When buying a sunscreen, look for a “broad spectrum” sunscreen with a minimum SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 to aid in preventing sun exposure from degrading the collagen. “Consistent use of sunscreen prevents the development of skin cancers, fights fine lines and wrinkles, helps keep your complexion even, and keeps broken blood vessels at bay,” she says.
It’s recommended to apply every two hours and after swimming, toweling off, or doing sweat-inducing exercises. We researched dozens of sunscreens and evaluated them based on ingredients, SPF count, and the area of the body they’re good for.
Here are the best sunscreens on the market.
Price at time of publication: $60
Besides delivering broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, the product also incorporates lactic acid for smoothing, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and vitamin E to boost the skin’s barrier, all without clogging your skin’s pores. What more could you want?
Price at time of publication: $39
Another bonus of the sunscreen is that it’s fragrance-free and has been awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. One customer with sensitive skin says they’ve been using the sunscreen for years after finding it doesn’t irritate the skin’s barrier or leave a white residue upon application.
Price at time of publication: $13
Ingredients include antioxidant-rich nutrients like red raspberry seed oil, buriti oil, meadowfoam seed oil, and prickly pear extract—all of which protect the skin from free radicals while providing nourishment, says Dr. Castilla. Avobenzone is another key ingredient, meaning the chemical sunscreen should be applied at least 15 to 20 minutes before sun exposure, Dr. Castilla says.
Price at time of publication: $25
Ingredients include zinc oxide to protect the skin from harmful rays, mixed with vitamin A and E to combat harmful free radicals. Customers say the product is perfect for a quick SPF touch-up and mattifies the skin’s complexion.
Price at time of publication: $58
The mineral sunscreen, with an active ingredient of zinc oxide, is fragrance-free and developed for the most sensitive of skin types—so it should not cause any irritation. Customers find the product is gentle enough for their skin and easy to swipe across the face and body.
Price at time of publication: $15
Besides using avobenzone as a protective ingredient against the sun, the formula also includes a complex derived from meadowfoam seed to provide hydration, and frankincense to create a soothing effect. The best part is that the oil-free sunscreen is lightweight and layers easily underneath makeup.
Price at time of publication: $36
Besides providing protection, the sunscreen is also paraben and fragrance-free, so it should work for all skin types. Customers say the product is worth every penny and rubs on like a moisturizer.
Price at time of publication: $38
After you apply the sunscreen, it works to hydrate and nourish the skin while offering protection. The best part? It is non-greasy and doesn’t show a white cast across the skin.
Price at time of publication: $36
The formula is also free of dyes, fragrances, and oils while providing a broad spectrum of coverage to protect against UVA and UVB rays. Customers say the sunscreen is a go-to for their children and rubs in easily while protecting them from getting sunburns.
Price at time of publication: $10
AvobenzoneHomosalateOctinoxateOctisalateOctocryleneOxybenzoneTitanium dioxideZinc oxide
Dr. Castilla recommends that people avoid sunscreens with insect repellents like DEET. Some people with highly sensitive skin may find that their skin reacts to ingredients found in chemical sunscreens. If you have sensitive skin, she says using sunscreens made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide will not be irritating.
SPF Count
“Look for a sunscreen that says ‘broad spectrum’ with a minimum SPF of 30,” Dr. Castilla says. The “broad spectrum” label means the sunscreen will protect against both UVA and UVB rays from the sun. For the SPF to work as it should, Dr. Castilla says applying frequently is a must.
Area of the Body
The sunscreen you use on your body will not always work well for your face, as that area can be more sensitive or prone to acne. Dr. Castilla recommends being aware of your own skin type–whether it be dry, sensitive, acne-prone, etc—when selecting what sunscreen to use on your face.
Is broad-spectrum, which means the sunscreen protects against UVB (burning rays) and UVA (aging rays) and helps prevent skin cancer and sunburn. Has an SPF of 30 or higher. While SPF 15 is the FDA’s minimum recommendation for protection against skin cancer and sunburn, the American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends choosing a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Has a “Skin Cancer/Skin Aging” alert in the Drug Facts section of the label, which means the sunscreen will only prevent sunburn and will not reduce the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging. Is water-resistant (effective for up to 40 minutes in water) or very water-resistant (effective for up to 80 minutes in water). This means the sunscreen provides protection while swimming or sweating up to the time listed on the label.
Chemical vs. Physical Sunscreens
There are two primary kinds of sunscreen: chemical sunscreen and physical sunscreen. Chemical sunscreens work like a sponge, absorbing the sun’s rays, while physical sunscreens use minerals to block the sun from penetrating your skin. Many dermatologists recommend physical sunscreens because they contain fewer potential irritants than chemical sunscreens. But physical sunscreens may leave behind a thick, white residue.
Texture
Sunscreens come in many textures and formulations, including sprays, lotions, creams, and sticks. The best type for you will depend on your personal preference, convenience, activities, and where you’ll be applying it. Lotions are a good do-it-all choice, while the American Academy of Dermatology Association says these forms may be best for specific uses:
Sticks: Around the eyesCreams: On the face and dry skinGels: On hairy areasSprays: On squirmy children
Why Trust Verywell Health
As a seasoned health writer, Danielle Zoellner knows the importance of finding just the right product to fit your medical needs. Throughout her career, Danielle has interviewed a variety of experts in the medical and health fields while reviewing dozens of products. Her experience and knowledge in the field work together to help readers like yourself find the best products for your daily life.
Studies show there is little evidence that vitamin D levels are decreased with real-life sunscreen use. The risk of skin cancer from not using sunscreen is greater. More research is needed on high-SPF sunscreen use, though.
