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

    2,616 REVIEWS
    A lightweight sunscreen serum with Collagen Peptide that helps protect against sun damage and helps visibly correct early signs of aging.
  2. 2
    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. 
  3. 3
    Glowscreen SPF 40

    Supergoop!

    4,501 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Prime and protect your skin with this multitasking SPF 40 that leaves your skin glowing. 
  4. 4
    Classic Whip SPF 30

    Vacation

    372 REVIEWS
    “Dessert For Your Skin” SPF 30 Sunscreen Mousse
  5. 5
    Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Cream
    243 REVIEWS
    Innovative reparative sunscreen featuring SolarSmart technology that stabilizes high-level protection against the effects of UVA/UVB rays.
  6. 6
    Every. Single. Face. Watery Lotion SPF 50
    187 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
    Classic Lotion SPF 50

    Vacation

    132 REVIEWS
    Specifically designed to optimize recreation and protect skin for “Long days by the pool.”
  9. 9
    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.
  10. 10
    Powder-Me Dry Sunscreen Refill SPF 30
    62 REVIEWS
    Nourish, protect and soothe your skin with this broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen for body, face and scalp. 

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.