The 12 best face sunscreens for a natural, UV-protective finish, per testing (2025)

Whether you’ve come to terms with it or not, a quality sunscreen for your face is a necessity that you need to incorporate into your daily skincare routine all year round.

Not only does the best face sunscreen help protect your complexion from cancer-causing UVA and UVB rays, but it will keep sunburns at bay (if you reapply!) and protect your skin against premature aging.

“It’s important to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of the skin, but the face is especially vulnerable to UV damage — your face tends to be exposed all year round and is rarely covered by clothing,” Kim Nichols, MD, a dermatologist practicing in Greenwich, CT and a spokesperson for The Skin Cancer Foundation, told the New York Post. “Even when wearing a face mask or hat, you want to be sure you have sunscreen all over your entire face.”

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends you apply only one ounce of sunscreen (about the size of a shot glass) to your face and body and to wear more than just sunscreen to protect your skin. And, while moisturizers with SPF are a good bonus, they don’t equate to using a standalone facial sunscreen. But, more of that is in our in-depth FAQ section with board-certified dermatologists, skincare experts and climate and ozone layer specialists.

I’m not one to sit and research topics of science 24/7 but, ever since coming across extensive SPF research for the first time a few years ago, I essentially became a Bill Nye-in-training. Before diving into my review of the best sunscreens for your face that I’ve been using for five years (ahem, likely longer), here’s a mini science class on how the ozone layer impacts our skin:

“The ozone is a part of the stratosphere – the second layer of the atmosphere, from the ground up — that contains a high concentration of ozone molecules,”Emily Nyrop, vice president of climate solutions at Conservation International, told The Post. Nyrop focuses on using nature to mitigate climate change and enhance the resilience of critical ecosystems and local communities. “These molecules absorb and block a significant portion of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can cause sunburns. Climate change indirectly affects the ozone layer by altering atmospheric circulation patterns and increasing the frequency of ozone-depleting events.”

That said, the ozone acts as a “natural sunscreen” because it provides a crucial barrier against harmful UV radiation. “However, climate change can exacerbate the deterioration of the ozone by increasing ozone-depleting substances in the atmosphere, which allows more of the harmful UV radiation to reach us,” Nyrop explained.Now, more than ever, it’s important to wear sunscreen when you’re out and about.

Ahead, find individual reviews of the best face sunscreens I’ve tested, complete with photos of each (not fully blended in, of course, so you can have an idea of what the formulation is like before it’s completely absorbed into the skin). The most important thing to remember? As long as you’re sporting SPF 30 daily, you’re on the fast track to well-protected skin.

Best Overall for Most People: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 60

The La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 60 is a versatile, universal sunscreen that works well on a variety of skin types. While not a mineral sunscreen, it’s oil-free, fragrance-free and doesn’t cause breakouts. It has also been tested on sensitive skin, and feels smoothing on the skin once fully blended in.

It’s $20 for only 1.7 ounces but its quality is exceptional. The formulation oozing out of its squeezy tube appears white and somewhat thick, though absorbs fairly quickly once I blend it out. You have to ensure the sunscreen is blended out extremely well or you’ll see a faint trace of what looks like a white cast. When fully blended, it appears fully translucent, which makes it wonderful for an array of skin tones.

What I love most about the La Roche-Posay sunscreen — and what makes it versatile for most people — is its ability to absorb excess pore-clogging oil. It also contains the brand’s proprietary Cell-Ox Shield Technology, which is a combination of UVA/UVB filters and antioxidants that are designed to protect the skin from the sun’s damaging rays and free radicals.

Its ability to feel like second skin once blended is due largely in part to its lightweight powders, perlite and silica complex. These fine powders also help reduce the appearance of shine on my T-zone, especially.

Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, the travel-friendly tube is an essential for helping to prevent sun damage, including sunburn and premature aging. I love its feel and how it aids in my overall skin health. It’s that stereotypical *good* sunscreen that makes sense to use, whether at the beach or before applying your full-coverage foundation.

It’s no surprise that nearly every dermatologist I speak to recommends the brand. In fact, I did a deep-dive of La Roche-Posay in my full brand review, featuring an exclusive interview with its general manager. For a fair price point, it’s worth investing in for daily use.

