Sunscreen is the most important step in any skincare routine, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in protecting your skin from premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer. With countless options on the market, finding a sunscreen that feels good, wears well under makeup, and provides adequate protection can be overwhelming. We have consulted with dermatologists and tested dozens of formulas to bring you the best sunscreens of 2025.
What to Look For
Before we dive into our top picks, it is important to understand what makes a good sunscreen. First and foremost, look for broad-spectrum protection, which means it shields your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. An SPF of at least 30 is recommended for daily use, while SPF 50 or higher is ideal for extended outdoor activity. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are excellent for sensitive skin, while chemical sunscreens offer lightweight, cosmetically elegant formulas that work well under makeup.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
A cult favorite for good reason, this invisible, weightless sunscreen works as a primer and protects against blue light and UV rays. It has a velvety, almost powdery finish that works for all skin tones without leaving a white cast. The gel-like texture glides onto the skin seamlessly and creates a smooth canvas for makeup application. It is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Dermatologist-recommended and beloved by those with acne-prone and rosacea-prone skin, EltaMD UV Clear contains niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, which help calm inflammation and hydrate the skin. The lightweight formula leaves no white residue and can be worn alone or under makeup. It is oil-free and paraben-free, and many users report that it actually improves their skin over time thanks to the niacinamide content.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk SPF 60
This antioxidant-rich formula provides very high UVA and UVB protection with a comfortable, melt-in texture. It is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it an excellent choice for outdoor activities and beach days. The formula contains Cell-Ox Shield technology, which combines advanced UV filters with antioxidants to protect against environmental damage. It is lightweight enough for daily wear yet durable enough for intense sun exposure.
How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly
Even the best sunscreen will not protect you if you do not apply it correctly. Use about a nickel-sized amount for your face and a shot glass full for your body. Apply it as the last step of your skincare routine, before makeup, and reapply every two hours if you are outdoors. Remember that sunscreen needs to be applied to dry skin and takes about 15 minutes to bind to the skin before it becomes fully effective.
Sun protection is not seasonal—wear sunscreen every single day, regardless of the weather or how much time you plan to spend outdoors. Your future self will thank you for the healthy, youthful skin that results from consistent sun protection.