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Ask me about my beauty non-negotiables, and sunscreen easily tops the list. After speaking with hundreds of experts, I’ve gleaned that there’s a near-universal agreement that it’s the single most important step for maintaining healthy, glowing skin. But in 2026, the sunscreen market looks very different, with an influx of new brands, formulas, and formats that limit most of the cons which limit consumers from actually wearing it daily.
Vogue’s Favorite Facial Sunscreens
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According to board-certified dermatologist Lindsey Zubritsky, MD, FAAD increased education has played a major role in the category’s growth. “In the past few years, there has been so much incredible education about the importance of wearing sunscreen every day,” she says. “With more people looking to incorporate SPF into their daily routines, the market has drastically expanded.” Today, that means everything from invisible formulas and tinted sunscreens to SPF lip balms and on-the-go sticks.
Global influence has also reshaped expectations. For decades, countries like Korea, Japan, and Australia have embraced daily SPF use; for which, they’ve practiced impressive testing standards and more advanced UV filters that ensure all sunscreens provide adequate protection. The U.S., by comparison, hasn’t approved a new UV filter since 1999. All that said, now that global formulas are influencing stateside spending habits, the category has gotten more competitive. Whether you’re stocking up on formulas from your next trip to Asia (“Can you please pick this up for me when you’re in Seoul? I’ll pay you.”) or using an American sunscreen that takes new UV filters into account, there are more great SPF options than ever before.
What has improved significantly is the quality of the formulas themselves. Historically, sunscreens focused primarily on UVB protection, but the introduction of broad-spectrum formulas added UVA protection, changing the category entirely. Board-certified dermatologist Dara Spearman, MD, FAAD adds that newer formulas are not only more wearable but also more effective. “They’re more lightweight and suitable for everyday use across skin types,” she explains. Tinted formulas, in particular, have expanded in shade range and no longer leave behind a chalky cast. Many also contain iron oxides, which help protect against visible light, making them especially beneficial for those with melasma or hyperpigmentation.
Still, awareness hasn’t fully translated into behavior. Per board-certified dermatologist Sandra Oska, MD daily use remains inconsistent. “There has been a genuine shift in how consumers think about sunscreen, but the majority of people still aren’t wearing it every day,” she says. Men, in particular, tend to underuse SPF, while women and Gen Z are generally more consistent. Even among regular users, common mistakes, like under-applying, can limit protection.
Ultimately, usability is what drives consistency. As Oska notes, “What are consumers actually going to use first thing in the morning, and what’s going to make it into their bag for reapplication?” Formulas that layer well with skincare tend to win out for daily use, while sticks, powders, and SPF lip balms have become essentials for touch-ups throughout the day.
Upon testing dozens of sunscreens—from the classics to each new bottle that hits our desk—along with speaking to esteemed dermatologists and estheticians, we evaluated them all to bring you this edit of the best of the best (each of which have been tested and worn IRL!). A look at all of the best facial sunscreens of 2026 so far, below.
In This Story
- What to Look for in a Face Sunscreen
- What is Broad Spectrum?
- How Much Sunscreen to Use on Your Face
- Mineral vs Chemical
- What sunscreen is recommended by dermatologists?
- Should You Wear Sunscreen Everyday? Even Indoors?
- How to Apply (and Reapply) Properly
- How long does sunscreen last?
- Which SPF is Best for Face?
