Facial sunscreens are essential for keeping your skin healthy. They protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, which can lead to premature aging, skin damage, and a higher risk of skin cancer. With so many sunscreens on the market, selecting the right one can be daunting. However, the ideal sunscreen should offer broad-spectrum protection, feel lightweight on the skin, and be suitable for your particular skin type. Choosing the wrong sunscreen could cause clogged pores, skin breakouts, and insufficient protection.
When choosing a facial sunscreen, taking note of the ingredients is imperative. Look for a formula that incorporates nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or vitamins, as well as reliable UV-protecting compounds like zinc oxide or avobenzone. The best facial sunscreens strike a balance between providing ample sun protection and beautifying the skin.
In this article, we will guide you in choosing the best facial sunscreen. We have conducted extensive research and personally tested various sunscreens to deliver an informative guide to you. After reading this article, you’ll be well-informed to select the sunscreen that will not only protect your skin but enhance it.
Best Facial Sunscreens
Choosing the right facial sunscreen is paramount for healthy skin. It should offer broad-spectrum protection, feel comfortable on the skin, be non-comedogenic, and suit your specific skin type. With the plethora of options on the market, it can be a challenge to decide which sunscreen is right for you. In this article, we have curated a list of the top facial sunscreens to help you make an informed choice. We’ve tested these sunscreens ourselves and deliver our findings to you for your convenience and peace of mind.
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen, SPF 46 Oil Free Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide, Protects and Calms Sensitive Skin and Acne-Prone Skin, Lightweight, Silky, Dermatologist Recommended, 1.7 oz Pump
If you’re looking for a sunscreen that is perfect for sensitive skin, then EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Provides broad-spectrum protection with a SPF of 46
- Non-greasy and perfect for oily skin
- Leaves no white-cast
Cons
- May cause a slight stinging sensation if it gets into your eyes
- A bit pricey compared to other sunscreens
- The pump may dispense too much product at once
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is a dermatologist-recommended sunscreen that is perfect for those with sensitive skin. It is oil-free, fragrance-free, and paraben-free, making it ideal for acne-prone skin.
The sunscreen is lightweight and silky, making it easy to apply and comfortable to wear throughout the day. It provides broad-spectrum protection with a SPF of 46, which is perfect for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays.
One of the best things about EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is that it leaves no white-cast, which is a common problem with other sunscreens. This makes it perfect for those who want to wear sunscreen under their makeup without it leaving a white residue.
However, it’s important to note that if the sunscreen gets into your eyes, it may cause a slight stinging sensation. Additionally, it is a bit pricey compared to other sunscreens on the market. Finally, the pump may dispense too much product at once, which can be wasteful.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality sunscreen that is perfect for sensitive skin, EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is definitely worth considering.
CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen with SPF 30 | Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen With Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide | Sheer Tint for Healthy Glow | 1.7 Fluid Ounce
If you’re looking for a gentle and effective sunscreen that also doubles as a moisturizer, then the CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen with SPF 30 might be the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The tinted mineral sunscreen is formulated with 100% mineral sunscreen filters, including zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays.
- The sheer tint is perfect for all skin tones and helps to reduce white-cast.
- The hydrating formula contains three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) that help restore the skin’s natural barrier and lock in moisture.
Cons
- The sunscreen has a thick texture, which might feel heavy on the skin.
- The tint might not be suitable for all skin tones, and it might leave a slight grayish tint on darker skin.
- The sunscreen might not be suitable for those who prefer a fragranced product.
This sunscreen is perfect for those who want to protect their skin from the sun’s harmful rays while also keeping their skin hydrated. The tinted formula is perfect for those who don’t want to wear heavy makeup or who want a more natural look.
The sunscreen is easy to apply and doesn’t leave a white-cast, which is a common issue with mineral sunscreens. The hydrating formula is perfect for those with dry skin, as it helps to lock in moisture and prevent flakiness.
Overall, the CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen with SPF 30 is a great choice for those who want a gentle and effective sunscreen that also doubles as a moisturizer. It’s perfect for all skin types and provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Moisturizing Face Serum with Vitamin E & SPF 60+, All Day Facial Sunscreen Serum with Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection, Fragrance-Free, Oxybenzone-Free, 1.7 oz
This Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Serum with SPF 60 is a great choice for those looking for a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that also moisturizes the skin.
