Skincare recs are ultimately so personal. A hyaluronic acid serum, for instance, may have meh results for you yet become another person's absolute holy grail. But sunscreen? That's a whole other can of worms. There's a ton to consider when selecting a sunscreen (type of filter, texture, fragrance, tint, etc.), and everyone has unique priorities based on their skin type, tone, and lifestyle, so crowning the "best of the best" is a tricky feat.
Tricky, yes, but not impossible! We took on the intimidating task of testing the most beloved SPF options out there (plus a few personal favorites, for good measure) to determine which formulas truly reign supreme. After much deliberation and debate (I told you, sunscreen is personal!), we whittled down a list of 80 options to wind up with our 12 tried-and-true winners. Keep scrolling, and you're bound to discover your new go-to. Take it from a *very* picky team of beauty editors.
The Best Sunscreens, at a Glance
- Best Overall (Body): Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30
- Best Overall (Face): EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
- Best Mineral: Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Mineral Milk Sunscreen SPF 30
- Best Hydrating: Innisfree Daily UV Defense Invisible Broad Spectrum SPF 36 Sunscreen
- Best Spray: Sun Bum Original Sunscreen Spray SPF 50
The Best Sunscreens We've Ever Tested
Best Overall (Body): Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30
Average rating: 5/5
SPF: 30
Type: Chemical
Texture: Whipped mousse
Fragrance: Yes (and it's heavenly!)
This chemical sunscreen is just so much fun. It comes in a whipped cream canister, so you get perfect dollops of foam that, no lie, look like dessert. It's not gimmicky, though—it boasts SPF 30 and contains coconut oil, shea oil, aloe vera, and vitamin E to simultaneously soothe and protect the skin barrier.
What we liked: "I know I can't judge a product purely based on packaging, but it just does not get chicer—or more fun—than the retro-esque whipped cream inspiration behind this mousse formula from Vacation. The brand can do no wrong in my eyes, but this has to be my all-time favorite. Not only does it make the sunscreen application process fun (which, for me, is a huge motivator to apply it in the first place), but it also feels so luxurious and comfortable on the skin. The whipped mousse texture instantly melts and absorbs into the skin so you're left with glowy, SPF-soaked limbs sans white cast. You also get Vacation's signature scent (an epic combination of coconut, banana, pool water, pool toy, and swimsuit lycra) which is noticeable, but definitely not overpowering." — Jahns
It also doesn't transfer. I accidentally got some product on my clothes while I was rubbing it in and was scowling at the fact that I'd have to either change or succumb to the white smudge all day. To my absolute delight, the smear came right off.
What we didn't like: "There's nothing I don't like about this sunscreen. Although, it does feel a bit tackier and more noticeable on the skin. In other words, I would never be able to fall asleep forgetting I was wearing it. Plus, while I personally love the scent, people who don't like any type of fragrance should probably steer clear." — Jahns
Best Overall (Face): EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Average rating: 5/5
SPF: 46
Type: Mineral and Chemical
Texture: Cream
Fragrance: None
Ask any derm to rattle off their favorite sunscreens, and chances are you'll notice this SPF 46 at the top of their list. It's classic, coming in both tinted and untinted versions, and it's infused with niacinamide to balance oil production. It's fabulous for any skin type, but it's especially stellar for acne-prone or sensitive individuals. It's the one I personally reach for after a facial when my freshly treated skin is at its most vulnerable, as I know it won't irritate.
What we liked: "I love this sunscreen! It's one of my favorite formulas ever for acne-prone skin. It's oil-free, noncomedogenic, fragrance-free, absorbs super easily, and doesn't irritate my skin or cause new breakouts." — Hudson
"This sunscreen has the perfect thickness—thick enough to stick around all day long and thin enough not to feel like a mask sitting atop the skin. It’s creamy and calming, and my rosacea-prone skin loved it. I also appreciate that it didn’t pill!" — McLintock
What we didn't like: "The only thing I don't love about this sunscreen is that it's not fully a mineral formula. If that's something that's a concern for you, it's something to keep in mind." — Hudson
Best Mineral: Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Mineral Milk Sunscreen SPF 30
Average rating: 4.75/5
SPF: 30
Type: Mineral
Texture: Lightweight milk
Fragrance: None
A mineral "milk" is just the right word for this number—it has a serum-like consistency that melts right into the skin. With squalane and a bouquet of skin-improving antioxidants, it hydrates and protects in one fell swoop.
