The 23 best face sunscreens for 2024, per years of testing

Whether you’ve come to terms with it or not, a quality sunscreen for your face is a necessity that you need to incorporate into your daily skincare routine all year round.

Not only does face sunscreen help protect your complexion from cancer-causing UVA and UVB rays, but it will keep sunburns at bay (if you reapply!) and protect your skin against premature aging.

“It’s important to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of the skin, but the face is especially vulnerable to UV damage — your face tends to be exposed all year round and is rarely covered by clothing,” Kim Nichols, MD, a dermatologist practicing in Greenwich, CT and a spokesperson for The Skin Cancer Foundation, told the New York Post. “Even when wearing a face mask or hat, you want to be sure you have sunscreen all over your entire face.”

RELATED: Best sunscreens for dark skin, per BIPOC dermatologists

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends you apply only one ounce of sunscreen (about the size of a shot glass) to your face and body and to wear more than just sunscreen to protect your skin. And, while moisturizers with SPF are a good bonus, they don’t equate to using a standalone facial sunscreen. But, more of that is in our in-depth FAQ section with board-certified dermatologists, skincare experts and climate and ozone layer specialists.

I’m not one to sit and research topics of science 24/7 but, ever since coming across extensive SPF research for the first time a few years ago, I essentially became a Bill Nye-in-training. Before diving into my review of the 23 best facial sunscreens I’ve been using for as long as three years (ahem, likely longer), here’s a mini science class on how the ozone layer impacts our skin:

“The ozone is a part of the stratosphere – the second layer of the atmosphere, from the ground up — that contains a high concentration of ozone molecules,” Emily Nyrop, vice president of climate solutions at Conservation International, told The Post. Nyrop focuses on using nature to mitigate climate change and enhance the resilience of critical ecosystems and local communities. “These molecules absorb and block a significant portion of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can cause sunburns. Climate change indirectly affects the ozone layer by altering atmospheric circulation patterns and increasing the frequency of ozone-depleting events.”

That said, the ozone acts as a “natural sunscreen” because it provides a crucial barrier against harmful UV radiation. “However, climate change can exacerbate the deterioration of the ozone by increasing ozone-depleting substances in the atmosphere, which allows more of the harmful UV radiation to reach us,” Nyrop explained. Now, more than ever, it’s important to wear sunscreen when you’re out and about.

Among all facial sunscreens tested, the Julep Beauty No Excuses Broad Spectrum Invisible Sunscreen Gel for Face SPF 40 is the all-around exceptional option that’s cosmetically elegant, effectively sun-protective and is fairly priced. Its gel consistency is like no other, allowing me to evenly apply it on my skin, where I watch it absorb right before my eyes.

It’s extremely cosmetically elegant and feels like I’m using one of my favorite skincare serums. It’s rich in antioxidants, contains rosehip oil to help even out the skin tone in a way that’s soothing for my sensitive skin and offers a bit more SPF protection than the classic, dermatologist-recommended level of 30.

As a whole, the bottle is travel-friendly and the formulation is also quite hydrating and dewy. While it’s a bit stickier than other sunscreens tested, I feel like I’m using my best makeup primer.

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Best Drugstore Facial Sunscreens

Eucerin Age Defense + Hyaluronic Acid Sunscreen Lotion for Face SPF 50

Eucerin is one of my favorite drugstore skincare brands, with its Age Defense + Hyaluronic Acid Sunscreen Lotion for Face SPF 50 being no exception to its class of gentle, effective products. Containing hyaluronic acid to help make my skin a bit more supple, the formulation has the most incredible satiny ivory finish, so much so that you won’t believe it’s less than $20.

After it’s fully applied to my face, I feel like I have a second-skin finish. I love that it’s infused with antioxidants while foregoing a lengthy ingredient list (something my sensitive skin is thankful for) and its also noncomedogenic, so it won’t clog my pores.

While slightly watery, I find that it doesn’t compromise the sun protection I need. In fact, its SPF 50 makes it easier to layer up the protection, but more on how to apply in our locked-and-loaded FAQ section below.

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Neutrogena Clear Face Oil-Free Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 50

When in doubt, opt for the Neutrogena Clear Face Oil-Free Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 50. Not only is the formulation void of irritating oils and with a high SPF count but it’s specially formulated to appeal to acne-prone skin.