Size: 1.7 ounces | SPF count: 60 | Key ingredients: Antioxidants | Scent: None

Best Drugstore: Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 60

For a drugstore sunscreen, the Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 60 largely impressed me. First off, the packaging touts its “new weightless formula” in the upper lefthand corner, which makes this formulation one of the best I tested.

My skin is ultra-sensitive and it has a pleasing, subtle scent that instantly transports me to summer. In fact, it’s similar to some higher-end brands like Vacation. Its formula is pretty much the definition of chef’s kiss: it’s refreshing and barely there, non-greasy and formulated with prebiotic oat. It both nourishes and protects — for less than $10.

I continue to be impressed by how cosmetically elegant this formulation is on my skin. It doesn’t take much time to fully blend in, either, and it’s a phenomenal value as you’ll have 3 ounces worth of product in its handy tube.

For years, Aveeno has been a household brand for sensitive skin and I swear, it’s formulas continue to become better and better. Plenty of the skincare products I’ve tried from the brand feature this skin-calming oat ingredient, like the Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser ($10). Regardless of skin type, you’ll want to use this face sunscreen on repeat; it truly checks off all of the boxes in terms of being budget-friendly, skin-nurturing and sun-protective.

Size: 2.0 ounces | SPF count: 60 | Key ingredients: Prebiotic Oat | Scent: None

Best for Under Makeup: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Liquid Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 70

The Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Liquid Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 70 is a newer innovation from the as-seen-on-commercials brand, and it’s one of its finest products. Designed as a light-reflecting face sunscreen with ample SPF (a count of 70, instead of the dermatologist standard of 30), it’s specially designed to promote all-day hydration with its serum-inspired formulation.

It’s a small yet mighty tube with a nozzle applicator to target specific areas of the face. Yes, I blend it all over for suitable protection, but this packaging ensures that you can watch it glide on satiny smooth. In addition, it’s packed with vitamin E, another skin-soother.

This is also an incredible mineral sunscreen if you prefer this type over standard chemical sunscreens. Typically, mineral sunscreens will either contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, but this one contains both. It’s also noncomedogenic so it never clogs my pores and it has a near-invisible finish once fully blended.

Because it spreads easily and leaves the skin feeling soft, it doubles as a makeup primer and even measures up to a few moisturizers with SPF that I’ve reviewed. It contains slightly less product that other tubes of face sunscreen I’ve tried, but its 1.4 ounces is only slightly lower than the seemingly standard size of 1.7 ounces. It’s impressive and simply stunning on the skin, which is why it’s essential for anyone who’s looking to apply foundation or a BB cream over its base.

Size: 1.4 ounces | SPF count: 70 | Key ingredients: Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, Vitamin E | Scent: Unspecified, though no harsh scent detected

Best Mineral: EltaMD UV Skin Recovery Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50

New from EltaMD (you know, the brand that is pretty much loved by everyone, with 400,000 people purchasing it multiple times on Amazon), its UV Skin Recovery Face Sunscreen tops the chart of mineral sunscreens that I’ve tested. It boasts an extremely transparent zinc oxide finish and is designed for the most sensitive skin, including those with rosacea.

It’s void of fragrance, is noncomedogenic and rubs into my skin in record time. It’s slightly running and slicks onto the skin, but nothing that leads to a mess or deters me from using it all the time.

It also contains centella asiatica, a popular ingredient that helps calm and sooth the skin, along with a blend of ceramides to reinforce the skin barrier to minimize future damage, redness and sensitivity.

Uniquely, it has been post-procedure tested for anyone who has received a treatment like Botox. While I’ve never had a cosmetic treatment done besides the once-in-awhile facial (note to self: book one soon), I love how it protects and helps reduce any redness my skin is typically prone to.

This new EltaMD face sunscreen comes with a price tag that is quite steep but, if you’re following dermatologists’ best practices of applying one daily, its nongreasy finish, top-tier quality and ability to comfort sensitive skin is unparalleled.

Size: 1.7 ounces | SPF count: 50 | Key ingredients: Zinc Oxide, Centella Asiatica | Scent: Unspecified, though no harsh scent detected

Best Tinted: Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++

Some may argue that the Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++ already had its time in the spotlight years ago when it was first introduced and exacerbated in popularity on TikTok, but it’s still a goodie in my book. The most illuminating factor about this sunscreen is that it’s tinted and leaves a nongreasy glow, allowing me to use it sans makeup — it’s that flattering.

