The 14 Best Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type, Tested by Editors

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With summer's arrival, we have our sights set on a sun-protection regiment that keeps sun damage, sunburns, and premature aging at bay. We need SPF head-to-toe, but finding a body sunscreen is typically an easier task than choosing a face sunscreen that you'll want to wear daily and reapply liberally.
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When you've tried one too many sunscreens that sting your eyes or leave your skin looking ashy, it's hard to summon up much enthusiasm for the extra — but all important — SPF step in your routine. But UV protection is essential year-round, especially with national incidences of skin cancer still continuing to rise. Studies also show that sunscreen helps prevent skin damage caused by UV radiation on any skin tone, from sunburn to hyperpigmentation to signs of aging. Yes, brightening serums and retinol products can help manage these skin concerns, but face sunscreens are your first line of defense.
Luckily, the SPF market is catching up to the rest of your skin care routine. The latest formulas feel so good on skin, they're akin to a hydrating serum or lightweight moisturizer — with the added benefit of broad spectrum protection. Dermatologists have also noted plenty of recent advancements in sunscreen formulation.
'Many facial sunscreens are now tinted with iron oxide,' says dermatologist Dr. Loretta Ciraldo, M.D. of the new tinted moisturizer with SPF category. 'The addition of this tint not only makes the sunscreen blend into more skin tones, but also acts as a proven beneficial ingredient since iron oxide has been shown to help resolve melasma.' Another advancement Dr. Ciraldo has noticed in sunscreen formulation is the addition of blue light protection. 'Some recently presented data shows that blue light from the sun can cause free radical damage, so I do advocate for using SPF with blue light/HEV protection,' she says.
Ready for a deep dive? With the help of Dr. Ciraldo, Dr. Joshua Zeichner, M.D, and Dr. Dendy Engelman, M.D, we've rounded up the best face sunscreens on the market right now. Read on for the full breakdown.Choosing the right facial sunscreen is crucial for shielding your skin from harmful UV rays without causing breakouts, irritation, or sensitivity. Factors like SPF level, formula texture, and skin care ingredients play a major role in finding your perfect match, as do personal preferences like chemical versus mineral sunscreens. Because of this, our editors are highlighting the three best face sunscreens versus one best overall. After two rounds of extensive testing and consultation with dermatologists, we've curated a list of the top three facial sunscreens that cater to different skin types and preferences.
Cerave AM SPF 30 Facial Moisturizing Lotion: Our testers rate Cerave's formula as the best sunscreen moisturizer for facial use. It delivers broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection in a non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly into the skin, making it ideal for daily use as a sunscreen under makeup or alone. Enriched with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, it helps restore the skin's natural barrier and retains moisture throughout the day.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch SPF 60 Sunscreen: Those with oily and acne-prone skin need a face sunscreen that won't feel greasy or trigger breakouts. La Roche-Posay's Clear Skin formula is the best face sunscreen for oily skin with its matte finish that leaves the skin feeling smooth and shine-free. A non-comedogenic formula doesn't clog pores or exacerbate existing breakouts.
EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 Tinted Face Sunscreen: This pick earned a top spot as the best tinted sunscreen for the face. It provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays while offering a sheer tint that helps even out skin tone and conceal imperfections. Ideal for daily wear, this lightweight formula contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate and plump the skin, leaving behind a natural, dewy finish. It's suitable for sensitive skin and can be used alone or as a base for makeup.