Whenever I use it, I never have to fear if it’s going to make my skin shiny. This is especially important if I’m tanning at the beach in addition to my daily worn SPF when I’m simply leaving my home. However, be sure to apply with caution as overuse can lead to that streaky, shiny result we don’t want.

Impressively, the less-than-$15 absorbs well into my skin and is always a staple in my beach bag. Overall, it’s a formulation I’d recommend to just about anyone without knowing their skin type, just because it’s that universal.

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Eucerin Daily Protection Face Lotion & Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Another Eucerin pick worth the SPF pick-me-up is the brand’s Daily Protection Face Lotion & Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30. It’s your run-of-the-mill SPF that never causes irritation on my skin and comes with an easy applicator to pump and go.

While it’s a no-frills formula, it’s a winner in the drugstore SPF category because of its ability to be incredibly gentle and effective. Despite a subtle white end result, the formula works well; you may have to spend more time rubbing it in, that’s all. With an affordable price tag as well, it deserves a spot on this list.

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Best Facial Sunscreen Worth the Splurge

Erno Laszlo UV Defense Masque Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30

While $65 seems like a hefty price to pay for a facial SPF, the Erno Laszlo UV Defense Masque Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30 is one I’d recommend ordering. This is because it’s cosmetically elegant and a product you should use every day, anyway, so long as you’re going outside.

The formulation itself comes out a bit chalky but rubs into the skin quickly and leaves a well-coated yet lightweight finish. Impressively, I found it to be one of the most flattering on my skin tone because I have pink undertones. This is due in part to the SPF’s pastel pink hue that absorbs into a natural rosy color. I love how the product looks on my cheeks.

The product does, however, have a relatively strong scent but it slowly disappears once it’s fully absorbed. More or less, it happened to be something I noticed but has never made me forego the brand’s quite epic consistency and wear.

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Best Tinted Facial Sunscreens

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Mineral Light Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50

I’d seriously bow down to the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Mineral Light Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50. It has been one of my favorite, go-to facial SPFs for years because of its ability to be the one-and-done product I can apply evenly and effectively, running out the door in the warmer months feeling confident sans makeup.

Even in colder months, however, the formulation is still a staple. Without a strong smell, it offers a healthy glow and on those “good skin days,” I’m still comfortable to wear it on its own. It is, however, a bit runny but nothing too goopy. To combat this, apply a little bit at a time.

It is quite a splurge compared to some more affordable alternatives on this list but there’s simply something about it that’s making me want to add it to your online shopping cart for you. It’s just that good.

For more options, check out our full La Roche-Posay brand review.

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e.l.f. Cosmetics Whoa Glow Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen

If there’s a sunscreen name on this list that has a spot-on name, it’s the e.l.f. Cosmetics Whoa Glow Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen. The glow factor is quite incredible without leaving you like Sparkly Beach Barbie. And, it’s only $14.

Listen, I’ve reviewed the lion’s share of e.l.f. Cosmetics products and the brand is exceptional at carving out price-accessible “dupes” to some higher-end formulations the beauty market is saturated with. This formula has a pleasing, creamy feel and scent that results in a Goldilocks-level glow. Not too bronzed, not too pasty.

Once squeezed out, the SPF comes out a light beige and blends and absorbs well. It’s slightly thick to the touch, which some may not like, but it’s not a dealbreaker as far as I’m concerned.

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Lion Pose Ghost-Buster Broad Spectrum SPF 42 UVA/UVB Sunscreen

A hidden gem in the wardrobe of light, silky sunscreens is the Lion Pose Ghost-Buster Broad Spectrum SPF 42 UVA/UVB Sunscreen, a newer product that joined the SPF party. It’s pretty amazing because it’s one of the most cosmetically elegant tested, very much resembling the best overall pick, the Julep Beauty No Excuses Broad Spectrum Invisible Sunscreen Gel for Face SPF 40.

The product comes out in a tangerine color and has a sweet, summertime-perfect scent that’s non-irritating on sensitive skin. While it’s not a true “tinted sunscreen,” it’s deserving of a spot in this section because it offers the ideal amount of color to flatter your skin. Of course, I can only speak to light skin tones but, because the product doesn’t leave a white cast while offering a bit of color, I’d imagine it would work well for those with darker skin tones, too.

