Finding the "Perfect" Sunscreen Is Practically an Art—We Love These 17 Options (2024)

By Sarah Yang

last updated

in Buying Guides

I've been slightly fixated on learning about skincare and doing all I can to ensure my skin is the healthiest it can be since I turned 30. But it's not all about anti-aging and fending off wrinkles. In fact, turning the big 3-0 made me rethink my overall health. Now that I'm about five months into my 31st year, I feel like I've made some progress on this goal. I've been stepping outside of my fitness comfort zone (like trying indoor cycling and barre) and doing new workouts. I've made it a priority to eat better while also allowing for some fun now and then. I've been taking more care of and paying better attention to my mental health. And I've been taking in all the skincare knowledge I can.

That said, I realized I knew only the bare minimum about sunscreen, particularly body sunscreen. Sure, I knew it was a vital skincare product and one you could buy at the drugstore. I applied it diligently every day, but I knew nothing about the differences in sunscreen types, the ingredients, or what SPF levels really meant. Below, learn all there is to know about chemical and mineral sunscreens, but first, shop our favorite products.

Mineral Sunscreens

EltaMD

UV Shield Broad-Spectrum SPF 45

This sheer sunscreen is recommended for oily to normal skin types. It contains 9% zinc oxide and antioxidants to protect against free radicals.

Pros:Paraben-free, fragrance-free, vegan, noncomedogenic, oil-free

Cons:Reviewers prefer the previous iteration's application pump

Customer review:"Recommended by my dermatologist more than a decade ago, the UV Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 45 is *the best sunscreen* for sensitive skin. It won't pill under makeup. It doesn't clog pores, trigger inflammation, or become warm with sun exposure (thus triggering melasma or dermatitis)."

Size:3 ounces

Key ingredients:Zinc oxide, vitamin E

Type:Lotion

Skin type:All skin types

Supergoop!

Play 100% Mineral Mist SPF 30 With Marigold Extract

I'm abig fan of Supergoop sunscreens, and the brand's mineral mist spray is no exception. The water- and sweat-resistant formula featuresmarigold extract to smooth and protect skin, sunflower-seed oil to retain moisture, and chamomile extract to soothe sensitivity.

Pros: Soothing on the skin, great for outdoor activity

Cons:Formula can leave skin sticky

Customer review:"Like any sunscreen spray, you have to rub it in—you can't just spray and go. The spray goes on white, which is nice to see where the product is, and then it turns clear once rubbed in. Unlike the lotion that kind of leaves a greasy film, this spray almost has a cooling effect, and I hardly feel like I'm wearing sunscreen. If you're looking to switch to a mineral spray, this is a must!"

Size:6ounces

Key ingredients:Marigold extract, sunflower-seed oil, chamomile extract

Type:Spray

Skin type:All skin types

Coola

Mineral Body Sunscreen SPF 50

Coola's mineral sunscreen contains a mix of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to provide UVA and UVB protection. Other ingredients include red raspberry–seed oil, buriti oil, meadowfoam-seed oil, and prickly pear extract. They're all antioxidant-rich to protect and hydrate the skin.

Pros:Hydrating and sheer finish, fights free radicals, reef-friendly

Cons:Product may leave white stains and/or does not dry clear

Customer review:"This mineral protection sunscreen sprays on smooth. It is light and absorbs quickly. I feel confident and protected when I use this sunscreen."

Size:5 ounces

Key ingredients:Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, safflower oleosomes, red raspberry–seed oil

Type:Lotion

Skin type:Best for dry skin

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Eminence Organic Skin Care

Lilikoi Mineral Defense Sport Sunscreen SPF 30

Eminence is afavorite organic skincare brand of WWW beauty director Erin Jahns and associate beauty editor Shawna Hudson.Its zinc oxide sunscreen features lilikoi (passion fruit) seed oil, which is packed with vitamin C and works to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Pros:Water-resistant, moisturizing, works for the face and body

Cons:Consistency of the product is a bit watery

Customer review:"Lilikoi Mineral Defense Sport Sunscreen SPF 30 from Eminence Organic Skin Care shields all skin types against harmful UVA rays, especially during outdoor activities. This antioxidant-rich sunscreen moisturizes dry skin and minimizes the appearance of damage from sun exposure. Infused with lilikoi-seed oil, it also nourishes and improves the appearance of aging skin."

Size:5ounces

Key ingredients:Lilikoi-seed oil, vitamin C

Type:Lotion

Skin type:All skin types

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This mineral sunscreen is super lightweightyet protects against the sun, environmental damage, and even blue-light damage from phone and computer screens. It has a creamy feel that doesn't leave a white cast thanks to a subtle peach tint.