EDITOR'S CHOICE
Formula: LotionSize: 3 ozType: Chemical and mineralSPF: 30Special features: Contains niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides
$14.97 $19.99 25% off
Buy Now at amazon
$19.99
Buy Now at ulta
A consistent top-seller online and in drugstores, Cerave's AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion is the best daily face sunscreen our editors tested, and shoppers agree, with it earning over 60,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. Cerave is known for including skin barrier-supporting ingredients in all of its face washes, face serums, and moisturizers, and this face sunscreen gets the same treatment. Beyond its chemical and mineral blockers, the lightweight lotion includes nourishing and softening ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. Its hydration-focused formula is best suited for normal to dry skin types, though it's oil-free and non-comedogenic, giving it the green light for those with acne. Editor testing and review notes: 'Few sunscreens feel like nothing on my skin — many err on the greasy side, some are scented, and others impart a subtle white cast that makes me hesitate before I reapply. Cerave's face sunscreen, on the other hand, goes on featherweight without fragrance. I love that it never breaks me out but also doesn't leave my skin feeling thirsty: It's a true two-in-one moisturizer and sunscreen. Because it's so lightweight and breathable, it's easy for me to massage on another coat if I'm at the beach; it doesn't pill, sting, or feel slick.' — WWD Shop contributor Claire Sullivan Price upon publish date of this article: $12.90
Formula: LotionSize: 1.69 fl oz Type: ChemicalSPF: 50Special features: Contains vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid
$48
Buy Now at lancôme
An excellent everyday sunscreen for those who are concerned about signs of aging, Lancôme's Supra Screen is powered up with ingredients like brightening niacinamide and hydrating hyaluronic acid. On top of quenching dry skin, this top face sunscreen also protects it from future signs of sun damage with a special type of vitamin C that forages damaging free radicals. It has a watery texture that disappears onto the skin with a dewy finish. Editor testing and review notes: 'For those who hate the feeling of heavy sunscreens on their skin, this Lancôme's SPF is chef's kiss. Aptly named, the formula goes on more like a face serum than a traditional lotion, lending lightweight protection from the sun that you'll want to wear everyday. I didn't experience any sensitivity, stinging, or white cast with it.' — SullivanPrice upon publish date of this article: $48
EDITOR'S CHOICE
Formula: LotionSize: 1.7 ozType: ChemicalSPF: 60Special features: Oil-absorbing formula
$20
Buy Now at amazon
$20
Buy Now at ulta
Acne-prone skin types know that finding a face sunscreen that doesn't result in breakouts or irritation can be a wild goose chase. After multiple rounds of product testing, La Roche-Posay's Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen has held its spot on our list of the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin. Its a non-comedogenic chemical sunscreen that has the added benefit of oil-absorbing technology that prevents shine from peeking through on the t-zone throughout the day. This face sunscreen also includes the brand's signature thermal water that soothes sensitivity and balances the skin, making this one of the best face sunscreens for sensitive skin types, too.Our testers with oily skin found this face sunscreen suitable to wear as a daytime moisturizer thanks to its breathable texture and matte finish. Those with combination or dry skin will want to layer it on top of a hydrating serum or moisturizer. Editor testing and review notes: 'If you're about to give up on sunscreens due to consistent breakouts — don't! Instead, give this lightweight lotion a try. I swear by it because it can stand in as a daytime moisturizer with SPF for acne-prone skin types, which allows your skin to breathe more than layering on both moisturizer and sunscreen. It dries down quickly with a matte finish that keeps greasiness at bay throughout the day.' — Sullivan Price upon publish date of this article: $20
EDITOR'S CHOICE
Formula: LotionSize: 1.7 fl ozType: Mineral and chemical SPF: 46Special features: Calms acne and rosacea
$38 $42 10% off
Buy Now at amazon
$42
Buy Now at dermstore