Yes, in my spare time, I listen to podcasts about hyperpigmentation, which seems to track with what I do day-in and day-out: test the best of beauty products. In an older episode produced by Allure, a dermatologist noted how using a tinted sunscreen helps really protect against UV. Melanin is the chief pigment in the skin that protects us from UV rays, and fair skin has less of them. Because of that, little skin factories called melanocytes produce more melanin (therefore, producing a tan) to protect the skin when exposed to UV rays. If using a tinted sunscreen, it aids a bit more in standard sun protection for lighter skin tones that naturally come with less pigmented melanin, which I appreciate in Supergoop!’s formulation.

Miniature science lesson aside, the “Glow Screen” in its name makes it exceed the quality of standard tinted moisturizers for its naturally luminous finish. But, don’t worry, it won’t make you look like a disco ball. Because of its JLO-glow factor, it’s one of my favorites to reapply every 2 hours.

For its ability to make me feel sun-kissed, I constantly toss this in my beach bag, though I find myself applying it on mornings when I have a bit less time to succumb to a full makeup routine. Additionally, all four of Glowscreen’s shades are flexible on a wide range of skin tones; “Dawn” provides a pink pearl glow, “Sunrise” (our original shade!) provides a champagne glow, “Golden Hour” provides a bronze glow and “Sunset” provides a deep bronze glow, per its product description. I’m a user of “Sunrise,” and continue to swear by its original, cruelty free formula.

Size: 1.7 ounces | SPF count: 40 | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin B5 | Scent: Lavender

Best for Dry Skin: Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 60+

For a quick fix to dry skin, the Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 60+ is a truly phenomenal face sunscreen. Similar to the Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 60 in terms of its ability to instantly transport me to the beach. In fact, I know for certain that this face sunscreen is one of the first beauty items I’m packing for my upcoming Hawaii honeymoon in September.

Its formulation is both budget-friendly and effective for my thirsty skin. Thanks to hyaluronic acid at the top of its ingredient list, it delivers an instantly hydrating finish that makes my skin more radiant and supple. Its lotion is a bit thinner than some other face sunscreens I’ve tried, which some users many not fancy, but it’s not greasy nor runny. It rubs in clear and grips to the skin, so it offers great protection once it’s fully absorbed.

It also has a divine yet subtle fragrance that makes it glimmer a bit more than some other face sunscreens I’ve tested. Despite the fact that a summery flower is slapped on its tube, its formulation is one of my favorites for beach trips and vacations. It just has that vibe, and I know it’s offering me great, wallet-friendly protection all the while.

Size: 2.5 ounces | SPF count: 60 | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid | Scent: Light tropical

Best for Oily Skin: Vacation Crystal SPF 50 Invisible Face Gel

After reviewing the near-entirety of Vacation, I can attest that its entire product catalog is paradise in a bottle. Aside from sensitive skin, I also have combination with some dry and oily patches. When I know I’ll be spending more time outdoors, be it a picnic or an all-day beach trip, the oily factor tends to take prominence — and that’s why a sunscreen in gel form is God’s gift to my beach bag.

The brand’s new Crystal SPF 50 Invisible Face Gel is truly “invisible,” “weightless” and “scentless” on the skin, as the flipside of its tube writes. I truly can’t believe it’s a sunscreen and has a taut, jelly-like consistency. When applied on the skin, it’ incredibly sheer and slicks on perfectly. I never have to worry about excess oil or shine, either.

It’s fairly priced for its ability to keep oil and shine at bay. It reminds me of the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Liquid Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 70 in this regard, except for its all-clear color and ability to form a protective layer without any gooping, caking or smearing. It doubles as a mattifying makeup primer, too.

Size: 1.7 ounces | SPF count: 50 | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Squalene, Peptides, Ceramides, Aloe Vera | Scent: None

Best for Sensitive Skin: Well People Daygleamer Mineral Suncreen Serum SPF 34

If I could scream how much I love this face sunscreen from the rooftops, I would. The Well People Daygleamer Mineral Suncreen Serum SPF 34. It’s one of the only face sunscreens I reviewed that has a serum-esque finish, leaving the most beautiful hint of radiance on the skin.

