Best Sunscreen Of 2025: Our Top 10 Picks

Yahoo

16-05-2025

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This spring, I went to my first horse show with my pony (his name is Pickles), and I was ill-prepared for the wild 40-degree weather swings and the high UV index. I was in dire need of chapstick, more sunscreen and a Stanley cup to keep my water icy all day long – and I hadn't packed any of it!
The weather has seen some pretty rapid variations this spring. In Atlanta, we saw temperatures ranging from the high 30s up to the 70s or even 80s in one day. Pollen counts are off the charts, it feels like you can't dress appropriately from morning to afternoon, and sunscreen seems like an afterthought – but it is absolutely critical for proper skin protection, no matter the weather.
So don't be like me – plan your adventures in sunny or cloudy weather. In the guide below, we're highlighting a few best practices when it comes to picking the right sunscreen based on your skin type and sensitivities, why that SPF number may (or may not) matter, and some top sunscreen product picks, including a few recommendations from our medical reviewers.
Sneak peek: Sunscreen picks on The Weather Channel Storefront on Amazon
There have been plenty of studies conducted that show sunscreen protects against skin-damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation (UV) and reduces risk of certain skin cancers.
Skin cancers are some of the most common diagnoses in the U.S., with estimates that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.
Sunscreen can also help prevent premature aging (including wrinkles and hyperpigmentation), protect against sunburn, prevent discoloration and dark spots and help your skin appear smoother and more even.
So you want to buy some sunscreen, whether to add to your daily skincare and makeup routine or because you plan to be outdoors for most of the summer. There are two types of sunscreens to pick from: chemical and physical.
Chemical sunscreens are absorbed into the top layer of the skin and work to absorb UV rays and convert them into energy before they can harm the skin.
Physical sunscreens (also known as mineral sunscreens) are designed to sit on top of the skin to reflect the sun's rays. These sunscreens usually include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as the active ingredients.
The 'best' type of sunscreen is subjective, and ultimately dependent on what you're doing, skin sensitivity level and your preference on color blending.
According to licensed aesthetician and laser specialist Erin Blackwell, 'Mineral sunscreens, which use zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide, are often better for sensitive skin, melasma, rosacea and situations where immediate protection is needed – they work right away.'
She went on to mention that they are considered more photostable (meaning something is resistant to change under radiant energy), and ideal for high sun exposure scenarios like at the beach. Mineral sunscreens are more difficult to blend into the skin, though, and can leave a white cast
'Chemical sunscreens tend to be lighter and more water- and sweat-resistant, which can make them a better choice for sports or heavy sweating – especially if labeled 'sport' or 'water-resistant.''
If you have sensitive skin, however, chemical sunscreens can sting and cause irritation. I have skin that is sensitive to certain sunscreens and a lot of direct sunlight, so I find that if my skin has any sort of developing sunburn and I reapply a chemical sunscreen, I'll have an immediate burning or allergic reaction.
Depending on your choice of chemical or mineral sunscreens, there are a few important ingredients at play that may determine which sunscreen you select, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Zinc oxide (ZnO): a mineral sunscreen ingredient that acts as a physical UV filter. It's commonly used in creams, pastes and ointments to treat skin irritations (like diaper rash or burns).
Titanium dioxide: a mineral sunscreen that reflects UVA and UVB rays. This protection is known as 'broad-spectrum protection.' Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are listed as 'generally recognized as safe and effective' by the FDA.
Avobenzone: one of the chemical sunscreen ingredients that provides broad range protection for UVA and UVB protection. It is not photostable and will degrade in sunlight, which is why chemical sunscreens must be reapplied. The FDA restricts the concentration to 3% in sunscreen.
Oxybenzone: A derivative of benzophenone, it protects against UVA and UVB rays. It can be a skin irritant. This is a banned ingredient in Hawaii after a study suggested it contributed to coral reef damage.
Octinoxate: This chemical ingredient protects against UVB rays. It is also not photostable and will break down in direct sunlight. This can be a skin irritant, along with fragrances and alcohol. This is a banned ingredient in Hawaii.
Octisalate: Absorbs UVB radiation and is used to enhance water resistance.