The formulation is hydrating, offers more sun protection than the typical SPF 30 and is even slightly cooling, so it helps wake you up a bit for a refreshed feeling. You can bet it’ll be coming with me to my upcoming vacations to Barbados and the Florida Keys.

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Supergoop! Glowscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40 PA+++

If you’re on #BeautyTok like I am (naturally), the Supergoop! Glowscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40 PA+++ is a sun-protective tube you’ve likely heard about. I’m here to tell you that it’s slightly tinted yet luxurious, leaving the most beautiful glow so you can shuttle on your way outside.

It’s coveted and tested for its ability to instantly create a glow, almost as if you applied bronzing drops into the application. While it blends well and is frequently an item I pack with me, especially in the summer months, it’s not the most ideal if you struggle with large pores. I find they’re a bit noticeable, though the glow factor tends to make it a little less in-your-face. Because of its ability to leave a glow and wear well with or without makeup, it’s surely one to consider.

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Best Mineral Facial Sunscreens

Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

One of my most-worn sunscreens and one you should willingly run to if mineral sunscreens are your pride and joy is the Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30. It’s nearly invisible while providing the sun protection you need and it always layers onto my skin like a moisturizer.

Additionally, the formulation’s daily defense sunscreen shield helps guard against environmental factors associated with skin aging, so I always feel a bit better about the holistic health of my skin whenever I top it over my skin in the morning.

With no fragrance and hydrating cream finish, I always resort to it when I’m specifically seeking a lightweight SPF that I trust and that layers over makeup well. As you can imagine, it’s a staple and one I’ve been liberally applying for years.

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MDSolarSciences Mineral Crème SPF 50

After testing 20+ facial SPFs, there’s something special about the MDSolarSciences Mineral Crème SPF 50 that makes me want to use it more. First things first: it has a creamy ivory consistency that seems like it would be chalky but blends translucently onto the skin. For the luxury feeling that comes with its application, it’s fairly priced, too.

What’s more, it leaves a luminous finish that’s lightweight all the while. It also contains vitamin C to give the skin a brightening boost. along with natural antioxidants green tea, cranberry fruit and pomegranate extracts help fight sun damage and free radicals. And, while its scent is a bit stronger than most tested, it blends away once applied.

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Olay Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

The Olay Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 has been living in my bathroom drawer for years and is one of those products I love because of its ability to blend well and come void of fragrance. Though it disperses white, it leaves no white cast. Hip-hip hooray.

It also comes without that slimy, greasy feel — even before it goes from white to clear. It’s extremely gentle, too, much ado to its formulation containing colloidal oatmeal, vitamin B3 and zinc oxide. For this reason, it doubles as a wonderful makeup primer.

While it’s not the best for large pores in terms of minimizing them, it’s a long-lasting product that doesn’t cause my sensitive skin any irritation. That’s why it doubles as a good makeup primer, too; it doesn’t leave a caked-on finish and doesn’t fade. However, you should always reapply any facial sunscreen you wear about every two hours or so.

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Best Korean Facial Sunscreen

innisfree Daily UV Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 36 Sunscreen

Korean skincare, especially Korean sunscreens, has been having a moment. And, rightfully so, as Korean skincare is known to give you that “glass skin finish.” In short, everyone — myself included — wants to learn the rituals and ancestral routines of Koreans when it comes to lotions, potions and everything in between.

Meet the innisfree Daily UV Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 36 Sunscreen. It’s less than $25 on Amazon, is nearly colorless once absorbed and doesn’t offer that unwanted greasy finish despite how creamy it is. While it’s not as lightweight as some other SPFs tested, it’s a well-serving face base that can be worn on its own or under makeup.

After I use this, my skin feels smooth, supple and, most of all, protected.

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Best Facial Sunscreens for Under Makeup

Cocokind Daily SPF Facial Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 32

The Cocokind Daily SPF Facial Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 32 comes in sunny packaging and is ideal for a day outside (sun or no sun because, technically, you’re supposed to wear SPF on the daily). With a pleasing and not-overpowering fresh scent, it always allows my skin to feel healthy-looking and radiant.

