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Sunscreen is a crucial element of any skincare routine. No matter your skin type, age, or the weather, you should be using it all year long — but when the UV index goes through the roof in summer, it’s especially important to apply and reapply daily. We know the sunscreen market is vast, so we found the crème de la crème (or cream de la cream) of non-greasy, actually-pleasant sunscreens for sunny days ahead.
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A color-changing sunscreen we’ve tested ourselves…
Colorescience’s Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50 is one of the best tinted sunscreens we’ve ever tried. It’s mineral-rich and has iron oxide pigments that bloom upon contact with your skin to create your own custom shade. Perfect if you’re looking for an SPF with actual coverage.
An everyday sunscreen that won’t clog your pores…
We trust Hero Cosmetics with our worst blemishes, so you better believe we’re trusting them with our sunscreen, too. This SPF 30 sunscreen has a smooth, skin-like finish that’s specifically formulated to not clog your pores. It’s fragrance-free and won’t feel greasy upon application (or hours after). Plus, the pale green tint cancels out any redness in your skin, so it works well as a primer for makeup.
A high-end SPF that's worth every penny...
Dermatologists everywhere agree, sunscreen is a daily skincare non-negotiable. We love this one from Augustinus Bader because it's lightweight, protects against UVA and UVB rays, and can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and redness. Oh, and its packaging? Recyclable.
A truly invisible SPF…
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50 is our go-too when we don’t feel like putting on sunscreen. We love it for its untraceable, semi-matte finish, lightweight feel, and added skincare ingredients in the formula. They also have a tinted mineral version that we had four editors try.
A sunscreen even sunscreen-haters will love…
The “melt-in” in La Roche-Posay Melt-In Sunscreen SPF 60 should tell you everything you need to know. This dual face-and-body option is oil-free, fragrance-free, water-resistant, and insanely fast-absorbing. More good news: it works for all skin types (sensitive skin included).
A classic spray that actually smells good…
Don’t let this “cool girl” suncare brand intimidate you. Our editors can attest that this SPF 50 spray works wonders. The continuous spray bottle ensures you don’t miss a spot, regardless of angle. We love the vacation-inspired scent, a combination of tropical fruits, swimsuits, and pool toys.
A mineral sunscreen that acts like a primer…
Unlike other zinc-based mineral sunscreens, this Alastin option has a glowy finish, rather than a matte one. It’s also made with peptides, which helps boost collagen production and makes skin look firmer and smoother. And thanks to its tinted finish, you can use it as a makeup primer, or as your base product on its own.
A tinted sunscreen that’ll simplify your morning routine…
We’ve long been fans of this multitasking option. It actually improves your skin as you wear it, thanks to the niacinamide that brightens and bisabolol that reduces inflammation. At the same time, zinc oxide protects against both UVA/UVB and blue light.
A face stick that’s easy for kids to apply…
This mineral sunscreen stick is easy to carry around and won’t explode in your bag like some tubes of lotion. Plus, it’s fast-absorbing and quick to roll on, so your kids can easily master reapplication themselves.
A sunscreen packed with vitamin C…
Another skincare-makeup hybrid, this SPF 30 mineral sunscreen serum is packed with vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. The tint offers sheer coverage with a dewy finish, ideal for a no makeup-makeup look.
A mist to keep your scalp from getting burnt…
Don’t forget the scalp protection. This nourishing spray offers SPF 30 protection, and it won’t grease your hair up in the process. It’s paraben- and sulfate-free, color-safe, and water-resistant.
An accessory for an added layer of protection…
This hat is made of a cotton-linen blend so it won’t feel sweaty or heavy throughout the day. The ultra-wide, adjustable brim is large enough to cover the back of your neck. An added perk: the hidden opening in the back for your ponytail. Did we mention it has UPF 50+?