- Meet the Experts
Best Korean Sunscreen: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun : Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+ PA++++
- Why We Like It: When Vogue contributor Deanna Pai reported on the best Korean sunscreens, she found these formulas to be more appealing than their American counterparts because they are enjoyable to use and feature more advanced sunscreen filters than those found in the U.S. And while there are a handful of excellent K-beauty SPFs to take your pick of, Beauty of Joseon’s continues to rise in popularity—for not only its 50+ SPF protection but also its incredible blend of probiotics, niacinamide, and rice extract that improve the look of skin over time. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Claire Chang, MD has signed off on its soothing, nourishing ingredient complex. She says that Beauty of Joseon’s sunscreen “does not leave a white cast and feels moisturizing to the skin, making it great for daily use.” Not to mention, it’s a personal favorite. Its weightless, almost soufflé-like texture sinks instantly—revealing a natural glow.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (Ethylhexyl triazone, diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, diethylhexyl butamido triazone, methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol)
- Key Ingredients: Rice extract 30%, grain-derived probiotics
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Lightweight cream
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Natural
- Size: 50 mL
| Love It | Leave It |
| Creamy and lightweight formula is excellent for all skin types | No major cons to note |
Best Tinted Mineral Sunscreen: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50
- Why We Like It: One of the industry’s most beloved drugstore mineral suncreens, La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios combats broad-spectrum UVA and UVB rays through sensitive skin-friendly titanium dixoxide. Antioxidants, silica, vitamin E, and thermal spring water are featured too; plus, iron oxides which deliver a universal tint suitable for most skin types. “The ‘ultra-light’ in La Roche-Posay’s tinted sunscreen is accurate: It has a weightless texture, while still delivering a subtle tint (which doesn’t streak or stain clothes) with SPF 50 coverage,”
- Editor’s Experience: “It’s also waterproof—on vacation last summer summer, I would use this one before swimming and it wouldn’t budge. A true fave!” —Talia Abbas, shopping director
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (the Tinted uses titanium dioxide 11%, while the other shades use titanium dioxide 17% and zinc oxide 8%)
- Key Ingredients: Cell-Ox B3 Shield Technology, iron oxides, vitamin E
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Lotion
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: Yes, four shades
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Matte
- Size: 1.7 oz / 50 mL
| Love It | Leave It |
| Lightweight yet hydrating texture is great for most skin types | Shade range can be limiting for deeper skin tones |
Best Primer-Like Finish: Tatcha The Silk Sunscreen
- Why We Like It: According to Dr. Oska, “This is an elegant, primer-esque mineral sunscreen that wears beautifully under makeup, especially for normal to dry skin types.” It offers SPF 50 protection and is formulated with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide for hydration, along with silk extract, which is rich in amino acids and helps boost radiance and improve texture. It has a creamy texture that blends seamlessly into the skin, feels lightweight enough for all-day wear, and leaves behind a subtle, healthy-looking sheen.
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (Zinc oxide 10%)
- Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, silk extract
- SPF Level: SPF 50+
- Texture: Cream
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Sheer
- Size: 50 mL / 1.7 fl. oz
| Love It | Leave It |
| Matte finish is great for quelling surface oils, or wearing under makeup | Product can be difficult to squeeze out of the tube |
Best Velvet Finish: Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Daily Sunscreen
- Why We Like It: Per Dr. Oska, “This is a velvety sunscreen providing excellent UVA coverage, which translates to stronger protection against photoaging,” she says. She adds that it’s a great choice for darker skin tones, as it leaves no white cast and has a smooth, velvety finish. A Korean formulation, it’s affordable at under $20 yet impressively effective, with a lineup of hydrating and soothing ingredients including niacinamide, rice bran oil, ceramides, heartleaf extract, and adenosine to keep skin nourished throughout wear.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (Tinosorb S, Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150, Polysilicone-15, Mexoryl SX)
- Key Ingredients: Niacinimide, heartleaf extract, adenosine, daisy flower extract
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Cream
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Velvet
- Size: 50 mL / 1.7 fl. oz
| Love It | Leave It |
| Lightweight, hydrating texture is great for all skin types | Can feel a bit sticky after application depending on what you pair it with |
Best for Sensitive Skin: Hero Cosmetics Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen
- Why We Like It: You might know Hero Cosmetics for its bestselling pimple patches, but the brand has also quietly perfected the art of an affordable sunscreen. According to Dr. Zubritsky, it’s a great option for anyone with acne-prone or sensitive skin. It’s non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores. “It’s 100% mineral, made with zinc oxide to protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays, and I recommend mineral sunscreens over chemical ones for acne-prone skin,” she explains. “The lightweight, breathable formula is non-greasy.” Dr. Spearman adds that it’s nearly invisible and layers well under makeup, though it may feel a bit less hydrating for drier skin types.