What we liked: I had heard multiple beauty editors wax poetic about these mineral sunscreen drops, but for some reason, I hadn't given them an official try until now. I am so glad I finally did! I fully agree with everyone's report. Silky and serum-like, these drops not only fuse to the skin in record time but also create a slight "blurring" effect over my pores, disguising any texture. It's the perfect formula to use before makeup, and it's one I won't be replacing any time soon.
"I really liked how easy this creamy formula was to use! It completely disappeared into the skin; leaving behind a natural-looking glow. It also provides a great base for any further makeup application as it doesn't pill." — Thomas
What we didn't like: "This one has a noticeable smell that doesn't fade with wear! It truly smells like sunscreen. I also noticed my skin looked slightly dull." — Thomas
Best Hydrating: Innisfree Daily UV Defense Invisible Broad Spectrum SPF 36 Sunscreen
Average rating: 4.5/5
SPF: 36
Type: Chemical
Texture: Cream
Fragrance: Yes
Korean beauty brands are often way ahead of the curve, and they're especially innovative when it comes to sunscreen. So it's no surprise that this chemical SPF completely wowed us by delivering a dewy glow, a lightweight, gel-cream texture, and soothing green tea and Centella asiatica.
What we liked: "In a word? Everything. It's sheer, lightweight, and hydrating, and I didn't feel like it was sliding off my skin when I wore it while going on a jog. This is a sunscreen that I'm adding to my personal collection. It's that good." — McLintock
What we didn't like: "You might want to steer clear of this one if you're highly acne-prone. It has a few oils in it that might not agree with your skin. My skin is already a bit oily, so this one made it feel even more so at times." — Hudson
Best Spray: Sun Bum Original Sunscreen Spray SPF 50
Average rating: 4.25/5
SPF: 50
Type: Chemical
Texture: Sheer spray
Fragrance: Yes
It's a classic for a reason! You can find this OG spray in almost every beach bag, including those of beauty editors, who are very discerning when it comes to their sunscreens. It has a sheer finish on the skin that dries in an instant, plus it has a non-aerosol spray.
What we liked: "This sunscreen is so easy and enjoyable to apply, and the fine, continuous mist covers a lot of ground, quickly. If it weren't for the summery, very OG sunscreen scent, I would quite literally forget I had this on my body. You know that desperate feeling you have to jump in the shower ASAP after a day of wearing or reapplying sunscreen? Yeah, that doesn't happen with this! It's also completely clear and gives your skin a subtle, healthy-looking glow. I love it." — Jahns
"I love the scent of this sunscreen; it's like a banana-coconut smoothie. I also loved how much of the product was dispensed when I sprayed it. Unlike other sunscreen sprays, I didn't have to sit there pumping the top over and over again to get adequate coverage. I also like how silky and hydrating it feels." — McLintock
What we didn't like: "While I don't mind the scent, objectively, it is pretty strong and would definitely fight with any other fragrance you're wearing. I think anyone who is sensitive to fragrances would have a hard time with this one." — Jahns
Best Consistency: Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
Average rating: 4/5
SPF: 30
Type: Chemical
Texture: Cream
Fragrance: No (but there is a vanilla-scented version)
This chemical sunscreen has a glorious texture (lightweight, creamy, and easily spreadable) and in addition to SPF contains a slew of good-for-skin actives: avocado oil, jojoba oil, sunflower oil, carrot juice, and cacao.
What we liked: "I love the texture and easy application of this sunscreen! It also blends beautifully into the skin and leaves no film or white cast." — Thomas
It's super creamy and absorbs easily without pilling underneath my makeup (a major pet peeve of mine). I could see myself using this for my body and face since it rubs in so effortlessly. Plus, at three ounces, it's a generously sized bottle yet still TSA-friendly. I will definitely be packing this one in my carry-on for summer trips!
What we didn't like: "I've been using this sunscreen for the past few years, and the only thing I've noticed about it is that my eyes can get a bit irritated with perspiration. Because of that, I don't usually like to wear it on extremely hot or humid days." — Thomas
Best Lightweight: Banana Boat Light as Air Sunscreen Lotion
Average rating: 3.75/5
SPF: 50
Type: Chemical
Texture: Lightweight cream
Fragrance: Yes
Banana Boat is a nostalgic brand for many, but its Light as Air lotion is so innovative. The chemical SPF 50 formula is so fast-absorbing that feels like you aren't wearing any sunscreen at all.