For those with sensitive skin, using a mineral sunscreen is best. After I give it a good shake, I love applying it to not only my face but also my neck. Its ability to masquerade as skincare and position itself as an excellent face sunscreen in my morning lineup is incredible. I love how it nurtures yet hydrates, protects yet doesn’t pill. Its nozzle applicator is one of my favorites to use and it’s perfect for bringing with me everywhere.

It’s noncomedogenic and always makes my skin feel brighter and moisturized. Aside from SPF 34, it contains an antioxidant-rich oil complex, zinc oxide and aloe leaf juice, the latter delivering that lightweight, soothing quality to my skin whenever I use it. It’s my new favorite face sunscreen for sensitive skin, specifically. Once you start, there’s no going back.

Size: 1.7 ounces | SPF count: 34 | Key ingredients: Niacinamide, Vitamin C | Scent: None

Best Korean Sunscreen: LANEIGE Hydro UV Defense EX Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ Sunscreen

As you can imagine, my bathroom vanity drawer is nothing short of a beach bag explosion — in the best way possible.

I found this Korean sunscreen to be the one I can’t stop using. There’s no greasy look, no white finish and certainly no clogged pores, the latter a tipping point for me (I’m just a girl who wants sun protection, not visible pores).

Its a hydrating formula, contains a lofty SPF 50+ which receives a stamp of approval among dermatologists who recommend slathering on at least SPF 30. Not only did it address dryness but it also went on baby-smooth and helped create a pleasing blurring effect. When I’m out in the sunshine or otherwise, I don’t find it streaking off, either. It also layers beautifully underneath makeup.

Size: 1.6 ounces | SPF count: 50 | Key ingredients: Centella Asiastica | Scent: Unspecified, though no harsh scent detected

Best Zinc Oxide Sunscreen: Kosas DreamBeam Comfy Smooth Sunscreen SPF 40 PA++++

If you’re searching for a zinc oxide sunscreen, you’re likely on the mineral sunscreen train, as it’s one of the two ingredients, aside from titanium dioxide, that this type of sunscreen exhibits. It may seem a bit pricey for only 1.4 ounces but the Kosas DreamBeam Comfy Smooth Sunscreen SPF 40 PA++++ deserves a round of applause for how it was formulated.

Similar to the Well People Daygleamer Mineral Suncreen Serum SPF 34 in terms of its applicator and lightweight absorption, its nozzle with a bubble applicator at the top lends itself to a mess-free and targeted application. It has a subtle tint and blends into an incredibly radiant finish. It’s suitable for a variety of skin types, including my sensitive skin. Bonus points for it fitting the qualifications of Credo Beauty’s clean beauty standard, as it’s sold at the retailer.

Its supreme moisturizing factor is outstanding, thanks to its ingredient list that would make any board-certified dermatologist swoon over: mineral SPF, peptides, ceramides, hyaluronic acid and allantoin, the latter known for its antioxidant properties and calming effects. It’s available in its Original formulation (the one I tested) and a Sunlit shade for even more of a sun-kissed glow. It truly creates a dreamy finish and is a rockstar product through in through. I’d recommend it to anyone who wants a mineral face sunscreen that can be worn solo or one that’ll layer nicely under makeup.

Size: 1.3 ounces | SPF count: 40 | Key ingredients: Zinc Oxide, Ceramides, Peptides | Scent: Unspecified, though no harsh scent detected

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Hydra Vizor Invisible Face Moisturizer SPF 30

Must be love on the brain, so long as the Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Hydra Vizor Invisible Face Moisturizer SPF 30 exists. It comes out bubblegum pink and blends into a dreamy, glowy finish. Plus, it’s sustainable, so bonus points for Queen RiRi’s commitment to eco-friendliness.

Its packaging is quite heavy and I’ll candidly say that it’s not the best one to fit securely into my makeup bag but it’s a dynamite product nonetheless. It contains niacinamide, which helps reduce inflammation, which has a snowball effect on calming the redness and swelling associated with acne. It also helps mitigate oil production.

Whenever I use Rihanna’s face sunscreen, the natural texture of my skin feels more refined. I love how it gives me a healthy, photogenic glow. For that reason alone, it’s worth the price tag, but its ability to keep oil production on the DL also makes it worth every penny. It’s a bit tacky too (though not too sticky), which creates a long-lasting makeup base if you’re a fan of whipping out foundations and bronzers, too.

