Top 16 Best Face Sunscreen Creams – Reviews and Buying Guide

Irrespective of whether you love it or not, sunscreen should be part of your skincare regime. The reason is that the best sunscreen cream for the face will do multiple tasks. It will help with shielding your skin from the harmful UV rays. Even, it will keep away disgusting sunburns. Also, the right sunscreen will safeguard your skin from premature aging. So, make sure to include one in your skincare routine. Nevertheless, finding the right face sunscreen can be hard. You should figure out the ingredients that will be safe for your skin. Further, you should identify the right level of SPF coverage ideal for your skin.

SPF here measures the sunscreen protection that the product offers from the UVB rays. The reason is that UVB Rays can lead to sunburn that can turn into skin cancer. It is better to make sure that the product has SPF 30 or higher. The minimum SPF recommended by FDA for safeguarding your skin against sunburn and skin cancer is SPF 15. However, AAD recommends selecting a sunscreen with at least SPF 30.

To help you choose the best sunscreen cream, we have shortlisted some of the best options available in the market. Read on to know our review of the best options available in the market to choose one:

#1 Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk from Shiseido

With SPF 50+, this sunscreen suits all skin types. The refreshing citrus soap aroma makes this product the soothing choice if you are particular about aromatic sunscreen creams. It has been tested to withstand 80 minutes of water bath test. It happens because the product is waterproof. So, it will not be removed by sweat.

With aloe vera, this travel-size cream will help with gently safeguarding your skin from the harsh environmental factors. Even if you are a person with sensitive skin, you can use this product.

Many users say that apart from functioning as a sunscreen, this product also provides the best base for your makeup. Aloe vera with its antibacterial effect will safeguard the skin from peeling due to sun exposure. It is also known for its high water content and anti-inflammatory property.

RELATED: Top 15 Best Shiseido Skincare 2021

#2 Urban Environment Oil UV Protector from Shiseido

With the SPF-42 rating, this product is dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested to suit different skin types. Also, this product is non-comedogenic with the water-resistant property. However, you can easily remove it at the end of the day using your regular skin cleanser.

Paeonia Albiflora root is the key ingredient in this product that helps with bringing down visible pores. In the same way, the product uses Scutellaria baicalensis extract as another essential ingredient. It helps with promoting the youthful look of your skin. It promotes the natural beauty of the skin by safeguarding it against the three major reasons for skin cell damage. They are excess production of sebum, oxidation, and UV rays.

Nearly 95% of the users of this product stated that their skin turned light like a feather after they started using this product.

RELATED: Top 15 Best Shiseido Skincare 2021

#3 L’Oreal Paris SPF 30 Face Moisturizer

With this product from L’Oreal Paris, you will be able to get brighter and younger-looking skin besides the sun protection you are looking for. It helps with bringing down wrinkles as well within a week of usage. The product encompasses broad-spectrum SPF 30 and Glycolic Acid to provide the right protection to the skin from the harmful UV Rays.

The Pro-Retinol and Vitamin C present in this product helps with revealing brighter skin. Even, these ingredients aid with the correction of uneven skin tone. The product has been clinically tested to reveal more radiant skin. The broad-spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen helps with safeguarding the skin against the sun’s UVA and UVB rays.

Many users of this product stated that it visibly brightened their skin besides hydrating it. Also, many users of this moisturizer stated that their skin turned soft and supple.

#4 Mineral Fluid Sunscreen from Eau Thermale Avene

With Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ this product offers the best shield for your face and body when you are outdoors from the harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Eau Thermale has formulated this product with Avene Thermal Spring Water. It helps with gentle hydration and smoothing of the skin. Suitable for all skin types, this product has been formulated with powerful antioxidants and it has been created ideal for daily use to safeguard against the sun’s rays.

The product gets quickly absorbed by the skin with its ideal finish as claimed by many users. This reef-friendly sunscreen formula is free from any chemicals. The lightweight lotion provides long-lasting hydration as claimed by many users.

