Fact Checked
By Wendy Gould
Introduction
Ever since we have been made aware of the harsh effects that the sun’s UV rays may have on our skin.
And since we were little kids, we have been told, time and time again, about the importance of sunscreen.
And yet, many of us still don’t apply this basic knowledge that we have been made aware of.
If you wish to avoid early signs of aging like sunspots, wrinkles, fine lines, and skin dryness, the best thing that you have in your skincare arsenal is no other than a best sunscreen.
“People with sensitive skin can have a hard time finding sunscreens, as most are made with chemical UV blockers that can cause stinging, burning, irritation, and redness when applied to the skin,” says New York City-based dermatologist Margo Lederhandler, MD, FAAD.
However, choosing a best sunscreen is not hard as you might think. Below we have listed some of the best sunscreens that you can use for your face & body. Read further to know our methodology of picking this sunscreens.
Our Methodology: How We Picked the Best Sunscreens for You?
We consulted our dermatology team to recommend the best sunscreens in the market along with the facts supporting their choices. Based on the various factors such as ingredients, price, benefits, side effects & customer reviews, we picked this variety of sunscreens & conducted our own research.
There are a few key things to consider when choosing a sunscreen our experts took into consideration while listing this best sunscreens:
Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
Broad-spectrum protection
Ingredients
Water resistance
Skin type
Quick View of Best Sunscreens of 2024 Edition
Best Sunscreen for face
DRMTLGY Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46
Let’s Get a Tour on Best of Sunscreens Featured Above
DRMTLGY Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46 combines the power of a moisturizer, sunscreen, and a hint of color, all in one. Its versatile formula ensures that your skin stays hydrated while providing broad-spectrum protection against harmful UV rays.
The lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly, leaving your skin with a flawless, natural-looking tint that effortlessly evens out your complexion. With an impressive SPF 46, it shields your skin from sun damage, reducing the risk of premature aging and sunburns.
Say goodbye to the hassle of layering multiple products and hello to the simplicity of this all-in-one solution. Get ready to experience the effectiveness and versatility of DRMTLGY Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46 for your everyday sun protection needs.
Brand: DRMTLGY | Key Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 12% and Octinoxate 7.5% | Size: 1.7 fl oz (50 ml) | Skin Type : All skin types
Green Signal
- Broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays
- Keeps your skin hydrated throughout the day
- Natural-looking coverage that evens out your skin tone
Red Flag
- Limited range of shades available
La Roche- Posay Anthelios sunscreen contains an SPF of 60 and a combination of both UVA and UVB filters that will provide the user broad-spectrum protection from the sun.
What makes it a great sunscreen for the face is that it is 100% oil-free and offers a dry-touch texture that will maintain your skin’s natural look and glow.
It also won’t cause any breakouts as the cream can absorb pore-clogging oil even when exposed to heat and humidity.
Lastly, it has an antioxidant compound that will protect the skin from possible signs of aging.
Brand: La Roche Posay | SPF: 60 | Key Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%, and Octocrylene 7% | Size: 50 Ml | All Skin Type : All Skin Types
Green Signal
- SPF 60 with UVA & UVB Protection
- Absorbs Quickly
- Prevent Sunburn
Red Flag
- No White Residue
The advanced sunscreen solution from Neutrogena provides the skin an Helio plex technology broad-spectrum sun protection and an SPF of 110.
More than sun protection, sunscreen also contains skin conditioners that hydrate and replenishes the skin.
Last but not the least, the lotion is lightweight and absorbable, giving the skin a non-greasy feel and fresh look.
Brand: Neutrogena | SPF: 110 | Key Ingredients: Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Octocrylene | Size: 1.7 oz | Skin Type : Mature skin
Green Signal
- Strong Sun Protection
- Improves Aging Signs
- Doesn’t Break Out
Red Flag
- Not Reccomended For Sentive SKin
It works both as a facial sunscreen & illuminating base.
With an SPF of 40 and a blend of the most hydrating ingredients, it is considered one of the best sunscreens for the face, as it can keep the skin nourished and well-hydrated while preventing sunburn.
