The top pick is less than $7 and a Best New Beauty Award winner.
![supergoop, coopertone, beekman 1802, epionce, pipette sunscreen](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/best-sunscreen-2024-66229517f27d2.jpg?crop=0.500xw:0.916xh;0.236xw,0.0328xh&resize=1200:*)
Spring has officially sprung — anybody else knee-deep into spring cleaning like us? With the gorgeous warm weather comes longer days filled with plenty of outdoor adventures, like beach outings, al fresco dining, and afternoons in the park. While dermatologists encourage us to wear sunscreen 365 days a year (yes, even during overcast or while working indoors near a window) SPF is even more essential during the summer months.
Not to mention, packing on sunscreen every day is one of the best things you can do in terms of preventing signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles. “You’ll regret not using sunscreen 20 years from now, and it’s a lot easier to prevent sun-induced skin changes now than try to fix them later,” argues board-certified dermatologist Dr. Iris Rubin, M.D.
So what does this mean for you? Spoiler alert: Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen helps protect everyone, no matter their gorgeous skin tone, from the ultraviolet A and B (UVA and UVB) rays that cause wrinkles, sunburns, and potentially cancer. And for any sunscreen haters out there, I’ve got some great news: Modern SPFs are cosmetically elegant and help prep the skin for makeup. They can also be worn on makeup-free days when someone needs sun protection that works as hard as they do outdoors. Onto why we’re here: I’ve culminated a list of the absolute best sunscreens, sunblocks, suntan lotions, whatever you call ’em that work the best for all sorts of skin types.
My list of beauty editor-approved sunscreens features a bunch of expert guidance from notable dermatologists who demystify common misconceptions about sunscreen, including how much to apply, frequency of use, the difference between mineral and chemical sun protection, and so much more. Consider this the ultimate guide to sunscreen as we enter the summer season.
Sunscreen 101
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO WEAR SUNSCREEN DAILY?
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp, M.D., advocates for actively wearing sunscreen to help reduce UV radiation from breaking down collagen and elastin in the skin’s top layer associated with fine lines, wrinkles, and skin laxity. He says, “Sunscreen also protects skin from the development of sunspots, which represent areas of increased melanin production as a result of accumulated sun exposure.”
According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Gloria Lin, M.D., sun and UV exposure are cumulative over someone’s lifetime, meaning there’s an increased risk of skin cancer and accelerated skin aging regardless of how light or dark the skin is — no, really. In my guide to the best sunscreens for dark skin tones, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sumayah Jamal, M.D., echoes Lin’s sentiment. Jamal said, “We do develop skin cancer, and it’s usually discovered at a later and more dangerous stage than in our Caucasian counterparts because of the lack of skin cancer awareness in our community.”
WHAT IS SPF IN SUNSCREEN?
SPF stands for the Sun Protection Factor a sunscreen offers. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests we all wear SPF 15 or higher, while the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) prefers SPF 30 or higher. They’re both solid guidance, but our experts agree that an SPF of 30 or above is the better option. “SPF 30 or higher is required in order to provide adequate protection, so while you do not necessarily need SPF 100, there is a significant difference between SPF 15 and 30,” says Lin.
A quick breakdown of the two types of rays and what they impact: UVA rays lead to photo-aging — they give you wrinkles and sunspots. UVB rays cause burning and can lead to skin cancer.
SUNSCREEN AND WEATHER
Lin considers SPF to be so essential, that she says we all should be applying the best sunscreens every day, even when it’s rainy or cloudy.
“Harmful UV rays are present year-round and can penetrate clouds, so sunscreen is meant to be worn daily regardless of season or UV index. In addition, snow, water, and sand can reflect the rays from the sun, increasing the exposure to the body, so it’s possible to get a sunburn even on a winter day. Daily sunscreen can help mitigate these risks by protecting the skin,” she explains.
WATER- AND SWEAT-RESISTANT SUNSCREEN
Sunscreens cannot be labeled as water- and sweat-proof, but water- and swear-resistant is totally fine and ideal for those who live an active lifestyle, like your favorite marathoner, swimmer, tennis player, or golfer. “Calling something water-resistant makes more sense since if you’re in the water for long enough, your skin care products, including sunscreens, should wash off,” double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jaimie DeRosa, M.D., previously told me in my guide to the best sport sunscreens.