Homosalate: Used for UVB protection, this ingredient is also not photostable. It's been listed as a potential endocrine disruptor.
When it comes to chemical sunscreen ingredients, we asked our medical reviewers about the safety and environmental considerations.
Dr. Tess Thomas mentioned that for ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, there is documentation of a negative environmental impact, especially on coral reef health. She went on to say, 'That said, newer chemical sunscreen formulations are much cleaner and more heavily tested for safety.'
So I asked, if there was a choice between the two sunscreens, which one would she reach for? Her answer was prompt. 'Personally, I tend to recommend mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide first, especially for [those with] sensitive skin, pregnant women, or young kids. They provide excellent protection without the same potential concerns, and it's what I use if I am going to be sitting on the beach in the summertime.'
Blackwell agreed: 'Many people with inflammatory issues in the skin can have sensitivity to chemical sunscreens. While research is ongoing [about the health and environmental concerns of chemical sunscreens], many people choose mineral sunscreens for peace of mind – they're generally safer for both human health and the environment.'
Unfortunately, moisturizer and cosmetics with SPF in the ingredients are simply not going to be enough protection if you're spending time outdoors, especially on sunny days with a high UV index.
Most moisturizers and foundations with sunscreen average between SPF 15-30, and it's not enough protection. Dr. Thomas states, 'On a high UV day, you really need a minimum of SPF 30–50. The protection [in cosmetics] fades fast, and it is hard to reapply if you have makeup on already.'
Blackwell agreed, adding, 'While they're helpful for light, incidental sun exposure (like walking to your car), they often don't provide enough coverage or durability for prolonged sun exposure. On high UV days, a dedicated, broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential – moisturizers and foundations with SPF should be considered bonus protection, not the primary defense.'
Both agreed that looking for an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen (and water-resistant if you are doing an activity) is critical for the most complete skin protection. No sunscreen can protect 100% against UV rays, which is why proper SPF rating, application and reapplication are important.
For more tips on proper application and SPF ratings, be sure to check out our guide on how much sunscreen you really need.
Below are some of the best sunscreen options for mineral and chemical sunscreens based on a number of criteria, including: skin types, face and/or body application, environmental safety, child-friendly, ingredient list, price point and dermatologically approved product picks.
Pro Tip: Make sure you apply every two hours when you're outdoors, or after 80 minutes of swimming and sweating. Always do a test patch and wait 30 minutes before applying liberally to the face and body.
Best Reef Safe Mineral Sunscreen: Thrive Reef Safe Sunscreen SPF 50
Best Sport Sunscreen: Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray
Best Mineral Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin: Aveeno Baby Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
Best Mineral Sunscreen For Kids: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+
Best Chemical Sunscreen For Older Kids: Panama Jack Baby Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
Best Sensitive Skin Face Sunscreen: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen SPF 40+ (With/Without Tint)
Best Combination Face Sunscreen: EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46
Best Gel Sunscreen For All Skin Tones: Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Matte™ SPF 45 Sunscreen
Best Sunscreen For Acne: Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen Lotion for Acne-Prone Skin
Best Sunscreen Under Makeup: Supergoop! Mineral Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
Price: $29.95 at Amazon
Type: Mineral | SPF: 50 | Reef Friendly: Yes | Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide (23.5%)
Shop It: Amazon
What we love:
Reef safe with non-nano zinc oxide and creating a physical barrier on skin for up to 80 minutes and improving spreadability
Promises minimal white cast and less greasy application
Protects against UVA/UVB rays
No synthetic colors or ingredients, paraben-free, PABA-free, GMO-free, cruelty-free
What we don't:
Includes fragrance ingredients, which can be a skin irritant
Some reviewers had negative skin reactions, including bumps and sunburn after use
Mineral sunscreens can be drying
If you're traveling to certain locations, like Hawaii, Key West, the U.S. Virgin Islands or Aruba, then you'll need a reef-safe sunscreen when you visit. The safest option is going to be mineral sunscreen, which is why we picked Thrive Reef Safe Sunscreen.
With a 50 SPF rating (ideal for most people while outdoors) and featuring plant-based ingredients made without parabens and dyes, we also appreciate the company's dedication to being a certified plastic negative product.
