What to Look for in the Best Facial Sunscreen for Women

Choosing the right facial sunscreen is essential for effective sun protection and maintaining healthy, radiant skin.

1. Broad-Spectrum Protection

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Look for sunscreens labeled 'broad-spectrum' to ensure defense against both UVA and UVB rays. This helps prevent premature aging and reduces the risk of skin cancer.

2. SPF Level

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Select a sunscreen with at least SPF30 for everyday use, or higher if you spend extended time outdoors. Higher SPFs provide greater protection against sunburn and long-term damage.

3. Skin Type Compatibility

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Consider your skin type when choosing a formula—opt for oil-free or mattifying options if you have oily or acne-prone skin, or hydrating and gentle formulas if your skin is dry or sensitive.

4. Cosmetic Elegance

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A lightweight, non-greasy texture that layers well under makeup encourages daily use. Tinted options can also help even out skin tone while providing protection.

  1. 1
    Better Screen UV Serum SPF 50+

    Kiehl's Since 1851

    2,612 REVIEWS
    A lightweight sunscreen serum with Collagen Peptide that helps protect against sun damage and helps visibly correct early signs of aging.
  2. 2
    Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
    155 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Weightless, tinted sunscreen formulated with 100% physical filters and zinc oxide, providing broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection for radiant skin.
  3. 3
    Guardian Angel SPF 50

    Solara Suncare

    127 REVIEWS
    Formulated for sensitive skin, this pillowy and protective serum-quality SPF 50 milk is loaded with 12 skin compatible actives to help plump and energize while protecting against the sun, blue light and pollution. 
  4. 4
    UV Daily Tinted Broad-Spectrum Facial Sunscreen SPF 40
    1,088 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Serious UV protection and superior hydration join forces in this sheer facial sunscreen.
  5. 5
    Classic Whip SPF 30

    Vacation

    372 REVIEWS
    “Dessert For Your Skin” SPF 30 Sunscreen Mousse
  6. 6
    Every. Single. Face. Watery Lotion SPF 50
    184 REVIEWS
    A next-gen daily SPF that’s universal & undetectable with a refreshing, cooling feel—it’s our most powerful protection in our simplest formula ever.
  7. 7
    UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+
    148 REVIEWS
    EltaMD UV Stick is easy-to-apply, mess-free, residue-free sun protection and formulated for the whole family and all skin types
  8. 8
    UV AOX Elements Broad Spectrum SPF 50
    92 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Meet our newest Elements – an antioxidant-rich facial SPF that helps combat and restore signs of photoaging, such as fine lines and wrinkles.
  9. 9
    Powder-Me Dry Sunscreen Refill SPF 30
    61 REVIEWS
    Nourish, protect and soothe your skin with this broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen for body, face and scalp. 
  10. 10
    Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50

    Supergoop!

    646 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    The iconic 100% invisible, weightless, scentless sunscreen that's non-irritating and doubles as a primer.

What to Look for in the Best Facial Sunscreen for Women

Choosing the right facial sunscreen is essential for effective sun protection and maintaining healthy, radiant skin.

1. Broad-Spectrum Protection

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for sunscreens labeled 'broad-spectrum' to ensure defense against both UVA and UVB rays. This helps prevent premature aging and reduces the risk of skin cancer.

2. SPF Level

Citrus catapult arrow

Select a sunscreen with at least SPF30 for everyday use, or higher if you spend extended time outdoors. Higher SPFs provide greater protection against sunburn and long-term damage.

3. Skin Type Compatibility

Citrus catapult arrow

Consider your skin type when choosing a formula—opt for oil-free or mattifying options if you have oily or acne-prone skin, or hydrating and gentle formulas if your skin is dry or sensitive.

4. Cosmetic Elegance

Citrus catapult arrow

A lightweight, non-greasy texture that layers well under makeup encourages daily use. Tinted options can also help even out skin tone while providing protection.