Eltamd makes some of the best dermatologist-recommended sunscreens for every skin concern, and this gentle formula is a longtime favorite. Our testers rate it as the best tinted sunscreen on the market, particularly now that it comes in a Daily Deep Tint formulation that suits dark skin tones without a white cast. The non-comedogenic lotion helps soothe and protect sensitive skin types, and our testers report that it's even friendly for those with rosacea. It helps reduce irritation from breakouts and prevents skin from feeling overly dry after sun exposure thanks to ingredients like vitamin E and hyaluronic acid. The sheer tint provides coverage that's similar to a tinted moisturizer with SPF, helping to camouflage dark spots or post-acne marks. Editor testing and review notes: 'Nearly every dermatologist I've interviewed during my six plus years as a beauty editor has recommended this sunscreen, and I love it, too. It delivers bulletproof sun protection in an easy-to-wear formula. I struggle with rosacea on my cheeks, and this formula is one of the few face sunscreens that doesn't exacerbate or irritate it with consistent wear.' — Sullivan Price upon publish date of this article: $40.85
Formula: Lightweight creamSize: 1.69 ozType: ChemicalSPF: 36Special features: Contains cica to calm skin
$18
Buy Now at amazon
$18
Buy Now at sephora
Amazon shoppers have long praised Innisfree's Daily UV Defense SPF as the best Korean sunscreen for the face — it's racked up over 5,200 five-star reviews. Our testers evaluated it across a wide range of skin tones and skin types, with the consensus being that this is a no-frills face sunscreen that's only second to Cerave as the best face sunscreen for everyday wear. On top of its SPF 36 protection, the formula includes calming and moisturizing ingredients, namely cica to reduce redness, sunflower seed oil for lasting moisture, and green tea extracts that forage free radicals to reduce visual signs of sun damage. For the price point, you can't beat it as a daily face moisturizer with SPF or as your go-to face sunscreen for a beach day. Editor testing and review notes: 'The Innisfree sunscreen is perfect for those who are picky about sunscreens. When you sweat, it doesn't melt off skin or make your eyes sting, and even after a full day's wear, your skin will feel soft and clean with a quick rinse — it doesn't create build up or breakouts like other formulas we tested. I love that it delivers a little glow to the skin without feeling greasy or shiny.' — SullivanPrice upon publish date of this article: $18
Formula: LotionSize: 1.7 fl ozType: Chemical SPF: 50Special features: Functions as a makeup primer
$36
Buy Now at sephora
Ultra Violette is an Australian sun care brand that's newly available stateside with a slew of SPFs that cater to different skin types and preferences. The Supreme Screen is one of the brand's most popular formulas for its weightless feel on the skin. A subtle peachy tint creates a smoothing effect with its sheer coverage, but it doesn't transfer on clothing or look patchy if not applied perfectly. Ingredients like squalane make it hydrating enough to function as a moisturizer for combination or oily skin types, while all can wear it as makeup primer. Editor testing and review notes: 'I've been testing the entire range of sunscreens from Ultra Violette, and this one stood out to me for how amazing it feels on my face. It's extra hydrating without feeling oily or leaving a greasy film on my skin, and the light tint ever-so-subtly evens out discoloration I have on my cheeks. This is the type of facial sunscreen you will want to reapply — and one that also just so happens to make any makeup you apply on top look fresher and last longer.' — Sullivan Price upon publish date of this article: $36
Formula: LotionSize: 1.7 fl oz Type: Chemical SPF: 40Special features: Hydrates skin; prevents damage from blue light and heat
$38
Buy Now at amaezon
$38
Buy Now at dermstore
Spanish skin care brand Isdin counts its Fusion Water Magic face sunscreen as a global bestseller — and the product just launched in the United States this spring. The beloved, dermatologist-approved face sunscreen contains hyaluronic acid to boost moisture levels in the skin while plant-based ingredients like algae extracts prevent damage from free radicals. While it's technically a lotion, it feels like a cooling gel when you apply it.Editor testing and review notes: 'Isdin's Eryfotona Actinica SPF is one of my all-time favorite sunscreens, so I was eager to get my hands on the brand's newest SPF. My dry skin can always use extra moisture, and this formula beat out many of my favorite moisturizing sunscreens in its ability to make my skin feel hydrated the entire time I wore it. It dries down completely clear and leaves my skin feeling nice and supple.' — Sullivan Price upon publish date of this article: $38
Formula: GelSize: 1.7 fl oz Type: Chemical SPF: 50Special features: Water resistant, contains many plant-based ingredients to nourish skin
