Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
Skin Experts Swear by These 17 Face Sunscreens
These SPFs will never let you down.
Ask any dermatologist, esthetician, or skin care enthusiast what the golden rule of skin care is and the answer will likely be “wear sunscreen every day.” It’s one of the first lines of defense against skin cancer, and can help ward off cosmetic concerns like hyperpigmentation and signs of aging.
Top Face Sunscreens of 2025
Still, there are many reasons why slathering on SPF can feel like a chore in your routine: Some formulas leave behind chalky white casts, have a distinctive (read: off-putting) scent, and can even irritate sensitive skin. Thankfully, however, the sunscreen market has ballooned in recent years, ushering in a new era of formulas that you’ll actually look forward to using. Think: options infused with skin-loving ingredients, tinted picks that make your skin look flawless, and dermatologist-approved formulas that are ideal for those with reactive complexions.
Whether you’re looking for a non-comedogenic sunscreen that’s safe for acne-prone skin or a featherlight K-beauty favorite, below, we found the 17 best face sunscreens that skin care obsessives and experts love.
Pros
- Doesn't leave a white cast
Cons
- May be heavy for oily skin types
The best type of moisturizers are the ones that feel lightweight on the skin and give you a healthy glow. Bolden’s Brightening SPF moisturizer does just that with the help of vitamin C.
Key ingredients: Vitamin C, shea butter, squalane
Size: 2 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve been using this every day and the texture and smell is amazing. It’s light, doesn’t feel heavy or sticky, and has left me glowing due to the vitamin C in it.”
Pros
- Good under makeup
Cons
- Can feel dry for some
A bestseller for good reason, the Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen goes on so light and clear, you’ll forget you’re wearing it. The non-greasy formula also makes it easier to re-up every few hours.
Key ingredients: Red algae, meadowfoam seed oil
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I am so happy I found this sunscreen. It goes on so easily, absorbs quickly, and leaves no white residue. It feels like makeup but leaves no trace. My skin looks matte instead of shiny and feels soft. Highly recommend!”
Pros
- Supports healthy skin
Cons
- Pricey
A favorite of Dr. Shari Sperling of Sperling Dermatology, EltaMD’s UV Clear is great for those with oily or acne-prone skin, as it contains lactic acid, niacinamide, vitamin E, and more to keep skin woes at bay.
Key ingredients: Lactic acid, niacinamide, vitamin E
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “It goes on smoothy, absorbs quickly, and leaves no white cast, which is a huge plus, especially for daily wear under makeup. I also love that it provides broad spectrum protection and includes ingredients that support overall skin health. Whether I am spending a day outside or just running errands, I feel confident knowing my skin is protected.”
Pros
- Soothes and helps minimizes dark spots
- Adds a healthy glow
Cons
- Pricey
From Ayurvedic beauty brand Ranavat, this newly-released SPF is packed with rich antioxidant and hydrating ingredients to protect and nourish the skin. The formula is also lightweight, leaving behind a beautiful-but-never-greasy sheen.
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, saffron, squalane
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Ranavat rating: 4.7/5 stars
A Ranavat reviewer says: “This mineral sunscreen is so nice and subtle. It makes my face very smooth and gives a wonderful glow. I found it very easy to dispense. It feels very lightweight and is easily absorbed into my skin. It doesn’t feel oily or greasy and melts like butter. Even when I build it up, it doesn’t leave any white cast. I also really like that it contains saffron, which instantly brightens my skin. Applying this sunscreen in the morning takes away my redness, and the glow lasts all day. I have dark spots and acne-prone skin, and this doesn’t clog my pores.”
Pros
- Hydrating
Cons
- May not be suited to acne-prone skin
If it’s a glow you’re after, it’s a glow you'll get with this Summer Fridays SPF. The texture is almost akin to a milky toner, and the dewy finish it leaves behind will last for hours. Not only is this product ideal for folks with dry skin, but it also works wonders under makeup.
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, vitamin E, squalane
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Sephora rating: 3.7/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “I rarely write reviews, but this stuff is worth the time. It’s so soothing on the face and leaves my skin feeling bouncy and glowy without being greasy. If you want to splurge on something, I think it’s worth a try!”
Pros
- Very lightweight
Cons
- Pricey for amount of product
Australians are experts at sunscreen (their country has one of the highest UV exposures in the world, and their sunscreens are subject to some of the strictest regulations and testing), meaning they create formulas you can really trust. This ultra-lightweight serum from Aussie label Naked Sundays simultaneously hydrates, brightens, and protects with broad spectrum SPF 50.
SPF rating: 50
Key ingredients: Vitamin E, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid
Size: 1.01 fl. oz.
