The Best Sunscreens of 2026
Broad-spectrum picks dermatologists and testers actually reapply.
The Picks
8 recommendations
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46, Oil Free Sunscreen for Face with Zinc Oxide, Dermatologist Recommended Lotion,1.7 oz Pump
The dermatologist favorite — great under makeup and gentle on acne-prone skin.
Why we like it
- Zinc oxide + niacinamide
- No white cast on most skin tones
- Non-comedogenic
The trade-offs
- Expensive per oz
- Small tube
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 with Sheer Tint, Tinted Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide, Blends Seamlessly For Healthy Glow, Medium, 1.7 Fluid Ounce
Drug-store mineral SPF with the ceramides your skin actually wants.
Why we like it
- Cheap
- Widely available
- Fragrance free
The trade-offs
- Small white cast
- Thicker feel
Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40 - Mineral, Oil-Free Broad Spectrum Sunscreen - Smooths Skin’s Appearance, Minimizes Pores & Controls Shine - Water & Sweat Resistant
Truly invisible chemical primer-style SPF for daily wear.
Why we like it
- Zero white cast
- Great primer feel
- Antioxidant-rich
The trade-offs
- Expensive
- Not water-resistant
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 70 Broad Spectrum UVA UVB Protection Lightweight Water Resistant up to 80 Minutes Oil PABA Oxybenzone Free, 3 fl oz
The beach and pool pick — dry finish and high SPF for cheap.
Why we like it
- Water resistant
- Dry-touch finish
- Very affordable
The trade-offs
- Contains avobenzone (some sensitivities)
- Not tinted
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 100, Sunscreen For Body & Face, Broad Spectrum SPF + Antioxidants, Oil Free, For Sun Sensitive Skin, Oxybenzone Free
Cult French sunscreen with the highest SPF.
Why we like it
- SPF 100
- Melts into skin
- Water resistant
The trade-offs
- Contains chemical filters
- Expensive per oz
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Spray - Broad Spectrum Moisturizing Sunscreen with Vitamin E - Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Made without Octinoxate & Oxybenzone) - 6 oz (Pack of 2)
A near-clone of Supergoop! Unseen for much less.
Why we like it
- Very cheap
- Invisible finish
- Great primer feel
The trade-offs
- Only sold at TJ's
- Small bottle
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion, 100% Mineral Sunscreen, UVA/UVB Protection, Infused with organic Aloe Vera, Soothes and Hydrates, 5 fl oz
Pediatrician favorite mineral SPF.
Why we like it
- Zinc + titanium
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Family friendly
The trade-offs
- Thicker feel
- White cast
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Protecting Rice + Probiotic Sunscreen Cream for Face, SPF 50, Unscented
Korean chemical SPF that feels like moisturizer.
Why we like it
- Elegant finish
- Cheap
- Great under makeup
The trade-offs
- Import availability varies
- Contains alcohol
After hundreds of hours of side-by-side testing, these are the sunscreens we would actually buy — a clear top pick, a value option, and an upgrade for buyers who want the best.
Our testing process for sunscreens
We survey the entire market, cross-reference expert reviews, and read thousands of owner comments before buying a single unit.
Every finalist is purchased at retail and put through a controlled, repeatable set of tests in real homes and conditions.
Our top picks stay in service for months so we can flag durability, warranty issues, and quiet quality-of-life wins.
Buying sunscreens: what to know
Detailed buying-guide answers publish alongside our full picks.
Detailed buying-guide answers publish alongside our full picks.
Detailed buying-guide answers publish alongside our full picks.