What we liked: I was expecting to hate the scent of this sunscreen. It's the brand I've used since I was a kid (bonus points for eliciting nostalgia), and I can practically smell the harsh chemical aroma just from looking at the bottle. So consider my surprise when I applied this sunscreen lotion and didn't hate the smell. In fact, I actually enjoyed it! It smells slightly tropical but not overwhelmingly so—just enough to disguise the chemical filters. It also blended in like a dream and left no ghostly cast or greasy residue. "Light as air" is the perfect moniker, I'd say.
"Like the name would suggest, this sunscreen is super lightweight, so it goes on smoothly and easily." — Hudson
What we didn't like: The formula absorbs excess oil, which is great for nixing that dreaded greasy film so many sunscreens leave behind, but it felt a little drying on my already thirsty skin.
Best Under Makeup: Naturium Dew Glow SPF 50
Average rating: 3.75/5
SPF: 50
Type: Chemical
Texture: Cream
Fragrance: None
This chemical sunscreen is such a good base for makeup, with niacinamide and vitamin C to provide a noticeable radiance. It's a moisturizer-sunscreen hybrid that feels like a joy to apply, which is a major feat in and of itself.
What we liked: "The consistency of this sunscreen is nice, and it has a slight tint to it that can help even out your skin tone and give you a glow." — Hudson
"I love that this basically just feels like a luxurious moisturizer with the added benefit of SPF 50. It doesn't feel heavy, it adds a beautiful skin-diffusing glow to the skin, it wears well throughout the day, and it looks completely beautiful underneath makeup. In fact, I love it so much that I made sure it landed a winning spot in our 2024 beauty awards. I'm notoriously breakout-prone when it comes to face sunscreens, and this one has never given me any issues with congestion." — Jahns
What we didn't like: "This one isn't oil-free and features a few chemical sunscreen filters that I'm not crazy about. The glow was also a little too much for me since I already use a few brightening skincare products." — Hudson
"There isn't much I don't love about this sunscreen, but I think there's the potential that the 'glowiness' could be too much for people who naturally veer oily. I think it's best for people who run dry to normal." — Jahns
Best Drugstore: Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Sunscreen Lotion
Average rating: 3.75/5
SPF: 30
Type: Chemical
Texture: Cream
Fragrance: Yes
Hawaiian Tropic's lotion comes in four versions, each varying in SPF level. We tested the SPF 50 version, which felt non-greasy on the skin and dried down instantly yet somehow also nails a comfortable silky texture (thank you, shea butter). For $10, that's a steal!
What we liked: "This sunscreen smells so good—warm and tropical like a floral coconut fragrance. Honestly, I could wear this every day in the summer in place of perfume. As for the formula, it really does apply sheer and didn't make my limbs feel greasy (which most SPFs do). I was really surprised how much I liked this one!" — McLintock
What we didn't like: "This one might be better as a body sunscreen rather than for your face. The fragrance is pretty strong and the formula felt a bit heavy on my face. " — Hudson
Best for Oily Skin: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
Average rating: 3.5/5
SPF: 40
Type: Chemical
Texture: Gel
Fragrance: None
True to its name, this sunscreen disappears upon application. We're talking no white cast, no greasy residue, no scent—just a lingering subtle glow that reads dewy (not sweaty). The gel consistency also helps it layer fabulously under makeup (absolutely no pilling!). It's also great for acne-prone skin, as it's noncomedogenic.
What we liked: "This face sunscreen completely melted into my skin within seconds of application and gave me a really pretty, dewy look! I think I've found a new favorite sunscreen to wear year-round." — Thomas
"This sunscreen feels like nothing on the skin—truly in the best way possible. It has a lightweight, ultra-velvety feel and finish, and it subtly helped mattify my shiny T-zone while still leaving my skin with a little bit of natural glow. It also didn’t give me any breakouts." — Jahns
What we didn't like: "One of this sunscreen's main claims to fame is its makeup-gripping/-priming abilities, but as this has a silicone-based formula, you’re only going to get/love those perks if you're also using silicone-based complexion products like foundation and concealer. I prefer water-based makeup and foundation, so the Naturium SPF (which is not silicone-based) works better for me. Also, since I run dry, this wouldn't be my go-to formula simply because I don't necessarily want to further mattify my dry spots. However, if you're oily, you'll love it." — Jahns
Best for Sensitive Skin: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen
Average rating: 3.5/5
SPF: 50
Type: Mineral
Texture: Cream
Fragrance: None
Plenty of sunscreens claim to be safe for sensitive skin (and eyes) yet start to sting as soon as the humidity kicks up. Rest assured this mineral formula delivers on its promise. It even feels soothing upon application, featuring zinc oxide, castor oil, and vitamin E.