#5 Sunguard 50 Sunscreen Uv Lotion from Fancl Japan

This product has been created to be gentle on the skin. However, it will be powerful against the sun’s rays.

The active ingredients in this product are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They are coated with skincare essence. This is done to make sure that the skin of the users will retain the moisture for long hours. It is known for its water-resistant properties and so it is ideal for use not just outdoors, but also indoors.

Many users feel that the product does not have any smell. Also, the lightness of this product has been highly appreciated by many users.

#6 UV Plus Mult-Protection Non-Tinted Sunscreen Fluid from Clarins

This product is SPF 50 rated for its sun protection property. Clarins has formulated this product with Clarins’ Exclusive Anti-Pollution Complex. It protects the skin from the free radical damage, pollution UVB and UVA rays. Once applied, this product forms an invisible shield to safeguard the skin from the appearance of aging signs and dark spots.

Sanicle is the key ingredient in this product. It helps with fighting the damages caused by free radicals. In turn, it prevents aging of the skin. SPF 50 has been highly appreciated by many users.

It can provide the ideal daily defense for younger-looking skin as claimed by many users. Also, some users stated that this is a perfect remedy for rosacea.

RELATED: Top 10 Best Clarins Skincare – Expert Reviews

#7 UV Defense Super Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50+ from Kiehl’s

This product has been created by Kiehl’s as a lightweight formula suitable for all skin types. This lightweight face sunscreen cream comes with pollution protection and SPF 50+. This formula from Kiehl’s is for safeguarding the skin from the early signs of aging. Many users expressed that this daily sunscreen gets quickly absorbed by the skin and leaves a matte finish.

Scutellaria Root Extract is the key ingredient in this product. It is used in traditional Chinese medicine for its antioxidant benefits. It can defend your skin against free radical damage. Vitamin E is another key ingredient that will help with neutralizing the free radical damage on the skin. Apart from antioxidant protection, this ingredient is known for its skincare benefits as well.

RELATED: Top 10 Best Kiehl’s Skincare

#8 Extra UV Gel Sunscreen With SPF50 from Kanebo ALLIE

This sunscreen has a creamy gel texture that is ideal for outdoor summer use. The product includes Friction Proof Technology. This ensures that the sunscreen continues to safeguard even after it gets absorbed by the skin completely. As a result, you will get increased water-resistance. It will retain power even after you sweat. To give deep UV barrier protection, the product uses Kanebo’s original Advan Technology Acid.

Even, it contains collagen to keep the skin hydrated. Free of mineral oils, parabens and fragrances, this product is designed to use not just in the face but also in other parts of the body exposed to the sun.

Many users of this face sunscreen cream call it a solid performer as it brings the best sun protection.

#9 UV Expert Aquagel Defense Moisturizer & Primer with SPF 50 from Lancome

This product in addition to working as an oil-free face primer also works as a moisturizer and sunscreen. It provides lasting hydration and aids with safeguarding the skin from external aggressors like sun damage. Made using Edelweiss, Moringa and Vitamin E, this oil-free moisturizer uses cooling Aquagel texture. This texture helps the face sunscreen cream to transform itself into a water-like gel. Then, it easily blends and gets quickly absorbed and turns invisible in the skin.

Many users have expressed that this product does not leave any white residue. Also, it is not sticky, greasy or heavy and gets a shiny finish says many users.

RELATED: Top 9 Best Lancome Skincare

#10 Tinted Moisturizer Natural Skin Perfector SPF 30 from Laura Mercier

The hydrating Complex in this product has been made using Kukui seed oil and macadamia seed oil. They help with increasing the moisture content of the skin for long hours. So, it becomes possible for this product to ensure 24 hours of hydration. Also, it reduces the signs of visibly dry skin. So, this product is particularly helpful for individuals with dry skin even though it suits other skin types as well.

The product is infused with tamarind seed extract. This ingredient helps the skin to retain the moisture for preventing water evaporation. SPF 30 safeguards the skin from UVB and UVA rays. Also, the product uses a powerful blend of antioxidants from Vitamin E and C.