Pros
- Provides broad-spectrum protection with SPF 60
- Non-greasy and lightweight formula
- Contains vitamin E for added moisture and antioxidants
Cons
- May leave a slight white cast on darker skin tones
- Some users may find the fragrance-free formula to be unscented
- May not be suitable for those with extremely sensitive skin
This sunscreen serum is perfect for those who want to protect their skin from the sun’s harmful rays without feeling weighed down by heavy creams. The lightweight formula makes it easy to apply and reapply throughout the day, and the added vitamin E provides an extra boost of hydration.
One potential downside to this product is that it may leave a slight white cast on darker skin tones. However, this is a common issue with many sunscreens and can be easily remedied by applying in thin layers or waiting a few minutes for it to absorb into the skin. Additionally, some users may find the fragrance-free formula to be unscented, which may be a turn-off for those who prefer a slight scent to their skincare products.
Overall, the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Serum with SPF 60 is a great choice for those looking for a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that also provides added moisture and antioxidants. It’s a great option for daily use and can help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 | Oil-Free Face Moisturizer with Sunscreen | Non-Comedogenic | 3 Ounce
If you’re looking for a daily moisturizer with SPF that won’t clog your pores, then the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 is a great option.
Pros
- Provides broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection against UVA/UVB rays
- Contains three essential ceramides that help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier
- Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and oil-free
Cons
- May feel heavy on oily skin
- Some users may find the lotion too thick
- The pump may dispense too much product at once
This moisturizer is perfect for those who want to protect their skin from the sun’s harmful rays while also keeping it hydrated. The three essential ceramides help to restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier, which is especially important for those with dry or sensitive skin.
The CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 is also non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and oil-free, making it a great option for those with acne-prone skin. The lotion is formulated with MVE Technology, which provides a steady supply of hydration to the skin throughout the day.
One potential downside of this moisturizer is that it may feel heavy on oily skin. Additionally, some users may find the lotion too thick and difficult to spread. Finally, the pump may dispense too much product at once, which can be wasteful.
Overall, if you’re looking for a daily moisturizer with SPF that won’t clog your pores, then the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 is definitely worth considering.
Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin, Broad Spectrum SPF 50 UVA/UVB Protection, Oil-, Fragrance- & Oxybenzone-Free Facial Sunscreen, Non-Comedogenic, 3 fl. oz
This oil-free sunscreen lotion from Neutrogena is a great option for those with acne-prone skin who want to protect their skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Pros
- The Helioplex® Broad Spectrum SPF 50 provides excellent sun protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
- The lightweight formula is non-greasy and doesn’t clog pores, making it perfect for daily use.
- The lotion is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
Cons
- The lotion may leave a slight white cast on the skin, which can be noticeable in photos.
- Some users may find the lotion to be too drying, especially if they have dry skin.
- The pump dispenser may dispense too much product at once, which can be wasteful.
This sunscreen lotion is perfect for those who want to protect their skin from the sun without aggravating their acne. The lightweight formula is easy to apply and doesn’t leave a greasy or oily residue on the skin. The lotion is also fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin.
One of the standout features of this sunscreen lotion is its excellent sun protection. The Helioplex® Broad Spectrum SPF 50 provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, making it an excellent choice for those who want to protect their skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
However, some users may find that the lotion leaves a slight white cast on the skin, which can be noticeable in photos. Additionally, some users may find the lotion to be too drying, especially if they have dry skin. Finally, the pump dispenser may dispense too much product at once, which can be wasteful.
Overall, if you’re looking for a sunscreen lotion that provides excellent sun protection and is suitable for acne-prone skin, the Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best facial sunscreen, there are several factors to consider. We have used and tested various products and have found that the following features are essential for effective sun protection.
SPF Level
The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) level is a measure of how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. It is recommended to choose a sunscreen with an SPF level of at least 30, which provides adequate protection for most skin types. However, if you have sensitive skin or spend a lot of time outdoors, you may want to consider a higher SPF level.
Broad-Spectrum Protection
In addition to UVB rays, the sun also emits UVA rays, which can cause skin damage and premature aging. Look for a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Water Resistance
If you plan to be active outdoors or sweat a lot, it is important to choose a water-resistant sunscreen. This will ensure that the sunscreen stays on your skin and provides adequate protection, even when you are sweating or swimming.
Skin Type
Consider your skin type when choosing a sunscreen. If you have oily skin, look for a lightweight, oil-free formula. If you have dry skin, look for a moisturizing formula that will provide hydration as well as sun protection.
Application
Finally, consider how easy the sunscreen is to apply. Look for a product that goes on smoothly and doesn’t leave a greasy or white residue on your skin. It is also important to choose a sunscreen that you will actually use consistently, so consider factors like convenience and price.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best facial sunscreen for your needs and ensure that your skin is protected from the harmful effects of the sun.
