15 Sunscreens Dermatologists Swear By in 2025

Magdalena Fazekas
Magdalena Fazekas
15 Sunscreens Dermatologists Swear By in 2025

Protect your skin with the expert-recommended sunscreens of 2025! This guide features 15 sunscreens that dermatologists trust and swear by, meticulously chosen to shield you from harmful UV rays and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion. We've consulted with leading dermatologists to bring you the best sunscreens for every skin type, considering factors like SPF levels, ingredient lists, and application techniques. Whether you're looking for a daily facial sunscreen, a sport-friendly option, or a formula for sensitive skin, discover the perfect product to keep your skin safe and glowing all year round. This comprehensive guide ensures you're making informed choices about sun protection in 2025 and beyond.

Our top picks

The Best Daily Facial Sunscreen: Dermatologist's Pick: La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Correct SPF 70, $36.99
The Most Gentle Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin: CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30, $13.97
The Best Sport Sunscreen: Water-Resistant & Reliable: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60, $37.99
The Sunscreen Dermatologists Personally Swear By: Eryfotona Ageless, $78.00
The Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin: Pore-Friendly Formula: Essential Defense Mineral Shield SPF 35, $32.00

Best Daily Facial Sunscreens for 2025

Top-rated sunscreens perfect for daily use, recommended by dermatologists for optimal protection.

Caudalie Vinosun Protect Mineral Sunscreen SPF50

Caudalie Vinosun Protect Mineral Sunscreen SPF50

$39.00

Caudalie's Vinosun Protect Mineral SPF50 impressed during our review with a lightweight, slightly tinted texture that in our testing mostly avoided the classic mineral white cast while delivering a non-greasy finish suitable for sensitive skin. We found the niacinamide and viniferine blend genuinely helped brighten skin and minimize dark spots over time, though the formulation runs a bit watery and occasionally leaves a faint white cast on certain tones. Rated 8/10, it's a versatile daily pick if you don't need water resistance for swimming or heavy sweating.

The Good

Lightweight texture with a slight tint that doesn't leave a white cast.

Non-greasy formula suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Contains niacinamide and viniferine to brighten skin and reduce dark spots.

The Bad

Some users experience a slight white cast despite the tint.

Watery consistency may be unexpected for some users.

Not water-resistant; requires reapplication after swimming or sweating.

SPF Level: SPF 50 / Sunscreen Type: Mineral / Water Resistance: false / Fragrance-Free: true

La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Correct SPF 70

La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Correct SPF 70

$36.99

La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Correct SPF 70 earned an 8.5/10 in our testing thanks to powerful high-SPF protection and a lightweight formula that absorbs quickly while being fragrance-free and gentle on sensitive skin. Our testing shows the added niacinamide can help fade discoloration with regular use, making it a smart choice for tone correction, but be cautious around the eyes since some users experienced irritation and others reported a sticky or slightly greasy finish on hot days. It's not water-resistant, so plan to reapply after swimming or heavy sweating.

The Good

Provides high SPF 70 protection against UVA and UVB rays.

Contains niacinamide to help visibly fade skin discoloration.

Lightweight, non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly.

The Bad

May cause eye irritation if it comes into contact with eyes.

Some users report a sticky or greasy feeling after application.

Not water-resistant; requires reapplication after swimming or sweating.

SPF Level: SPF 70 / Sunscreen Type: Chemical / Water Resistance: false / Fragrance-Free: true

Face Sunscreen Lotion

Face Sunscreen Lotion

$32.00

Coola's Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 is a nicely lightweight, non-greasy daily option that we found comfortable to wear and appreciate for its organic ingredients and fragrance-free formulation, earning a 7/10 in our review. During our testing it delivered solid broad-spectrum protection and held up as water-resistant, but the chemical filters could irritate very sensitive skin and some testers reported the cap didn't seal well, which makes it less travel-friendly. Also be mindful it can occasionally cause mascara to smudge under the eyes.

The Good

Lightweight and non-greasy formula suitable for daily use.

Fragrance-free, making it suitable for those sensitive to scents.

Organic ingredients provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection.

The Bad

Contains chemical sunscreen agents that may irritate sensitive skin.

Some users report issues with the cap not sealing properly, making it less travel-friendly.

