Protecting your skin from the sun is essential for healthy, youthful-looking skin. Even if you don't burn easily or spend a lot of time in the sun, sunscreen should be an essential part of your skincare routine.
Sunscreen blocks UVA and UVB radiation, which helps protect against skin cancer and premature aging. This blog post will look at some of the best sunscreen options to find what's right for you and protect your face from the sun!
We hope you find your next favorite thing from the list below! Each product was independently selected by our editors. Some may have been sent as samples for us to fiddle with, but all opinions in this article are our own. Oh, and FYI — LucksList may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something (that's how we stay in business). Reviews have been edited for length and clarity. Enjoy finding your next favorite thing!
How We Choose The Best Sunscreen For Face
When choosing the best sunscreen for the face, there are a few key things to consider.
We looked for SPF 30 or higher sunscreens that offer broad spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays, are lightweight and non-greasy, so you can easily apply makeup over it, and are free of potentially irritating ingredients such as fragrances, parabens, and phthalates.
We also looked for sunscreens that are suitable for all skin types and can provide at least 8 hours of protection from the sun’s rays.
Best Sunscreen For Face
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Face Sunscreen
Why We Love It
This Best Sunscreen for Face is an active mineral sunscreen with SPF 46 sun protection and is non-comedogenic. It helps calm and protect sensitive skin types, including those prone to acne, rosacea, and discoloration, while providing the highest level of broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection available in sunscreen.
The sheer product can be used alone or under makeup and is fragrance-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free, lanolin-free, and gluten-free. This Best Sunscreen for Face is also packed with powerful antioxidant protection that helps to neutralize skin-damaging free radicals associated with ultraviolet (UV) and infrared radiation (IR).
It contains 9% micronized zinc oxide, 7.5% octinoxate, and 5.0% oxybenzone to provide broad-spectrum protection. EltaMD improves the appearance of discoloration, acne, rosacea, and melasma while shielding your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
What You Should Know
EltaMD UV Clear Sunscreen is the Best Sunscreen for the Face with SPF 46 broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. It’s suitable for all skin types, including those sensitive and prone to breakouts.
This Best Sunscreen for Face contains 9% micronized zinc oxide, 7.5% octinoxate, and 5.0% oxybenzone to provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays. It also offers powerful antioxidant protection that helps to neutralize skin-damaging free radicals associated with ultraviolet (UV) and infrared radiation (IR).
This Best Sunscreen for the Face is non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free, lanolin-free, and gluten-free. It helps calm and protect sensitive skin types while providing the highest level of broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection available in sunscreen.
Why We Love It
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60 is the best sunscreen for the face when it comes to protecting your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. It provides maximum protection with SPF 60 and is oil-free, so it won't cause breakouts or leave an oily residue on your skin.
Best of all, it is oxybenzone free, so it won't harm the environment. Keep your skin safe from the sun with this sunscreen, and look great! Garnier SkinActive SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen Face Lotion for Sensitive Skin is another great option when searching for the best sunscreen for the face.
This mineral-based sunscreen lotion is formulated with 100% naturally sourced ingredients such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin, provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection, and is free of fragrances, oils, parabens, and PABA.
What You Should Know
Protecting your skin from the sun, don't settle for anything less than the best. The best sunscreen for your face should be SPF 30 or higher and provide broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays. It should also be free of fragrances, oils, parabens, PABA, and other potentially irritating ingredients.
Look for a lightweight and non-greasy formula that won’t cause breakouts or leave an oily residue on your skin. Best of all, look for sunscreens that are oxybenzone free to ensure you're not harming the environment.
Why We Love It
GG loves this oil-control moisturizer because it helps to regulate the skin while providing a lightweight and matte finish. It’s non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores, and includes SPF 30 for sun protection.
The hyaluronic acid locks in hydration for long-lasting hydrated skin. Best of all, it’s from the same makers as the dermatologist-recommended PanOxyl Acne Wash, so you know you’re getting a quality sunscreen that won’t irritate your skin. This is easily one of the best sunscreens for the face available!
What You Should Know
This oil control moisturizer contains 2.4% avobenzone, 1.5%homosalate, 5% octisalate, and 3.5%octocrylene for broad-spectrum sun protection from UVA and UVB rays. It also contains hyaluronic acid to lock in hydration for long-lasting hydrated skin.
Best of all, it’s non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. This is the perfect moisturizer and sunscreen to use daily, especially if you have oily skin.
Why We Love It
The Best Sunscreen For Face is a mineral-based sunscreen that offers perfect natural, non-greasy protection. This vegan and cruelty-free product provide an invisible finish while protecting your skin against UVA/UVB rays daily.
Plus, it's even suitable for sensitive skin! Go ahead and show off your glowing complexion without worrying about the sun's harmful rays. It has an SPF 30 rating and is made with non-irritating ingredients, making it perfect for everyday use.
