11 Best Face Sunscreens of 2025, Vetted by Beauty Editors
Discover the editor-approved best and most innovative face sunscreens for every skin type, tone, and lifestyle, tested and chosen for 2025.
If there’s one skincare step beauty editors vow never to skip, it’s sunscreen. The right face sunscreen not only protects against premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer, but can also seamlessly fit into your morning routine. From mineral to chemical formulas, sheer tints to matte powders, this guide highlights the top 11 face sunscreens for 2025, meticulously tested and loved by Cosmo’s beauty experts.
Why Sunscreen Is Essential for Your Face
Daily SPF is non-negotiable, regardless of skin type or tone. Exposure to UVA and UVB rays accelerates aging, causes dark spots, worsens acne, and increases cancer risk. The best facial sunscreens protect, hydrate, and provide a flawless base for makeup—sometimes even enhancing your complexion with blurring, mattifying, or tinted benefits.
Main Types of Facial Sunscreen
- Mineral (Physical) Sunscreen: Uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to physically block rays. Gentler, ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin, but can leave a white cast.
- Chemical Sunscreen: Absorbs UV rays and transforms them into heat. Lightweight, clear, and more water-resistant, though sometimes irritating for sensitive skin.
Editor-Tested: 11 Best Face Sunscreens of 2025
Below, find Cosmo editors’ favorites with detailed pros, cons, and real-life testimonials. Whether your goal is oil control, makeup-friendly SPF, or maximum moisturization, there’s a pick for you.
1. Ultra Violette Future Screen SPF 50
- Best Face Sunscreen Overall
- Protection level: SPF 50
- Type: Mineral
- Key ingredients: Vitamin E, squalane
- Pros:
- Blurring effect for even-toned skin—no makeup required
- Lightweight, fluid texture feels silky and blends easily
- No white cast, thanks to ultra-sheer tint
- Cons: Packaging may leak if not stored upright
Editor’s note: “I used this the whole week in Fort Lauderdale. My skin stayed protected, and the sheer tint blurred my breakouts—so I looked more even without makeup.”
2. EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46
- Best for Sensitive & Acne-Prone Skin
- Protection level: SPF 46
- Type: Chemical and mineral blend
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, niacinamide
- Pros:
- Loved by dermatologists nationwide
- oil-free, non-comedogenic, light texture
- Niacinamide regulates oil, reduces redness, refines pores
- Cons: May pill with certain moisturizers—give time before layering makeup
Editor’s note: “My sensitive, acne-prone skin cannot handle most sunscreens. EltaMD layers perfectly and never causes irritation or breakouts.”
3. iS Clinical PerfecTint Powder SPF 40
- Best Powder SPF
- Protection level: SPF 40
- Type: Mineral
- Key ingredient: Glycerin
- Pros:
- Comes in five flexible shades
- Blurring, matte, shine-absorbing finish
- Mess-free touch-up over makeup
- Cons: Not optimal for very dry skin types
Editor’s note: “It blends beautifully for a no-makeup look and controls midday shine. Holy-grail status.”