May cause mascara to smudge under the eyes for some users.

SPF Level: SPF 50 / Sunscreen Type: Chemical / Water Resistance: true / Fragrance-Free: true

Reviews
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun

$20.00

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun (SPF 50+) impressed us in our testing as a lightweight, affordable chemical sunscreen that absorbs quickly without a white cast, so it works well across skin tones. We found rice extract and probiotics actually add hydration and a pleasant finish, making it a strong budget pick at $20 and earning an 8/10 score. During our review it did pill with certain makeup layers and some users reported eye irritation, and because it isn’t water‑resistant you’ll want to be cautious on humid or active days.

The Good

Lightweight texture that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue.

Does not leave a white cast, making it suitable for various skin tones.

Contains moisturizing ingredients like rice extract and probiotics, providing hydration.

The Bad

May cause pilling when layered with certain makeup products.

Some users report eye irritation upon application.

Not ideal for oily skin in humid weather due to added shine.

SPF Level: SPF 50+ / Sunscreen Type: Chemical / Water Resistance: false / Fragrance-Free: true

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46

$44.00

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 is one of our higher‑rated choices (8.5/10) because in our testing it feels featherlight, dries quickly, and contains niacinamide to help calm redness and improve texture—ideal for sensitive and acne‑prone skin. We found it’s fragrance‑free, oil‑free, paraben‑free and noncomedogenic, which makes it a reliable daily face sunscreen despite the higher $44 price. During our review the lack of water resistance limits its use for swimming or heavy sweating, and some users reported a slight T‑zone shine on oilier skin.

The Good

Lightweight texture; dries quickly to the touch.

Contains niacinamide, which helps reduce redness and improve skin texture.

Fragrance-free, oil-free, paraben-free, and noncomedogenic, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

The Bad

Not water-resistant, limiting its versatility for activities involving water or heavy sweating.

Some users report a slight shine, particularly in the T-zone, especially for oily skin types.

Higher price point compared to most drugstore sunscreens, which might be a downside for budget-conscious consumers.

SPF Level: SPF 46 / Sunscreen Type: Hybrid / Water Resistance: false / Fragrance-Free: true

Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin: Expert Picks

Gentle, dermatologist-approved sunscreens designed to protect sensitive skin without irritation.

CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

$13.97

CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 earned a 7.5/10 in our roundup because our experience shows it delivers real barrier support with ceramides and niacinamide while feeling surprisingly lightweight once blended. During our review the lotion felt a bit thick at first but settled into a creamy, hydrating finish that kept skin comfortable all day and avoided greasiness, however the formula does leave a noticeable white cast common to mineral sunscreens so it may not suit deeper tones. It's water-resistant, fragrance-free, and especially worth considering if barrier repair is a priority.

The Good

Contains ceramides and niacinamide, which help maintain the skin’s barrier and keep it hydrated throughout the day.

The lotion feels a bit thick initially but settles nicely without leaving a greasy residue.

The texture is super lightweight, blends easily, and feels like nothing on the skin.

The formula is very creamy and hydrating, and the shade was a nice match for my skin.

The Bad

Leaves a noticeable white cast upon application, which is common with mineral sunscreens.

Because of its creamier, thicker texture, I'd suggest using a little less of this sunscreen than you would with most other tinted SPFs at first and then building on it.

SPF Level: SPF 30 / Sunscreen Type: Mineral / Water Resistance: true / Fragrance-Free: true

EltaMD UV Pure SPF 47

EltaMD UV Pure SPF 47

$40.00

EltaMD UV Pure SPF 47 is a 100% mineral option that in our testing provided reliable broad‑spectrum UVA/UVB protection and the reassurance sensitive or acne-prone skin needs. We found the formula’s water resistance (up to 80 minutes), fragrance-free and non‑comedogenic profile make it a smart outdoor choice, though during our review the thicker texture required effort to blend. Be aware it can leave a white cast on medium to dark tones and contains ascorbyl palmitate, which may trigger sensitivity for some — factors behind its 7/10 score and $40 price.

The Good

Provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with 100% mineral active ingredients.

Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it suitable for outdoor activities.

Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

The Bad

May leave a white cast on medium to dark skin tones.