One reviewer called it a 'great reef-safe sunscreen,' saying, 'We used this the whole time we were in Belize. It blocked the sun great and rubbed in without the white residue. Perfect for the hot Caribbean sun!'
Another said, 'Very effective in [the] intense Florida sun. Two to three hours even in the water. Don't need lots. Great coverage. It goes on white because of Zinc Oxide but doesn't stain and becomes colorless in a few minutes. No sting and no taste.'
Many reviewers felt this sunscreen was a healthy alternative to other brands while still offering effective protection. However, for complaints, some felt it was very drying, has a noticeable white cast (due to the non-nano zinc oxide), and multiple reviewers mentioned they had an allergic reaction to the sunscreen that resulted in a rash. Others felt the overall sun protection was not the best.
Price: $13.97, was $18.99 at Amazon (2-piece bundle)
Type: Chemical | SPF: 50 | Reef Friendly: No | Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (2.7%), Homosalate (9.0%), Octisalate (4.5%), Octocrylene (6.0%)
Shop It: Amazon
What we love:
Protects against UVA/UVB rays
Sweat- and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, ideal for outdoor sports
Free from Oxybenzone and Octinoxate
What we don't:
Includes fragrance and alcohol, which are skin irritants and very drying
Sprays not as ideal for face coverage
When I began the sunscreen poll with my family, friends and colleagues, I received a few confused shrugs when I asked about a preferred sunscreen for sports enthusiasts. While many of my colleagues were hyper-aware of the sunscreen ingredients that go on their face, sunscreen requirements for their bodies were much more relaxed. The general consensus was that convenience store options covered the bases.
I even quizzed my brother, who has played sports since childhood, and so it was with universal agreement that the Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray was the best sports option. And the Amazon ratings back it up – with 4.7 stars and over 20,000 company ratings, this two-bottle bundle has been purchased over 40,000 times in the past month.
This helpful reviewer (who admitted to having very pale skin) summed it up really nicely: 'This stuff seems to keep me from burning throughout the day … If you do go into the water or are sweating, make sure to reapply every two hours or even sooner because [sweating and swimming] will wash it off.'
One reviewer who went on a cruise recently mentioned, 'We are always pleased with the Banana Boat Brand. They've been a staple in our family since as long as I can remember, so we're happy with our product.' Another called it 'reliable,' saying, 'Always my go-to, never burn when I apply it, and it protects my tattoos.'
For complaints, some noted that this is not a reef-safe option if you're traveling to areas that restrict certain sunscreen ingredients. Others didn't feel like the protection was enough, and some also suffered from rashes.
Price: $13.18 at Amazon (travel size) and Walmart; $17.49 at CVS
Type: Mineral | SPF: 50 | Reef Friendly: Yes | Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide (21.6%)
Shop It: AmazonShop It: WalmartShop It: CVS
What we love:
Hypoallergenic, no parabens or phthalates, according to company
Soothing ingredients, no alcohol, fragrance or essential oils (Incidecoder)
Sweat- and water-resistant up to 80 minutes
Protects against UVA/UVB rays
Awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance and is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation
What we don't:
Leaves a white cast
Could not confirm if Zinc Oxide ingredient is non-nano, which may mean it's not as reef-friendly as other mineral brands
The Aveeno Baby Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen is my personal go-to sunscreen in the summers. I have sensitive skin, and if there is any hint of developing irritation, a chemical sunscreen will inflame my skin. I've been using baby-formulated sunscreen for the past handful of years with great success. My thinking – formulas for babies are scrutinized much more heavily, and anything that passes muster with parents will work for me, too.
With SPF 50 protection for UVA and UVB rays, this mineral sunscreen is mild and designed for a baby's sensitive skin, which means no stinging or irritation. It's sweat- and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and claims a tear-free, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula.
One reviewer who uses it for their children said, '[It] provides great protection, [is] easy to apply and doesn't irritate skin which is huge!' Multiple reviewers noted that with proper application and sun protection measures, their children had no skin irritation or sunburn.
Another called it the 'staple sunscreen for the summer,' going on to mention, 'This sunscreen has been my go to sunscreen for years. I have sensitive skin, and this is great at preventing sunburns while not irritating my skin. [I] recently used this for an all day water park day, and with reapplication every 2 hours, I did not get burned. It is extremely thick, and will leave a very noticeable white cast that slightly fades after application, but to me it is worth it.'