Size: 1.7 ounces | SPF count: 30 | Key ingredients: Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Kalahari Melon | Scent: Unspecified, though no harsh scent detected

Best Splurge: ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion Broad Spectrum SPF 50+

The ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ is a quality sunscreen that’s formulated with DNA Repairsomes. So, this product works not only as a sunscreen but also aids in repairing damaged skin at the cellular level. The emulsion’s lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly as well, which I appreciate, and it’s lightweight enough to wear daily and under makeup.

I’d say this face sunscreen is best for sensitive or acne-prone skin specifically, as it never clogs pores or leaves a heavy residue. However, what sets this sunscreen apart — and what makes it a worth-it splurge — is its unique combination of advanced sun protection and skin repair.

DNA Repairsomes, derived from enzymes, help to repair UV-induced DNA damage, which reduces the risk of developing skin conditions like sunburn, pigmentation and even skin cancer. Its high SPF 50+ ensures that users are well-protected from harmful rays, in addition to how it’s chock-full of antioxidants to protect against environmental stressors.

While the ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion may come with a higher price tag compared to drugstore sunscreens, the benefits it offers make it worth the investment. Its advanced ingredients provide superior protection and repair, which is critical for those looking to protect their skin from long-term damage. It’s one I reach for regularly and think, “Ah, *this* is luxury.”

Size: 3.4 ounces | SPF count: 50 | Key ingredients: Zinc Oxide, Vitamin E | Scent: Unspecified, though no harsh scent detected

How I tested

After squirting, swatching and slathering on the best face sunscreens for four years, I quickly learned that the product class of facial SPFs is oversaturated — and, of course, that not all are created equal. Here’s the rigorous set of testing criteria I kept in mind while reviewing each face sunscreen:

• SPF level: If a product, be it a moisturizer with SPF that is formulaically like a face sunscreen, or a traditional lotion, didn’t contain at least SPF 30, it wasn’t considered. There’s no point in using that product alone if it doesn’t meet the boilerplate standards set forth by dermatologists.
• Broad-spectrum: Similarly, each face sunscreen has to be broad-spectrum, meaning that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays help prevent aging, while UVB rays help prevent physical sunburns.
• Ingredients: Aside from SPF, the quality of the ingredients makes an impact. For instance, dermatologists love a face sunscreen with antioxidants mixed in to help protect against environmental stressors, while an ingredient like hyaluronic acid is your best bet for dry skin.
• Chemical versus mineral sunscreens: Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin, while mineral sunscreen reflect off the skin. They both offer protection, just in different ways. However, mineral sunscreens are more likely to have a white cast, so I tested these with even more of a closer eye.
• Scent: Plenty of sunscreens are fragrance-free as to appeal to many people, though some have a pleasing, subtle scent that makes you want to use the product ten times over. As someone with sensitive skin, I paid careful attention to any signs of irritation.
• Cosmetic elegance with makeup: You surely can wear a face sunscreen sans makeup, but many people (including myself) apply SPF before face makeup to protect before enhancing the skin. Many face sunscreens are now marketed as primers but, regardless, I assessed each formulation with and without foundation to see how it fared on the skin.

Before testing each face sunscreen, I did a patch test on the palm of my hands. I assessed the color it was out of the packaging, how it blended into my skin and if it left a greasy finish or white cast. Each face sunscreen was worn at least five times for a full day, with additional patch tests taken as needed.

An FAQ on Facial Sunscreens

Ahead, our team of distinguished skincare experts provides all of the information you need to understand sun protection, sunscreen formulations and more. Whether it’s a mineral sunscreen or the best sunscreen moisturizer for your face, here’s the lowdown.

Why is it important to use SPF daily?

“It’s important to use SPF daily because the damage that can be caused by UV is cumulative,” Michelle Henry, MD, board-certified dermatologist, ACGME fellowship-trained Mohs micrographic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgeon and the owner and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan, told The Post. “Cumulative exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation and skin cancer, it can also breakdown collagen and elastin leading to photo damage and laxity.”

And, it all starts with the ozone layer. “The ozone layer plays a profound role when it comes to protecting our skin,” Nyrop explained. “Its ability to absorb and filter out UV radiation helps prevent skin damage, including sunburn, premature aging and skin cancer. As someone who is allergic to some of the UV rays, I am particularly invested in and passionate about the ozone layer and its ability to protect us from those rays.”