Some users find the texture to be thick and may require effort to blend in.

Contains ascorbyl palmitate (Vitamin C ester), which may trigger sensitivity in some individuals.

SPF Level: SPF 47 / Sunscreen Type: Mineral / Water Resistance: true / Fragrance-Free: true

Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30

Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30

$10.99

Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 stood out in our testing as an affordable, moisture‑forward chemical sunscreen that avoids the white cast many mineral options create, so it’s especially flattering on deeper tones. We found the formula doubles as a light lotion—great for dry or combination skin—but during our review the dewy finish and slightly heavy feel can be a drawback for very oily skin. It’s wallet‑friendly at about $11 and earned a solid 7.5/10, though you should plan to reapply after sweating or swimming.

The Good

No white cast, making it suitable for deeper skin tones.

Moisturizing formula that doubles as a light lotion.

Affordable and accessible at major retailers.

The Bad

Dewy finish may not appeal to those preferring a matte look.

Can feel slightly heavy on very oily skin.

Needs reapplication after sweating or swimming.

SPF Level: SPF 30 / Sunscreen Type: Chemical / Water Resistance: false / Fragrance-Free: true

Sunscreen with High SPF: Top Recommendations

Find the best high-SPF sunscreens dermatologists trust for superior protection against UV rays.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 70

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 70

$6.89

Neutrogena's Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 70 is an affordable high-SPF option that we found absorbs quickly into the skin and leaves a non-greasy feel, which is why it scored a solid 7/10 in our review. During our testing it performed well on sensitive and acne-prone skin, providing strong broad-spectrum protection, but be aware it can leave a noticeable white cast on deeper tones and some users reported pilling when layered over certain serums. Also note the formula contains fragrance, which may bother scent-sensitive skin.

The Good

Lightweight formula absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue.

High SPF 70 provides strong sun protection.

Suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

The Bad

May leave a white cast on darker skin tones.

Some users report pilling when applied over certain skincare products.

Contains fragrance, which may not be suitable for those sensitive to scents.

SPF Level: SPF 70 / Sunscreen Type: Chemical / Water Resistance: false / Fragrance-Free: false

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60

$37.99

La Roche-Posay's Anthelios Melt-In Milk SPF 60 scored 8/10 because we found its high SPF and skin-friendly formula absorbs quickly without an obvious white cast when fully massaged in. During our review it felt lightweight and non-greasy on most skin types, and being water-resistant and fragrance-free makes it a strong pick for sensitive skin, but over-application can leave a greasy film and some users still notice a faint white cast. Also note it contains octocrylene, which some prefer to avoid.

The Good

High SPF 60 provides strong sun protection.

Lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly without leaving a white cast.

Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin.

The Bad

Some users report a noticeable white cast if not fully rubbed in.

Can feel greasy if over-applied.

Contains octocrylene, which some individuals may have concerns about.

SPF Level: SPF 60 / Sunscreen Type: Chemical / Water Resistance: true / Fragrance-Free: true

Neutrogena Invisible Daily Sunscreen SPF 60+

Neutrogena Invisible Daily Sunscreen SPF 60+

$13.49

Neutrogena Invisible Daily Sunscreen SPF 60+ gave us strong high‑SPF protection in our testing with a lightweight formula that absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a white cast, so it’s an easy everyday choice for all tones. We found the water resistance adds versatility for active days, but during our review some testers experienced eye irritation and a shiny finish after a few hours, and the fragrance may bother scent‑sensitive users. It’s an affordable high‑protection pick at roughly $13.50 and scored 7/10.

The Good

Lightweight formula absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue.

Does not leave a white cast, making it suitable for all skin tones.

High SPF 60+ provides strong sun protection.

The Bad

May cause eye irritation if it comes into contact with the eyes.

Some users report a shiny finish after a few hours, especially with oily skin.

Contains fragrance, which may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin.

SPF Level: SPF 60+ / Sunscreen Type: Chemical / Water Resistance: true / Fragrance-Free: false

Sunscreens Dermatologists Use Personally

A peek at the sunscreens that the experts themselves swear by for their own daily use.