For complaints, some did not like the smell, and mentioned it was thick and hard to spread evenly on the skin. Others noted that when buying it through Amazon, they felt like they had received a used product.
Spray options: Blue Lizard Kids Mineral Sunscreen Spray SPF 50+
Price: $10.99 at Amazon (3 fl. oz.); $11.99 at CVS
Type: Mineral | SPF: 50 | Reef Friendly: Yes | Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide (8%), Zinc Oxide (10%)
Shop It: AmazonShop It: CVS
What we love:
Hypoallergenic, no parabens or fragrances, according to company
No alcohol, fragrance or essential oils (Incidecoder)
Sweat- and water-resistant up to 80 minutes
Protects against UVA/UVB rays
What we don't:
May leave a white cast or blue tint on skin
Has some comedogenic ingredients that may clog pores or cause breakouts
The Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen, which has 4.6 stars and over 28,800 company ratings on Amazon, is available as both a lotion and spray. A popular sunscreen option for kids and those with sensitive skin, it contains no Oxybenzone and Octinoxate ingredients (so it's listed as reef friendly), and is formulated without parabens or fragrance to reduce skin irritation.
So while you'll have to work through the usual white cast that comes with mineral sunscreens, this 'dermatologist trusted' product (according to the company) could be a perfect pick for multiple members of the family.
Sara Tonks, a meteorologist at weather.com, said, 'This is my preferred sunscreen for diving and ocean swimming, and it's reef-safe!'
One reviewer noted using it to protect tattoo colors in a tanning bed, saying, 'I was looking for something that would work for both UVA and UVB rays and this is it. I have one brightly colored full tattoo sleeve and one sleeve that's half way done and I was looking for something to save my color when I go to the tanning bed as well as when I'm in the sun.' They went on to mention that this sunscreen will stay on the skin and is waterproof, having used soap and scrubbed with a loofah and still had a noticeable white cast to the skin after bathing.
Another reviewer said it 'really works,' noting they applied it in the morning, and even after swimming and being on the beach, they had no sunburn. One commented that this sunscreen did not irritate the skin or cause sunscreen bumps after use.
The white or blue cast the sunscreen leaves behind, however, is quite apparent, according to many reviewers. Others noted a bad smell, and if you're using it on your face or under makeup, it becomes more noticeable throughout the day. Another reviewer with eczema mentioned it did not react well with their skin.
Price: $11.95 at Amazon
Type: Chemical | SPF: 50 | Reef Friendly: No | Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (10%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (5%)
Shop It: Amazon
What we love:
Oxybenzone and Octinoxate free, no gluten, parabens, PABA, or dyes according to company
Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
Broad spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays
What we don't:
Includes alcohol and fragrance, which are skin irritation ingredients
Don't shy away from chemical sunscreens, even though it sounds 'harsh' – some children and adults simply react better to this type of skin protection when compared to a mineral sunscreen.
My review: This is one of my favorite chemical sunscreens, even though it's not widely popular. I had discovered it after leaving to go on vacation and I quickly realized I needed better sunscreen than what I had taken. Every time I use it while in the sun or after being outdoors, I am always shocked at just how little my skin suffers – no sunburn or irritation everywhere the sunscreen has been applied. My poor scalp does not always escape unscathed.
That's why I suggest giving the Panama Jack Baby Sunscreen a chance if you or an older child has sensitive skin. Chemical sunscreens shouldn't be used on very young children, as dermatologists largely recommend mineral sunscreens for babies 6 months or older.
One reviewer said, 'I have 3 kids aged 3, 5, and 9. My oldest can use any sunscreen but my two little ones have always gotten a rash after using sunscreen. We have tried a lot of different brands, expensive and inexpensive, and they always get a rash … And let me tell you this IS the best sunscreen.'
Another called it 'great for your face,' going on to say, 'I love this SPF 50 sunscreen for my face. I live in the Caribbean on my sailboat and don't go outside without putting this on each morning. It's not greasy feeling at all and works great!'