For me, this is the ideal formulation for when I want to pack my skin in with some hydration and that sun-kissed look without going for something tinted. It comes out white but easily absorbs and for its effective and lovely formula, $25 is a fair price.

It’s slightly stickier and more tacky than most tested, though not a dealbreaker. For this reason, it layers well under makeup and doubles as a makeup primer.

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Olay Prime + Protect Facial Sunscreen with Vitamin C SPF 35

The Olay Prime + Protect Facial Sunscreen with Vitamin C SPF 35 is a luxurious, satiny SPF that’s only $20. I’ll repeat that: it’s only $20.

Its elegant, soft-as-a-cloud formulation always blends effectively onto my skin. Its pleasing, lovely fresh scent has a hint of floral but nothing that causes irritation to my sensitive skin. While it doesn’t leave as much of a glow as some others I’ve used, it’s quite long-lasting and doesn’t ever give me unwanted shine or streaks throughout the day.

This is one of the most lightweight SPFs tested, similar in feel to the best overall option, the Julep Beauty No Excuses Broad Spectrum Invisible Sunscreen Gel for Face SPF 40. For the price, consistency and overall effectiveness and look once applied, it’s worth every penny.

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Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare All-Physical Ultimate Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++

So many people with darker skin tones I’ve talked to can’t stand mineral sunscreens, as many of them leave an unwanted white cast. The Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare All-Physical Ultimate Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++ is one of the products I know work on both fair and dark skin tones — from my personal testing and videos, I’ve seen among BIPOC users who posted videos of this formula blending into their skin.

While the price may be unreachable for some, it’s a surefire staple everywhere I go. In fact, I applied the product nearly every day last summer and it’s still one I reach for.

Simply put, it has a quality consistency and finish, allowing it to double as a suitable makeup primer that’s void of a greasy finish. While it’s not the best for wicking off sweat on *very* hot days, it’s not an overall dealbreaker.

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Glossier Invisible Shield Daily Sunscreen + Broad Spectrum SPF 35

If you know me, you know Glossier is making this list, no questions asked. Recently, I reviewed quite the Glossier stockpile of products to assess which were worthy of a recommendation and this product surely moseyed its way onto the glossy product load.

Working well underneath makeup — especially the brand’s Stretch Fluid Foundation ($34) and Wowder Weightless Finishing Powder ($24) — it pumps out a clear gel with subtle texture and then smooths into an even base. It’s also cosmetically elegant, leaving a subtle highlight to my face that’s *gorgeous.*

While not too overpowering, the product has a fresh lemony scent, which some people may not like. I don’t find it too unappealing, though there are truthfully other facial SPFs I’d reach for if I was wearing sunscreen on its own. But, Glossier’s version works well underneath makeup and it looks good, too, so I’d definitely recommend it.

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Best Anti-Aging Facial Sunscreen

ZO Skin Smart Tone Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50

Let’s be real — you’re leaning into the anti-aging department whenever you wear sunscreen to begin with. It’s the product dermatologists and other skin experts swear by that makes a monumental difference to your skin’s long-term health, but there’s one sunscreen in particular that I’d recommend to anyone with a keen anti-aging focus.

Enter the ZO Skin Smart Tone Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50. Right off the bat, it yields a higher level of sun protection than the atypical SPF 30-recommended amount, but that’s not all. After researching its formulation, I learned that it boasts an exclusive 12-hour time-release antioxidant complex that guards against photo damage. So, you’re receiving sun protection that’s infused with antioxidants — all formulated with prevention in mind.

The facial sunscreen is both creamy and hydrating, coming out a pale pinky beige. It dissolves well into skin, too. While it’s slightly sticky and tacky, consistency is a personal preference and, as for me, I love its natural glow.

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Best Facial Sunscreens for Dry Skin

Hero Cosmetics Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

From the makers of the almighty Mighty Patch ($11) comes an incredibly hydrating facial sunscreen your dry skin will thank you for. The Hero Cosmetics Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is, in fact, my hero — and it’s only $20.

Aside from wearing your favorite skincare product once applied, it’s one of the most hydrating formulations I tested. Hence, its Post-given award for dry skin. When pumped out, it comes out a pastel green but then changes to a light blue and finally to translucent which, aside from being cool, also hydrates my skin at the same time.