$45
Buy Now at amazon
$45
Buy Now at nordstrom
Some facial sunscreens protect your skin, others do that and treat your complexion to nourishing ingredients you'd expect to see in luxurious face serums. Allies of Skin's gel sunscreen fits squarely in the latter camp with a long list of skin-improving actives like vitamins C and E, carrot seed extract, green tea, and niacinamide. Together, these ingredients make the sunscreen a savvy choice for those looking to smooth, hydrate, and brighten the skin. More to love: the gel formula disappears onto the skin within seconds of applying it. Editor testing and review notes: 'Gel sunscreens aren't my go-to choice (I find that my dry skin does better with hydrating lotions and creams). That said, this formula wowed me with how well it moisturized my skin and how lightweight it felt while I wore it. The gel takes on a velvety finish once you massage it on, blurring pores and creating a grippy base for makeup.' — Sullivan Price upon publish date of this article: $45
Formula: Gel-lotionSize: 1.7 pzType: Chemical SPF: 50Special features: Oil-free; weightless formula
$14.98
Buy Now at amazon
One WWD Shop editor batch orders this Bioré UV Aqua Rich sunscreen, which feels more like a great gel moisturizer than a true face sunscreen. Before it launched in the US last summer, the Japanese iteration of this product became famous on TikTok for its incredible texture, quickly racking up over 3,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. So what's to love? It absorbs into the skin in mere seconds after you apply it, drying down to a slightly dewy finish with a featherweight feel. This is one of those face sunscreens that even SPF-averse will grow attached to after a few uses. It's not smelly, wears beautifully under makeup, and feels cooling on contact. You can choose between SPF 30 or SPF 50; we recommend the latter for summer's strong rays. Editor testing and review notes: 'I always keep extras of Bioré's face sunscreen on standby in my medicine cabinet. It's the first sunscreen I reach for when temperatures spike: Because it's so lightweight, I don't have to worry about feeling like any makeup I apply on top is going to slide off my skin. It's also entirely unscented, which is great for those like me who get sensitive to strong fragrances on my skin when it's hot and humid outdoors. The fact that it feels like a soothing serum on contact always makes me want to reapply it — and I know that when I do so, I don't have to worry about it breaking me out.' Price upon publish date of this article: $15.99
Formula: Gel Size: 1.69 oz Type: Chemical SPF: 50 Special features: Non-greasy finish; contains ingredients to support a healthy skin barrier
$40
Buy Now at amazon
Buy Now at ulta $40 $40
If you're after a sunscreen that feels like air and looks invisible on your skin, allow us to introduce you to this SPF gel from Beekman 1802. The formula has a cushiony feel when you apply it on your skin, then melts down into a serum-like texture with a skin-blurring, demi-matte finish. Antioxidant-rich algae contributes to improved skin radiance, while a triple milk complex helps to support a healthy skin barrier. Editor testing and review notes: 'This is an amazing sunscreen for those who have aversions to traditional creams and lotions. It fully melts into the skin when you apply it (this is the type of SPF you will forget that you're wearing after a few minutes), creating a smooth, hydrated base for any makeup you choose to wear on top. It doesn't pill or leave my skin feeling slick, too.' — Sullivan Price upon publish date of this article: $40
Formula: LotionSize: 5 ozType: ChemicalSPF: 60+Special features: Protection strengthens with contact to heat, water, or sweat
Buy Now at amazon $50 $50
$50
Buy Now at nordstrom
$50
Buy Now at ulta
Shiseido is known for creating some of the most luxurious-feeling sunscreens you can find, and dry skin types will adore the Ultimate Sun Protector SPF. Our editors deem it the best sunscreen for face and body after extensively testing this combo category of formulas. The peach-tinted sunscreen has a liquid consistency that's closer to an emollient face serum than it is a classic sunscreen lotion, which makes it ultra-easy to blend on the skin. Apart from its comfortable, luxurious texture, this top face sunscreen is worth the spend for its bulletproof sun protection. It enlists a proprietary technology that allows the sunscreen to strengthen when exposed to heat, water, or sweat, so swimmers or pool-goers can rest easy that they're covered in and out of the water. Ingredients like algae and licorice root soothe sensitive and acne-prone skin that are susceptible to irritation from sun exposure. Editor testing and review notes: 'After testing a slew of Shiseido's top face sunscreens, the Ultimate Sun Protector stood out to our panel of testers across dry to oily skin types. For starters, the airtight packaging is leakproof and the narrow applicator nozzle allows precision when you're applying it. But it's the feel of this face sunscreen that really stood out: It has the silkiest texture that makes skin feel soft, not sticky. It's a great sunscreen to pack on a trip as it's available in TSA-safe sizes and works as beautifully on the face as it does on the body.' — Sullivan Price upon publish date of this article: $50