Naked Sundays rating: 4.9/5 stars
A Naked Sundays reviewer says: “Love this as my daily sunscreen! It’s lightweight, blends beautifully, and I have not had any issues with makeup pilling underneath. Love that it’s clear, too!”
Pros
- Calming for inflamed skin
Cons
- Some wish the formula was a bit thinner
It’s no secret that Korean sunscreens are among the most innovative formulas on the market. This lightweight option from Round Lab is especially ideal for acne-prone and irritated skin, thanks to a blend of calming natural extracts.
Key ingredients: Allatoin, natural extracts
Size: 1.69 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “What really sets the sunscreen apart for me is how it doesn’t feel greasy at all. It’s more like a moisturizing essence, which feels great on my skin even though it’s powerful against the sun. It’s gentle enough for my sensitive, acne-prone skin. I’ve been using it daily and experience no irritation or breakouts.”
Pros
- Adds a glow
Cons
- Can be difficult to color-match
Dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick recommends Colorescience’s sunscreen because its formula addresses a slew of concerns, from UVA/UVB to blue light to pollution and infrared radiation exposure. “It is available in four different shades, making it easy to blend with your skin for natural coverage, and uses iron oxide pigments to adapt to your specific tone, without leaving the skin feeling greasy, making it good for all skin types,” she explains.
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, niacinamide
Size: 1.8 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “The lightweight texture is refreshing, and it gives me such a smooth, even complexion. I get so many compliments on my skin whenever I wear it. I love that it not only protects my skin from the sun but also helps enhance my natural glow. It’s a perfect fit for my daily skin care routine, no matter the season.”
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
- Can pill
“This drugstore favorite is an easy-to-find, lightweight sunscreen that offers tinted mineral protection, while still being easy to rub in as it leaves behind a natural matte finish,” Garshick says. It also serves as a great base for makeup.
Key ingredients: Cell-Ox Shield Technology, iron oxide
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “All SPFs make me break out, even derm-recommended ones. This is the only one I’ve used that truly doesn’t clog my pores! I add concealer and setting powder to it for a more full-coverage makeup look and it wears so well! Not greasy whatsoever but also not too matte. Satin-matte finish. Great for summer or vacation!”
Pros
- Packed with skin care ingredients
- Works to minimize fine lines and wrinkles
Cons
- Some prefer more coverage
This sunscreen from DRMTLGY is as nourishing as it is protective, courtesy of hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. “It is oil-free and is great for all skin types, especially those with sensitive skin,” according to Garshick.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin E
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.1/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This product is incredible! I first apply my moisturizer, followed by the Prime Minimizer Primer, and allow it to dry before using the DRMTLGY tinted moisturizer. It’s not a full-coverage product, but it gives a lovely glow without making my skin look oily. I use this on days when I prefer a lighter makeup look, just adding a little mascara.”
Pros
- Nice smell
Cons
- Some dislike the texture
The gel-based formula of Tula’s sunscreen glides on like a dream and melts into the skin without leaving any evidence. Plus, the smell of pineapple and papaya brings you closer to the warm summer days ahead.
Key ingredients: Probiotics, natural extracts
Size: 3.38 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “After many failed face sunscreen product attempts, I finally found one I LOVE! This worked very well over moisturizer and under makeup, but I could definitely wear it alone. It has a nice glowy look but isn’t over the top. It sinks in well to the skin and controlled my face oils so much better. Usually by the afternoon my face can get oily, and it didn’t when I wore this.”
Pros
- No white cast
Cons
- May not be suited for sensitive skin
Black Girl Sunscreen dialed down the radiance component of its hero product to create a matte offshoot that packs the same punch—sheer coverage, water resistance, and zero fragrance—all while protecting the skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Key ingredients: SPF 45
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Ulta rating: 3.6/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “I love this product as a black woman with melanated skin. I usually had a problem with white cast, breakouts, and looking ashy. Yet this sunscreen goes on clear and covers my pores. It works as a primer covering all flaws on my face. I have combination skin.”
Pros
- Healthy ingredients
Cons
- Can pill
Besides sun protection, Coola’s face sunscreen doubles as a moisturizer due to the addition of its plant protection complex, which consists of red raspberry seed oil, buriti oil, meadowfoam seed oil, and prickly pear extract.
Key ingredients: Meadowfoam seed oil, natural extracts
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I have used this face SPF for years! It’s truly the best on the market, with good ingredients, a non-greasy feel, and no scent. I have never had any issues with breakouts after using Coola products in comparison to other facial SPF products. The bottle may seem small for the price, but a little goes a long way with this! I spend a lot of time outside in the summer, and one bottle easily lasts a few months with daily use! Highly recommend!”
Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 42
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
- Pricey
Hyaluronic acid and spirulina work together to hydrate and nourish the skin. And with SPF 42, Shiseido’s sunscreen protects the skin and also works well as a primer.