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (17.53% Zinc Oxide)
- Key Ingredients: Ectoin, raspberry seed oil, moringa oil
- SPF Level: SPF 30
- Texture: Cream
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Velvety
- Size: 50 mL / 1.7 fl. oz
| Love It | Leave It |
| Packed with potent UV filters and active ingredients to treat skin | Has a thicker texture that may take a bit to blend |
Best for Dry Skin: RéVive Skincare Soleil Superiéur Broad Spectrum SPF 50
- Why We Like It: Although it’s a bit of a splurge, this one is especially well-suited for dry or mature skin, as it’s rich enough to double as a moisturizer. According to Dr. Zubritsky, the multitasking formula combines chemical and mineral filters for sun protection, while also addressing signs of aging with peptides, which help support skin renewal and improve the look of fine lines and dullness. Dr. Spearman adds that while it’s rich and hydrating, it can feel too heavy for oilier skin types.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 2.6%)
- Key Ingredients: Peptides, glycerin, panthenol
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Cream
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Transparent
- Size: 50 mL / 1.7 fl. oz
| Love It | Leave It |
| Packed with potent UV filters and active ingredients to treat skin | Has a thicker texture that may take a bit to blend |
Best for Mature Skin: Augustinus Bader The Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
- Why We Like It: For The Rich Cream loyalists, there’s now The Mineral Sunscreen, which I love reaching for on days my skin is feeling a bit dry, or in the depths of winter. It features the brand’s patented TFC8, along with microalgae extract to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The brand’s clinicals also point to improvements in luminosity, skin tone, and hydration, which only adds to its appeal. Dr. Oska says, “If you have dry skin, mature skin, sensitive skin, or any combination of the three, this is a splurge-worthy choice. It sits right at the intersection of skincare and sun protection.”
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (Titanium Dioxide 9.102%, Zinc Oxide 13.175%)
- Key Ingredients: TFC8®, microalgae extract
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Cream
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: Yes
- Finish: Glowy
- Size: 30 mL / 1 oz.
| Love It | Leave It |
| Packed with potent UV filters and active ingredients to treat skin | Has a thicker texture that may take a bit to blend |
Best Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
- Why We Like It: Both all-business in terms of protection and impressively lightweight on the skin, this dermatologist favorite blocks UVA and UVB rays with clear zinc oxide while gently addressing skin-care needs. “I frequently recommend UV Clear to my acne-prone or oily skin patients for excellent sun protection that won’t promote breakouts," Dr. Murphy-Rose details. "And my patients love it! [This] is non-comedogenic and formulated with lactic acid and niacinamide to prevent acne and reduce inflammation.” Doses of sodium hyaluronate and niacinamide restore hydration, while lactic acid helps to unclog pores and control shine. Plus, it’s our pick for top sunscreen for sensitive skin.
- Chemical or Mineral: Both (Zinc oxide 9.0%, Octinoxate 7.5%)
- Key Ingredients: 5% Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E
- SPF Level: SPF 46
- Texture: Silky lotion
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Natural
- Size: 1.7 oz
| Love It | Leave It |
| Potent, yet gentle formula oft-recommended by dermatologists | Lotion texture can feel thick on combination to oily skin types |
Best for Combination Skin: Ultra Violette Future Screen SPF 50
- Why We Like It: Australian cosmetics label Ultra Violette has finally launched stateside—meaning Americans can finally get the Aussie sunscreen treatment with silky smooth formulas designed to ward of damaging UV rays with ease. In its lineup, Future Screen rises is an editor favorite. Boasting a lightweight, serum-like texture, this imparts a natural finish—offering hydration and calming properties via squalane and hyaluronic acid. “Made with a technologically advanced mineral UVA & UVB filter,” per board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp, this yields mineral SPF 50 protection by way of Japanese zinc oxide—gentle, and white cast-free suited for sensitive and normal-to-oily skin types.