Formula: ChemicalSize: 1.7 ozType: Lightweight creamSPF level: 30Special features: Refillable packaging; choose from fragranced or fragrance-free options
$42
Buy Now at sephora
Skin care minimalists will love Fenty Skin's Hydravizor Invisible Moisturizer: This two-in-one product is as amazing at moisturizing your skin as it is at protecting it. The light pink lotion contains hyaluronic acid to keep your skin hydrated throughout the day, plus niacinamide, which can help dissolve dark spots and brighten your skin with consistent use. It absorbs like some of the most breathable face creams on the market — with a no white cast guarantee.Editor testing and review notes: 'I packed this sunscreen for a beach vacation a few months back, and I've had a hard time parting with it since. The lotion melts in immediately after I apply it, only leaving behind a dewy finish and soft-to-the-touch skin. Even on the hottest days at the beach, I never noticed a fragrance or felt like it was preventing my skin from breathing — it's a surprisingly gorgeous formulation to wear on its own or under makeup.' — Sullivan Price upon publish date of this article: $42
BEST SUNSCREEN FOR FACE UNDER MAKEUP
Formula: ChemicalSize: 1.7 ozType: GelSPF level: 40Special features: Doubles as makeup primer
$38
Buy Now at amazon
$38
Buy Now at nordstrom
Supergoop! is known for creating sunscreen in fun formats — the brand offers mists, balms, oils, eyeshadows and more with SPF. But the hero of their sun protection lineup is the Unseen Sunscreen. This soft-touch gel formula feels like nothing on your skin, but it's full of active ingredients beyond SPF. You'll get a meadowfoam complex that hydrates skin, red algae to help protect against blue light, and soothing frankincense. The gel texture has a slight tackiness to it that grips makeup in place, and it's completely clear, so any skin type or tone will want to wear it regularly. It's the best face sunscreen to wear under makeup. Editor testing and review notes: 'I give this sunscreen top honors for texture: The velvety gel formula blends down into a demi-matte finish in seconds. It also has a little grip to it, which prevents the sunscreen from sliding around or irritating my eyes throughout the day. Those with oily or combination skin will love to use it as a makeup primer; it prevents foundation from turning shiny in the t-zone on hot days and holds down full glam makeup looks.' — Sullivan Price upon publish date of this article: $48
BEST FACE SUNSCREEN FOR DARK SKIN TONES
Formula: ChemicalSize: 3 ozType: LotionSPF level: 30Special features: Water resistant for up to 80 minutes
$16
Buy Now at ulta
$16
Buy Now at cvs
Although dark skin types may burn less frequently, daily sunscreen is still a necessity. But finding the best face sunscreen for dark skin tones that doesn't have flashback or leave behind a white cast on dark skin can be a tall order — that's where Black Girl Sunscreen's Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion comes into play. This SPF was specially developed with melanated skin in mind, ensuring no residue or streaks after application.What reviewers say: 'I decided to give this one a try and I absolutely love it. No burning around my eyes when I put this on, blends super easily and wears well under makeup. I would even say this helps my makeup wear better. Since this is so hydrating it helps my makeup melt into my skin.'Price upon publish date of this article: $16
SPF 30+: Dermatologists agree that you should look for an SPF rating of 30 or higher on your face sunscreen to make sure you're getting a good level of daily protection. 'The SPF value only represents the ability of the sunscreen to prevent sunburn from UVB rays,' says Dr. Zeichner. To ensure you're getting the SPF protection listed on the label, you need to apply the proper amount. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, most people only apply about 20 to 50 percent of the amount needed. A good rule of thumb is to apply two full finger lengths of sunscreen to your face.
