Finding the best sunscreens can feel overwhelming. There are endless options on the shelf, and not all of them work the same way. However, sunscreen remains one of the most important steps for your skin’s health. The right formula shields you from sunburn, slows down signs of aging, and reduces the risk of skin cancer.
In addition, whether you are at the beach, exploring a new destination, or just running errands, the best sunscreens keep your skin safe. They offer reliable protection against harmful UV rays and help your skin stay healthy and smooth. Finally, in this guide, you’ll find top-rated sunscreens for daily use and travel, plus tips on how to choose the perfect product for your skin type.
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What Is the Best Type of Sunscreen?
The best sunscreens depends on your activity, your skin’s sensitivity, as well as how you want it to look on your skin. There isn’t one universal answer — instead, the best sunscreens are those that fit your lifestyle and comfort.
According to licensed aesthetician and laser specialist Erin Blackwell:
Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide; to block UV rays. They work right away and often give better results for sensitive skin, melasma, or rosacea.
Mineral sunscreens are also more photostable; meaning they resist breaking down in sunlight. This makes them a strong choice for high-exposure scenarios; such as beach days or long hikes. The downside is that mineral sunscreens can be harder to blend, and may leave a visible white cast on the skin.
By contrast, chemical sunscreens tend to be lighter, easier to rub in, as well as more water- and sweat-resistant. That makes them a better choice for sports, swimming, or heavy sweating; especially if the label says “sport” or “water-resistant.” However, chemical sunscreens can sting or irritate sensitive skin. Some people feel discomfort when chemical sunscreen touches sunburned skin.
Best Sunscreens Ingredients
When choosing the best sunscreens, ingredients matter. The active filters in your sunscreen determine how it protects your skin, how well it blends, as well as whether it may irritate sensitive skin. In general, there are two main types: mineral (physical) and chemical.
Physical Sunscreen Ingredients
- Zinc Oxide (ZnO): Zinc oxide sits on the skin and reflects UV rays. Manufacturers often add it to creams and pastes to calm irritations such as burns or rashes. The FDA recognizes zinc oxide as safe and effective.
- Titanium Dioxide: Titanium dioxide blocks UVA and UVB rays to provide broad-spectrum protection. The FDA also recognizes titanium dioxide as safe and effective.
Common Chemical Sunscreen Ingredients
- Avobenzone: Offers broad-spectrum protection but is not photostable, which means it breaks down in sunlight. Therefore, sunscreens with avobenzone must be reapplied often. The FDA limits it to 3% concentration.
- Oxybenzone: Protects against UVA and UVB but may cause irritation. It is banned in Hawaii due to possible harm to coral reefs.
- Octinoxate: A UVB filter that also breaks down quickly in sunlight. It can cause irritation and is also banned in Hawaii.
- Octisalate: Absorbs UVB rays and is often added to improve water resistance.
- Homosalate: Provides UVB protection but is not photostable. Some studies suggest it may act as an endocrine disruptor.
SPF Rating and How Much to Use
Dermatologists agree that you should choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. If you plan to swim or sweat, look for a water-resistant formula. These details are critical if you want complete skin protection.
No sunscreen blocks 100% of UV rays. That’s why SPF rating, proper application, and frequent reapplication matter so much. Apply generously, and don’t forget to reapply every two hours or after swimming.
👉 For more advice on proper application and SPF ratings, check out my full guide on Why Sunscreen Is Important.
Best Sunscreens of the Season
Below are some of the best sunscreens of the season, covering both mineral and chemical options. Each pick was chosen based on factors such as skin type, face or body use, ingredient safety, child-friendliness, price point, and dermatologist approval.
Pro Tip: Apply sunscreen every two hours while outdoors, or after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating. Always do a patch test first. Then wait 30 minutes before applying liberally to your face and body.