4. Odacité SPF 50 Flex-Perfecting Mineral Drops Tinted Sunscreen
- Best Tinted Mineral Sunscreen
- Makes mineral SPF wearable, even for deep skin tones
- Ultra-blendable formula, evens tone, and hydrates
5. Solara Suncare Guardian Angel Super Peptide Sunscreen Milk SPF 50
What others are reading
- Best for Anti-Aging Benefits
- Mild, nourishing formula with peptides to boost skin health
- Non-irritating for sensitive skin
6. Lightsaver Activated Non-Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 33
- Best for Everyday Wear
- Impossible-to-see finish—no white residue even on deeper tones
7. Cay Skin Mo’Bay Mineral Sunscreen Drops SPF 30
- Best Mineral Drops
- Contains skin-brightening ingredients and is super lightweight
8. Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
- Best Invisible Chemical SPF
- Clear, non-chalky, and perfect for layering under makeup
- Water and sweat-resistant
9. Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
- Best for Melanin-Rich Skin
- Moisturizing formula leaves no white cast
- Great for daily use
10. Ultra Violette Supreme Screen SPF 50
- Best for Dewy Finish
- Makes skin glow without feeling oily
11. e.l.f. Cosmetics Suntouchable Invisible Sunscreen SPF 35
- Best Budget Pick
- Affordable, lightweight, totally clear
Comparison Table: Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Mineral |
|
|
| Chemical |
|
|
Key Ingredients to Look For
- Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide: Work in mineral formulas to block UV rays
- Niacinamide: Calms skin, regulates oil, reduces redness
- Vitamin E & Squalane: Hydrate and protect against environmental stressors
- Peptides: Assist in skin barrier repair, anti-aging
- Hyaluronic Acid: Maintains skin moisture and plumpness
Best Sunscreens for Specific Skin Types & Concerns
- Acne-prone/Sensitive Skin: Non-comedogenic, mineral sunscreens with niacinamide (EltaMD UV Clear)
- Dry/Dehydrated Skin: Look for hydrating ingredients like squalane, glycerin, hyaluronic acid
- Deep/Dark Skin Tones: Sheer-tint or invisible formulas (Ultra Violette Future Screen, Black Girl Sunscreen)
- Normal/Combination Skin: Powder or matte finish formulas to control shine (iS Clinical PerfecTint Powder)
Tips for Choosing and Applying Face Sunscreen
- Choose an SPF of 30 or higher for reliable protection
- Apply 1/4 teaspoon to entire face—don’t forget hairline, ears, and neck
- Layer sunscreen after moisturizer, before makeup
- Reapply every two hours, especially outdoors or after sweating
- For oily skin: Look for oil-free, mattifying formulas
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much sunscreen should I apply to my face?
Experts recommend using at least a quarter teaspoon (about two finger lengths), and smoothing evenly across clean skin for full coverage.
Can I use face sunscreen every day, even if I’m indoors?
Yes. UVA rays, which cause aging, penetrate windows and clouds, so daily sunscreen is crucial—even when you’re inside.
Is mineral or chemical sunscreen better for acne-prone skin?
Mineral sunscreens may be less likely to provoke breakouts or irritation. Look for formulas labeled non-comedogenic and avoid heavy oils or fragrances.
Do tinted sunscreens actually protect as well as clear ones?
Tinted sunscreens provide additional protection against visible light, especially important for those with hyperpigmentation. Make sure your tinted SPF is labeled with broad-spectrum protection.
Why does sunscreen sometimes pill under makeup?
This can occur if formulas aren’t compatible. Let sunscreen fully dry before layering makeup; consider switching to lighter, gel formulas or powders that mesh well with foundation.
Expert Sunscreen Application Hacks
- Apply sunscreen to your face, neck, and ears daily—even cloudy days.
- Layer SPF under makeup or use tinted formulas as foundation alternatives.
- Opt for powder SPF touch-ups over makeup for midday protection.
- Choose hydrating, soothing formulas if you experience irritation; patch test new products.
Final Thoughts: The Best Sunscreens for Your Face in 2025
No matter your skin type, tone, or lifestyle, a standout face sunscreen is key to long-term skin health. From the crowd-favorite Ultra Violette Future Screen to dermatologist-recommended EltaMD UV Clear, these editor-vetted picks deliver unbeatable protection, skin-loving ingredients, and makeup-friendly finishes. Review the ingredients, match your skin’s needs, and don’t be afraid to experiment—your most radiant complexion starts with daily SPF.
References
- https://ubeauty.com/blogs/awards/cosmopolitan-2
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/g60105448/best-sunscreen-for-face/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a64426462/chemical-vs-mineral-sunscreen/
- https://cayskin.com/blogs/news/cosmopolitan-2
- https://www.cosmopolitanme.com/gallery/sunscreens-for-your-face-and-body
Similar Articles
Read full bio of medha deb