Of the relatively few reviews that it has on Amazon, most major concerns were the shipments from Amazon, with some feeling the bottles were not completely filled.
Price: $39.99 at Amazon; $38.95 at Laroche-posay.ca
Type: Mineral | SPF: 50 | Reef Friendly: Yes | Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide (6%), Zinc Oxide (5%)
Shop It: AmazonShop It: La Roche-Posay
What we like:
Free of fragrance, alcohol and essential oils (Incidecoder)
No Oxybenzone or parabens, non-comedogenic, and allergy tested, according to company
Generally suitable for sensitive skin
SPF 50 broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection
Variety of tint options
What we don't:
May leave a white cast (without tint)
Reviewers note it can pill under makeup
Very small amount for cost
With 4.5 stars and over 27,000 ratings on Amazon, the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen is not only a fan favorite with shoppers, but also among our weather.com team members as well. La Roche-Posay is a brand that touts 'recommended by dermatologists' with its complete skincare lines, from cleansers and moisturizing creams to its serums and sunscreens.
This tinted sunscreen is one of the company's top sellers on Amazon, though we were also torn between that and the Melt-in Milk Sunscreen, which was also highly recommended by a colleague. It offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, is water-resistant up to 40 minutes, and it's Oxybenzone and fragrance free. The tint ensures a smaller chance of white cast (as seen with typical mineral sunscreens) and a matte finish.
Tim Harris, a writer for weather.com, says, 'This is what I use and swear by! I found most others left behind a sticky residue or white cast and this one absorbs super quickly and leaves a satiny, smooth finish feeling. I have fairly oily skin and this works the best for me.' According to my survey among colleagues, three people swear by this particular sunscreen brand.
One reviewer offered a few helpful application types, noting that this sunscreen will cling to skin dryness, so it's critical to moisturize properly before applying. They go on to say, 'As someone with combination skin, I appreciate that it doesn't feel greasy or clog my pores. The tinted formula blends nicely and helps even out my skin tone without looking cakey or leaving a white cast. I like that there are four flexible shades, but I do wish there were more options for a wider range of skin tones. It has a lightweight, breathable texture, and I haven't noticed any irritation or breakouts from it.'
More reviewers called it 'amazing,' a 'game changer for my skincare routine,' and a great sunscreen for sensitive, acne-prone skin.
The main complaints are about the tint or white cast not ideal for darker complexions, and that the sunscreen will pill when worn underneath makeup. Some noted that they had some skin reactions.
Price: $44 at Amazon and EltaMD.com; $45 at Dermstore.com
Type: Mineral & Chemical | SPF: 46 | Reef Friendly: No | Active Ingredients: Oxtinoxate (7.5%), Zinc Oxide (9%)
Shop It: AmazonShop It: EltaMD.comShop It: Dermstore
What we like:
Free of fragrance, alcohol and essential oils (Incidecoder)
Includes Niacinamide, a skin-brightening ingredient
Claims to calm and protect skin prone to acne and rosacea
SPF 46 broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection
Variety of tint options
What we don't:
Not water resistant
Includes Oxtinoxate – not a reef-safe ingredient
Has caused skin irritation and drying with some reviewers
Expensive
Currently ranked as the best seller in facial sunscreens on Amazon with 4.5 stars and over 44,000 company ratings, the EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum sunscreen is a fan favorite for reviewers with sensitive skin. It's a true combination sunscreen, as it utilizes both chemical and mineral elements in its ingredient list.
One of the differentiators in this product pick is some of the ingredients, including Niacinamide, which acts as a skin brightener and moisturizer, and vitamin E (listed as Tocopheryl Acetate), which is supposed to help reduce the signs of aging.
One longtime user left a review saying, 'This is my third time purchasing this sunscreen, and I absolutely love it! One of the things I appreciate most is that it doesn't cause my skin to break out. I have very sensitive skin, and most sunscreens tend to irritate or trigger breakouts, but this one doesn't.' They went on to mention there was no dreaded white cast, and it's lightweight enough to wear every day.
