Sunscreen is essential for so many reasons. And at this point, you likely know that sunblock is essential for every season — not just summer. Harmful solar rays can lurk even when you can't outwardly feel the burn, like on cloudy winter days. And now that our skin is finally starting to see some sun, a proper tube of sunscreen is even more essential.
To help you discover the latest and greatest sunscreens for your needs, we consulted two of our favorite board-certified dermatologists. They share some must-know information on all things sunscreen, including the best ones to use, how to correctly apply them, the real differences between mineral and chemical sunscreens, and more.
The Best Sunscreens of 2022
Sunscreen 101
First things first, we must do our beauty due diligence and remind you of a few basics before you go online shopping for your next sunblock.
Yes, you need to wear sunscreen 365 days a year, including during the winter and if you’re exposed to direct sunlight while working indoors. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says that everyone needs to wear sunscreen because all people can be diagnosed with skin cancer, regardless of their age, race, or gender.
As you peruse the digital beauty isles of your favorite shops, you’ll probably notice that sunscreen bottles all have SPF numbers on the front label. SPF stands for the Sun Protection Factor a sunscreen offers. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests SPF 15, while the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) suggests SPF 30 or higher. So which one is correct?
They’re both solid guidance, but board-certified dermatologists Dr. Elizabeth Hale, M.D., and Dr. Anthony Rossi, M.D., argue that using an SPF of 30 or above is the better option. Rossi says opting for a higher SPF coverage is especially important if you don’t religiously reapply sunscreen. “Some studies have shown that high SPF may help a little bit more if you're not a reapplying every two hours,” explains Rossi, who is the founder of Dr. Rossi Derm M.D. Skincare.
Ideally, you’ll use a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection against the sun’s ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, advises Hale, who is an SVP of the nonprofit Skin Cancer Foundation and chief medical advisor to the Vacation Brand. The difference in the rays are as follows:
- UVA rays lead to photo-aging, aka they give you wrinkles and sunspots
- UVB rays cause burning and can lead to skin cancer
Now that you have the dermatologist-approved basics on sunscreen, explore our top 14 sunblock recommendations. These picks are available at your favorite online retailers, ranging from Walmart and Amazon to Dermstore and Sephora. We also shared a few more talking points from both leading dermatologists, including choosing between chemical and mineral sunscreen, debunking common SPF myths, and more.
How We Chose
We love using sunscreen daily, so naturally, we've done numerous deep dives and guides dedicated to all things sunblock. For this guide, we researched ourselves, asked dermatologists tons of questions, and tested various sunscreens to help you determine which ones are truly worth buying. These 14 picks have earned our stamp of approval.
To help you get a better idea of how we tested these sunscreens, here are several factors we considered:
Beyond looking out for broad-spectrum sunscreens with at least an SPF 30 coverage, we considered their overall feel and scent. We evaluated how they interact with our skin types, how long they last, and if they’re a good overall value. We also understand that white cast is a major issue impacting those with melanin-rich complexions, so we kept a collective eye out for that issue.
For more in-depth details, take a look at our guide to how we test items at Best Products.
After talking to dermatologists about what makes a good sunscreen and testing out numerous products, we've determined that these are the best sunscreens of 2022 that'll help you safely enjoy the warmer months and beyond.
Best Overall
Ultra Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 70
Looking for a trusty sunscreen that doesn't feel heavy and gloppy? We love the Ultra Dry Touch Sunscreen from Neutrogena. The formula features dry-touch technology for an ultra light, shine-free finish. Available in SPF 30 up to SPF 100+, you have an option for all of your sun care needs.
Read More: Weird Beauty Products We Want to Buy ASAP
Best for Face
Everyday Play SPF 50 Lotion
We previously named this Supergoop! sunscreen as the top pick in our guide to the best face sunscreens for a number of reasons. It offers broad-spectrum protection, it doesn’t clog your pores, and it's also rich in antioxidants.
The non-greasy sunscreen even protects your face from infrared rays! Above all, we love that all skin types and darker skin tones can use this sunscreen without worrying about it leaving behind a white cast.
Best for Babies
Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Of course you want to give your baby only the best of the best. That's why we recommend slathering this baby-safe SPF on your little one if you're taking them outside.
The formula is rich, transparent, and filled with nourishing plant-derived ingredients — like wild gooseberry — to soften the skin. Bonus: This non-comedogenic formula is also great for adults to wear, and is light enough to put on before your makeup routine, too.
Best for Kids
Kids Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen
Our parenting editor, Cat Bowen, says that this sunscreen for kids just can't be beat. Like most Aveeno products, this particular SPF is formulated especially for sensitive skin types in mind, so your child won't be scratching or breaking out in hives anytime soon with this sunscreen.
It's formulated with zinc oxide and is free of parabens, phthalates, and fragrances, giving your kid only the best that Aveeno has to offer. And with an under-$10 price tag, it's hard to pass up!
Best for Deeper Skin Tones
Eryfotona Ageless Sunscreen
If you have a darker skin tone, then you know the struggle of dealing with white cast and ashy finishes. Well, consider these issues a thing of the past, thanks to this tinted sunscreen from ISDIN.
Not only is this sunscreen great for all skin tones, but it's also nourishing for your skin. This SPF 50 sunscreen is packed with peptides and vitamin E to help rejuvenate and plump your skin for a more youthful appearance, making it a great choice for anyone who wants some anti-aging benefits.
Best Tinted
CC Screen 100% Mineral CC Cream SPF 50
The crown for the best tinted sunscreen formula has to go to this pick from Supergoop! First off, it has one of the biggest shade ranges available, making it great for a variety of skin tones to slather on.