Its consistency doesn’t blend as quickly but once it does, it feels incredibly lightweight and like second skin. I wish the clear cover on the packaging was made better, though. Of course, it’s what’s inside that counts, but it’s not the best for traveling with as it tends to come off.

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Peter Thomas Roth Vitamin D-Fense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50

If you’re willing to splurge a bit, the Peter Thomas Roth Vitamin D-Fense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 is immaculate on dry skin and is infused with skin-boosting ingredients that I can probably write an entire essay on.

Let’s introduce the paper here. Its lightweight, silky formulation is beyond elegant whenever I apply it and, given how lightweight it is, surprised me by its ability to apply streak-free. It’s also non-greasy, leaving a natural glow aside from it being well-hydrating.

While it’s not as excellent of a value for the price given its bottle size, its creaminess and vitamin-infused formula are worth it. It contains vitamins B5 and E and antioxidants to leave you with a luminous finish. There’s also a 1.5% dose of vitamin D to tie the entire formula together beautifully.

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Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35

Chalk it up to my obsession with Versed to begin with, but the brand’s Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35 didn’t surprise me with its quality formulation and ability to spoil my dry skin. And, let’s not neglect its wonderful price point.

First off, the product smells like the beach ocean waves in the best way. Non-irritating and ultra-hydrating, it offers a natural highlight and glows after applying without looking shiny. And, while it has a bit runnier feel, it offers sun protection and even application that makes it practical to use.

It comes out a bit tinted with a rosy-beige coloring that suits fair skin well. I’d assume it works well on dark skin as well as there isn’t a hint of white in the finish at all.

Pro tip: pick up the brand’s Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream ($20) to apply with it. You won’t be sorry.

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Best Facial Sunscreen for Oily Skin

Paula’s Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Paula’s Choice has a full repertoire of effective products, with the Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid Broad Spectrum SPF 30 being no exception. It mimics a moisturizer in terms of how it feels and it’s loaded with antioxidants at the same time.

It holds nearly 1,500 rave reviews on Amazon alone and should be celebrated as much as reviewers flock to it. Its lightweight and milky consistency comes out beige and then blends extremely quickly. Plus, it absorbs oil and sweat well, making it a top pick for those with full-on oily skin or oily spots.

While it doesn’t have the most pleasing smell, it works like a charm and is gentle to use. Overall, it’s one to have on hand.

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Best Facial Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin

CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50

When it comes to sensitive skin and a trusted brand, CeraVe instantly comes to mind. I’ve tried a fair share of the brand, including its AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 ($14) and Foaming Facial Cleanser ($15), two raved-about products that are just as good as its facial SPF.

The Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 offers a wealth of sun protection with a lightweight, non-greasy feel. I haven’t noticed a trace of fragrance and while it seems to hold a typical white cream finish like any other option you may cross, it’s beyond gentle for sensitive skin.

However, it is a bit whiter than most other facial SPFs tested, so it may not be the best pick for those with darker skin tones. On the flip side, it’s a trusted brand for sensitive skin, so it’s partially up to preference. Plus, the price point is pretty incredible.

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SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50

SkinCeuticals is a premier skincare brand, no questions about it. Its facial sunscreen offers that same dose of luxury, thanks to its lightweight with a luxuriously elegant feel. Even its packaging is nice to display on your counter.

Its formulation contains only physical sun filters, eliminating a white cast or tint. When spread onto my face, it doesn’t take a whole lot to evenly disperse it. I also love how its matte and shine-free. It’s supremely gentle on my sensitive skin so, while it takes longer to absorb into the skin compared to some others, I’m not shying away from it.

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An FAQ on Facial Sunscreens

Ahead, our team of distinguished skincare experts provides all of the information you need to understand sun protection, sunscreen formulations and more.

Why is it important to use SPF daily?

“It’s important to use SPF daily because the damage that can be caused by UV is cumulative,” Michelle Henry, MD, board-certified dermatologist, ACGME fellowship-trained Mohs micrographic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgeon and the owner and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan, told The Post. “Cumulative exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation and skin cancer, it can also breakdown collagen and elastin leading to photo damage and laxity.”