SUNSCREEN FREQUENCY
Lin, who practices at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York, argues it’s not enough for us to slap on sunscreen and be done for the day. She notes that sunscreen lasts only 2 hours or less due to sweating and water exposure. If a sunscreen says it’s sweat- or water-resistant, check the label carefully to see how often you should apply it. In our guide to facial sunscreen, experts told us we should reapply typically every 40 or 80 minutes.
With all that’s said, read on below to discover the 12 absolute best sunscreens of 2024 — all tested and approved by myself and skincare experts, and be sure to scroll to the bottom for more information on finding the best sunscreen for your skin type and needs.
BEST OVERALL
Coppertone Every Tone SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
![](https://dermdoctor.biz/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-32.png)
Kicking off this list is a budget-friendly yet top-performing pick from Coppertone. I recently named Every Tone SPF 50 the best sunscreen of 2024 in my inaugural Best New Beauty Awards package, so there should be no surprise it’s the top winner in this story, too. The beauty awards package was solely focused on newness over a year, yet even against previous favorites, Coppertone remains firmly on top.
For less than $7, this effective sunscreen can be applied to your face and body. Unlike many brands who swear their sunscreen blends into all skin tones, this one actually delivers! It squeezes out white, but I was so pleasantly surprised by the immediate clear and seamless finish that I immediately recruited a few Hearst staffers with deeper complexions to try this magical sunscreen out. They were all equally impressed it’s a genuinely inclusive sunscreen.
I especially love that it’s infused with vitamin E, which is a nourishing antioxidant that helps guard the skin against free radical damage. The dream sunscreen is finally here, and you don’t need to splurge to enjoy it! What could be better?!
BEST BUDGET
Neutrogena Ultra Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 70
![](https://dermdoctor.biz/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-33.png)
It’s a challenge to find an affordable yet high-quality sunscreen, and I have to say I’m impressed with this option from Neutrogena. It is cheap yet provides high SPF coverage. I’m confident users will also love Neutrogena’s Ultra Dry Touch Sunscreen.
The formula features dry-touch technology for an ultralight, shine-free finish. Available in SPF 30 up to SPF 100+, users have an option for all of their sun care needs. The Ultra Sheer line applies easily, and absorbs fast for an invisible finish, and the signature Helioplex technology combines four types of sunblocks to guard your skin against UVA and UVB rays.
I appreciate that it doesn’t feel heavy and gloppy on my skin, and it doesn’t leave behind an embarrassing white cast that makes me look ashy or purple.
Costing just under $10, smart shoppers should consider stocking up on a few — for the home, office, backpack, gym locker, etc. — to ensure they’re never without this fabulous SPF. Given the budget-friendly price tag, you could order a canvas tote and fill it with this sunscreen, a beach towel, sunglasses, flip flops, and a beach hat. You’ve got yourself a budget-friendly, summer-ready gift that’s ideal for beach lovers, summer camp attendees and counselors, or yourself because you deserve some self-care too.
BEST SPRAY SUNSCREEN
Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray
![](https://dermdoctor.biz/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-34.png)
Spray sunscreens get a bad reputation for being a hot mess, but Sun Bum’s is the exception, and it absolutely needs a permanent home in everyone’s beach tote, stat. Infused with nourishing vitamin E, this ultra-sheer spray applies effortlessly as it protects and nourishes the skin.
It boasts a hypoallergenic formula, making it safe for anyone with sensitive skin. For example, I have eczema, which hasn’t been triggered by using Sun Bum’s sunscreen regularly.
Another nifty thing with this spray sunscreen is that it’s super easy to mist onto hard-to-reach areas of my body, such as the back, shoulders, and behind my legs.
As a bonus, it has a delicious coconut scent that reminds me of beach-side family vacations even if I’m just walking around a New York City park.
BEST FOR HANDS
Deborah Lippmann Rich Girl Hand Cream SPF 25
![](https://dermdoctor.biz/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-36.png)
Wait, you thought we just needed sunscreen on the face and body? Our hands are a hard-working part of body that needs extra TLC. This rich hand cream is designed to make the precious skin on our hands feel nourished and protected.
Celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann infused her namesake SPF hand cream with a hydrating blend of shea butter, avocado, and jojoba oil. Plus, a botanical brightening complex to fade the look of discoloration, while broad-spectrum SPF 25 coverage provides necessary sun protection.
The award-winning sunscreen smells incredible and leaves my hands feeling soft to the touch. I like the Goldilocks consistency of this lotion — it’s not too thin yet not too thick it can’t spread — and find my skin soaks it up like a tall glass of water.