Sweat resistance: You might not need it in your daily formula, but sweat- and water-resistant formulas are a great choice for beach days or outdoor sports. These formulas are designed to stay on through humid or wet conditions. But just like regular sunscreens, you'll still need to reapply them every two hours in order to stay protected. Just because the formula is still on your skin doesn't mean you can skip reapplication.
Broad spectrum protection: Broad spectrum sunscreen indicates that the formula will protect your skin from both types of UV light: UVA and UVB rays. 'With sunscreen that isn't broad spectrum, you won't be protected from all UVA rays,' says dermatologist Dr. Engelman. Whereas UVB rays are a big factor in reddening and sunburn, UVA rays penetrate deeper into your skin and can cause premature aging and skin cancer. 'You can be confident that you're getting the best and most protective sunscreen if you see both 'broad spectrum' and an SPF of 30 or higher on the label,' says Dr. Engelman.
Comfortable wear: The most important thing to look for in your face sunscreen is a formula that fits seamlessly with the rest of your products. If you want to wear it, you're more likely to use it daily and reapply regularly. 'As a dermatologist, I tell my patients that the best sunscreen is the one that you are actually using,' says Dr. Zeichner. 'Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference.'
No matter what kind of formula you're using, sunscreen should always be the last step in your skin care routine. Dr. Ciraldo says this rule applies to both physical and chemical formulas, and it also holds true for any type of face sunscreen you use, whether it's a cream, powder, or spray. Finish your morning skin care routine with a generous amount of SPF, then reapply it every two hours, even if you're not at the beach. 'This should be done regardless of being inside or outside, as UV rays can penetrate your skin through windows, but it's especially important if you're outside and swimming or sweating,' says Dr. Engelman.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, a nickel-sized amount of sunscreen is the proper amount to apply on your face daily. If you have a hard time eye-balling it, squeeze sunscreen on the length of your ring and middle fingers then massage it in — that's an equivalent measurement that will keep your complexion covered. Take care to apply your SPF to the tops of your ears, and don't forget your lips — SPF lip balms are as essential as face sunscreen for proper sun protection.
For those who wear makeup, reapplying a lotion or cream mid-day is a cosmetic calamity. Preserve your makeup look without sacrificing your skin health by reapplying with a powder brush or face mist.
Best face sunscreen for dry skin: For those with dry skin, seek out cream formulas rather than lotions, and consider sunscreens that contain hydrating ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or jojoba oil. If you're extra parched, layer your face sunscreen over moisturizer. (Mixing them together dilutes the SPF level).
Best face sunscreen for combination skin: Combination skin can be complicated. Unfortunately for these skin types, finding a great sunscreen is usually a game of trial and error. Start with a lightweight chemical sunscreen, which tends to agree with most skin types, then seek out something lighter or heavier depending on how your skin reacts.
Best face sunscreen for acne-prone skin: If you have oily or acne-prone skin, Dr. Ciraldo recommends looking for a face sunscreen with a high concentration (at least 5%) of zinc oxide. 'This ingredient can actually help acneic skin and mattify oily skin,' she says. Also seek out oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas for good measure.
Best face sunscreen for sensitive skin: If you have sensitive or reactive skin, stick to mineral SPF formulas with only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide listed as active ingredients. Also avoid fragranced formulas.
Sunscreens contain either chemical or physical UV blockers, or a combination of both. Physical sunscreens contain mineral filters: zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. 'They form a protective shield over the skin to reflect and scatter light,' says Dr. Zeicher. 'However, they also absorb UV light similar to the way that chemical sunscreens work.' Physical/mineral sunscreens might be best for you if you're looking for a gentle formula. These ingredients can be used across all skin types without causing irritation. The downside? Most (but not all!) formulations tend to leave behind a white cast, especially on darker skin tones.