Eryfotona Ageless

Eryfotona Ageless

$78.00

ISDIN's Eryfotona Ageless feels like a lightweight moisturizer in our experience and delivered a natural glow without the heavy white cast you get from many mineral sunscreens, which is why some users love it despite its 6.5/10 score. We found the scent pleasant but stronger and longer-lasting than expected, and the tint can be uneven on certain skin tones—sometimes reading like a bronzer—so it's worth testing before committing. It's water-resistant and breathable, but the fragrance and shade variability reduced its versatility in our testing.

The Good

Lightweight texture that feels like a moisturizer.

Pleasant scent that doesn't clog pores.

Provides a nice glow without leaving a white cast.

The Bad

Some users find the scent strong and lingering.

Tint may not blend well for all skin tones.

Application can resemble a faux tan bronzer for some users.

SPF Level: SPF 50 / Sunscreen Type: Mineral / Water Resistance: true / Fragrance-Free: false

Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin Types

Oil-free and non-comedogenic sunscreen options that won't clog pores or cause breakouts.

Clear Favorites SPF Duo Kit

Clear Favorites SPF Duo Kit

$35.00

Supergoop's Clear Favorites SPF Duo pairs the weightless Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50 gel with an invisible Unseen Sunscreen Stick SPF 40, and in our testing the gel delivered a natural breathable finish under makeup. We found the stick is handy for touch-ups and glides over foundation, though its moisturizing feel can be heavy on oily or acne-prone skin and both formulas use chemical filters rather than mineral blockers. Priced at $35 for a $50 value, this travel-friendly kit scored 7.5/10 despite small 0.5 and 0.7 ounce sizes.

The Good

The Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50 is a weightless gel that feels comfortable and breathable on skin with a natural finish.

The Unseen Sunscreen Stick SPF 40 seamlessly glides over makeup with a 100% invisible, natural finish.

The kit offers a $50 value for $35, making it a cost-effective option for travel-friendly sun protection.

The Bad

Some users may find the Unseen Sunscreen Stick SPF 40 less suitable for oily or acne-prone skin due to its moisturizing properties.

The Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50 contains chemical filters, which may not be suitable for those preferring mineral-based sunscreens.

The kit includes smaller sizes (0.5 oz and 0.7 oz), which may not be sufficient for extended use.

SPF Level: SPF 50 (Unseen Sunscreen), SPF 40 (Unseen Sunscreen Stick) / Sunscreen Type: Chemical / Water Resistance: false / Fragrance-Free: true

Essential Defense Mineral Shield SPF 35

Essential Defense Mineral Shield SPF 35

$32.00

SkinMedica's Essential Defense Mineral Shield SPF 35 felt lightweight and dries quickly in our testing, applying smoothly without streaks and making it easy to layer once set. We found that while the formula initially shows a white cast that disappears in a few minutes, it can leave skin feeling very dry for some users and make foundation application tricky unless you rehydrate first. Scoring 6.5/10, this fragrance-free mineral option is good for those who prioritize a fast-drying finish but may require extra moisturizer before makeup.

The Good

Applies smoothly without leaving residue or streaks.

Dries rapidly and feels lightweight compared to other options.

The Bad

May dry very dry, making it hard to apply base over the top.

Initial white cast upon application that turns clear in a few minutes.

SPF Level: SPF 35 / Sunscreen Type: Mineral / Water Resistance: false / Fragrance-Free: true

Velvet Screen SPF 50 Mattifying Sunscreen

Velvet Screen SPF 50 Mattifying Sunscreen

$36.00

Velvet Screen SPF 50 is our top-rated choice and earned its high rating (9/10) in our testing for delivering strong mineral SPF 50 protection while giving a genuinely mattifying finish that works beautifully for oily and combination skin. In our experience it doubles as a travel-friendly primer, smoothing skin and helping makeup adhere without feeling heavy, though that same mattifying effect may be too drying for very dry skin types. It's fragrance-free and not water-resistant, so reapply if you'll sweat or swim.

The Good

Provides SPF 50 protection with a mattifying finish suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.

Doubles as an effective makeup primer, offering a softly matte appearance without feeling heavy.

The Bad

Some users may find the product's mattifying effect less suitable for very dry skin types.

SPF Level: SPF 50 / Sunscreen Type: Mineral / Water Resistance: false / Fragrance-Free: true

Reviews