin from damaging UV radiation, which can cause skin cancer and signs of aging (dark spots, dryness, dullness, sagging, fine lines, and wrinkles). Of course, to reap these benefits, you have to actually apply the sunscreen daily (and then reapply it after two hours outdoors or after swimming or sweating).

What to consider when choosing a sunscreen

Since this is something you're going to put on your skin every single day (yes, even on gray days—UVA rays, which cause skin aging, can penetrate windows and clouds, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation), you need to find a formula you absolutely love. The good news is that sunscreens come in an array of formulas, protection levels, tints, and application methods, and the newest wave of options is redefining what you once associated with the category. The only requirement when picking a sunscreen is finding a formula that contains SPF 30 or above.

How we chose the best face sunscreens

As beauty editors, part of our job is to test, research, and discover the best SPF formulas. After stress-testing, daily application, and reapplication, we narrowed down our favorites. They are moisturizing, lightweight, easy to blend, and downright luxurious, with options available for all skin tones and skin types. We also included dermatologist-approved face sunscreens. They're so good, you'll never forget to apply SPF again.

The experts:

1

Best Tinted

Supergoop Protec(tint) Daily SPF Tint SPF 50

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (9)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (10)Dewy finish
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (11)Light buildable coverage
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (12)It may be a little thick for very oily skin

If you love a sunscreen that serves double duty, this tinted formula works to protect and even out your skin tone with light to medium coverage. It's available in 14 shades, from fair to deep. The formula is very moisturizing thanks to hyaluronic acid-infused clay, which also helps control excess oil production. Ecotin adds an extra layer of defense against blue light, radiation, and pollution. "I love how easily it blends, its dewy finish, and coverage, offering for one less step in my routine," says Oprah Daily beauty editor Genesis Rivas.

Type:mineral and chemical

2

Best For All Skin Tones

Dr. Loretta Urban Antioxidant Sunscreen SPF 40

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (13)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (14)Protects against UVA/UVB and blue light
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (15)Doesn't leave behind white cast
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (16)It's pricey compared to other options on this list

Sunscreens that filter UV rays using zinc oxide or titanium oxide tend to be thick and leave a white cast, especially on darker complexions, but this zinc oxide formula is tinted and blends easily into multiple skin colors. It's also loaded with antioxidants to protect against pollution and peptides to nourish skin.

Type:Chemical

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3

Best Drugstore

Olay Hyaluronic + Peptide 24 Face Moisturizer SPF 30

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (17)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (18)Hydrating
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (19)Great for all skin types, including sensitive
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (20)It's fragrance-free, so some reviewers notice the smell of the formula

This fragrance-free pick makes it suitable for all skin types; it contains hydrating hyaluronic acid, niacinamide to help even out skin tone, and peptides to promote a more firm complexion. You can find it at your local drugstore for a budget-friendly price. Not to mention, the lightweight texture makes it great for layering under makeup. It's also free of common allergens like dyes, parabens, and mineral oil.

Type:Chemical

4

Dermatologist Recommended

EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (21)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (22)Lightweight
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (23)Broad-spectrum
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (24)Some reviewers say the pump can break easily

Ask just about any dermatologist for their list of SPF superstars, and chances are EltaMD is on it. Ibrahim loves this one in particular because it's broad-spectrum (meaning it protects against UVA and UVB rays), lightweight, and non-greasy, making it easy to layer makeup on top. It's a great choice for dry and combination skin types.

Type:Mineral and chemical

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5

Best Powder

Brush on Block Translucent Mineral Powder Sunscreen SPF 50

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (25)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (26)Travel-friendly
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (27)Perfects makeup
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (28)Easy to apply
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (29)It can be hard to know if you've applied enough for adequate protection..

Perfect for reapplying SPF throughout the day, this translucent SPF 50 brushes right over makeup to help protect against the sun's rays, blur imperfections, and even rehydrate skin, thanks to its emollients. It's a must-have travel companion.

Type:Mineral

6

Best for Dry Skin

COOLA Full Spectrum 360º Refreshing Water Cream

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (30)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (31)Hydrating
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (32)No white cast
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (33)Refreshing feel
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (34)It's pricey compared to other options

It doesn't get better than this SPF meets daily moisturizer. The formula contains chemical UV filters along with hyaluronic acid and coconut water to deliver a refreshing boost of hydration that leaves your skin radiant and plump. It blends like a dream and doesn't feel sticky or greasy. "It's so hydrating and leaves a glowing finish that's so good, my skin looks like glass," says Rivas.

Type:Chemical

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7

Best for Dull Skin

Supergoop Glowscreen Sunscreen SPF 40

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (35)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (36)Radiant finish
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (37)Not sticky or greasy
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (38)Formulas with sheen can emphasize breakouts and pimples

This SPF 40 doubles as a dewy tinted primer. Pick from four shades (pink pearl to a deep bronze) to wear under makeup for a lit-from-within radiance or on bare skin for a beautifully glowy complexion. The formula is both moisturizing and nourishing, thanks to hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, and antioxidants. "The glow it gives is unbelievable," says Rivas. "It's the perfect base for makeup."

Type:Chemical

8

Best for Oily Skin

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (39)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (40)Mattifying
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (41)Travel-friendly
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (42)Lightweight feel
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (43)Some reviewers say the liquid texture can be messy

Those with oily or combination skin will appreciate the mattifying properties of this lightweight and fast-absorbing fluid, which contains zinc oxide and titanium oxide. It's small and compact, making it great for travel, and is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes. It's also suitable for sensitive skin types.