Best Sunscreens of the Season — Quick Picks
- Top Reef-Safe Mineral Pick: Thrive Reef Safe Sunscreen SPF 50
- Sport Favorite: Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray
- Great for Sensitive Skin (Mineral): Aveeno Baby Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
- Kid-Friendly Mineral Option: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Chemical Formula for Older Kids: Panama Jack Baby Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
- Dermatologist-Recommended Face Sunscreen: La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF 40+ (Tinted & Untinted)
- Combination Formula for the Face: EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46
- Gel Formula for All Skin Tones: Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Matte™ SPF 45
- For Acne-Prone Skin: Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
- Best Under Makeup: Supergoop! Mineral Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
Best Reef-Safe Mineral Sunscreen: Thrive Reef Safe Sunscreen SPF 50
Thrive Reef Safe Sunscreen uses non-nano zinc oxide for broad-spectrum, as well as reef-safe protection that lasts up to 80 minutes. It’s plant-based, plastic-negative, and promises less white cast than most mineral sunscreens. Some users love its healthy formula. However, others mention dryness or mild irritation.
Best Sport Sunscreen: Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray
Banana Boat Sport Ultra is a gentle mineral sunscreen; designed for babies. It also works just as well for adults with sensitive skin. It is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, as well as water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. In addition, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends it. The thick formula offers strong UVA as well as UVB protection. However, it can leave a noticeable white cast.
Great for Sensitive Skin (Mineral): Aveeno Baby Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
Aveeno Baby Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen is a gentle mineral sunscreen was designed for babies, but also works well for adults with sensitive skin. It is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and provides broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection. In addition, it is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. The creamy texture can feel thick, though many users appreciate its soothing, oat-based formula.
Best Mineral Sunscreen for Kids: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+
Blue Lizard Sunscreen SPF 50+, is a gentle mineral sunscreen made for kids, in addtition to families. It skips Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, parabens, and fragrance. So it is less likely to irritate skin. The lotion is water-resistant for 80 minutes, and also reef-safe. But it can leave a white or blue cast that some dislike.
Best Chemical Sunscreen for Older Kids: Panama Jack Baby Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
Panama Jack’s baby sunscreen uses a chemical formula that goes on lightweight and rubs in easily. It offers broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection as well as water resistance for up to 80 minutes. Parents like that it’s gentle enough for kids over 6 months yet durable for beach and pool days. However, it may feel a little greasy to some, and it isn’t reef-safe in destinations with strict sunscreen bans.
Best Sensitive Skin Face Sunscreen: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen SPF 40+
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen is a top choice for sensitive skin. It is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and protects against UVA and UVB rays. The tinted formula reduces white cast. But, it may pill under makeup. In addition, the small size feels pricey.
Best Combination Face Sunscreen: EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is a bestseller for sensitive skin, in addition to acne-prone faces. It combines mineral and chemical filters; includes niacinamide; and protects against UVA and UVB rays. Its also lightweight and non-irritating. But, it isn’t water-resistant. Nor is it not reef-safe.
Best Gel Sunscreen for All Skin Tones: Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Matte™ SPF 45
Black Girl Sunscreen Make it Matte blends easily and leaves no white cast. It is vegan, cruelty-free, and free of Oxybenzone and Octinoxate. Many love its smooth texture and primer-like finish. But, some users say it feels greasy or causes irritation on sensitive skin.
Best Sunscreen for Acne: Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen is oil-free, fragrance-free, and made for acne-prone skin. It gives broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection and is water-resistant for 80 minutes. Reviewers love its lightweight feel and matte finish. But, some noted stinging when sweating and said it can run in the sun.
Best Sunscreen Under Makeup: Supergoop! Mineral Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
Supergoop! Mineral Sunscreen is oil-free; fragrance-free, and designed for all skin types. It provides SPF 40 protection as well as being water-resistant for 40 minutes. Many users love how smoothly it wears under makeup. But it is expensive and can leave a white cast, especially on darker skin.
Reef-Friendly Options
Some destinations now require reef-safe sunscreen. This includes Hawaii, Key West, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Aruba, Bonaire, and Palau. If you’re visiting these areas; always double-check labels, because not every “reef-safe” claim is accurate.
Ingredients to avoid:
- Oxybenzone
- Octinoxate
- Octocrylene
- Homosalate
- 4-methylbenzylidene camphor
- PABA
- Parabens
- Triclosan
- Nano-sized zinc or titanium
- Microplastics (like exfoliating beads)
When in doubt; choose mineral sunscreens labeled non-nano zinc or titanium dioxide. These are safer for reefs; and still provide excellent protection.
Beach Day Must-Haves
A great chair is only part of a perfect beach day. In addition, these smart essentials keep you comfortable, protected, as well as organized; so you can relax and enjoy the waves.
