12 Best Face Sunscreen Cream Picks of 2025
Can we talk about how hard it is to find the best face sunscreen cream that doesn’t make you look like a ghost or feel like you’ve slathered Crisco on your face? I’ve been on a mission to find face sunscreens that actually work for everyday wear, and let me tell you—I’ve tested A LOT of duds before finding these gems.
As someone who works as a beauty writer and has combination skin that tends to get oily by midday, I need a face sunscreen cream that checks all the boxes: broad spectrum protection, no white cast, plays well with makeup, doesn’t pill, and ideally has some additional skincare benefits. Oh, and it can’t break me out or make me look like an oil slick by 2pm.
I also think it’s crucial to wear sunscreen every single day—rain or shine, winter or summer. Sun damage is cumulative, and wearing the best face sunscreen cream daily is honestly one of the most important anti-aging things you can do. It’s way more effective than any expensive serum or cream you’ll buy.
A great face sunscreen cream should have at least SPF 30 (though SPF 50 is better), offer broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, and have a texture that works for your skin type. When looking for the best face sunscreen cream, you might see terms like “mineral sunscreen,” “chemical sunscreen,” “reef-safe,” or “non-comedogenic.” I’ll break down what all that means as we go through these picks.
But if you just want to cut to the chase and find your perfect match, check out my top picks below.
12 Best Face Sunscreen Cream Picks That Actually Work Under Makeup
Best Overall Face Sunscreen Cream
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Available at Amazon ($44)
This is hands-down my favorite face sunscreen cream and the one I reach for almost every single day. Yes, it’s pricey at $44, but hear me out—this bottle lasts me about 3-4 months with daily use, so it actually works out to be pretty reasonable.
First of all, this is specifically formulated for sensitive and acne-prone skin, which is huge for me because I’ve had so many sunscreens break me out in the past. It contains niacinamide, which helps calm redness and even out skin tone, plus hyaluronic acid for hydration. The texture is lightweight and silky, and it absorbs into the skin beautifully without leaving any white cast whatsoever.
I love that this is a mineral sunscreen (it uses zinc oxide) because mineral sunscreens are generally better for sensitive skin and are reef-safe. It sits perfectly under makeup and doesn’t cause any pilling or separation throughout the day. My foundation glides right over it without any issues.
The only downside? It’s definitely an investment, and you can’t just grab it at Target. You have to order it online or get it from a dermatologist’s office. But honestly, if you’re going to splurge on one skincare product, make it your face sunscreen cream. Your future self will thank you.
Best Budget Face Sunscreen Cream
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
Available at Amazon ($11)
If you’re looking for an affordable option that actually works, this is it. CeraVe really knocked it out of the park with this one. At $11 for a generous bottle, this is a steal for a quality face sunscreen cream.
This formula contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which help maintain your skin’s moisture barrier while protecting it from the sun. It’s a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, so it’s great for sensitive skin. I will say that it does leave a slight white cast initially, but it fades pretty quickly as you blend it in. If you have deeper skin tones, you might want to spend a little extra time blending.
The texture is creamy but not too heavy, and it doesn’t make my skin feel greasy. It works well under makeup, though I do find that I need to let it set for about 5 minutes before applying foundation. This is my go-to recommendation for anyone who’s new to daily sunscreen use and doesn’t want to spend a fortune while figuring out what works for them.
Best Face Sunscreen Cream for Oily Skin
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60
Available at Amazon($27)
As someone with combination-to-oily skin, I’m always on the hunt for face sunscreen creams that won’t turn me into a grease ball by noon. This one delivers big time. The “dry touch” technology actually works—it dries down to a matte finish that controls oil throughout the day.
This is a chemical sunscreen (rather than mineral), which means it tends to be lighter and more transparent on the skin. It contains Cell-Ox Shield technology, which offers broad spectrum protection and helps prevent damage from UVA, UVB, and environmental aggressors. The texture is more like a lightweight lotion than a heavy cream, and it absorbs quickly without leaving any residue.
I love using this on days when I know I’ll be outside for extended periods because the SPF 60 gives me extra peace of mind. It doesn’t irritate my skin or cause breakouts, even though chemical sunscreens can sometimes be problematic for sensitive skin. Under makeup, it creates a smooth, shine-free base that helps my foundation last longer.
The fragrance is pretty minimal, which I appreciate, though it does have that characteristic sunscreen smell that fades quickly.
Best Face Sunscreen Cream for Dry Skin
Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40
Available at Amazon($48)
If you have dry skin and want a face sunscreen cream that doubles as a radiant primer, this is your holy grail. I tested this during the winter months when my skin was particularly parched, and I was blown away by how hydrating it feels.
This isn’t just a sunscreen—it’s also infused with hyaluronic acid and vitamins B5 and B3 to nourish your skin. But the real star here is the subtle glow it gives you. It has a slight peachy-pink tint and the tiniest bit of shimmer (don’t worry, it’s not glittery—it’s more like a lit-from-within glow). It makes your skin look healthy and luminous without any makeup.