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid
Size: 1.6 fl. oz.
Ulta rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “I have a family history of melanoma and basal cell carcinoma. I’ve always known I need to use sunscreen on a daily basis. However, I didn’t like to use sunscreen every day because I always struggled to find a good one that’s not oily or heavy on the face. THIS IS IT!! I have been using it for two years now and can’t leave home without it. It’s so light and easy to wear. I one hundred percent recommend this product.”
La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Face & Body Melt In Sunscreen Milk
Pros
- Big size
Cons
- Pricey
La Roche-Posay’s sunscreen lives up to its name. The product has a milky texture that absorbs into the skin, a lightweight feel, and non-greasy dry-down.
Key ingredients: Antioxidants
Size: 5 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’m so relieved to have finally found a sunscreen that doesn’t cause an allergic reaction or rash. This melt-in milk formula is a dream—lightweight, non-greasy, and absorbs beautifully into the skin. It feels more like a moisturizer than a sunscreen, and there’s no strong scent or residue. I’ve struggled for so long to find something gentle enough for my skin, and this one truly delivers. So grateful I found it!”
Pros
- Not sticky
Cons
- Can pill with makeup
Resting Beach Face applies so smoothly and sinks into the skin effortlessly. Spinach, green tea, and hyaluronic acid moisturizes your skin all day long so your skin is not only protected, but super hydrated.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, natural extracts
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “Saw this on TikTok and decided to give it a try. I have replaced this for my primer, and I LOVE IT is an understatement. Light on my face, and it doesn’t leave that typical white cast behind. I will be purchasing again.”
Pros
- Good for on-the-go
Cons
- Pricey for the size
“If you have a hard time reapplying a cream in the middle of the day, I recommend using an SPF powder brush like Sunkissed SPF50,” says dermatologist Dr. Azadeh Shirazi. “It’s also great at absorbing oil, adding coverage, and reducing shine.”
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, natural extracts
Size: 0.25 oz.
Az MD rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Az MD reviewer says: “UV clear SPF 40 powder is just what I needed. I had skin cancer surgery on my nose; I have a scar that is slowly diminishing but I still have to hide it with makeup. The doctor said I must cover my nose with SPF 50 as grafts attract damaging rays more than regular skin. I use a sunblock containing aluminum oxide and having a powder that is also a sunblock makes me feel so much better. I also like how it puts just the right amount of powder on the brush for my face. What a relief!”
What to consider when shopping
Before you head to your nearest store, your sunscreen should check off a few boxes. “When selecting a sunscreen, it is important to make sure it is SPF 30 or higher and provides broad spectrum coverage, meaning it provides coverage against UVA and UVB rays,” Garshick notes. For those with sensitive skin, she explains that “a mineral-based SPF with zinc or titanium dioxide is favorable, as they sit on the surface of the skin forming a barrier to protect you against UV radiation.”
“If you’re looking for a sunscreen that blends easily, try chemical sunscreens formulated with avobenzone and oxybenzone, which absorb UV rays and keep them from penetrating the skin,” Shirazi says. Water-resistant sunscreens are best for those who sweat easily or are planning to spend the day by the water. “Choosing the best vehicle, whether it’s a spray, gel, cream, or powder, comes down to skin type. Generally, those with oily skin types prefer lighter formulations in a gel or powder form whereas drier skin types prefer a more emollient cream formula,” she adds.
Whether you opt for something glowy, a priming formula to wear under makeup, or even a sunscreen that you just love the texture of, consistency is key. “Ultimately, the best sunscreen is the one that you will use, meaning that as long as you find one that you like and will be able to apply and reapply, that’s what’s the most important,” Dr. Garshick notes.
What’s the best way to apply sunscreen?
"Sunscreen is recommended for all ages greater than six months. Before six months, it is best to avoid direct sun exposure to the sun, by seeking shade whenever possible and wearing sun-protective clothing,” Garshick explains. Most people opt out of wearing sunscreen on gloomier days, but whether there’s sun, rain, or snow outside, you can still be exposed to sneaky UV rays. A derm-approved way to apply your sunscreen is the two-finger rule, "which refers to applying sunscreen along the length of two fingers—the index and middle finger,” she says. "It is important to remember hard-to-reach areas like the scalp, ears, back of the neck, hands, and feet. Sunscreen is recommended as the last step of your skin care routine prior to makeup application.”
Meet the Experts
- Dr. Marisa Garshick is a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology
- Dr. Azadeh Shirazi is a board-certified derm at La Jolla Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center
Peel-Off Lip Liners That Actually Stay On All Day
The Best Cream Blushes for a Fresh, Dewy Flush
A Guide to Trying Cherry Nails
This Body Oil Is My Secret to a Year-Round Glow