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen (SPF 30+) – For sun protection, broad-spectrum, water-resistant; protects skin, and also without harming coral. Shop reef-safe sunscreen
- Wide-Brim Hat + Sunglasses – Extra shade, as well as + UV protection for eyes and face. See beach hats & polarized sunnies
- Quick-Dry, Sand-Free Towel – Packs small, and in addition, dries fast, and shakes clean. Find sand-free towels
- Insulated Water Bottle / Soft Cooler – Stay hydrated and also keep snacks cold. Browse coolers & bottles
- Waterproof Phone Pouch / Dry Bag – Protects your phone and valuables from splashes and, as well as sand.
- UPF Rash Guard or Cover-Up – Lightweight sun protection, so you’ll actually wear. Explore UPF apparel
- Portable Shade (Umbrella or Sunshade) – Extra coverage for midday rays. Compare beach shade
- Collapsible Beach Wagon – Haul chairs, towels, and a cooler with ease. Check beach wagons
- Mini First-Aid Kit + SPF Lip Balm – Small add-ons that prevent big headaches. See compact first aid kits & SPF Lip Balm
- Power Bank – Keep phones and action cams charged all day. Shop power banks
Pro tip: For a one-stop checklist and more picks, see our Best Beach Gear Guide.
Stay Sun-Safe, Anywhere You Go
Finding the best sunscreen doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In fact, the right formula is the simplest step you can take, for healthier, and younger-looking skin. So whether you’re packing for the beach, heading out for a run, or just driving to work, the key is consistency: apply generously, reapply often, and choose a product you’ll actually use every day.
In addition, don’t forget to match your sunscreen to your lifestyle — mineral for sensitive skin or reef safety, chemical for sports and sweat, or a hybrid if you want the best of both worlds. Finally, the best sunscreen is always the one that fits seamlessly into your routine.
👉 For more skin-protection tips, check out my full Why Sunscreen Is Important Guide.
FAQs: Sunscreen, Simplified
Q1: Mineral vs. chemical—what’s the difference?
Mineral (zinc/titanium) sits on skin and deflects UV; chemical filters absorb UV and convert it to heat. Mineral is often gentler for sensitive skin; chemical tends to feel lighter and more sweat-resistant.
Q2: SPF 30 vs. SPF 50—does it matter?
Yes—SPF 30 blocks ~97% UVB; SPF 50 about ~98%. The real win is using enough and reapplying as directed.
Q3: How much sunscreen should I use?
About 1 ounce (a shot glass) for the body; for the face, use the two-finger rule (two strips along index and middle finger).
Q4: How often should I reapply—and what does 40/80 min mean?
Reapply every 2 hours. “Water-resistant 40/80 min” means the labeled SPF holds during water/sweat for that time window; towel-drying removes product, so reapply immediately.
Q5: Are “reef-safe” sunscreens really reef-safe?
Look for non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and avoid filters like oxybenzone and octinoxate. Always check local regulations.
Q6: Do sunscreens expire?
Yes. Unopened: typically up to 3 years. After opening: aim to use within 12 months. Discard if texture, smell, or color changes.
Q7: Can babies wear sunscreen?
Under 6 months, prioritize shade, clothing, and hats; ask a pediatrician before use. Over 6 months, mineral formulas are typically preferred.
Q8: How do I wear sunscreen with makeup?
Apply sunscreen as the last skincare step, wait 5–10 minutes, then apply makeup. Reapply with SPF mists, powders, or a lightweight gel layer.
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Very good review. It’s been long time I haven’t change my sunscreen as it really suits my skin, but after reading your review I am gonna try Coola organic sunscreen. Hope its works for me. Keep sharing such useful reviews.
It is a wonderful brand and I use the whole line including their chapstick. Keep this in mind, that sunscreen does lose its protective properties and does not usually last over a year. Always good to pitch old sunscreen out and get some new stuff 🙂
It’s good to know about Coola sunscreen, Leahrae.
Even though I was born and raised in the Tropical weather, as an adult I only started to use sun protection in my late 20’s. This has given me a few undesired skin spots. Nothing to worry about but totally unnecessary!
Now I know how important sunscreens are and believe Coola is a great option.
The fact that they’re also environmentally conscious makes it even better.