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (Zinc oxide 20%)
- Key Ingredients: Squalane, vitamin E
- SPF Level: 50
- Texture: Serum
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: Yes, but it’s very minimal and delivers no white cast
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Natural
- Size: 50 mL / 1.7 fl. oz
| Love It | Leave It |
| Nourishing formula that’s great for all skin types | Slightly tinted that can be too warm for very pale skin tones |
Best Invisible Sunscreen: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++
- Why We Like It: Supergoop!’s Unseen goes on crystal clear, which makes it so popular amongst beauty enthusiasts and people of color. “While it is not a physical blocker, it does afford great broad spectrum chemical protection in a very popular formulation that does not leave a white cast and blends seamlessly,” Dr. Murphy-Rose says. The oil-free formula feels almost like a primer—enriched by red algae, frankincense, and a meadowfoam oil complex to soothe, protect, and moisturize.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 7%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 9%)
- Key Ingredients: Meadowfoam seed oil, chamomile-derived bisabolol, licorice root, skin-gripping polymers
- SPF Level: SPF 40
- Texture: Silky primer
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Matte
- Size: 50 mL / 1.7 fl. oz
| Love It | Leave It |
| Goes on completely clear so no need to fear a white cast | Silky, primer-like texture not best for those used to a traditional cream |
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Sofie Pavitt Face Screentime Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 30
- Why We Like It: The latest launch from celebrity aesthetician Sofie Pavitt’s acne-focused line, this hydrating sunscreen is designed to be both non-greasy and breakout-safe—a balance that’s surprisingly hard to get right. According to Dr. Spearman, the formula hydrates and nourishes with ectoin, niacinamide, and vitamin E, while offering broad-spectrum protection. She describes it as gentle, hydrating, and non-comedogenic. “It’s great for sensitive or breakout-prone skin, and SPF 30 is ideal for daily use,” she says. Personally, I love how dewy it looks on my skin, and it layers really quite nicely under makeup.
- Editor’s Experience: “It’s no secret that I’m a big believer in Sofie Pavitt’s philosophy—her product’s included, and it’s because I don’t have to fear any of them breaking out my breakout-prone skin. SPFs in particular are not an area where I venture into experimentation territory, since comedogenic ingredients mixed with summer sweat often cause unwanted acne. However, this SPF is so silky smooth, like a lightweight lotion. Plus, it’s hydrating enough that I skip my morning moisturizer when I use it. Zero pilling, zero pore clogging ingredients, zero things I don’t love about it.” —Concetta Ciarlo, beauty shopping writer
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 7%, Octisalate 5%)
- Key Ingredients: Ectoin, niacinamide, vitamin E
- SPF Level: SPF 30+
- Texture: Cream
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Dewy
- Size: 50 mL / 1.7 fl. oz
| Love It | Leave It |
| Clean, non-comedogenic formula is great for sensitive, acne-prone skin types | Dewy finish may not be ideal for those interested in natural, satin finishes |
Best Sunscreen Stick: Abib Quick Sunstick Protection Bar
- Why We Like It: What trips most people up with sunscreen isn’t necessarily applying it, it’s reapplying (every two hours, as experts suggest)—which is why we appreciate options that make it easy, like sunscreen sticks and sprays. From the former category, this one from Abib (another Korean brand we love) is affordable and comes in two finishes: glowy and semi-matte. Dr. Oska notes that she prefers it as a hands-free reapplication tool when you’re out and about, rather than as your base layer. “It glides on nicely, and the best part is it doesn’t leave a white cast.”
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (Homosalate 9.5%, Octocrylene 5%, Octisalate 4.5%, Avobenzone 3%)
- Key Ingredients: Aloe leaf extract, centella asiatica extract, ceramides, acacia peptide
- SPF Level: SPF 50+
- Texture: Stick
- Broad Spectrum: Yes
- Tinted: No
- White Cast: No
- Finish: Glowy, semi-matte
- Size: 22 G / 0.77 oz.
| Love It | Leave It |
| Stick format is very convenient | Can feel a bit greasy on oily skin types |
| Formula goes on completely clear across a glowy or semi-matte finish |
Everything You Need to Know
What to Look for in a Face Sunscreen
SPF Level: “Picking a sunscreen does not have to be complicated!” Tomassian bids. “Look for a sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher and broad spectrum, meaning it blocks both UVA and UVB rays. You want to use at least two finger lengths of sunscreen for the full face, and when you are out in the sun, reapply every two hours to maintain adequate sun protection.” Apply your sunscreen at least 20 minutes before you go outside.