It also has a lightweight formula that allows it to be quickly absorbed by the skin & leaves a sheer satin finish so that you can flaunt your golden hour face all day long.
Brand: Supergoop |SPF: 40 | Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Sea Lavender, Cocoa Peptides and Vitamin B5 | Size: 1.7 Fl oz | Skin Type : All Skin Type
Green Signal
- Protects Against Blue Light
- Improves Skin Moisture
- Prevents Sunburn
Red Flag
- Leaves Sheer Satin Finish
Here’s another broad-spectrum and non-greasy sunscreen formula on the list.
It has also been tested and approved by The Skin Cancer Foundation and is certified Gluten and PABA Free.
It is also hypoallergenic and will not cause any skin irritation.
It is also perfectly safe for children.
Brand: Sun Bum | SPF: 30 | Key Ingredients: Avobenzone 2.00%, Homosalate 15.00%, Octinoxate 7.50%, Octisalate 5.00%. | Size: 0.45 oz | Skin Type : Combination, acne prone & oily skin
Green Signal
- Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection
- Easy Roll-on Application
- Reduces Signs of Aging
Red Flag
- It Has Fragrance
This is a broad-spectrum facial sunscreen with an SPF of 46.
The formula contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide which promotes healthy and young-looking skin.
This oil-free sunscreen does not cause sensitivity and skin irritation and won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
The sun is at its most powerful (and harmful) during the summer season, and that’s why it is most important for you now more than ever to protect your skin from it.
“This specific sunscreen was studied in the real world and shown to be more effective in preventing sunburn as compared to sunscreens with lower SPF levels,” says Zeichner
So choose your weapon from the list of the top-rated sunscreens that we have provided above and give your skin the protection it needs!
Brand: Elta MD | SPF: 50 | Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, tocopheryl acetate | Size: 3 oz | Skin Type : All Skin Types
Green Signal
- UVA & UVB Protection
- Repairs Skin Damage
- Non-Comedogenic
Red Flag
- Leaves Shiney Residue
How to Choose Best Sunscreen For Face?
How to Choose Best Sunscreen For Face
The choice of the best sunscreen calls for attentiveness to the details. Among other considerations, you might want to check and verify that your select brand protects against UVA and UVB.
Pay close attention to UVA protection because these rays are said to penetrate much deeper and highly likely to cause melanoma. Also, consider the sun protection factor 30 (SPF 30+). These categories of sunscreens protect against 99.99% UVB and UVA. However, the SPF value is no guarantee of protection against UV rays.
As Zoe Draelos, MD, NYC says, “The SPF value, though often considered during purchased pf lotions and other sunscreens, it shouldn’t be the only factor that informs your purchase.”
Also, be sure to check the types of antioxidants in your sunscreen. Varieties with more antioxidants more effective than those with none.
“Antioxidants in your sunscreen protect the skin from free radicals that enhance the degeneration of collagen leading to more prominent aging signs,” says Dr. Steven Wang, MD, director of dermatologic surgery at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, NYC.
How Does Sunscreens Work?
The sun is a natural source of vitamin D and radiant heat needed for the normal functioning of our bodies. However, too much exposure to sunlight can cause damaging sunburns.
Heading to the tropics this holiday season?
Be sure to carry along, your collections of sunscreen creams. If you’re hearing about sunscreens for the first time, this much should be clear.
Essentially, these are lotions, gels, creams, sprays, or even waxes won to protect your body from the sun’s UV radiation. Their mechanism of action depends on the active ingredients.
For instance, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and other inorganic ingredients scatter UV rays. On the other hand, avobenzone, oxybenzone, and other organic compounds absorb the UV rays and dissipate it as heat.
You can check the sun damage healed by our top recommendation (Drmtlgy Tinted Sunscreen) in the picture given below:
Best Suncreen Before and After Results
Best Suncreen Before and After
What are The Ingredients in Best Sunscreens For Face?