What we liked: "I like how the formula clings to the skin and doesn't sweat or smudge off. I also like how it's safe for sensitive skin. (Other brands claim that, but when they're highly fragranced, I don't buy it.) This one is soothing to my dry, redness-prone skin." — McLintock
I love that it's a mineral formula at a nice size (five ounces). It's been difficult for me to find a mineral body sunscreen I adore, but I think this is it! It's non-greasy and fast absorbing; I personally didn't experience a white cast, but I'm also quite fair. I also love that it's truly fragrance-free—no sunscreen-y or coconut smell—which makes me more inclined to apply.
What we didn't like: "It takes a comparatively long time to rub in completely. When I first applied it, my arms were bright white for about 30 seconds until I had rubbed it in and it dried down. After that, it was virtually undetectable, but still, it required a little elbow grease." — McLintock
Best Water-Resistant: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Body & Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 100
Average rating: 2.75/5
SPF: 100
Type: Chemical
Texture: Lightweight milk
Fragrance: None
La Roche-Posay makes some fabulous sunscreens—ask a beauty editor what to buy during a trip to the French pharmacy, and nine times out of 10, they'll recommend an Anthelios SPF. Luckily, the line also exists stateside, including this milky, lightweight option. The chemical sunscreen contains a host of soothing skincare ingredients, like glycerin, vitamin E, panthenol, and, of course, the brand's signature thermal spring water.
What we liked: It absorbs quickly into my skin and is wonderful under makeup—absolutely no pilling.
"I'm used to milky sunscreens like this one, so I really enjoyed the familiar texture. — Thomas
What we didn't like: It does have the classic sunscreen-y smell, so I'll probably continue to use it on my body instead of my face.
What to Look for in a Sunscreen
We tapped board-certified dermatologist Geeta Yadav, MD, founder of Facet Dermatology, for all her sunscreen shopping tips. Below, find her top considerations.
- SPF: "The most important feature to look for in a sunscreen is its sun protection factor (SPF), which should be at least SPF 30, meaning it'll block about 97% of the sun's rays—note that SPF 50 blocks 98% and there is no sunscreen that blocks 100%; it's really a case of diminishing returns!—and that it offers broad spectrum protection, meaning that it protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays."
- Water-resistance: "Water resistance is really only important if you're someone who sweats or swims a lot. The average person likely won't need this type of formula unless they're participating in strenuous outdoor activities or are hanging out by the beach or pool."
- PA level: "PA level is useful but really only comes up when you're shopping for sunscreen formulas that were created in Japan. [Editor's note: It's also used in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia.] They're an indication of how effective they are at blocking UVA rays specifically. All you need to know here is that the more plus signs you see after PA, the better—PA++++ is the highest level of protection measured by this scale."
- Form: "Sticks are great for swiping on kids, as are sprays, which have the added benefit of being very lightweight and covering a greater surface area faster than your average lotion. … It's really about what [you] like and look forward to using."
- Skin type: "When shopping for a SPF for your skin type, consider its consistency. Thicker, creamier sunscreens tend to pair best with dry skin, while sprays and gels are frequently better for those with oily or acne-prone skin. Powders are also a nice option for those with oily skin—brushing on powder SPF for a midday reapplication will help soak up any excess shine!"
What sunscreens do dermatologists recommend?
"The best sunscreen for any given patient is one that they'll actually use. The formula should be broad-spectrum and offer a minimum of SPF 30, but other than that, it really comes down to the product experience and what you enjoy. If you don't like a sunscreen, you're not going to wear it—and if you're not going to wear it, it's totally useless," declares Yadav.
"Vitamin C is nice to have, as it helps strengthen the efficacy of sunscreen while providing defense against free radicals, but honestly, all that matters is that you like it. It can be a lotion, a powder, a spray, chemical, or mineral—it just has to be something you like to use."
What's the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens?