Pros:Provides triple protection (UVA, UVB, and blue light), made with sustainableingredients

Cons:Product can pill

Customer review:"This is the first sunscreen I've ever tried that doesn't make my eyes sting, and I've tried * a lot* of sunscreens. (And many of them wereway more expensive than this!) It's cruelty-free, sinks into my skin nicely, and dries to a matte finish so I'm not walking around all day looking weirdly glossy. 10/10!"

Size:2.5ounces

Key ingredients:Zinc oxide, crithmum maritimum extract, moringa oleifera–seed extract

Type:Lotion

Skin type:All skin types

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EltaMD

UV Active Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+

Ellen Marmur, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder ofMarmur Medicalin New York City. She recommends EltaMD's UV Active mineral sport sunscreen, which is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. "This is a great everyday sunscreen that can be applied when you wake up in the morning and then be left in your bag to be reapplied throughout the day," she says. "So when you go shopping, gardening, or exercising outside, you can rest assured that your skin is receiving the protection it needs."

Pros:Water-resistant, perfect for everyday use, protects against signs of aging

Cons:It is a bit pricey for the size

Customer review:"Easy to get on and cover against sun damage. It smells good, and you can get it in clear or lightly tinted! I like it because it's 50 SPF."

Size:3ounces

Key ingredients:Zinc oxide, knotgrass extract, jojoba esters, vitamin E

Type:Lotion

Skin type:All skin types

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Avène

Solaire UV Mineral Multi-Defense Sunscreen SPF 50+

This sunscreen features 100% mineral filters to provide the ultimate UVA/UVB protection. It's also infused with vitamin E for free radical protection.The best part?It leaves a matte finish, so you won't feel sticky or slick after applying.

Pros:Provides triple protection (UVA, UVB, and blue light), water-resistant, lightweight

Cons:Product can separate inside the container over time

Customer review:"Love the texture—blends into my skin nicely. Even firms it to some degree. It's great, especially for lighter complexions."

Size:1.7ounces

Key ingredients:Bisabolol, allatoin, niacinamide

Type:Lotion

Skin type:Best for sensitive skin

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Blue Lizard

Blue Lizard Sport Spf 30+ Mineral-Based Sunscreen Lotion, 5 Oz

This mineral sunscreen is both paraben- and fragrance-free, so it won't irritate the skin. It's also water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, so it's good for the beach, pool, or any other outdoor activity. The bottle turns blue when exposed to UV rays, so it also acts as a reminder to apply or reapply.

Pros:Affordable, water-resistant, good for sensitive skin

Cons:Can leavea white cast

Customer review:"This sunscreen is the best I have ever used. Nice to apply, great coverage, and excellent protection. I did not burn at all, and my skin wasn't all dry and cakey."

Size:5ounces

Key ingredients:Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide

Type:Lotion

Skin type:Best for sensitive skin

Raw Elements

Face + Body Organic SPF 30 Zinc Sunscreen

This sunscreen's gentle and moisturizing formula protects the skin for up to 80 minutes. It's also soy-, gluten-, and nut-free for anyone with those sensitivities.

Pros:Reef-safe, cruelty-free, reusable container, nourishing formula

Cons:Might feel messy to apply

Customer review:"Decided to try this item as it was rated well on the EWG site. Absolutely loved by everyone in our household. Will continue to purchase this brand. Rubs in well, and sun protection was great! Highly recommend."

Size:3ounces

Key ingredients:Zinc oxide, organic beeswax, cannabis sativa–seed oil

Type:Gel

Skin type:All skin types

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CeraVe

100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

This mineral sunscreen is formulated with ceramides to lock in moisture andstrengthen the skin barrier. That, paired with the fact that it's allergy-tested and oil- and fragrance-free, makes it a good option for anyone with sensitive skin.

Pros:Allergy-tested, fragrance-free, paraben-free, gentle on the skin

Cons:Some customers say it doesn't blend well

Customer review:"This tinted sunblock is excellent! It smoothes out skin without giving the appearance of any makeup at all! It is also extremely effective against the sun’s rays. I haven't had any sunburn this entire summer. Even a modest layer in the morning protects my skin even eight hours after application! LOVE THIS STUFF!"

Size:5ounces

Key ingredients:Ceramides, hyaluronic acid

Type:Lotion

Skin type:Best for sensitive skin

Chemical Sunscreens

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Neutrogena

Beach Defense Sunscreen Lotion With Broad Spectrum SPF 70

A must for summer beach days, Neutrogena's water-resistant sunscreen protects for up to 80 minutes. It's also fast-absorbing and lightweight, so you won't feel that slick residue like you would with other formulas.

Pros:Water-resistant up to 80 minutes, lightweight, fast-absorbing

Cons:Can cause a burning sensation if it gets in your eye

Customer review:"Not only does it have a high SPF compared to other brands, but it literally goes above simple skin protection in the sun. I use it on my face and body, and it leaves my skin feeling so soft and healthy. Honestly love it so much for not just beach and water use, but daily too."

