The 18 Best Facial Sunscreens You'll Actually Want to Wear Every Day

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While you may have just thought to apply one of the best facial sunscreens while on a tropical vacation or during the summer, experts advise adding it to your skincare routine on a daily basis regardless of the weather.

"Ninety percent of aging skin is due to exposure to UV and visible light, so sun protection is essential—and that means broad spectrum protection," Corey L. Hartman, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama, tells Bazaar. "Broad-spectrum means that the product protects against both UVA rays, which age the skin, and UVB rays, which burn the skin. Both UVA and UVB rays are dangerous and can lead to accelerated skin aging and potentially skin cancer."

Wearing a daily sunscreen might be a non-negotiable, but choosing the right product isn't a one-size-fits-all situation. You might have a body block you swear by, but what about your face sunscreen? (Because, yes, they are different.) "Sunscreen is very similar to lotion: You typically use a different body lotion from face moisturizer," explains Mikelle Brown, director of education at Face Foundrie. "Your face is more delicate and can be prone to breakouts or irritation more easily." Dermatologists aren't the only ones who are pro-facial sunscreen: Many brands offer SPFs blended with high-quality ingredients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, tinted shades, plus, an array of vitamins and minerals to cover all your beauty basics. For those who seldom go outdoors, there are even formulas built with filters to protect against blue light.

But, just like building a roster of skincare products, finding the best sunscreen for your face is a personal preference. To help, we've scoured the market for the very best ones worth adding to your cart. From oil-free formulas to options that won't leave a white cast behind, these SPFs certainly deserve their moment in the sun.

UV Clear Broad-Spectrum Facial Sunscreen SPF 46

Powered by a zinc oxide, a natural mineral that reflects and scatters UVA and UVB rays, EltaMD's UV Clear Broad-Spectrum Facial Sunscreen is an expert and editor-approved SPF. "[It's] one of my holy-grail SPFs," says Tiffany Dodson, Bazaar's associate beauty commerce editor. "As a person of color, I love that it never leaves my face with a white cast, and as a person with acne-prone skin, I love never having to worry about breakouts." Meanwhile, a roster of rockstar ingredients like niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate, and tocopheryl acetate work hard to reduce redness, increase moisture, and keeps visible signs of aging at bay, respectively.

One satisfied customer writes: "A dermatologist recommended this product to me, when I went to her seeking treatment for rosacea. I’ve used it daily ever since. My partner does a lot of sailing, and this is the only product that doesn’t drip into his eyes on a hot sunny day. We also use the sport sunscreen in the tube. Not sticky or heavy. Great for water sports or merely daily life in NYC during the humid summers. Wonderful products." —KiKi

Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

Over 3,500 Ulta shoppers are raving about Supergoop's culty Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40—and for good reason. Great for an array of skin types—normal, dry, oily, and combination—this option uses a complex-derived meadowfoam seed and frankincense to leave your skin protected, smooth, and nourished. (Meanwhile, this formula absorbs quickly and is practically invisible on the skin.) Not only is this face sunscreen built to block UVA and UVB rays, but its use of red algae also helps filter blue light, making this is a great option for indoor and outdoor use. Plus, its grippy formula makes it perfect to use as a makeup primer.

One satisfied customer writes: "I love this sunscreen for a few reasons. No white outcast, so universal everyone can wear this, and does not have a smell. This is my holy grail sunscreen from here on out."—Sally

Urban Environment Vita-Clear Sunscreen SPF 42

Shiseido–known for its cult-favorite SPFs–put a bright spin on their Urban Environment Sunscreen, which now includes skin-loving ingredients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. As the brand's first water-gel-in-oil clear emulsion sunscreen, this formula goes on clear, improves tone, and boosts hydration (think of it like a glass of orange juice for your skin) with an SPF of 42.

Turns out, the effect of this sunscreen extends far beyond a day in the sun. A study conducted by the brand shows that skin looks noticeably brighter and smoother after two weeks of regular use.

One satisfied customer writes: "This sunscreen is so light and easy to put on. It doesn’t make my skin oily and it even helps it feel more moisturizer. I am a big fan of this brand and this product lives up to their other great products." —Emtuck23

SilkShield All Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 with TriHex Technology

If you’re planning to pair your sunscreen with makeup, board-certified dermatologist Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce recommends Alastin’s SilkShield All Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30, which is great for all skin types. "It feels incredible, like a makeup primer, and layers well with makeup, making it my daily go-to," she shares. "Plus, it has anti-aging peptides." Zinc oxide protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays, while ectoin can filter out blue light as well as repair existing sun damage. And, for that lit-from-within glow, the brand's signature TriHex Technology supports your skin's natural ability to produce elastin and collagen.