Type: According to Murphy-Rose, physical sunscreens (otherwise known as physical sunscreens, or sunblock) provide a physical barrier between the skin and the sun’s harmful rays, while chemical sunscreens work by chemicals penetrating the skin and then absorb UV rays to prevent sun damage and skin cancer. “Although both can be incredibly effective, chemical sunscreens can be somewhat more irritating to sensitive skin,” explains Dr. Nazarian. “Physical sunscreens are a bit more stable, but are also a little more occlusive and can trap heat, so it may feel a little heavier than the chemical sunscreens.” Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are mineral sunscreen agents to look out for.
Texture: How the sunscreen sits on the skin can make all the difference in your wear. Those looking for something under makeup might appreciate a lightweight formula or something with a primer-like texture. Conversely, someone with dry skin might consider a richer, emollient formula similar to a face cream. That being said, keep your routine (and skin type) in mind when selecting your SPF this year.
White Cast: A white cast is that white, almost-purple hue left behind after applying some sunscreens. This often happens with mineral formulas that utilize zinc oxide to provide a physical barrier between the skin and sun rays. Fortunately, most sunscreens these days—even mineral options—do not leave a white cast.
Broad Spectrum: The term broad spectrum means that your sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. If a sunscreen is not labeled “broad-spectrum” it only protects against UVB rays, meaning you are more susceptible to damage from UVA rays.
Editors’ Review: Trust that our editorial team has tested each sunscreen on this list (and more, that were not featured!) to ensure we can speak to texture and sensitivity concerns. That being said, if our editors feel strongly about any given formula, you’ll see the endorsement noted in each product caption, alongside those of our dermatologist experts. TL;DR: The Chanel UV Essentiel Complete UV SPF 50, EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, Naturium Dew Glow Moisturizer SPF 50, and SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 are our favorites by far.
What is Broad Spectrum Sunscreen?
“Broad spectrum describes the quality of providing sun protection against a wide range of ultraviolet wavelengths,” explains dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, FAAD. “Broad spectrum sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays.”
How Much Sunscreen to Use on Your Face
Murphy-Rose recommends applying two finger lengths of product to the face each application. “One of the most common mistakes un sunscreen application is not applying enough product,” she continues. “Always remember to apply to your whole face including over the brows, ears and around the lips. These are areas where I very often see pre-cancerous skin growths, and I believe that’s partly due to less sunscreen use on these areas." She also recommends using an SPF lip balm.
Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreen
There’a an ongoing debate on mineral versus chemical sunscreen. In fact, you might be wondering what those terms even mean, and which you should actually be using in your routine. Here’s what you need to know:
- Mineral Sunscreen: “Mineral (or physical) sunscreen contains the minerals zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide,” explains Murphy-Rose. “It protects the skin by providing a physical shield or a barrier between the skin and the sun’s harmful rays, blocking the rays from reaching the skin. It sits on top of the skin to work.” Plus, these are less likely to cause an allergic reaction, meaning they’re generally recommended for those with skin sensitivities. Not to mention, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are said to be safer for the environment. “Coral reef destruction is a major environmental concern, so it is important to choose a sun protectant that contains reef-safe active ingredients. The best sunscreens to choose contain non-nano mineral particles. ”
- Chemical Sunscreen: Chemical sunscreens use chemical filters (“like avobenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, octisalate,octinoxate, and oxybenzone, among many others") to protect skin. “[They] work to prevent sun damage and skin cancer by absorbings UV rays and converting them to the less harmful form of energy, heat,” Murphy-Rose notes. “Sunscreen must be applied 15 minutes before exposure to sunlight because it must penetrate the skin to become functional.” That said, “if you apply a chemical sunscreen and jump in the water right away, it may wash off and not work at all.”
What sunscreen is recommended by dermatologists?
In our reporting, dermatologists often recommended broad-spectrum sunscreens of SPF 30 or more by EltaMD, SkinCeuticals, La Roche-Posay, and Supergoop!. For more insight on their picks, check out the “endorsed by” section of each product, which highlights what some of our favorite dermatologists have to say about the best sunscreens of 2024.
Should You Wear Sunscreen Everyday? Even Indoors?