The Bliss Tinted Sunscreen | Block Star Face Sunscreen is a great choice for those looking for the best sunscreen for their face!
With its natural, lightweight formula, you can trust that it will protect your skin while giving you a beautiful, natural finish. It's also water-resistant, so you can stay in the sun longer without worrying about reapplying sunscreen.
What You Should Know
The Best Sunscreen For Face is the perfect choice for protecting their skin while maintaining a natural, beautiful complexion. It's safe for all skin types and can be worn alone or under makeup. Plus, it's water-resistant, so you won't need to keep reapplying it throughout the day.
Best of all, it's vegan and cruelty-free, so you can trust that your skin is treated with the utmost care. With the Best Sunscreen For the Face, you can look great and stay protected from the sun's harmful rays!
Why We Love It
MELE Face Moisturizer 24 Hours Of Broad Spectrum Protection is the perfect daily defense for your face. This broad-spectrum sunscreen has a 30 SPF and is fortified with Niacinamide and Vitamin E to nourish skin while providing sun protection from UVA, UVB, and blue light.
The lightweight formula won’t feel greasy and absorbs quickly, making it ideal for everyday use. Best of all, this powerful face moisturizer comes in an easy-to-use pump bottle!
What You Should Know
This is one of the best sunscreens for the face you can get! It has an SPF of 30 and provides 24 hours of broad-spectrum protection from UVA, UVB, and blue light. It’s also enriched with Niacinamide and Vitamin E to nourish skin while defending against harmful rays.
Best of all, this lightweight formula absorbs quickly and won’t feel greasy on the skin. It comes in an easy-to-use pump bottle, making it perfect for everyday use!
Why We Love It
ISDIN Mineral Brush Powder is a lightweight, mineral-based sunscreen perfect for sensitive skin. This powder provides superior coverage from pollution and blue light, which can be damaging to your complexion.
The formula is hypoallergenic and contains zinc oxide for strong UVA/UVB protection. The easy-to-apply powder brush means you can get even coverage and protection anytime, anywhere.
Best of all, it’s designed to complement your existing skincare routine—no greasy residue or white streaks. It’s the perfect sunscreen for those with sensitive skin looking for superior protection from the sun and other environmental factors.
Best of all, it’s affordable and easy to apply. So if you’re looking for a sunscreen to protect your face from the sun, pollution, and blue light, look no further than ISDIN Mineral Brush Powder! It is our favorite choice for Best Sunscreen For Face!
What You Should Know
Wheat and gluten-free, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and non-greasy.
UVA/UVB broad spectrum protection. Powder brush makes application quick and easy. Provides additional protection from pollution and blue light.
Suitable for sensitive skin. Affordable and easy to apply. It is our favorite choice for Best Sunscreen For Face!
Why We Love It
GG loves the Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen for its powerful SPF 50 protection and oxybenzone-free formula. Best of all, it’s designed for acne-prone skin and won’t clog pores. The non-comedogenic formula is free of oil, fragrance, and other irritants that can trigger breakouts in sensitive skin types.
This powerful facial sunscreen provides superior UVA/UVB protection while still being lightweight and comfortable. Best of all, it won’t leave white residue or grease behind. It’s the perfect sunscreen for those with acne-prone skin looking for lightweight protection. Plus, it’s waterproof and sweatproof!
What You Should Know
This sunscreen is suitable for all skin types but is designed specifically with acne-prone skin in mind. Keep this Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen on hand, and you’ll never have to worry about sunburns!
Best of all, it features a non-greasy formula that won’t clog pores and is free of oils, fragrances, and other irritants.
With its superior UVA/UVB protection, you can be sure that your skin will stay protected all summer long! So if you’re looking for the best sunscreen for your face, look no further than Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen SPF 50!
It’s the perfect sunscreen for acne-prone skin that won’t leave white residue or grease behind.
Plus, it's waterproof and sweatproof! You can trust Neutrogena to provide superior protection against the sun’s harmful rays.
Why We Love It
GG loves this sunscreen because it provides superior sun protection and absorbs excess oils for an all-day matte finish. It is lightweight, oil-free, and easy to apply over makeup or bare skin.
It also shields against UV damage, making it the perfect everyday sunscreen for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
We love how it leaves skin feeling soft and smooth all day long. It is also free of parabens, artificial fragrances, and colorants, making it perfect for sensitive skin.
Best of all, Dermalogica Oil Free Matte SPF30 is suitable for all skin types and helps to keep your skin looking healthy and beautiful.
What You Should Know
The Dermalogica Oil Free Matte SPF30 is a lightweight and oil-free sunscreen formula that provides superior sun protection and absorbs excess oils for an all-day matte finish. It's easy to apply over makeup or bare skin and leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth all day long.
Best of all, it’s suitable for all skin types and is free of parabens, artificial fragrances, and colorants. We highly recommend this product as the Best Sunscreen For the Face!