But its shades aren't the only thing that gets us excited about this tinted sunscreen: It has a CC cream texture that evens out your complexion without weighing down your skin, and uses all-natural zinc oxide to guard your delicate skin against harmful sun rays.
Best Mineral Formula
Botanical Sunscreen Mineral Lotion SPF 50
Looking to ditch the chemicals? Then this mineral sunscreen from Australian Gold (literally) has you covered.
On top of using solely mineral-based UV blockers like zinc oxide, this sunscreen pampers your skin with Australian-native botanicals like kakadu plum and eucalyptus. This gives your skin a clarifying and brightening treatment. Plus, it's oil-free, non-greasy, and dries with a matte finish, making it a great pick if your skin gets oily throughout the day.
Best Reef-Safe Formula
Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
If you'd rather have a beauty routine that's safe for your body and the planet, then going with a reef-safe sunscreen is crucial.
Enter this sunscreen from Love Sun Body, which is free from toxic chemicals: It uses natural ingredients like soothing almond oil to protect and nurture your complexion. It's also available in four tints to help even out your face and body.
Best Spray
Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray
Sun Bum's spray sunscreen is mess-free, and it absolutely needs a permanent home in your beach tote, stat. Infused with nourishing vitamin E, this ultra sheer spray applies effortlessly as it protects and nourishes your skin.
We previously named this the best value spray sunscreen because it offers broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection and boasts a hypoallergenic formula, making it safe for anyone with sensitive skin.
Best Powder Sunscreen
Sunforgettable Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Brush
Powder sunscreen is having a moment right now, and we're here for it! Available in four shades, this powder sunscreen offers sheer matte coverage that makes it ideal for oily skin. It’s gentle and safe enough for sensitive and acne-prone skin, too.
The combination of hyaluronic acid and dimethicone moisturizes your face, while titanium dioxide and zinc oxide protect your skin from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays.
Best Sweatproof Sunscreen
Ultra Sport SPF 30 Sunscreen
Off to run on the beach? Slather on Banana Boat's sweat-fighting sunscreen before leaving your home.
Specifically designed for sports enthusiasts and active sun lovers who don't want to slow down, this sunscreen absorbs quickly, and resists both sweat and water for up to 80 minutes. This lightweight sunblock also has a non-greasy feel and breathable formula.
Best for Face and Body
Activated Sun Protector Water-Light Lotion
We're a big fan of Kiehl's products, and this sunscreen is no different. The broad-spectrum lotion is super lightweight, offers water-resistant protection for 80 minutes, and doesn't feel greasy while you apply it to your skin.
It's also made for both your face and body, so there's no need to worry about carrying two products with you in your beach bag.
Best Luxury
The Broad Spectrum SPF 50 UV Protecting Fluid
Give your precious facial skin the ultimate protection with this powerful, lightweight fluid from La Mer. Not only does it shield your skin from damaging UV rays, but it keeps it feeling (and looking) hydrated and smooth. This luxurious pick features La Mer's signature Miracle Broth, which helps to boost your skin's powers of renewal.
Best for Hands
Rich Girl Hand Cream SPF 25
When we say your entire body needs sunscreen, we mean your entire body. We often forget about our hands in our SPF routines, so we were delighted to find this rich hand cream that's specifically designed to make the precious skin on your hands feel nourished and protected.
Q: How much sunscreen do you really need?
The dermatologists we consulted recommend applying about 1.5 ounces or a shot glass full of sunscreen to your head and body.
Rossi notes that most patients usually don’t apply enough sunscreen and skimp on reapplying. To help protect yourself from head to toe, he suggests wearing sunscreen and using hats, sunglasses, and sun protective clothing to help shield yourself from solar rays.
Q: Is chemical sunscreen safe?
“Chemical sunscreen is absolutely safe,” says Hale. “While chemical sunscreens have been detected by the FDA in the bloodstream, there simply isn’t enough data to prove them to be harmful.”
Rossi adds that chemical sunscreens have been around for a while, “and overall, their use tends to be safe for the masses that have used them.” He says everyone should definitely use sunblock to protect their skin from skin cancer and minimize photo-aging.
Q: Is mineral sunscreen better?
They both have their pros and cons, but Hale argues that the real answer is whichever formula that gets you wearing sunscreen is best. Hale likes chemical sunscreens on her body and physical, zinc-based formulas on her face.
Rossi, on the other hand, prefers mineral sunscreens because they offer broad-spectrum protection and are less irritating than chemical sunscreens. At the end of the day, wearing sunscreen is much better than skipping it when you're exposed to sunlight.
Q: What are some common sunscreen myths you’d like to debunk?
“It’s important that people know that sun damage is an ongoing, lifelong process,” says Hale. “Some people think the damage is already done by adulthood, but in reality, if you start incorporating sunscreen into your daily routine as an adult, you will have less sun damage, fewer wrinkles, and less skin cancer going forward. It’s not too late!”
There’s also no such thing as a healthy tan, according to Hale. “A tan is temporary, but the damage lasts forever. A safer way to get a base tan is by using a sunless tanning lotion, but people need sunscreen on top of that, because you can still burn,” she says.
Nicole Saunders
Beauty Editor
Nicole Saunders is the Beauty Editor at BestProducts.com, where she oversees coverage on all things beauty.
Jennifer Hussein
Beauty Editor
Jennifer is the Beauty Editor for BestProducts.com, where she’s testing out everything from the latest lip gloss to the craziest skincare trend sweeping the online beauty-verse.
Ashley Phillips
Beauty & Style Editor
Ashley is the beauty and style editor at BestProducts.com, and her work has been featured on Cosmopolitan and Town and Country.
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