As the sun’s rays become increasingly potent, safeguarding our skin against harmful UV damage has never been more crucial. With an overwhelming array of sunscreen options flooding the market, finding the perfect blend of protection and skincare can feel like a daunting task. Fear not, as we’ve meticulously curated a list of the top 10 sunscreens, taking into account essential criteria such as SPF level, skin type compatibility, chemical or mineral composition, consistency, and cruelty-free status.
It is essential for every person to know the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens. This will help determine the type of sunscreen that would be suitable for your skin. Mineral sunscreens contain active ingredients such as titanium and zinc, reflecting UV rays and is great for sensitive skin. It sits on top of the skin, working like a shield. This type of sunscreen is great for babies, kids, and pregnant women. Chemical sunscreens contain carbon based compounds which help absorb the UV rays, essentially working like a sponge. Along with this type of sunscreen not leaving a white cast, this is great for all skin types!
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll navigate through the sunscreen maze to help you find the perfect shield for your skin. From oily to sensitive, and everything in between, we’ve considered every skin type to ensure that everyone can find their ideal sunscreen companion. Whether you’re lounging on the beach or running errands under the sun, our list encompasses options that cater to every lifestyle and preference.
Moreover, we understand the importance of conscious consumerism, which is why we’ve included information on whether each sunscreen is cruelty-free, so you can protect your skin without compromising your values. So, without further ado, let’s embark on a journey to discover the top 10 sunscreens that will keep your skin safe, healthy, and radiant all year round.
EltaMD
SPF Level: SPF 40
Skin Type: Combination
Chemical or mineral: Hybrid
Consistency: Lightweight lotion
Cruelty Free? Yes
This #1 Dermatologist recommended, medical-grade line of sun care leaves no white cast. All high-quality ingredients: transparent zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid, etc. to rehydrate the skin. To avoid sunburn, it is essential to use UV protected sunscreen. It is also great for skin prone to acne and rosacea as it contains niacinamide to visibly help improve skin tone and discoloration.
Beauty of Joseon Sun Relief
SPF Level: SPF 50+
Skin Type: All skin types
Chemical or mineral: Organic chemical
Consistency: Creamy
Cruelty Free? Yes
This sunscreen contains 30% rice extract and other antioxidants like niacinamide. These ingredients contain anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties. It also leaves no white cast.
La Roche-Posay Double Repair Face Moisturizer
SPF Level: SPF 60
Skin Type: Acne-prone skin
Chemical or mineral: Chemical
Consistency: Lightweight lotion
Cruelty Free? No
This sunscreen is amazing for acne prone and dry skin! It protects the skin from harmful UV rays whilst providing hydration throughout the day.
SuperGoop Unseen Sunscreen
SPF Level: SPF 40
Skin Type: All Skin Types
Chemical or mineral: Chemical
Consistency: Gel
Cruelty Free? Yes
This sunscreen delivers weightless hydration, moisture barrier support and expert protection. It, also, doubles as a makeup primer!
DUPE ALERT! Trader Joe’s Daily Facial Sunscreen
The Trader Joe’s Daily Facial Sunscreen contains an SPF level of 40. This sunscreen is a more affordable dupe for the SuperGoop Unseen Sunscreen!
Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick
SPF Level: SPF 50
Skin Type: All skin types
Chemical or mineral: Mineral
Consistency: Stick
Cruelty Free? Yes
This lightweight, oil-free, mineral sunscreen protects against harmful UV rays, hydrates skin and doubles as a face primer!
Innisfree
SPF Level: SPF 36
Skin Type: Combination to oily skin
Chemical or mineral: Mineral
Consistency: Hydrating lotion
Cruelty Free? YES
This sunscreen is a mild daily lotion that delivers lightweight hydration and invisible protection with SPF 36 to prevent UV damage. Infused with a blend of green tea and sunflower seed oil, this watery formula blends away seamlessly for a non-white cast finish and fresh glow.
Round Lab Birch Moisturizing Sunscreen
SPF Level: SPF 50+
Skin Type: All Skin Types
Chemical or mineral: Chemical
Consistency: Lightweight, watery, hydrating lotion
Cruelty Free? YES
This sunscreen contains niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, two forms of Vitamin C, and other natural inflammatory ingredients like birch sap extract. Its lightweight, watery cream texture doesn’t leave a white cast!
Naturium: Dew-Glow Moisturizer
SPF Level: SPF 50
Skin Type: All Skin Types
Chemical or mineral: Organic
Consistency: Lotion
Cruelty Free? YES
This daily moisturizing sunscreen is formulated with organic/chemical sunscreen filters that apply invisibly on all skin tones to provide broad spectrum SPF 50 PA++++ protection while leaving a dewy, radiant finish. Niacinamide and ethyl ascorbic acid are included to help visibly improve the look of the complexion.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer
SPF Level: SPF 55
Skin Type: All Skin Types
Chemical or mineral: Chemical
Consistency: Light, lotion
Cruelty Free? No
This sunscreen provides a powerful sun protection you will love to wear. It goes on easily and absorbs quickly for an invisible, light-weight feel on your skin. Formulated with Helioplex® Technology, it offers superior broad spectrum protection from aging UVA rays and burning UVB rays.
Skin 1004 Hyalu-cica Water Fit Sun Serum
SPF Level: SPF 50+
Skin Type:
Chemical or mineral: Natural
Consistency: Lotion
Cruelty Free? YES
This sunscreen is a non-nano chemical sunscreen that blocks UV rays, while simultaneously hydrating the skin. Leaves skin with a moisturized, dewy finish. It contains centella asiatica, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and green tea extract. This is great for acne prone skin due to the lightweight and anti-inflammatory ingredients.
BONUS: Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield
SPF Level: SPF 30-50
Skin Type: All Skin Types
Chemical or mineral: Mineral
Consistency: Powder, brush on
Cruelty Free? YES
This sunscreen is water- and sweat-resistant up to 80 minutes and goes beyond UV with blue light (HEV), pollution, and infrared defense against premature signs of aging and skin damage. Infused with hyaluronic acid to restore and reinforce moisture in the skin and a powerful blend of antioxidants that provides defense against pollution and free radical formation, skin is not only protected but nourished with every application.