Type:Mineral

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9

Most Lightweight

PCA SKIN Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 45

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (44)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (45)Weightless feel
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (46)Protects against free radical damage
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (47)It's pricey compared to other options

Perfect for layering under your makeup, this broad-spectrum SPF contains antioxidants that help neutralize damaging free radicals generated by UV light, says Ibrahim. It also contains caffeine, which is a powerful antioxidant and bisabolol, an ingredient found in chamomile, helps to calm and soothe the skin while retaining moisture.

Type:Chemical

10

Most Blendable Mineral Formula

Alumier MD Clear Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 42

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (48)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (49)Doesn't leave behind a white cast
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (50)Soothing formula
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (51)Hydrating
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (52)Only available via Alumier MD

This oil-free sunscreen contains both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for broad-spectrum sun protection. Even though those particular UV filters are notoriously hard to blend into darker skin tones, this formula can. It also hydrates, soothes, and reduces redness, says Hartman.

Type:Mineral

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11

Best for Skin Prone to Dark Spots

ISDIN Daily Mineral SPF 50+ Sunscreen

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (53)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (54)Repairs existing sun damage
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (55)Absorbs quickly
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (56)It's pricey compared to other options

This ultralight, fast-absorbing formula offers mineral, broad-spectrum sun protection as well as DNA repairsomes, which help to correct existing sun damage, including discoloration, says Mack.

Type:Mineral

12

Best for Active Days

Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Face and Body Lotion SPF 60+

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (57)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (58)Water- and heat-resistant
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (59)Lightweight
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (60)It's a small bottle to use on face and body

This popular sunscreen is lightweight, has a smooth texture, and absorbs easily. It also features the brand's "SynchroShield technology," meaning that the water-resistant formula works even better when it's exposed to heat and water. It's the perfect option for active, outdoorsy days or for those who prefer a lighter sunscreen. Not to mention, it include licorice root extract to help soothe breakout-prone skin.

Type:Chemical

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13

Best for Sensitive Skin

BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Face Mineral Sunscreen

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (61)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (62)Gentle formula
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (63)Innovative packaging
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (64)Takes a while to rub in

This Aussie brand is great for sensitive skin, says Sperling. A nice bonus: When exposed to the sun, the bottle cap changes color to blue—an alert that it's sunny and time to apply.

Type:Mineral

14

Best for Red or Irritated Skin

RéVive Skincare Sensitif Renewal Daily Cellular Protection Broad Spectrum Sunscreen

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (65)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (66)Soothing formula
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (67)Moisturizing
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (68)Blends easily into skin
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (69)It's a splurge

If you have the bucks, this lightweight-yet-luxurious sunscreen smooths onto skin effortlessly without any greasy or sticky residue. It's especially ideal for sensitive skin that gets red or irritated easily.

Type:Chemical

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15

Best for Acne-Prone Skin

Paula's Choice Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (70)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (71)Oil-free
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (72)Non-comedogenic
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (73)May not be hydrating enough for dry skin

This formula is great for acne-prone skin because it's ultra-lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic. It contains chamomile to soothe redness from angry, inflamed pimples. It also leaves behind a matte finish to help combat excess oiliness, which is a common concern for blemish-prone skin.

Type:Chemical

16

Best Mineral Stick

SkinBetter SunBetter Sheer SPF 56 Sunscreen Stick

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (74)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (75)Easy application
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (76)Good for all skin types
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (77)We wish it were bigger

When it comes to targeted application, it doesn't get easier than swiping on a stick, especially one that glides as effortlessly and invisibly as this one. The mineral formula suits both dry and oily skin, says Hartman. (It's also a godsend for applying SPF on impatient kids!)

Type:Mineral

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17

Best for Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Tula Ultimate Sun Serum PentaPeptide Sunscreen SPF 50

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (78)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (79)Improves skin texture
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (80)Controls excess oil
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (81)Not greasy
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (82)If you don't like matte sunscreens, you may not like this formula

Excess exposure to the sun can show up in premature signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles. This formula contains not only SPF to prevent sun damage but also probiotic extracts and pentapeptides to prevent and repair early signs of aging over time.

Type:Mineral

18

Best Patches

Sun Patch Reusable Under-Eye Sunblock Patches

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (83)

Why We Love It
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (84)Great for sensitive skin
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (85)Extra sun protection
What to Consider
  • 18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (86)Reviewers say cleaning them for each use is tricky

These UPF 50+ silicone patches are a step up from traditional sunscreen. They block 98 percent of the sun's UV rays and are waterproof, sweat-proof, and reusable. It's perfect for really sensitive eyes and cheeks.

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How We Chose the Best Face Sunscreens

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (87)

Our beauty team is dedicated to finding you the best of the best formulas. We spoke with dermatologists to learn about what to look for in a sunscreen and got their go-to recommendations. We also researched and tested top-rated and brand-new formulas that hit the market to help you find the best products out there.

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (88)

Genesis Rivas

Genesis Rivas is the Beauty Editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers hair, makeup, skin, nails, and more. Before joining the Oprah Daily team, she wrote for several publications, including InStyle, Real Simple, and Shape. When she’s not testing, researching, and writing fun and educational beauty content, you can find her dancing and eating her way through New York City. Follow her on Instagram or TikTok

18 Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Tone (2024)

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