I love using this on minimal makeup days when I just want to look fresh and dewy. It works beautifully under foundation too, giving you that glass skin effect. The formula is creamy and rich without being greasy, and it never pills when I apply other products over it.
The downside is definitely the price point at $38, and if you prefer a completely matte finish, this isn’t for you. But for dry skin that needs hydration and glow, this is worth every penny.
Best Tinted Face Sunscreen Cream
Australian Gold Botanical Tinted Face Sunscreen SPF 50
Available at Amazon($15)
This is such an underrated gem! For under $20, you get a mineral sunscreen with SPF 50 that also provides light, natural-looking coverage. The tint is perfect for evening out your skin tone and giving you that “I’m not wearing makeup but my skin looks great” vibe.
The formula contains botanical ingredients like eucalyptus, red algae, and kakadu plum, which are rich in antioxidants. It’s reef-safe and free from parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. The texture is velvety and matte, making it ideal for oily and combination skin types. On me, it controls shine really well without looking flat or cakey.
One thing to note: the tint comes in a few shades, but the range isn’t super extensive. I use the medium-tan shade and it blends seamlessly into my skin, but if you have very fair or very deep skin, you might find the color match challenging. The tint does help eliminate the white cast that mineral sunscreens typically leave, which is a huge plus.
I love that this is fragrance-free (it has a very faint natural scent from the botanical ingredients), and it doesn’t sting my eyes at all. It’s become my go-to for running errands when I don’t want to do a full face of makeup.
Best Face Sunscreen Cream for Sensitive Skin
Vanicream Facial Moisturizer SPF 30
Available at Amazon ($13)
Vanicream is my go-to brand for sensitive skin products, and their face sunscreen cream is no exception. This is as gentle as it gets—free from dyes, fragrance, parabens, formaldehyde, and other common irritants. It has a “1” rating on EWG’s Skin Deep database, meaning it’s one of the cleanest, safest sunscreens you can use.
This is a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide, and while it does leave a slight white cast, it’s worth it for how gentle it is on reactive skin. If you have rosacea, eczema, or any inflammatory skin conditions, this is a safe bet. The texture is creamy and moisturizing without being heavy or greasy.
I like using this on days when my skin is feeling extra sensitive or irritated. It never stings, never burns, and never causes any redness or breakouts. It’s also non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores. The moisturizing properties mean I can skip my regular moisturizer and just use this, which is great for simplifying my routine.
Under makeup, it works fine, though I do find it takes a bit longer to absorb than some other options. I usually give it about 10 minutes before applying foundation to avoid any pilling.
Best Luxury Face Sunscreen Cream
Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Physical Daily Defense SPF 30
Available at Amazon($36)
If you’re willing to splurge on a beautiful, clean face sunscreen cream, this is it. Drunk Elephant is known for their clean formulations, and this sunscreen doesn’t disappoint. It’s a 100% mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide that’s reef-safe and free from essential oils, silicones, and chemical sunscreens.
The formula also contains antioxidant-rich ingredients like raspberry seed oil, marula oil, and grape juice extract to help protect your skin from environmental stressors beyond just UV rays. The texture is incredibly smooth and silky—it glides on effortlessly and blends in beautifully without any white cast.
What I love most about this is how it makes my skin feel throughout the day. It’s hydrating without being heavy, and it gives my skin a subtle, healthy sheen that looks natural and expensive. It layers perfectly with other Drunk Elephant products if you’re into the brand’s whole ecosystem.
Under makeup, it’s flawless. My foundation applies smoothly over it, and I don’t experience any separation or pilling. The subtle glow it provides also helps my makeup look more radiant and skin-like.
The pump packaging is convenient and hygienic, making it easy to dispense the perfect amount. My one complaint is the price—at $36, it’s definitely a luxury purchase. But the quality is undeniable.
Best Mattifying Face Sunscreen Cream
Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen SPF 55
Available at Amazon ($12)
This is my holy grail for super oily skin days or when I know I’ll be somewhere humid and gross. It’s specifically formulated to be oil-free and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. The formula is lightweight and dries down to a completely matte finish that actually controls oil.
I’m impressed by how well this keeps shine at bay throughout the day. When I use this under makeup, my face stays matte for hours longer than with other sunscreens. It’s also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it great for workouts or beach days.
This is a chemical sunscreen, so it’s transparent on all skin tones with zero white cast. It absorbs instantly and feels like you’re wearing nothing at all. The texture is more like a gel-lotion than a thick cream, which I love for everyday wear.
The fragrance is pretty typical sunscreen smell, but it dissipates quickly. My skin doesn’t react to it at all, even though chemical sunscreens can sometimes be irritating. For the price ($12!), this is an incredible value and a staple in my sunscreen rotation.
Best Face Sunscreen Cream for Anti-Aging
SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
Available at Amazon($38)
If you’re serious about preventing signs of aging, this face sunscreen cream should be on your radar. It’s a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, but what sets it apart is the universal tint that works on most skin tones.
The formula is lightweight and has a subtle peachy tint that helps neutralize redness and even out your skin tone. It contains artemia salina, a plankton extract that has been shown to help increase skin’s resistance to UV and heat stress. It’s also packed with antioxidants to help prevent environmental damage beyond just sun exposure.