Size:6.7ounces

Key ingredients:Oxybenzone, beeswax

Type:Lotion

Skin type:All skin types

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La Roche-Posay

Anthelios Ultra-Light Sunscreen Lotion Spray Broad Spectrum SPF 60

It's so easy to spray this lightweight sunscreen from La Roche-Posay. It provides even coverage, and the formula contains antioxidant protection to defend against those pesky free radicals.

Pros:Works forboth face and body, ultralight feel, antioxidant-rich formula

Cons:Can feel a bit greasy upon initial application

Customer review:"I have been using La Roche-Posay sunscreen after doing a lot of research, and although I was at first a skeptic, I am so happy that I tried this out. This sunscreen is light, and I can wear it all day without breaking out/triggering an eczema flare-up."

Size:5ounces

Key ingredients:Thermal spring water, antioxidant complex

Type:Spray

Skin type:All skin types

Shiseido

Ultimate Sun Protector Face and Body Lotion SPF 60+ Sunscreen

This formula is super high-tech. It has SynchroShield Technology, which senses heat and creates a stronger barrier, and adds another layer of sunscreen protectionwith exposure to perspiration or water.

Pros:Works well in strong heat, water-resistant, great size for travel

Cons:Some customers say that the formula is too watery

Customer review:"It feels incredibly luxurious. It's turned putting on sunscreen from a chore that I avoid to something I actually look forward to doing. It does feel kind of greasy/oily when it comes out of the bottle, but it dries down to a very nice lightweight finish with minimal fuss."

Size: 1.7ounces

Key ingredients:Avobenzone, camellia sinensis–leaf extract

Type:Lotion

Skin type:Best for dry or combination skin

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Hawaiian Tropic

Antioxidant+ Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

This nongreasy sunscreenis packed with antioxidants to protect the skin against aging free radicals. Some people like scented sunscreens, and some people don't, but the tropical-inspired fragrance in this one transports us to a lush island.

Pros:Lightweight formula, prevents free radical damage, jasmine scent

Cons:Fragrance is strong

Customer review:"Oh my goodness, I purchased this for the beach last month (we went in June), and it is lovely. It smells SO good! It is so smooth and creamy going on. Best of all, it has a high SPF, and it really protected my skin. I did not burn, but I also wore a wide-brimmed hat as well."

Size:6ounces

Key ingredient:Green tea extract

Type:Lotion

Skin type:All skin types

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Coppertone

Glow Hydrating Sunscreen Lotion

This sunscreen from Coppertone is infused with shimmery particles toleave your limbs glowing. Consider it a sunscreen-makeup hybrid.

Pros:Shimmer finish, water-resistant formula

Cons:Some users might not like the shimmery finish

Customer review:"It's lightly shimmery, but the tiny glimmers let you know that you covered that area—and maybe they help to block the burning rays! Stays on well. Was out seven hours in the Phoenix sun in July—in water the whole time—reapplied 1x and did not burn."

Size:2ounces

Key ingredients:Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate

Type:Lotion

Skin type:All skin types

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Sun Bum

Original Sunscreen Spray

Suitablefor all skin types,this sunscreen spray is packed with vitamin E to smooth and protect the skin from damaging free radicals. It's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and is oil-free, which makes it a good option for those who struggle with body breakouts.

Pros: Oil-free, ultra-sheer formula

Cons:Can feel sticky

Customer review:"Sun Bum is already the best sunscreen, but the spray makes it better. The spray can cover the areas of your back that you can't reach. It's very convenient. Smells good."

Size:6 ounces

Key ingredients:Avobenzone, vitamin E

Type:Spray

Skin type:Best for acne-prone skin

Banana Boat

Ultra Defense Sunscreen SPF 100

Banana Boat sunscreens always remind me of summer. This version is enriched with aloe and vitamins A and E to soothe and protect the skin. It's also lightweight, water-resistant, and rub-free.

Pros:Water-resistant, hydrating, non-greasy formula

Cons:Can stain clothing if sprayed too closely

Customer review:"I never liked using sunscreen, as it was too greasy. This sprays on cleanly and protects most of the day with little need for a respray. It's also only a couple of dollars more than the SPF 50."

Size:6ounces

Key ingredients:Vitamin C, vitamin E, aloe

Type:Spray

Skin type:Best for oily skin

Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreen

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(Image credit: @tamaramory)

Heather Rogers, MD, is the founder and CEO of Doctor Rogers Restore and co-founder of Modern Dermatology in Seattle. She says mineral and chemical sunscreens work differently to protect the skin from UV rays. Mineral sunscreens, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, sit on top of the skin and block rays like reflectors. On the other hand, chemical sunscreens—oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, and avobenzone—are absorbed into the skin. They absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin.