One satisfied customer writes: "I am very pleased with this product! I have been using for a little over a week. I love the satin feel and finish as you apply. It was a tad white when applied but blended in my skin quickly! It goes great under my makeup. I have very sensitive skin and unlike other brands I have tried, this sunscreen did not break me out whatsoever."—Chasity

Sun Drops Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50

You don't have to slather on a thick lotion or cream to protect yourself from the sun's harsh rays. Any serum devotee can appreciate the formula behind Dr. Barbara Sturm's SPF 50 Sun Drops, which have a similar, barely-there consistency. Four different sunscreen formulas work hard to protect your skin from the sun's harsh rays. Meanwhile, ingredients like vitamin E, beta glucan, and cassia extract work together to combat against premature photoaging all while supporting natural skin renewal.

One satisfied customer writes: "I use this product with my daily moisturizer and it really works as per the directions. Have been protecting my face from unwanted freckles." —Mero L.

Guards Up

A little goes a long way when it comes to this mineral sunscreen from Versed. The magic lies in the use of non-nano zinc oxide, which the brand says is the safest SPF active for both our bodies and bodies of water. Meanwhile, sea fennel extract and morigna seed extract go above and beyond to filter blue light as well as fight off environmental damage and premature aging. Its peach-colored formula neutralizes the possibility of a white cast, and baked in antioxidants shield skin against blue light, UVA, and UVB rays.

One satisfied customer writes: "Never had a mineral sunscreen that absorbed so well and quickly! Is a joy to remember my SPF these days!" —Kelsey35

Every Sun Day Sun Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50+

You can't talk about K-Beauty best-sellers without mentioning this sunscreen from Dr. Jart. It uses a chemical formula, with ingredients like homosalate and octocrylene, to convert UV rays to heat and release them away from the skin. (Bonus points: It leaves a cooling sensation behind, making it a perfect choice for those warm summer months.) And, thanks to an assortment of hydrating and collagen-building ingredients like lavender oil and silica, this liquid sunscreen will protect your face without out the skin.

One satisfied customer writes:

"Love this! Perfect for dry skin and works well with sensitive skin. No white cast that I have noticed. Doesn’t leave the skin feeling oily. Worth the money in my opinion." —Ginnig

Women's Every Tone SPF 30

Looking for an option that was built with humans and the environment in mind? Lesse's Every Tone sunscreen has you covered. Made with ocean-safe non-nano, uncoated zinc oxide, this SPF 30 mineral cream is is non-comedogenic (meaning it won't clog your pores), and is even clinically tested for sensitive skin. The cream is also formulated with Australian super berries—specifically riberry and pepperberry fruits—to brighten discoloration as it protects.

One satisfied customer writes: "Flawless. Lightweight, lovely sheen, blends instantly, covers imperfections, applies like a soft foundation. Absolute love."—Karen W.

Universal Glow Defense SPF 40

There's a reason Dr. Loretta's Universal Glow Defense SPF snagged a 2023 Bazaar Skincare Award. Its slightly tinted formula uses zinc to block harsh UVA and UVB rays. But, why stop there? Great for all skin types, this award-winning liquid is specifically built to keep any visible signs of aging to a minimum.

Antioxidant Lipochroman protects the skin from free radical damage, which is known to cause fine lines, dark spots, and the breakdown on collagen. Additionally, ectoin combats against environmental stressors. As the perfect finishing touch, a medley of botanical extracts like botanical extracts frankincense, gotu kola, white birch bark, and knotweed will leave a radiant glow behind.

One satisfied customer writes: "I’d heard so much about this product I knew I needed to try it and it did not disappoint. The texture is truly unique and very smoothing and calming feeling while still brightening. It’s a great base product and a pleasure to use. Recommending to all my friends and family." —Alexandra B.

Solaire UV Mineral Multi-Defense Sunscreen Fluid

If the scent of sunscreen isn't your favorite, we recommend trying Avène's Solaire UV Mineral Multi-Defense Sunscreen Fluid, which nicely happens to be fragrance-free. Not only does this formula shield against UVA and UVB rays, but also helps protect skin from blue light.