Thanks for sharing.
You are welcome Elaine. I live in a tropical climate as well, and well I just started using sunscreen when I moved here. Thankfully I don’t have any skin damage to worry about, but I do use it religiously now, and I love Coola Sunscreen. Thanks for reading!
Hey,
Great post.
Thanks for sharing the information on sunscreen. I have very tender skin and I can be in the sun for 5 minutes and get absolutely burnt. So I need to put the highest factors on at all times when I am in the sun.
I am definitely going to try the products you have discussed above, it is coming into the hot months now so I need to get my act together.
Thanks again,
Tom
Good Tom! I love a good tan, and I am a beach bum. But I also know the risks associated with sun exposure. So I keep my skin covered. I would get the 50 spf since you burn so easy 🙂
Oh, I thank you for this review! I take medications that make my skin more sensitive to the sun so I have to make sure I wear sunscreen but some sunscreens don’t work as well as others so I am always looking for a good one. I love that these are organic and the amount of SPF is great. I would love to try the cucumber scented one because I don’t like the smell of some sunscreens, but I really like the matte one because of the shea butter. Wow, so many great choices. Thanks!
Yes, Coola is just a really great sunscreen and I like that it is organic too. And it smells wonderful (the cucumber) and not like your normal sunscreen scent. Thanks for reading about Coola Sunscreen.
I’ve never heard of Coola before. Do you know if they have one designed for babies?
Yes, they do actually. Coola is a super good sunscreen. They sell a huge variety of products. I tried to highlight the most popular ones. Thanks for visiting Coola Sunscreen.
clean site. I like the image. Where did you get it? What beach is it? Have you been to a lot of beaches? Do they make this sun screen in spray-on or mist. I don’t like the feel of lotion on my hands. I know weird but true. Where did you find this sun screen?
I actually don’t remember where I got the image. Yes, I have been to a lot of beaches…I am a true beach fanatic. This sunscreen does come in spray and in lotion. I like lotion myself but use the spray on my son. Thanks for visiting!
I always try to exercise concern when choosing what I put on my skin, and especially my children’s skin. We spend a lot of time outside in the Florida sun, so protecting our skin is of the utmost importance. As you know, it gets hot here!
I read that the Coola sunscreen is good for all skin types, but is it light, meaning do you feel it when you out it on or not? I like light feeling lotions and creams. I was wondering if this one would fit that bill.
Yes, it is light meaning not a heavy sunscreen. I personally love it!
Great review of what looks like a great product! I live in the UK so wouldn’t use it day to day (!) but next time I go on holiday abroad I will definitely look for this. Thanks for the info!
You are welcome Chris. I love this product actually and my family all uses it!
I live in the desert and I have got to try this!!! It sounds amazing! Moisturizer is a MUST HAVE here. My skin peals if I don’t use a moisturizer daily. EW! Thanks for the great review. I am going to have to give it a try and if I love it, I will share this link with my friends. Thanks!!! Bookmarking now!
You are welcome Rachel. Yes, I lived in the desert for 10 years, and this suncream is the best. Not only does it keep away the harmful rays, it moisturizes really well.
Very good review! It’s hard and yet pretty darn important to find a good sunscreen. I’ll be packing Coola next time I travel to Mexico!
Ok, great! Make sure you check out my Mexico section. Glad you enjoyed your visit to my website!
Very nice. Living here in the desert in Palm Springs, Ca it is sunny pretty much 358 days a year. So this would be a great product to have. Thanks for the great review. Will have to get some.
It is a really great sunscreen, and yes same here for the most part in Dallas.. hot hot hot and sunscreen is a must!
Very good review I have been planning on going to the beach for sometime now. I can now mark getting sunscreen of my to do list. This is a product worth trying and I will do just that. I hope it works as good as it says it does. Thank you for the information. I’ll be following up to let you know how it worked out.
Yes, I truly believe it does work as advertised, from personal experience 🙂
Great Product review. I have sensitive skin and very rare I would find a product that is good for my skin and great for sun protection. I love the fact that is has all natural and organic ingredients.
Is this product suitable for the whole family? I will definitely buy this product!
Yes, it is suitable for the whole family. They carry a huge selection. I am trying to be more conscious of what I put on and in my body. This sunscreen is awesome!