Not to mention, the ozone layer has become depleted in recent years. “The depletion of the ozone was primarily caused by the release of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other ozone-depleting substances used in our aerosols and refrigerants,” Nyrop said. “Safer alternatives have been developed and are now widely used to protect both the ozone and our health. These earth- and climate-friendly alternatives play a vital role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.”

What’s the difference between UVA and UVB rays?

“UVB (or as we call it ‘UVBurning’) is a shorter wavelength and it contributes quite significantly to skin cancer. UVA (or ‘UVAging’) contributes to fine lines and wrinkles and the destruction of collagen and elastin; however, it does also contribute to skin cancer,” Dr. Henry shared.

On a chemical level, per Henry, “UV exposure can cause genetic abnormalities in our DNA and that is how the cell can turn into cancer.”

UVA rays also have longer wavelengths which means they penetrate deeper into the skin, contributing to aging and skin damage. On the flip side, UVB rays have shorter wavelengths and primarily cause sunburn and skin cancer, closer to the surface of the skin. Global warming can influence the intensity and distribution of UV radiation, affecting human health and ecosystem dynamics, per Nyrop.

“Continued thinning [of the ozone layer] could lead to increased UV radiation exposure and related skin damage but the earlier recovery of the ozone layer shows that we can work together as a global community to come up with and implement the type of solutions that will help slow global warming,” Nyrop explained. “The commitment to stop using chlorofluorocarbons is a great example of progress.”

In short, UVA and UVB rays are both impactful to your skin, which is why it’s super important to wear sunscreen to exposed areas daily.

Is UV damage immediate?

“Depending on the intensity of the sunlight, yes, UV damage can be immediate,” Henry noted. “If you have a family history of melanoma, not only you are more likely to have a genetic tendency, but you may also have the phenotypic attributes that make you more at risk.”

For instance, a fair person tends to have fair family members or a fair person with blue eyes tends to have fair family members with blue eyes. You inherit both a genetic tendency but also a phenotype that puts you more at risk.

How can I tell if an SPF is actually “working”?

You want to make sure to have a broad-spectrum SPF. This means that it covers the range of both UVB and UVA rays.

“What SPF does is it reduces your time to burning, meaning that it increases your time in the sun before turning red or burning by the multiple that is on the SPF,” Henry said. “Therefore, if you notice that you’re not getting red as quickly as you normally would when not wearing SPF, you know the SPF that you have on is working.”

Additionally, sunscreen is just one part of a sun protection strategy that includes seeking shade and covering up with UPF clothing, wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses.

How much sunscreen to apply, according to a dermatologist

“You should apply about a golf-ball-sized amount of SPF to the body and about a nickel-sized amount to the face, reapplying every two hours when you are outside,” Henry advised. Technically, this is about one teaspoon (approximately 4 to 5 mL) of sunscreen to ensure you’re covering all exposed areas evenly. This includes your forehead, cheeks, nose, chin and neck.

From researching SPF further, the dermatologist-recommended SPF 30 is based on the number the FDA uses for testing. However, equates to about 1/2 tsp for your face and neck, which many people likely aren’t doing. For this reason, Henry has particular recommendations for sunscreen application.

“I recommend an SPF 30 for daily use and SPF 50 if you are going to be outside for more than an hour,” she said. You can also opt for the best sunscreen moisturizers for your face.

Additionally, people tend to neglect the ears, lips, tops of feet and hands and their scalp, so be sure to apply to pay special attention to these areas.

What’s the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens?

“Chemical sunscreens are sun-absorbing and mineral sunscreens are sun-reflecting,” Henry said. “I usually suggest to my patients to use a mineral sunscreen over a chemical one, as the chemicals can absorb into the bloodstream.”

When looking for a new sunscreen, avoid spray sunscreens for your face. These are only supposed to be use on the body.

Oh, and if you’re searching for an organic sunscreen for your face, it’s worth perusing our guide on the best Korean sunscreens.

Does my skin tone determine how much sunscreen I should apply?

The FDA maintains the same recommendations for all complexions and skin tones. The takeaway? Wear sunscreen!

“Of course, individuals may choose formulations that are more aesthetically acceptable for their skin, but in terms of the actual SPF, it is the same for everyone,” Henry explained.

Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post

This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include testing the best vitamin C serums on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos of 2025. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.