The texture is silky and smooth, and it blends seamlessly into the skin without any white cast. It works beautifully under makeup and gives a nice, natural-looking finish that’s not too matte or too dewy. I find that it actually helps my makeup look better and last longer.
This is definitely an investment at $38, but when you consider that sun protection is the single most important anti-aging step you can take, it’s worth it. I use this on special occasions or when I really want my skin to look its best.
Best Fragrance-Free Face Sunscreen Cream
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Available at Amazon ($14)
For those who are sensitive to fragrances or just prefer unscented products, this is an excellent choice. It’s completely fragrance-free (no added fragrance and no fragrance masking agents either), which is rare in sunscreens. There’s a very faint mineral smell from the zinc oxide, but it’s barely noticeable.
This is a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and it’s specifically formulated for sensitive skin. It’s free from parabens, oxybenzone, and octinoxate, making it reef-safe. The formula is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
The texture is creamy and moisturizing, which is great for normal to dry skin. It does leave a slight white cast initially, but it blends in reasonably well with a bit of extra rubbing. I wouldn’t say it’s the most elegant formula on this list, but it’s solid, reliable, and gentle on reactive skin.
One cool feature is that the bottle changes color when exposed to UV light, which is a fun way to remind you to reapply. It’s also pediatrician-recommended and safe for the whole family, so you can share it with your kids if you have them.
Best Lightweight Face Sunscreen Cream
Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50
Available at Ecosmetics & Amazon($58)
This is the most elegant, luxurious-feeling face sunscreen cream I’ve ever tried. If you hate the feeling of wearing sunscreen, this will convert you. The texture is impossibly light and silky—it feels more like a hydrating serum than a sunscreen.
This is an all-mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, plus it’s packed with additional skin-loving ingredients like vitamin E, bisabolol, and plant stem cells. It provides protection against UVA/UVB, blue light, pollution, and infrared radiation, which is pretty comprehensive.
The formula has a slight tint that disappears into the skin, leaving no white cast whatsoever. It creates the perfect smooth, even base for makeup, and I find that my foundation looks better when applied over this. It’s also incredibly hydrating without feeling heavy or greasy.
The biggest downside is definitely the price at $49, making this the most expensive option on my list. But if you can swing it, the experience of wearing this sunscreen is unmatched. It’s what I reach for on days when I want to feel fancy and pampered.
Face Sunscreen Creams I Wasn’t Impressed With
Coppertone Pure & Simple Face Sunscreen SPF 50
Available at Amazon($19)
I had high hopes for this budget-friendly option, especially because Coppertone is such a recognizable brand. Unfortunately, it just didn’t work for my face. The formula is really thick and greasy, which might be fine for body use but feels way too heavy on facial skin.
It left a pretty significant white cast that never fully blended in, making me look like I was wearing stage makeup. Under makeup, it pilled terribly and caused my foundation to separate and look patchy. My skin also felt suffocated and ended up breaking out after a few days of use.
I think this might work better as a body sunscreen, but for the face, I’d skip it and invest a few more dollars in one of the other options on this list.
Sun Bum Face Lotion SPF 50
Available at Amazon($10)
I love Sun Bum for body sunscreen, but their face formula just doesn’t cut it for me. The texture is really oily and never fully absorbs into the skin. It sits on top of my skin feeling slick and greasy all day long.
Under makeup, it was a disaster. My foundation slid right off, and by midday, I looked like I had dunked my face in oil. It also caused some congestion and small breakouts, which was disappointing because I generally have good luck with this brand’s body products.
The coconut scent is also really strong, which some people might like, but I found it overwhelming on my face. It’s just too close to my nose all day long! I’d use this on my body at the beach but never on my face again.
Banana Boat Simply Protect Face Sunscreen SPF 50
Available at Amazon ($17)
This was another budget option that let me down. The formula is super thick and difficult to spread, which means you end up tugging at your skin trying to blend it in. It leaves a heavy white cast that makes you look ghostly, and it never fully absorbs.
It also has a pretty strong chemical sunscreen smell that lingers for a while after application. My skin felt clogged and suffocated wearing this, and it definitely interfered with my makeup. By the end of the day, I couldn’t wait to wash it off.
I appreciate that it’s affordable and accessible, but for just a few more dollars, you can get something so much better. Your face is worth the extra investment!
Final Thoughts on Finding the Best Face Sunscreen Cream
After testing dozens of face sunscreen creams, here’s what I’ve learned: the best one for you depends entirely on your skin type, concerns, and preferences. If you have oily skin, go for something mattifying. If you’re dry, opt for a hydrating formula. If you’re sensitive, stick with mineral sunscreens and fragrance-free options.
My personal favorites from this list are the EltaMD UV Clear for everyday wear and the Supergoop! Glowscreen when I want that extra radiance. But honestly, the best face sunscreen cream is the one you’ll actually wear every single day.
Remember: sunscreen should be the last step of your skincare routine and the first thing you put on before makeup. Apply a nickel-sized amount and don’t forget to reapply every two hours if you’re spending extended time outdoors. Your skin will thank you years down the line!