BEST INVISIBLE FINISH
Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen
![](https://dermdoctor.biz/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-37.png)
Supergoop! makes several sunscreens, but I like Unseen the best for several reasons. This facial sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection and doesn’t clog my pores. It has a unique clear gel texture that glides across my skin, similar to a pore-minimizing face primer.
Speaking of the translucent finish, I can vouch that it won’t leave behind a white cast on any skin tone, no matter how fair or deep someone’s complexion is — and I can’t say the same for other products not on this list.
I love that it is supercharged with more natural ingredients, like red algae for hydration and to guard against visible light. There’s also soothing frankincense and meadowfoam oil to boost moisture and leave my skin looking smooth and healthy.
Senior Editor Summer Cartwright says this is a great option for athletes, too. “I wore this all throughout my marathon training and on the big day and it worked like a charm, didn’t burn my eyes when I got sweaty, and kept me from getting burned,” she said. “For girls out there with middle parts, remember to add this to your scalp!”
Not to mention it’s packed with four types of blockers, including avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene.
BEST SUNSCREEN FOR KIDS
Aveeno Kids Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen
![](https://dermdoctor.biz/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-38.png)
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 offers. And with a $12 price tag, it’s hard to pass up!
As long as I apply this sunscreen diligently, I don’t have to deal with any burns. This sunscreen goes on well and stays put.
FOR BABIES AND ADULTS
Pipette Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50
![](https://dermdoctor.biz/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-39.png)
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 baby-friendly formula is rich, transparent, and filled with nourishing plant-derived ingredients — such as wild gooseberry — to soften their delicate skin.
But it’s not just good for little ones. This non-comedogenic formula is also great for adults and it is light enough to put on before applying makeup. I really enjoy this pick, and my mom, who is allergic to pretty much every sunscreen says this is one of the only options she enjoys using.
Not only is it verified by the EWG, but it rubs in so much smoother and doesn’t leave behind a white cast compared to other sunscreens.
FOR ACTIVE LIFESTYLES
THINK Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen
![](https://dermdoctor.biz/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-40.png)
Designed with swimmers in mind, this reef-safe sunscreen is a must-have for anyone into water sports. Notably, it’s made with biodegradable and nontoxic ingredients that won’t harm us or marine life.
Anyone else into other outdoor activities, including running and rollerblading, will also love this sunscreen. I use mine while on long walks down the Hudson River, commuting to the office, and while visiting family in Florida.
While technically not listed as sweat-resistant, it hasn’t disappointed me during my testing process. Whenever I’m in Florida, my dad and I like to start our mornings with a walk around our neighborhood that’s equivalent to a 5K. This sunscreen holds up throughout our daily walks. It’s also handy for any beach days because we haven’t dealt with any burns while sporting this SPF.
CREATED BY A DOCTOR
Epionce Daily Shield Tinted SPF 50 Sunscreen
![](https://dermdoctor.biz/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-41.png)
This Epionce sunscreen replaced my previous favorite PCA sunscreen — and it costs $12 less per container. It’s tinted and offers a gorgeous, natural finish tot he skin so many people can confidently sport this SPF as a tinted moisturizer alternative.
Since it’s a little lighter than my complexion, I use it as a face primer and concealer alternative and just apply either my favorite foundations or dust on a setting powder in a darker shade and use a bronzer than continue going about my day.
My skin always looks better whenever I wear sunscreen, like when I thought my recently red, itchy skin was contact dermatitis, but it was just my radiator wreaking havoc on my skin. This sunscreen not only protected my sensitive complexion, but helped hide the redness before applying foundation.
FOR SENSITIVE SKIN AND NOSES
Kiehl’s Super Fluid UV Defense Daily Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+
![](https://dermdoctor.biz/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-42.png)
I’m a big fan of Kiehl’s products, and this sunscreen is no different. The broad-spectrum lotion is super lightweight and doesn’t feel greasy when I apply it to my skin.
The non-comedogenic sunscreen is formulated with vitamin E, baicalin, and a slew of antioxidants that absorb quickly into my skin and leave behind a non-greasy, matte finish.
I’ve tested this one in New York and while on vacation in Las Vegas, and it holds up nicely in two widely different environments. I also noticed it leaves my skin baby soft, which is always appreciated. Given its compact size, this doesn’t take up much space in my bag and I won’t have to worry about TSA snatching my liquid gold.