Why We Love It
GG loves Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Stick because it is a great choice for sensitive skin. This sunscreen stick is vegan and reef friendly, so you can feel good about using it while protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. It provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and contains no Octinoxate or Oxybenzone.
Best of all, it comes in a convenient stick form, so you can easily apply it to your face! So if you’re looking for the best sunscreen for your face, Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Stick should be at the top of your list!
What You Should Know
Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Stick is hypoallergenic, and the .45 oz stick provides great protection from the sun’s harmful rays. It has a light, non-greasy feel that won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts. Best of all, it won’t leave your skin feeling greasy.
It’s also easy to apply - swipe it on your face, and you’re good to go! So if you’re looking for the best sunscreen for your face, Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Stick is a great choice. Give it a try today and protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays!
Why We Love It
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion is a great option for those looking for sunscreen to protect their face from the sun.
It provides broad spectrum SPF 30 protection and contains hyaluronic acid, homosalate (10%), eradicates (5%), octinoxate (5%), octocrylene (2%), and zinc oxide (6.3%) - all of which work to help the skin retain moisture, soothe irritation, and protect from UVA/UVB rays. This sunscreen is non-comedogenic and oil-free, so it won't clog your pores or cause breakouts.
Get the protection you need without sacrificing your skin's health! This sunscreen is lightweight and easy to apply - just a few pumps, and you're good to go. No more white cast on the face or greasy feeling.
If you’re looking for an effective facial sunscreen that won't clog your pores or cause irritation, CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 30 is perfect!
What You Should Know
This sunscreen is only suitable for the face and neck, not the body. It may irritate those with sensitive skin.
Always do a patch test before using it on the entire face or neck. It also contains chemical sunscreens, so it may not be suitable for those looking for all-natural ingredients.
Here are Some FAQs to Help Guide you on Your Way!
It's hard to know which sunscreen is best for you and your family.With all of the different sunscreens on the market, it can be hard to figure out which one is best for you. Do you need a waterproof sunscreen? A sunscreen with SPF 50? What about a sunblock?
We've got you covered. Our FAQs about best sunscreen will help you choose the right sunscreen for your needs.
Does sunscreen expire?
Yes, sunscreen does have a shelf life. Most sunscreens with an expiration date will last for up to three years. After this time, they may lose their effectiveness, and you should purchase a new one.
What is the best sunscreen for the face?
The best sunscreen for the face depends on your skin type and the level of protection you need. Generally, it is recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides UVA and UVB protection with an SPF of at least 30.
Look for oil-free, waterproof formulas and non-comedogenic (won't clog pores). For sensitive skin, try a mineral sunscreen like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.
Does sunscreen prevent tanning?
Yes, sunscreen can prevent tanning. When used properly and consistently, it can protect the skin from damaging UV rays that cause sunburns, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. Sunscreen should be applied generously and reapplied every two hours or more often if exposed to water or sweat.
How long does sunscreen last?
Sunscreen lasts up to two hours if you are not exposed to water or sweat. If you are swimming, doing sports, or sweating heavily, it is important to reapply sunscreen every hour and a half. Use a waterproof formula that won't wash off in the water for the best results.
What ingredients should I look for in a sunscreen?
Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection, an SPF of at least 30, and ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. If you have sensitive skin tone, look for non-comedogenic formulas that won't clog your pores.
How does sunscreen work?
Sunscreen blocks or reflects the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Its active ingredients form a barrier on the skin that absorbs and scatters the UV radiation before it can damage the skin cells underneath. Regular use of sunscreen is essential to prevent sunburns and other long-term skin damage
What is the difference between UVA and UVB protection?
UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburns and skin tones cancer, while UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and cause premature aging. It is essential to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB radiation for maximum sun protection.
What is SPF?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and measures the chemical sunscreen ability to protect your darker skin tones from UVB rays. The higher the number, the more protection it provides against sunburns.
It is important to note that no sunscreen can provide 100% protection, so be sure to take other precautions, such as wearing protective clothing and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun.
Is sunscreen bad for you?
No, mineral sunscreens is not bad for you. It can protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays and prevent long-term skin damage when used properly and consistently.
Be sure to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply every two hours or more often if exposed to water or sweat.
Is it okay to use expired sunscreen?
No, it is not recommended to use expired sunscreen. Physical sunscreens can lose effectiveness over time, and an expired sunscreen is not reliable for protecting your dry skin from the sun's UV rays. It is best to purchase new sunscreen every three years to ensure you get the best protection.
Top 10 Best Sunscreen For Face:
I hope this article has answered your questions about the best sunscreen for the face and how sunscreen works.
Always remember to use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and to reapply every two hours or more often if exposed to water or sweat.
With proper use, sunscreen can help protect your skin from the damaging UV rays of the sun and reduce your risk of sunburns, wrinkles, and other long-term skin damage.
Read our article about best spray sunscreen here!
Read our article about best sunscreen for sensitive skin here!
Read our article about best facial oil here!
Mary Acar
