Sun Care Is Skincare: Top Rated Face Sunscreens By Real Users — Shop Now

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When it comes to determining the best sunscreen for your face and body, it’s always best to consult with a specialist like a dermatologist. However, if you don’t have access to a dermatologist, don’t let that deter you from finding a sunscreen that works with your lifestyle. Most dermatologists will agree that the best sunscreen is one you will remember to apply daily. That being said, there are a few things to look for when picking out a sunscreen.

• SPF Protection Factor (SPF 30, SPF 50, etc.)
• UVA/UVB Protection (typically labeled broad spectrum or full spectrum)
• Water Resistance
• Mineral vs. Chemical ingredients (such as oxybenzone-free)
• Non-Comedogenic (for oily or acne prone skin)
• Finish features such as matte, tinted or glow

You can spend hundreds on a well respected and reputable sunscreen brand, but it's useless if you do not apply the sunscreen as directed — and yes, that means wearing sunscreen daily, whether you’re inside or outside! Of the many products we buy for anti-aging efforts, wearing sunscreen daily is the best line of defense against harmful UV rays (blue light included!) that cause sun damage, wrinkles and other skin concerns.

Mineral sunscreens are great for those wanting to eliminate chemicals from their health and beauty products as well as those looking for a zinc oxide-based sunscreen. Mineral sunscreens are friendly to sensitive skin and are an optimal choice for those with concerns like rosacea. These are some of the most highly rated mineral sunscreens for the face by real users.

Don’t let the word chemical scare you into not using sunscreen. These sunscreens are safe and effective to use and only differ from mineral sunscreens in some of their active ingredients. Chemical sunscreens work differently than mineral sunscreens in that they absorb into the skin and then work to absorb harmful UV rays, convert them into heat and then release from the body. This differs from mineral sunscreens that use ingredients designed to sit on top of the skin and reflect harmful UV rays like a mirror. The following chemical-based sunscreens provide great coverage and protection from the sun, which can also aid in anti-aging.

One of the biggest factors in deciding on a sunscreen is its SPF protection. There are many nuances to SPF protection and the ingredients that make up the formula. For example, when choosing between a sunscreen with SPF 30 or SPF 50, it’s best to opt for the higher number as it guarantees to block a higher percentage of harmful UV rays. Generally speaking, SPF 30 is the lowest recommended amount and should be used as a starting point for SPF protection. That being said, just because a sunscreen yields a higher SPF, that does not necessarily guarantee that it will be more effective than a lower SPF, depending on use.

This is where shopping for sunscreen can be tricky, as it’s not an intuitive process. Keep in mind that no SPF will block 100% of harmful UV rays and a sunscreen’s efficacy is heavily dependent upon its usage. For example, you could have a lower strength SPF but have greater protection against UV rays due to liberal and continuous application throughout the day. Just because an SPF totes a higher strength does not mean it’s a one and done fix to sun care. All sunscreens require continuous application throughout the day with wear for best results.

Zinc Oxide is an active ingredient in many sunscreens due to its ability to protect the skin without irritation. Generally speaking, zinc oxide-based sunscreens are gentle on the skin and do not cause irritation, making them a good choice for those with acne prone or sensitive skin. Additionally, not all sunscreens provide broad or full spectrum protection against all of the sun’s harmful rays, while zinc oxide-based sunscreens do offer broad spectrum protection (UVA/UVB), which is what’s recommended to look for in a formula. This being said, zinc is not without its own controversies.

Nano zinc oxide particles have been found to be harmful to coral reefs and marine life and are linked to causing coral bleaching. This being said, non-nano zinc oxide is safe for coral reefs and marine life. When it comes to sunscreen that contains zinc oxide, be sure to opt for non-nano zinc oxide-based formulas that are reef friendly. Another controversy with zinc-based sunscreens is a white cast that can be left behind upon application (insert mental image of Mark Zuckerberg here) which can result in an unflattering appearance, especially for darker skin tones. Don’t let this deter you from using zinc oxide-based formulas, as there are many new sunscreens that leave no white cast yet deliver broad spectrum protection. Lastly, most sunscreens require a waiting period before SPF properties have fully absorbed into the skin. Zinc oxide-based sunscreens work almost immediately, which is great for reapplication and busy lifestyles. Zinc oxide acts as a physical blocker to UV rays on the skin (like a mirror) which allows the formula a jumpstart on sun protection. While it may be tempting to wait, you should always apply sunscreen prior to being in direct sunlight, even with zinc oxide-based formulas.

This is a controversial topic amongst health and beauty communities, and generally speaking, the term "chemical" in products tends to set off alarm bells for most consumers. This is not necessarily a bad thing as it’s always useful to double check and look into what you’re putting in your body. Remember, the epidermis (skin) is an organ, so what you apply to it is consumed by the body. That being said, not all chemical sunscreens are harmful, and there are many misleading myths surrounding chemical sunscreens. When it comes to chemical sunscreens, major ingredient oxybenzone is the usual target of sun care concerns, but it's also the most common and effective ingredient against UV rays and is FDA approved.

Oxybenzone is an organic compound that is naturally occurring and can be found in flowering plants. Oxybenzone is one of the most effective ingredients in sun care products but can be seen as harmful to people due to its ability to affect hormones. Additionally, its properties have been linked to skin and eye irritations in certain products. This being said, it’s not toxic in the way that most consumers take the word as. Sunscreen containing oxybenzone will not cause you to foam at the mouth, but chemical-based sunscreens have been linked to skin irritations as well as environmental concerns. Many consumers would like to stay away from chemicals all together and opt for mineral-based sunscreen instead. Mineral sunscreens are effective against harmful UV rays even sans chemicals. Remember, no sunscreen is perfect, and the best sunscreen is the one you will apply daily.