While Rogers says chemical sunscreens provide good UVA and UVB protection and are better than not using anything, they can be absorbed into the body. "We can measure them in our blood and urine," she says. "Even though they are well-studied, labeled by the FDA as nontoxic, do not cause cancer (despite some reports out there), and have not been shown to cause hormone disruption in humans, they do accumulate in us. I would like to minimize the accumulation of any unneeded chemicals in my body, my patients' bodies, and in our world whenever possible. Further, avobenzone is a common cause of sunscreen allergy, and oxybenzone is contributing to the death of coral reefs."

When it comes to mineral sunscreens, Rogers prefers ones that contain zinc oxide because it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. (UVA causes brown spots and wrinkles, and UVB causes sunburns.) "Titanium dioxide is another good physical sunscreen, but it only protects from UVB rays, so products need to have both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to provide broad-spectrum protection," she explains.

How to Decipher SPF Ratings

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(Image credit: @himichelleli)

I've always reached for the higher SPF because I thought the bigger the number, the better it would protect. However, I didn't really understand the science behind it. "Dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which blocks 97% of the sun's UVB rays," says Marmur. "The higher-number SPFs do block the sun's UVB rays slightly more. Of course, it's important to remember that even high-number SPFs need to be reapplied throughout the day."

Rogers adds, "SPF only describes protection from UVB rays, the sunburn rays that also damage your skin's DNA. UVA rays penetrate the skin more deeply, causing wrinkles and brown spots. Instead of looking for a product with the highest SPF, look for a product with at least an SPF of 30 that is also labeled broad-spectrum protection."

Sunscreen and Skin Type

Finding the "Perfect" Sunscreen Is Practically an Art—We Love These 17 Options (20)

(Image credit: @evemeetswest)

Rogers says finding a sunscreen that is good for your particular skin type will take some hunting and experimenting. "If you have dry skin, look for formulations that have hydrating ingredients," she explains. "If you have oily skin, opt for something with a matte finish that's oil-free. If you have sensitive skin, mineral-based sunscreens are particularly important because the most common chemical sunscreens can be irritating, while zinc oxide is calming."

She believes sunscreen should be sunscreen. In other words, she cautions against using all-in-one products. Instead, use an antioxidant serum (like a vitamin C serum) and a moisturizer each morning, apply a liberal layer of sunscreen, and you're good to go. "The all-in-one products never work as well as specialized products," she says.

Finally, there's a common misconception that zinc sunscreens don't work well on sensitive or acne-prone skin. Rogers says that they're actually the better choice because they're naturally anti-inflammatory and are less likely to cause allergic reactions.

Lotion vs. Spray Sunscreen

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(Image credit: @alicezielasko)

I go back and forth between using lotion and spray on my body, so I wanted to know if there was a difference in efficacy. It turns out it's mostly based on personal preference. "What is most important is for sunscreen to be applied daily and reapplied throughout the day to ensure your skin is consistently protected," Marmur says. "When using an aerosol sunscreen, I recommend holding the can about four to six inches from the body and slowly applying liberally onto the skin until it becomes visible. I would then gently spread the formulas to your neck, ears, chest, back, etc., to ensure you did not miss any sections of your body. When using a lotion body sunscreen, I would use at least a shot glass amount and spread over the skin using circular motions."

Rogers suggests you keep a variety of sunscreen products for different activities and different areas of your body. "You need the one you wear every day, the water-resistant one you use when you go to the beach or pool, the powder version you use on your hair part and to reapply during the day when you are wearing makeup," she explains. "I like my skincare products to be specialists. Often, the more a single product claims to do, the less likely it is to do all those things well."

How to Apply Sunscreen

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(Image credit: @alyssainthecity)

First and foremost, both Rogers and Marmur recommended reapplying sunscreen every two to three hours when you're outside, even when it's cloudy. If you're using a mineral sunscreen, apply it after your moisturizer but before your makeup. If you're using a chemical sunscreen, Roger says you should apply it before moisturizer, as it needs to be able to absorb into the skin to work most effectively.

Even if you're spending most of your time indoors, you still have to apply sunscreen. Take it from Marmur. "I have several patients who have shared with me that their melasma is getting worse, yet they have not been outside," she explains. "What we need to remember is that we need to wear sunscreen even inside our house because of the sun's harmful UVA/UVB rays. Even the blue infrared light emanating from our computer screens can cause damage to our skin!"

This article was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

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Sarah Yang

Managing Editor

Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019.In addition to her work on THE/THIRTY and Who What Wear, she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot).She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.

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Finding the "Perfect" Sunscreen Is Practically an Art—We Love These 17 Options (2024)

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