Which sunscreen for face is right for you?
If you must choose one skincare product for your face, make it sunscreen. Dermatologists say that it is one of the best ways to protect your skin from premature aging, sunburn and risk of skin cancer. Regular use of sunscreen can also reverse signs of photodamage, reduce dark spots and improve skin texture.
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With countless types of sunscreen in the market, it can be confusing to find the right one for you. Many face sunscreens contain ingredients like antioxidants to brighten the skin, or some are non-irritating made for sensitive skin. If you are ready to find a face sunscreen, keep reading to find the one for you.
In this article: La Roche-Posay Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60, EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen SPF 46 and Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50
Good face sunscreens
Mineral vs. chemical sunscreen
Mineral sunscreens contain ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to reflect the UV rays off the skin. Chemical sunscreens contain active ingredients like oxybenzone and avobenzone that absorb UV light.
Broad-spectrum protection
UVA rays cause aging, and UVB rays cause burning, and broad-spectrum sunscreen protects you from both. Sunscreen not labeled ‘broad spectrum’ only protects you from burning.
Skin type
Dry skin will benefit from sunscreen that has a creamy formula and has hyaluronic acid. Oily and acne-prone skin should choose non-comedogenic formulas to prevent clogged pores.
Tint
For an even skin tone, you can choose a tinted sunscreen that is available in various shades.
How much you can expect to spend on a face sunscreen
You can expect to pay from about $10 to $50 and up for a face sunscreen. Drugstore brands make them in the $10-to-$19 range, or you can find premium brands for $20 to $49. If you don’t mind splurging on one, you can spend $50 or higher.
Face sunscreen FAQs
Should I wear sunscreen every day?
A. Yes, you should wear sunscreen every day whether you are indoors or outdoors.
Who needs to wear sunscreen?
A. Everyone should wear sunscreen to protect themselves from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays.
Is skin cancer common?
A. It is estimated that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer, and regular use of sunscreen can reduce your chances of getting skin cancer.
The best daily face sunscreens
Best overall

La Roche-Posay Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60
Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, the velvety texture absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a white cast. It works for all skin tones and skin types.
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Best for acne-prone skin

EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen SPF 46
Designed for acne, this oil-free sunscreen has 5% niacinamide to reduce inflammation and discoloration. It also helps future signs of aging and reduces dark spots.
Best for dry skin

CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
Developed by dermatologists, this formula has hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate your skin and ceramides to maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
Best for sensitive skin

Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30
Intelligent drone technology helps to boost skin’s natural glow while SPF protects skin from UV rays. Skin stays hydrated all day, and bio-ferment sage evens your skin tone.
Best hydrating sunscreen

Murad Superactive Hydrating Moisturizer SPF 50
While protecting you from UVA/UVB rays, this lightweight sunscreen also improves the skin’s moisture barrier with hyaluronic acid. It leaves no white cast and gives you firm, dewy skin.
Best tinted sunscreen

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50
This antioxidant-rich mineral sunscreen can hydrate and protect your skin. It is hypoallergenic and available in three tints.
Best sheer sunscreen

Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
This sunscreen dries completely clear and works on all skin tones, especially if you have darker skin. It works well under makeup and keeps you moisturized with avocado and jojoba oil.
Best during pregnancy

Acure Radically Rejuvenating SPF 30 Day Cream
This reef-safe mineral sunscreen is gentle and safe to use during pregnancy. It also has turmeric, ferulic acid and vitamin C to hydrate and protect your skin.
Best budget sunscreen

Sun Bum Sunscreen Face Stick SPF 30
This affordable face sunscreen has vitamin E and protects you from UVA/UVB rays. Available in a stick, it is convenient to reapply.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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