Another reviewer called it 'essential' in your skincare routine, while one more in-depth review said, 'As a woman past 40 with acne and sensitive skin, I'm constantly searching for sunscreen that doesn't make me break out or irritate … I was a bit skeptical because I'd been prescribed all kinds of treatments by my dermatologist, and none of them worked very well, but I've been using the Elta MD all this summer and couldn't be more pleased with the results. I still wear a hat because we all know no sunscreen protects 100%, but most importantly, my skin has actually gotten clearer.'
The biggest complaint we have is that it's not reef-safe, so don't plan to take this with you on a vacation. A few reviewers had negative reactions and some questioned how well it would work directly in the sun. Others noted some of the bottles had defective pumps.
Price: $18.99, was $21.99 at Amazon; $16.99 at CVS; $21.99 at BlackGirlSunscreen.com; $17.99 at Ulta
Full body option: Black Girl Sunscreen Face & Body Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
Type: Chemical | SPF: 46 | Reef Friendly: No | Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (3.0%), Homosalate (10.0%), Octisalate (5.0%), Octocrylene (5.0%)
Shop It: AmazonShop It: CVSShop It: UltaShop It: BlackGirlSunscreen.com
What we like:
Broad-spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays
Gel application easy to blend without white cast
Vegan and cruelty-free, according to company
Oxybenzone- and Octinoxate-free
What we don't:
Some comedogenic ingredients like coconut oil (Incidecoder)
Some reviews say it feels greasy
If you can't stand a white cast of mineral sunscreens, don't need any tint and prefer the smoothness of a gel, we suggest taking a look at the Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Matte Gel. It came highly recommended by one of my colleagues.
Renee Straker, a writer at weather.com, shared that this is one of her preferred sunscreens, saying, 'This is my favorite. It's formulated for darker skin tones (but works for anyone) and doesn't leave a white cast. Since it's a gel, it glides on, no clammy or sticky feeling. My favorite thing is that it doubles as a primer and works great under makeup.'
More reviewers on Amazon say that this sunscreen 'is unmatched for [my] melanated skin. Goes on very smooth and pairs well under foundation.'
Another helpful reviewer said, 'This version of Black Girl Sunscreen is my favorite! It's not greasy and doesn't leave a white cast on your face like most sunscreens. It feels like a thicker lotion and once you put it on it just gives you a moisture looking shine. The only con I get is when I go running once I sweat if it gets in my eyes it makes my eyes burn. So I make sure to be careful putting it around my eyes.'
As for complaints, some reviewers argue about the matte finish (with some saying it is drying, while others with combination skin say it actually makes their skin feel oily). Some noted that the liquid and gel will separate over time, and it can be hard on sensitive skin types.
Price: $17.99 at Ulta.com
Type: Chemical | SPF: 50 | Reef Friendly: No | Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (10%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (10%)
Shop It: Ulta
What we like:
Oil, fragrance, alcohol and Oxybenzone-free (Incidecoder)
Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
Formulated for oily and acne-prone skin
Broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 50 protection
What we don't:
Some reviewers noted a stinging sensation after sweating
With 4.4 stars and over 1,600+ company ratings on Ulta, this Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen Lotion is a popular pick at a reasonable price. With an SPF 50 rating, this will be ideal as a general daily use sunscreen.
Many reviewers noted it doesn't have a greasy feeling (especially since it's designed for those with oily or acne-prone skin), drying with a matte finish. As one helpful reviewer on ulta.com summed it up: 'I've been using this sunscreen daily and I love how lightweight and non-greasy it feels on my skin. It doesn't clog my pores or cause breakouts, which is a big win for my acne-prone skin. It wears well under makeup and keeps my face protected without any white cast.'
Many called it a solid choice or a favorite option, with one saying, 'This is my favorite sunscreen. It's specific for your face and oil free. It's a nice lotion but can get very runny once in the sun. I don't get any breakouts while using this brand.'
As for complaints, some noted that with chemical sunscreens, they experienced adverse reactions, including stinging sensations, both upon application or when sweating. Some noted the texture was not great under makeup.
