Best Sunscreens For Your Face, According To Dermatologists.

Wearing sunscreen on your face is an absolute must. In fact, you should be wearing it at all times. That means during every season of the year (yes, winter too!) and even if you're just sitting inside all day. Wondering why? Well, according to experts, skipping on sunscreen is pretty dang dangerous for your skin.

When it comes to appearance, the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause issues like discoloration, fine lines, and wrinkles. But more importantly, being over-exposed to UV light puts you at a huge risk for developing skin cancer says New York-based dermatologist Marnie Nussbaum, MD. "UV rays even go through windows," she explains. "Which is why it's critical to wear sunscreen daily on your face, even if you're just staying home."

And while slathering on SPF seems pretty doable (how hard can it be to incorporate one more skincare product into your beauty routine?), the problem is that many formulas can be thick, goopy, and leave behind obnoxious white streaks (especially if you've got a darker skin tone). That said, we tapped dermatologists to get their picks of the best sunscreens for your face no matter your skin type. Because TBH, sun protection should be a no-brainer, not an eternal struggle.

Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

Aveenobedbathandbeyond.com: $8.99)

"This sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection in a light formula that contains soothing oat extract," says Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC. "Oat extract forms a protective seal over the skin to help maintain a healthy skin barrier." Noted!

Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 100

Neutrogenaulta.com : $14.99

Looking for extra, extra protection? "This sunscreen has been clinically shown to provide better sunburn protection as compared to products with a lower SPF," Dr. Zeichner explains. "It dries fully on the skin without leaving your face feeling greasy."

Mineral SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen

Sun Bumulta.com : $17.99

"This sunscreen uses mineral-only protection in a hydrating base enriched with moisturizing botanicals," says Dr. Zeichner. A bonus? It can be used on all skin types, even those with sensitive skin. "It also fully rubs in without leaving behind a white cast on the skin." Win!

Zincscreen 100% Mineral Lotion SPF 40

Supergoop!dermstore.com : $42.00

"This is an excellent choice as it is 100 percent mineral based, lightweight and pink-toned which comes out translucent on most skin tones," explains Dr. Nussbaum.  It's also got ingredients like coconut and blueberry extract, which she says nourish the skin while also forming a protective barrier at the same time.

Pure & Free Baby Mineral Sunscreen

Neutrogenabedbathandbeyond.com : $10.99

Dr. Nussbaum says that this formula is great for kids and babies older than 6 months old as well as adults. "It's mineral based and very gentle on the skin with effective protection," she notes. If you've got super sensitive skin, this one's for you!

Sea Clearly Gel Sunscreen SPF 50

Sonreisonreiskin.com : $45.00

ICYMI, sunscreens that leave a greasy, white substance on the skin are a total bummer. That's why this translucent gel is perf for all skin tones. "With so many different sunscreens on the market, there is a formula and texture to suit every preference and need," Dr. Zeichner says. It's also got ingredients like Vitamin C, E, and Ferulic Acid to lock in the skin's natural moisture. 

Eryfotona Actinica Zinc

Isdinisdin.com : $55.00

"This is 100% zinc-based, but super light so there is no residue unlike other zinc formulas," says Dr. Morgan Rabach, board certified dermatologist and co-founder of LM Medical in NYC. "It also has antioxidants, peptides so it protects from future damage while also repairing your skin at the same time.

NeoStrata Skin Active Matrix Support SPF 30, 1.75 Ounce

NeoStrataskinstore.com : $74.00

“I like that in addition to being a sunscreen, this product has added ingredients that moisturize, firm the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles," says Rosemarie Ingleton, MD, dermatologist at Ingleton Dermatology.

UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46

EltaMDskinstore.com : $36.00

“I like this formula because it is lightweight, and even though it has a high percentage of zinc oxide it does not leave a white mask on the skin when applied," explains Dr. Ingleton.

Physical Matte UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50

SkinCeuticalsskinceuticals.com : $34.00

“Physical sunscreens are best for people with acneic skin,” says Dr. Engelman. “Look for oil-free, gel textures that won’t clog pores, and the ingredients titanium dioxide and zinc oxide." She says this one helps absorb oil without making skin look chalky.