The best facial sunscreens for every skin type, according to experts

There’s no denying that it’s important to wear broad spectrum sunscreen outdoors, as it covers a range of needs from sun protection to wrinkle prevention. But in order for this to work effectively, there are some things to keep in mind. “Chemical sunscreens like oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate and avobenzone need to be absorbed through the skin before they can protect us from the sun’s rays,” says certified dermatologist Dr Heather Rogers, co-founder of Modern Dermatology in Seattle and founder of Doctor Skin Care Rogers RESTORE. “These ingredients protect the skin by absorbing the sun’s rays and then converting them into heat which is released by the skin.”

Mineral sunscreens (also called physical sunscreens) protect the skin with the help of natural sun blocking ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. “They sit on your skin and block the sun like reflectors,” notes Rogers. She adds that the best have broad-spectrum SPF coverage of 30 or more, to defend themselves powerfully enough against both types of UV rays.

Regardless of your choice, chemical and physical sunscreens are effective forms of sun protection that should be used regularly. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best facial sunscreens, which include top picks from Rogers and dermatologists Dr Onyeka Obioha and Dr Muneeb Shah.

Best face sunscreen overall

Los Angeles-based dermatologist and consultant at Glory Skincare, Dr. Onyeka Obioha recommends this broad-spectrum sunscreen as her first choice. “It’s a light, non-greasy sunscreen that won’t make you feel like you’re wearing sunscreen,” she says. “And because it’s a mineral sunscreen, it shouldn’t cause acne and works well with all skin types.”

Best face sunscreen for dark skin

For dark skin tones, Obioha recommends this Powder Sunscreen from Colorscience. “If you’re looking for some coverage but don’t want to apply foundation all over your face, tinted sunscreen is perfect for you,” says Obioha. “Since it’s tinted, it doesn’t leave a white tint on your face and easily blends into the skin. ”

Best face sunscreen in drugstore

“This stick sunscreen works great in hot weather. You don’t have to worry about sunscreen running into your eyes when you sweat, ”says Obioha. As the name suggests, this water resistant option with SPF 50 will keep you cool and dry for up to 80 minutes.

Best face sunscreen for all skin tones

True to its name, the popular sunscreen brand Unseen sunscreen is transparent, making it ideal for all skin tones. “Since this is a clear sunscreen, you won’t have to worry about a white or gray tint on your face,” says Obioha. “It has a really soft, smooth finish and works great as a primer for your foundation or tinted moisturizer.”

Best face sunscreen for sensitive skin

According to Dr. Shah, this hydrating sunscreen with SPF 30 is ideal for sensitive skin. Enriched with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and ceramides to soothe, hydrate and protect the skin, he recommends this pure mineral sunscreen for daily use.

Best Face Sunscreen For Athletes

According to Rogers, Venus Williams On-The-Defense SPF 30 sunscreen works universally on all skin tones and skin types. It also contains a high dose of zinc oxide (25%) and blends into the skin for a soft, matte finish. “It wears light and won’t aggravate your pores or cause excessive sweating,” says Rogers.

Best tinted sunscreen

Another of Rogers’ favorites, this zinc oxide tinted sunscreen comes in three nude to tan tones to help even out skin tone while protecting skin from UV rays. With the help of citric acid, it also helps in reducing clogged pores and rashes. And thanks to vitamin E, it helps to form a shield against pollution and environmental toxins.

Best face sunscreen for oily skin

La Roche-Posay Facial Sunscreen has an oil-free formula that keeps pores clear while using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to provide physical defense against UV rays. Its SPF 50 screen will not give a white reflection and it is ultra light despite such good protection against the sun.