BEST 3-IN-1
Beekman 1802 Milk Primer SPF 35
![](https://dermdoctor.biz/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-43.png)
I can successfully streamline my morning routine with this unique 3-in-1 product that replaces my a.m. moisturizer, sunscreen, and face primer. The sheer sunscreen is made with clean ingredients that brighten dull complexions, blur the look of pores, and feels weightless on my face.
I also appreciate that it dries down relatively quickly, so I can follow it up with a quick 5-minute face on busy mornings. Users don’t have to wear this under makeup if they prefer. I’ve tested it without any cosmetics layered on top, and it also leaves my normally oily complexion looking velvety matte and feels silky on my skin.
The secret to its genius is straightforward. Zinc oxide protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays, but I especially love that it’s also formulated with familiar ingredients, including aloe vera leaf juice, cucumber and coconut extracts, and honey. It also contains goat milk, which helps strengthen the skin barrier.
BEST FOR FACE
Supergoop! Everyday Play SPF 50 Lotion
![](https://dermdoctor.biz/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-44.png)
I previously named this Supergoop! sunscreen as the top pick in our guide to the best face sunscreens for several reasons. It offers broad-spectrum protection, it doesn’t clog my pores, and it’s also rich in antioxidants.
The non-greasy sunscreen even protects my face from infrared rays! Above all, I love that all skin types and darker skin tones can use this sunscreen without worrying about it leaving behind a white cast.
It’s a daily must-have before morning workouts because it doesn’t get into my eyes while exercising, so dreadful rubbing of my eyes and subsequent burning doesn’t occur.
Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreens
Chemical and mineral sunscreens have their benefits and limitations, but Hale argues that the real answer is whichever formula that gets someone wearing sunscreen is best. Hale likes chemical sunscreens on her body and physical, zinc-based formulas on her face. While Rossi prefers mineral sunscreens because they offer broad-spectrum protection and are less irritating than chemical sunscreens. Overall, wearing sunscreen is much better than skipping it when exposed to sunlight.
Mineral Sunscreens
Active ingredients: Zinc and titanium dioxide
Pros: Offer instant protection, lasts longer in direct sunlight, gentle for babies and sensitive skin, active ingredients don’t absorb into the skin, and is typically safer for the environment, including coral reefs.
Cons: Some can leave behind a white cast, which is the embarrassing grey or purple appearance on the skin.
How it works: Mineral sunscreens create a physical block that bounces the sunlight away from the skin.
Chemical Sunscreens
Active ingredients: Oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, and homosalate
Pros: Easier to rub into the skin, no white cast issues, and typically sweat- and water-resistant.
Cons: Past rodent tests have shown they partially absorb chemical sunscreens, but the studies were done on rodents, not humans.
How it works: Once fully absorbed into the skin, chemical sunscreen converts UV rays that penetrate the skin into heat, which is released from the body.
So, 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.” Fellow board-certified dermatologist Dr. Anthony Rossi, M.D., 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.
What Is Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen?
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Elizabeth Hale, M.D., says broad-spectrum sunscreen protects our skin from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. She is the SVP of the nonprofit Skin Cancer Foundation and chief medical advisor to the Vacation sunscreen brand, so to say I trust her guidance (and frankly, all of the featured doctors on this list) would be an understatement. The AAD also advises using broad-spectrum sunscreen for all-encompassing coverage.
How Much Sunscreen Do We Need?
Rossi notes that most patients usually don’t apply enough sunscreen and skimp on reapplying. He and the other dermatologists I consulted recommend applying about 1.5 ounces or a shot glass full of sunscreen from head to toe. If you’re looking for even more sun protection, Rossi suggests wearing sunscreen and using hats, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing to help shield yourself from solar rays.
Actively wearing and reapplying sunscreen is essential because Hale argues that healthy tans don’t exist and burns can lead to long-term damage.
“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. “It’s important that people know that sun damage is an ongoing, lifelong process. 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!”
How We Chose
Research
I love wearing sunscreen daily, so I felt at home spending countless hours researching the hundreds of options available across the digital aisles of Amazon, Sephora, and Dermstore.
Aligned With Medical Guidance
There’s way too much misinformation in the beauty space, especially about sunscreen. Most recently, you may have heard that a former reality TV villain has gone viral for admitting she doesn’t wear sunscreen. Science doesn’t agree with her hot take and neither do I.
That’s why all of these winning sunscreens hit all of the key points board-certified medical doctors highlighted. They all offer at least broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection and, as a bonus, are infused with derm-loved ingredients, like hyaluronic acid and squalane, for extra skin benefits.