Price: $40 at Supergoop.com
Type: Mineral | SPF: 40 | Reef Friendly: Not confirmed | Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide (17.68%), Titanium Dioxide (1.33%)
Shop It: Supergoop.com
What we like:
Oil, fragrance, and alcohol free (Incidecoder)
Designed for all skin types
Water-resistant up to 40 minutes
Broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 40 protection (see SPF efficacy report here)
What we don't:[I]
Some comedogenic ingredients
Very expensive for so little
Supergoop! Mineral Unseen Sunscreen is one of our top brand picks thanks to 'glowing' reviews, and has been rated as a great blendable under-makeup mineral option. One caveat: Mineral sunscreens are typically considered more reef-friendly as long as the mineral ingredients are listed as 'non-nano,' but we couldn't directly confirm if these ingredients were in that category.
There are other under-makeup chemical options like the gel Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen formula, which can function as a makeup-gripping primer, but for skin sensitivity and based on our medical reviewer feedback, we believe the mineral option to be more skin-friendly. The traditional Unseen sunscreen is also not reef-safe.
Dr. Thomas also mentioned she prefers wearing the Supergoop! sunscreen under her makeup, while more colleagues echoed that sentiment. One reviewer on the supergoop.com says, 'Love the Mineral Unseen sunscreen. It goes on so smoothly and doesn't burn my eyes.' Another said, 'It's the only SPF I've found that I can wear under my makeup without making my makeup splotchy. Feels so light and natural.'
One compared it to the traditional sunscreen, saying, 'This feels just like the regular Unseen when I'm applying it. However, it doesn't have the fragrance and my skin does much better with it.'
Common complaints were largely around the mineral white cast in the product, especially on darker skin tones. Another mentioned some skin reactions to the mineral ingredients.
We interviewed two medical professionals for their expert tips and tricks, along with a few of their favorite brands.
Dr. Tess Thomas, DO, ABFM: Dr. Thomas is a Board Certified Family Practitioner who trained at the University of Pennsylvania. She is a physician with over 23 years of experience.
Erin Blackwell, LE, CLT: Licensed esthetician and clinical laser technician
We enlisted the testing feedback of multiple weather.com employees for this robust list of sunscreen offerings, as well as their feedback on application. Where applicable, we listed the feedback from a number of different users based on their preferred criteria, including mineral versus chemical ingredients, sunscreen use and placement (face vs. body), price point, blendability and skin type.
Interestingly, during the survey of colleagues, it was resoundingly more challenging to pick facial sunscreens vs. body sunscreens. As they all reported to me, 'I care more about what I put on my face and its reaction. I can use generic sunscreens for my body.'
We prefer to err on the side of caution. Even if you see 'reef-safe' or 'reef-friendly' claims, it's important to check the ingredients, as certain chemicals in sunscreens (even including brands with marketing claims as 'reef-friendly') may still technically be harmful to the environment.
These locations currently require a 'reef-safe' sunscreen:
Hawaii
Key West, Florida
U.S. Virgin Islands
Aruba
Bonaire
Palau
To ensure you're buying the most 'reef-friendly' option, it's suggested to avoid these ingredients (according to SaveTheReef.org):
Oxybenzone
Octinoxate
Octocrylene
Homosalate
4-methylbenzylidene camphor
PABA
Parabens
Triclosan
Any nanoparticles or 'nano-sized' zinc or titanium (if it doesn't explicitly say 'micro-sized' or 'non-nano' and it can rub in, it's probably nano-sized)
Any form of microplastic, such as 'exfoliating beads'
The ingredients in chemical and physical (mineral) sunscreen options may be directly affected by your skin sensitivity, skin color and outdoor activity (for example, beach vs. hiking).
All sunscreen options had a handful of reviewers noting some kind of skin reaction, whether it was chemical or mineral sunscreens. It's best to do a test patch before you apply the sunscreen to your face and body. If you have sensitive skin, or even an allergy to sun exposure, it's best to combine your sunscreen use with hats, appropriate sun protection clothing and sunglasses.
Not everyone can afford to spend a lot of money on sunscreen. Yes, it's important to find a quality product that works for your skin type, texture and needs, but at a price that won't break the bank. We tried to keep all of our product options within an acceptable range of $10-40 per bottle, noting in the cons section when it was expensive (especially for a very small amount).
When not testing ourselves, we defer to the reviewers who use the product and provide helpful, comprehensive feedback. If a product has few or poor reviews, we make sure to include the complaints, and if the negative feedback outweighs the intended use, we will not include it in our list.