And, it all starts with the ozone layer. “The ozone layer plays a profound role when it comes to protecting our skin,” Nyrop explained. “Its ability to absorb and filter out UV radiation helps prevent skin damage, including sunburn, premature aging and skin cancer. As someone who is allergic to some of the UV rays, I am particularly invested in and passionate about the ozone layer and its ability to protect us from those rays.”

Not to mention, the ozone layer has become depleted in recent years. “The depletion of the ozone was primarily caused by the release of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other ozone-depleting substances used in our aerosols and refrigerants,” Nyrop said. “Safer alternatives have been developed and are now widely used to protect both the ozone and our health. These earth- and climate-friendly alternatives play a vital role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.”

What’s the difference between UVA and UVB rays?

“UVB (or as we call it ‘UVBurning’) is a shorter wavelength and it contributes quite significantly to skin cancer. UVA (or ‘UVAging’) contributes to fine lines and wrinkles and the destruction of collagen and elastin; however, it does also contribute to skin cancer,” Dr. Henry shared.

On a chemical level, per Henry, “UV exposure can cause genetic abnormalities in our DNA and that is how the cell can turn into cancer.”

UVA rays also have longer wavelengths which means they penetrate deeper into the skin, contributing to aging and skin damage. On the flip side, UVB rays have shorter wavelengths and primarily cause sunburn and skin cancer, closer to the surface of the skin. Global warming can influence the intensity and distribution of UV radiation, affecting human health and ecosystem dynamics, per Nyrop.

“Continued thinning [of the ozone layer] could lead to increased UV radiation exposure and related skin damage but the earlier recovery of the ozone layer shows that we can work together as a global community to come up with and implement the type of solutions that will help slow global warming,” Nyrop explained. “The commitment to stop using chlorofluorocarbons is a great example of progress.”

In short, UVA and UVB rays are both impactful to your skin, which is why it’s super important to wear sunscreen to exposed areas daily.

Is UV damage immediate?

“Depending on the intensity of the sunlight, yes, UV damage can be immediate,” Henry noted. “If you have a family history of melanoma, not only you are more likely to have a genetic tendency, but you may also have the phenotypic attributes that make you more at risk.”

For instance, a fair person tends to have fair family members or a fair person with blue eyes tends to have fair family members with blue eyes. You inherit both a genetic tendency but also a phenotype that puts you more at risk.

How can I tell if an SPF is actually “working”?

You want to make sure to have a broad-spectrum SPF. This means that it covers the range of both UVB and UVA rays.

“What SPF does is it reduces your time to burning, meaning that it increases your time in the sun before turning red or burning by the multiple that is on the SPF,” Henry said. “Therefore, if you notice that you’re not getting red as quickly as you normally would when not wearing SPF, you know the SPF that you have on is working.”

Additionally, sunscreen is just one part of a sun protection strategy that includes seeking shade and covering up with UPF clothing, wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses.

How much sunscreen to apply, according to a dermatologist

“You should apply about a golf-ball-sized amount of SPF to the body and about a nickel-sized amount to the face, reapplying every two hours when you are outside,” Henry advised.

From researching SPF further, the dermatologist-recommended SPF 30 is based on the number the FDA uses for testing. However, equates to about 1/2 tsp for your face and neck, which many people likely aren’t doing. For this reason, Henry has particular recommendations for sunscreen application.

“I recommend an SPF 30 for daily use and SPF 50 if you are going to be outside for more than an hour,” she said.

Additionally, people tend to neglect the ears, lips, tops of feet and hands and their scalp, so be sure to apply to pay special attention to these areas.

What’s the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens?

“Chemical sunscreens are sun-absorbing and mineral sunscreens are sun-reflecting,” Henry said. “I usually suggest to my patients to use a mineral sunscreen over a chemical one, as the chemicals can absorb into the bloodstream.”

Does my skin tone determine how much sunscreen I should apply?

The FDA maintains the same recommendations for all complexions and skin tones. The takeaway? Wear sunscreen!

“Of course, individuals may choose formulations that are more aesthetically acceptable for their skin, but in terms of the actual SPF, it is the same for everyone,” Henry explained.

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This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest and greatest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include reviewing the viral Korean beauty brand, Cosrx, and testing dermatologist-recommended acne cleansers. Victoria has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.

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