According to Murphy-Rose, you should absolutely wear sunscreen everyday as the detrimental effects of cumulative sun damage—around medical and cosmetic concerns—are well-documented. “By applying sun protection daily, your risk of developing skin cancer will be greatly reduced and your skin will appear more youthful for longer,” she says. “We are also becoming more aware of the negative effects of blue light on our skin. Indoors, we are exposed to this form of visible light via LED light and electronics like cell phones and computers. For these reasons, wearing sunscreen indoors has skin-protective benefits.”
How to Apply (and Reapply) Sunscreen Properly
Now that you know what to look for in a sunscreen, it’s important to apply it with care. “It is a common issue that consumers are not applying it correctly, whether applying a product that is substandard, applying an insufficient amount, or neglecting to reapply appropriately,” dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose explains. “A good guideline for sufficient coverage is about a shot glass worth of product for one application for the whole body or the equivalent of 2 finger lengths for the face.”
If you’re in direct sunlight, you must reapply every two hours, or anytime you get wet or perspire. This means reapplying just as you did upon first application (read: two finger rule!), or use a sunscreen spray or powder according to their directions to ensure you receive adequate UV protection. According to Dr. Chris Tomassian, another misconception is that makeup with SPF is sufficient for your daily sunscreen: your SPF-laced makeup must be layered on top of a layer of sunscreen. “Always remember the sunscreen that you will use is the one that is going to be most effective!” Karen adds.
How long does sunscreen last?
“Sunscreen should be reapplied every 90 minutes when you’re in the sun because it becomes ineffective after exposure to air and light,” Green previously told Vogue. “Sunscreen should also be reapplied after sweating and getting out of the water.” Basically, sunscreen does not last long, making reapplication throughout the day imperative.
What SPF is Best for Face?
You might be wondering: does SPF matter? It’s a common question us beauty editors are met with often, especially with so many different sunscreens on the market. Not to mention, you might receive different advice based on who you’re talking to.
“SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures the amount of UV radiation needed to produce sunburn on protected skin (with sunscreen) compared to the amount of UV radiation required to produce sunburn on unprotected skin (without sunscreen),” instructs dermatologist Dr. Michele Green. "The higher the SPF, the more UV radiation exposure your skin can handle before getting
sunburned." Generally speaking, most experts recommend an SPF of 30 or higher, but Green advises a minimum of SPF 50.
How We Tested
When we test and review a product, we take a holistic approach to deliver well-rounded product recommendations. First, we lean on Vogue’s vast network of experts—from board-certified dermatologists to celebrity estheticians—to gain professional insight on the industry’s standout products; ones specialists would actually use on and recommend to their clients. We pair their expertise with our editorial best practices to curate the thoughtful edits you read on our site.
As it relates to sunscreens, we selected the best based on the following characteristics: ingredients, texture, finish, SPF level, and the skin-care concerns they address. To do this, we paired our own personal tests of each formula with expert guidance and reviewer insights to determine which we would recommend to you.
Meet The Dermatologists
- Dr. Lindsey Marie Zubritsky is a board-certified dermatologist
- Dr. Dara Spearman is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Radiant Dermatology Associates
- Dr. Sandra Oska, a board-certified dermatologist at Dermatology Institute & Skin Cancer Center
- Dr. Brendan Camp is a double board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist who sees patients in New York and Long Island.
- Kristin Gunn is a celebrity esthetician and owner of Halcyon Skincare and Beaux Medspa.
- Dr. Michele Green is a New York City–based and board-certified dermatologist whose practice offers state-of-the-art cosmetic dermatology.
- Dr. Julie Karen is a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist who specializes in laser surgery, skin cancer, and cosmetic dermatology.
- Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose is a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist who specializes in facial rejuvenation techniques and non-invasive body contouring.
- Dr. Rachel Nazarian is a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist who specializes in laser, injectables, skin cancer screening, dermatologic surgery, and body contouring.
- Dr. Melanie Palm, is a board-certified dermatologist at The Art of Skin MD in San Diego, CA.
- Dr. Chris Tomassian is a Los Angeles–based and board-certified dermatologist and founder of The Dermatology Collective.
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