Tinosorb S
One of the best-rated sunscreen ingredients, approved by the FDA. Tinosorb S is said to protect against UVB and UVA. In most products, a max of 10% concentration of this ingredient is required to stabilize other sunscreen filters. It’s also used to improve the photostability and efficiency of sunscreens containing AVB and EHM (source).
Mexoryl SX
Another top-rated sunscreen filter. It is said to block UVA1 rays that are often associated with skin burns and aging signs like wrinkles. When combined with avobenzone, the shielding action is enhanced even further.
Oxybenzone
The ingredient is often used in broad-spectrum sunscreens. Oxybenzone filters both UVB and UVA rays. However, some environmentalists have expressed concerns about the effects of Oxybenzone on coral reefs.
Zinc oxide
An FDA-approved ingredient that can be used in concentrations of no more than 25%. Research studies have shown that zinc oxide is best suited for protecting against sun damage. It is, however, not as effective against sunburns.
Titanium dioxide
One of the best-known UV filters used in broad-spectrum sunscreens. However, TiO2 won’t protect you against UVA1 rays. It is FDA-approved for skin safety. It isn’t absorbed via the transdermal route.
Benefits of Sunscreen
Benefits of Sunscreen
Wearing sunscreen comes with multiple health benefits. For instance, they work excellently to protect your skin from sunburns. If you love sunbathing, you better take this seriously. The sun’s UV rays have been shown to damage the skin with extended exposure. The next time you contemplate relaxing on the tropical sandy beach, be sure to have your sunscreen sprays and lotions.
Sunscreens are also known to alleviate aging signs like wrinkles, fine lines, and skin hyperpigmentation. Using sunscreen routinely makes your skin soft, well-toned, and with a youthful glow.
Lastly, sunscreens protect you from skin cancer. Most of these products are enriched with antioxidants that protect the body from carcinogenic free radicals.
FAQ’s
Q.What are The Best Rated Sunscreens?
A.
- La Roche-Posay Sunscreen (Best Sunscreens Drugstore)
- Neutrogena Sunscreen (Best Sunscreens for Dry Skin)
- Elta MD Sunscreen (Best Sunscreens Spf 50)
- Sun Bum Sunscreen Stick (Best Sunscreen Stick for Face)
Q.When Should Sunscreen Be Applied?
A. Sunscreen should generally be applied with the morning skincare routine. However one should reapply sunscreens every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. You may not need a second application if you work indoors and sit away from windows. But be aware of how frequently you go outside. To be cautious, have an extra bottle of sunscreen at your desk.
Q.Can sunscreen remove acne scars?
A. Yes, sunscreen helps prevent scarring and discoloration.
Q.Can I use sunscreen at night?
A. There is no need to use SPF at night, as it can unnecessarily dry out the skin or clog the pores.
Final Verdict – Best Sunscreens 2024
Best Sunscreens 2024
In conclusion, after thoroughly exploring various sunscreens for the face, it is evident that the DRMTLGY Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46 stands out as the ultimate winner. Its exceptional versatility, combining the benefits of a moisturizer, sunscreen, and tinted coverage, makes it an ideal all-in-one solution. With its high SPF 46, it provides superior sun protection while keeping the skin hydrated and imparting a natural, flawless look.
While other featured products such as La Roche-Posay, Neutrogena, Supergoop, Sun Bum, and Elta MD offer commendable options, the DRMTLGY Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46 unquestionably takes the crown as the overall best sunscreen for face in 2024.
Why You Should Trust Us?
We want our readers to know the accurate and factual information based on real & unbiased research. Hence we searched through hundreds of alternatives for face sunscreens and analyzed the component lists of body sunscreens for this guide to find out which ones may perform well on facial skin.
To Know more about our dermatology team click here!
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References
The Beauty Insiders takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
The Beauty Insiders takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
[1] https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/antioxidants-in-depth[2] Bissett DL, Oblong JE, Berge CA. Niacinamide: A B vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance. Dermatol Surg. 2005 Jul;31(7 Pt 2):860-5; discussion 865. doi: 10.1111/j.1524-4725.2005.31732. PMID: 16029679.
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