"Mineral sunscreens are also known as physical sunscreens because they work by physically blocking the sun's rays, acting as a shield to deflect UV off and away from the skin," Yadav explains. "Chemical sunscreens work by creating a chemical reaction within the skin (which is why you have to apply it 15 minutes before sun exposure to give it time to work!). This chemical reaction transforms UV energy when it touches the skin, turning it into heat that is easily released by the skin without damage."
"Those with very sensitive or acne-prone skin may want to consider a mineral sunscreen rather than a chemical. Though, everyone's different! Mineral sunscreens just sit on top of the skin and tend not to be as irritating as chemical formulations, but it's worth noting that chemical SPF tends to offer benefits like water resistance, which can be very important if you're someone who participates in water sports or other outdoor activities. They are also more likely to disappear into deeper skin tones without leaving a chalky cast—mineral formulas can leave a white cast behind. Though ,the technology here is getting better and better!"
How much sunscreen do you need to apply?
"People are often surprised by how much sunscreen you need to apply and reapply. You should be applying at least 1/4 of a teaspoon to your face, 1/4 of a teaspoon to your neck, and a full shot glass of SPF (about 1 or 1.5 ounces), if not more, to your body," declares Yadav.
How often do you need to reapply?
"The kicker here is that you need to reapply every two hours, more frequently if you've been swimming or sweating," says Yadav. "I find that people are surprised by this specifically because of how little sunscreen tends to be in most bottles—a TSA-friendly bottle of SPF won't even get you through one beach day!"
How We Tested
At Who What Wear, our curated buying guides are weeks—and sometimes months—in the making. This review is no different! We first consulting our own editors for their favorite picks, compiling a list of 80 potential "best" sunscreens. Next, we pored over each formula's reviews and ratings before whittling the list down to 12 options—body and face options included.
Once we had our list of winners, we sent our editors samples to test and review each sunscreen (swimming and sweating are highly encouraged to test the formulas' longevity!). We collected their in-depth feedback, compared all the notes, and had our final list of supreme sunscreens.
Meet Our Testers
Jamie Schneider, Senior Beauty Editor
- Skin type: Combination, sensitive
- Sunscreen must-haves: I typically try to stick to mineral formulas for my face, as they tend to be gentler on my sensitive, combination skin. That said, I'm not opposed to using chemical formulas—they do blend better!—and I'm generally a sucker for a glow-inducing formula. A pleasant scent is also important to me. I just can't stick to a formula that smells too sunscreen-y or, worse, has an overwhelming coconut aroma. What can I say? I'm a proud, beauty-loving Taurus who prefers an A+ sensorial experience.
Maya Thomas, Associate Beauty Editor
- Skin type: Dry
- Sunscreen must-haves: "When I'm shopping for a sunscreen, I look for no white cast (which is really important to me because I have a deeper skin tone), a pleasant smell, a lotion or gel-like consistency, and mess-free application."
Kaitlyn McLintock, Beauty Editor
- Skin type: Dehydrated, redness-prone
- Sunscreen must-haves: "Hands down, the number one thing I look for in a sunscreen is no pilling. Seriously, I can't stand when my sunscreen pills and it looks like I'm shedding skin all day long. It's even worse when it pills after I've already applied makeup over the top. There's nothing worse than rubbing away a $60 foundation, but I digress. Aside from texture/lack of pilling, I also look for a formula that feels lightweight on my skin, doesn't leave a white cast, and won't sweat off in high heat. It's all about longevity."
Shawna Hudson, Contributing Beauty Writer
- Skin type: Sensitive, acne-prone
- Sunscreen must-haves: "My skin is extremely sensitive and can teeter on reactive, so I have to be super careful what I put on it—especially when it comes to such an important item like sunscreen. I typically look for a formula that's noncomedogenic and oil-free, and a few extra brightening ingredients for dark spots don't hurt either! It's also important that it doesn't leave a white cast since I'm Brown."
Erin Jahns, Beauty Director
- Skin type: Sensitive, acne-prone, combination
- Sunscreen must-haves: "Basically, I want a sunscreen that will make me forget I'm wearing sunscreen—especially formulas for my face! It needs to feel light, it needs to be noncomedogenic, and it needs to be applied and absorbed into my skin like a dream. I don't mind a nice scent for formulas on my body (especially if it’s something nostalgic), but I steer clear of anything too fragrant for my face. I don’t have a preference for chemical versus mineral sunscreens—I'll use whatever product feels and looks the best on my skin while still delivering protection. Over the years, I've gone back and forth between both."
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