Chemical sunscreens are also referred to as organic filters. 'Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV light and preventing it from penetrating into the skin,' says Dr. Zeichner. These formulas are less likely to leave a white cast, since they can be easily blended into your skin. 'Chemical sunscreens can also be formulated with ultra high SPF levels,' he says. When should you opt for physical formulas instead? In some (but again, not all) cases, chemical sunscreens may lead to irritation in people with sensitive skin.
Tinted face sunscreens now come in an increasingly wide shade range, making them a great choice for incorporating into your makeup routine (or ensuring you won't get a chalky white cast). Dr. Engelman says they can be 'just as effective' as untinted formulas. 'In fact, the tint can actually provide added protection against hyperpigmentation and melasma,' she says. 'Just make sure you're still choosing a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.' Those who frequently touch their face, rub their eyes, or wear white clothing may want to avoid tinted sunscreens, as they can transfer and stain.
If you're going snorkeling or are planning a beach day, stick with all mineral formulas to be safe. Some studies have shown that two common chemical filters (oxybenzone and octinoxate) can cause coral bleaching. While discussion continues on the exact impact, sunscreens that don't contain these ingredients are now considered 'reef-safe' in an effort to reduce environmental pollutants and damage. Dermatologists say that it's ultimately up to you whether or not you want to avoid these ingredients in your SPF (although these sunscreens are banned in Hawaii). 'It's important to remember that the term 'reef-safe' has no standard or regulated meaning, so be sure to do your research when selecting an SPF,' says Dr. Engelman.
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as 'the fashion bible' — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women's and men's fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD's breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD's editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
Our editors asked Dr. Ciraldo, Dr. Zeichner, and Dr. Engelman to select their top sunscreens based on innovations in the market, a variety of skin types and tones, and standout formulations. Many of their picks are also backed by hundreds of five-star reviews.
Other additions to the list are based on two rounds of extensive personal testing. Our editors tried over 50 facial sunscreens over the course of one year to whittle down this list of the best facial SPFs to wear. During testing, we evaluated factors like the feel, texture, and wearability of the formulas, eliminating any that were unsatisfactory (i.e., causing breakouts or leaving a white cast on our skin). We tested the sunscreens in different weather conditions, including cold and rainy days as well as sunny, warm afternoons. While testing, we also noted how the formulas hold up with layering other products below and on top of the formulas. The products on this list won't pill or feel suffocating when you layer them over face serums and moisturizers, or under makeup.
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as 'the fashion bible' — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women's and men's fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD's breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD's editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
Dr. Loretta Ciraldo, M.D. F.A.A.D., is a Miami-based board certified dermatologist with over 40 years' experience and founder of Dr. Loretta Skin Care. Dr. Loretta was amongst the first (and one of the only women) to study the effects of UVA radiation on skin at Harvard's photobiology lab in the seventies. She's a mother of four, grandmother of two, has a thriving dermatology practice in Miami, an award-winning skin care line, and formulates for other beauty brands.
Dr. Dendy Engelman, M.D. F.A.C.M.S. F.A.A.D., is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue. Widely celebrated for her expertise in neurotoxins, injectable fillers, and laser medicine, Dr. Engelman provides a wide range of treatments including general dermatology, Mohs micrographic surgery, and skin cancer treatment. She has been featured in national magazines, publications, and media appearances regarding her pioneering work in dermatology.
, M.D. F.A.A.D., is an Associate Professor of Dermatology and the Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. He is one of the country's key opinion leaders in treating acne and rosacea, and is an expert in cosmeceuticals, skin care, and cosmetic dermatology. As an educator, Dr. Zeichner teaches dermatology residents and regularly lectures to international audiences at major dermatology meetings. His work has been published in the top peer-reviewed dermatology journals, and he can be found quoted across national media.
is a contributing writer for Footwear News and WWD, where she writes and edits beauty, fashion and lifestyle stories. She has over six years of experience as a writer and editor for national media outlets including Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She keeps her finger on the pulse of all things related to beauty and wellness, regularly digging into topics like facial sunscreens. Sullivan contributed to the May 2025 update of this best face sunscreen story with information on new studies and additional face sunscreen product picks after another round of testing.