That said, sun protection is only the beginning of this formula's offerings. As a mineral sunscreen, this lightweight liquid harnesses the same skin soothing properties that are found in its coveted thermal water. Meanwhile, a cocktail of bisabolol and allatoin, and niacinamide soothe the skin and protect it against free radicals. (In fact, Avène claims this SPF increases the skin's antioxidant protection by up to 200 percent.)

One satisfied customer writes:

"I use this while walking, gardening and golfing. Not greasy. Have bought several and given as gifts." —Sheryl

Protect Your Light Daily Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen

Keys Soulcare's SPF 30 earned its spot as one of our editors' top skincare products of the year for oily types. This SPF-laced moisturizer uses niacinamide to regulate oil and reduce redness, along with squalane to hydrate without clogging pores. (According to the brand, a consumer study reported 96 percent thought their skin felt more hydrated, both immediately and over time.) Another thing to love: It is cruelty-free, compatible with a range of skin types and absorbs quickly.

Made in partnership with Alicia Keys and a broad-certified dermatologist, each of Keys Soulcare's offerings come with an affirmation. So, when you slather on your SPF, try reciting the mantra, "I protect my inner light."

One satisfied customer writes: "Great SPF 30 moisturizer! Easy to dispense! This SPF absorbs quickly into the skin and has a lightweight feel, yet it's very hydrating! No white cast and has an amazing, clean scent!" —annac445

City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50 | PA++++

Compatible with all skin types—including those with sensitive skin and eczema—this mineral sunscreen uses zinc oxide and titanium oxide to expertly guard against UVA and UVB rays. However, those who live in a big city will particularly love the polymer matrix, a lightweight complex that blocks adhesion and penetration of toxic pollutants. (Translation: This sunscreen can hold its own in a bustling metropolis.) As the cherry atop and already enticing option, a marigold-derived ingredient called lutein blocks up to 89 percent of blue light from screens.

Admittedly, mineral sunscreens often get the reputation of being difficult to rub in. However, this lightweight liquid absorbs quickly.

One satisfied customer writes: "This is seriously the best sunscreen ever. I recently decided it was time I started applying sunscreen every morning and had this one laying around that I had only used once or twice. I swear this is literally the secret to good looking skin. I have combo skin that leans more oily with pretty big pores, and I swear this blurs everything. A must buy!" —Jana J.

transparent Physical UV Defense SPF 50

Practicing sun safety doesn't always mean slathering your face with a thick, heavy cream. Enter SkinCeuticals's transparent Physical UV Defense SPF 50, a featherweight sunscreen combining titanium dioxide and zinc oxide filters to keep sunburns at bay. (The brand also added a dash of artermia salina to protect your skin's collagen from UV damage.) The transparent consistency also dries down to a matte finish, which is perfect if you frequently deal with an oily T-zone.

One satisfied customer writes: "This sunscreen is very light and goes really well under makeup. Perfect for everyday use." —Keira

Self-Reflect Probiotic Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 32

This light-reflecting, zinc oxide sunscreen can be worn alone for a blurred, dewy skin finish, or to prime your foundation and concealer. (You can thank this formula's jojoba esters, which are credited with creating that grippy, makeup-ready texture.) As an added bonus for those who are acne-prone, the sunscreen also contains turmeric to deliver antioxidants and help soothe the skin.

One satisfied customer writes: "This sunscreen is so light and moisturizing that I rarely even use my regular moisturizer in the morning. Just a serum and this underneath my makeup. It's not at all greasy and provides a really nice glow. I have very breakout prone skin, and this sunscreen has been very gentle and non-irritating." —Sam W.

Make It Matte Sunscreen SPF 45

If you have oily or combination skin, consider this matte finish SPF 45 formula from Black Girl Sunscreen. It's built to reduce the appearance of premature aging, fine lines, hyperpigmentation and dark spots—all without leaving a ghostly white cast behind. In addition to featuring a blend of hydrating ingredients, like shea butter and coconut oil, it's also reef-safe, and wears well under makeup. (Oh, and did we mention the formula is vegan and cruelty-free?)

One satisfied customer writes: "Perfect matte finish. Goes well as a primer before makeup or the perfect matte natural skin. Love this product!!!" —Tia J.

Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60

Hartman is a fan of La Roche-Posay's Anthelios sunscreen range, since this oil-free version doesn’t leave the skin looking overly shiny. (In fact, clinical studies prove that the mix of perlite and silica can reduce shine and oil appearance. Yes, even during hot and humid weather.) It uses the brand's signature Cell-Ox Shield technology for photostable UVA and UVB protection.

One satisfied customer writes: "I've been using this sunscreen daily for a few months now. A little goes a long way, so you get your money's worth. It goes on evenly and doesn't leave a chalky look. And it doesn't leave my oily skin feeling greasy! I have been especially impressed by that." —Courtney J.

Golden Rays Sunscreen SPF 50+

Ideal for athletes and melanin-rich skin, Kinlò's Golden Rays Tinted Sunscreen is SPF 50, protects the skin from blue light, and neutralizes free radicals. (It also happens to be sweat and water resistant for up to 80 minutes.) The mineral sunscreen is packed with nourishing ingredients like nourishing jojoba, safflower seed oils, and green tea extract to lock in hydration all day long. And since its formula is available in three versatile shade options, you may not even need to reach for your go-to skin tint.

One satisfied customer writes: "Love this product!! Reef-safe and organic with SPF 50 and I don't need any makeup when I wear it!! A tiny bit provides excellent coverage! I love that its lightweight and doesn't look or feel like greasy sunscreen!!" —mlharris

Daily Mineral SPF 50+ Sunscreen

Think of mineral sunscreen as armor to physically protect your face from the sun. When it comes to his physical sunscreen of choice, Hartman opts for Isdin’s Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion Broad Spectrum SPF 50+. "It's a lightweight emulsion that delivers moisture and mineral zinc oxide for a chemical-free, physical sunscreen that eliminates the possibility of allergy," he notes.

You might wear SPF to get sun protection in the here and now, but this formula has DNA Repairsomes, which is clinically proven to repair existing sun damage. Isdin thinks beyond the sun and infuses an antioxidant-rich vitamin E to combat environmental factors and early signs of skin aging.

One satisfied customer writes: "Best mineral sunscreen ever and Ive tried them all. Blends in without any white cast leftover. Safe, gentle, non-pore clogging, and non greasy. This is my Roman Empire of sunscreens!" —Sarah F.

Meet the Experts

• Corey L. Hartman, M.D., F.A.A.D, is a board-certified dermatologist, and the founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama.

• Mikelle Brown is the director of education at Face Foundrie.

• Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce, MD, MS, FA, is a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Austin.

What should you look for in a facial sunscreen?

There are a lot of face sunscreens on the market, so where to begin? With coverage, always. According to Geddes-Bruce—board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Austin, Texas—look to sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 for optimal protection.

Mineral sunscreens, most commonly containing ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, use UV filters that sit on top of the skin to block rays from penetrating its surface. Chemical sunscreens use approved filters like oxybenzone and avobenzone to transform UV rays into heat when they're absorbed into the skin.

"The next most important thing is to find one that looks good and feels great on your skin so that you use enough of it daily," she explains. "This may mean that its formula is non-greasy, doesn't cause burning or irritation when applied near the eyes, and doesn't have any offensive fragrance. Body SPFs are usually a 'get the job done' sort of product and because they aren't used as frequently, we don't mind if we have to spend a little more time rubbing them in."

How often should facial sunscreens typically be reapplied in a day?

According to Hartman, you should ideally reapply sunscreen every two hours if you're outdoors or sitting next to a window. And for those who are swimming or sweating, he suggests re-applying immediately after you dry off.

Are moisturizers with sunscreen as effective as regular SPF when it comes to sun protection?

"Moisturizers with broad spectrum SPF 30 as a minimum are as effective as a sunscreen, with the caveat that you also need to reapply," Hartman adds. "You can’t apply your facial moisturizer with SPF in the morning and expect that you’ll get the same level of protection as you did when you first applied. I recommend either reapplying your moisturizer again, or using a facial sunscreen throughout the day for maximum protection."

If a person naturally has a darker skin tone, do they still need to wear sunscreen on a regular basis?

According to experts, people with darker skin have some inherent sun protection factor by way of protective melanin, so the skin is able to withstand more UV light exposure before triggering an immune response. Darker skin can still be sunburned, which raises the risk of skin cancer, and is also more susceptible to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

"The minimum erythema dose (or MED) required to induce damage is higher, but there is still a minimum that once achieved can lead to the same cascade of damaging reactions, which means it is still important for people with darker skin to wear sunscreen," Hartman says.

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For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.

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