Many users expressed that this product is like what a tinted moisturizer should be like.

RELATED: Top 10 Best Laura Mercier Products

#11 innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 36

This product from Innisfree is a tripe care sunscreen. This multifunctional product helps with bringing down the appearance of wrinkles. Even, it helps with brightening the skin and protects it from the sunlight. As the product is waterproof it is ideal for use when you engage in water and outdoor activities during hot summer days. Perspiration cannot wash away this sunscreen. This product safeguards your skin by creating a protective layer on your skin surface. In turn, it will deflect the harmful UV rays reaching your skin. Water is the key ingredient in this product that helps with keeping the skin hydrated.

Also, green tea, cica, and sunflower seed oil used in this product act as a solvent and emollient. Even though it suits all skin types, individuals with oily skin stated that it helps their skin to a great extent.

Many stated that this product effectively protects their skin from UV rays even when they are in the swimming pool.

#12 Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60 from La Roche-Posay

This water-resistant SPF 60 sunscreen from La Roche-Posay uses La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water as the key ingredient. This dry-touch sunscreen prevents skin breakouts. The product uses Advanced Technology with Cell-OX shield XL to provide UVA/UVB protection and bring anti-aging benefits with its richness in antioxidants. This product helps with preventing sunburn. When used in combination with other sun-protective measures, this product will help with reducing the risk of early signs of aging and skin cancer caused by the sun.

The key ingredients in this product are octocrylene, octisalata, homosalate and avobenzone. All these are sunscreen contents that provide sun protection. The product has won many awards for its effective sun protection. It suits all skin types. However, many users with oily skin suggested that this product worked well on their skin.

RELATED: Top 10 Best La Roche-Posay Skincare

#13 Ultra Sheer Non-Greasy and Dry-Touch Water Resistant Sunscreen Lotion With SPF 100+

This lightweight sunscreen lotion is quickly absorbed by the skin as the product uses dry-touch technology for a matte and non-greasy finish on the skin. The product has been formulated by Neutrogena with Helioplex for the superior sun protection for the skin.

The product uses Avobenzone as the key ingredient to making sure that users can get the optimal broad-spectrum protection from the UVA rays and UVB Rays. Not just for the face, the product provides sun protection to the other body parts as well.

Many users of this product exclaimed that this product is dry to touch on the skin within a few minutes of absorbing.

RELATED: Top 10 Best Neutrogena Skincare

#14 Total Effects Whip Face Moisturizer with SPF 25 from Olay

This face sunscreen cream has been created by Olay with richness in antioxidants, vitamins to ensure healthy-looking skin to the users. Olay has whipped her Total Effect Formula with Active Rush Technology such that this cream will turn from cream to liquid on the skin and it gets absorbed instantly.

The product has been formulated with antioxidants and vitamins to nourish the skin. Olay brings 7 benefits in a single product. It actively replenishes the moisture content in the skin. Also, it evens the skin tone and improves brightness. The other benefits include smoothening of fine lines, reducing the pores, restoring firmness, and visibly bringing down dark spots.

Many users of this product claimed that the hydration that this product provides is something they have been longing for.

RELATED: Top 10 Best Olay Skincare – Expert Reviews

#15 PRO Oil Absorbing Moisturizer With SPF 30 from Cetaphil

This product from Cetaphil is an oil-absorbing moisturizer with SPF 30. The product has been proven clinically to absorb oil. It will aid with soothing the dry skin and will maintain the right moisture level in the skin. This product has been created as a broad-spectrum formula to safeguard the skin against harmful UV damage.

The active ingredients in this product are Octocrylene, Octisalate, and Avobenzone. They help with providing the best sun protection.

Many users feel that this product that has been specially formulated for oily skin works well to protect this skin type.

RELATED: Top 10 Best Cetaphil Skincare – Expert Reviews

#16 Original Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 50 Lotion from Sun Bum

This original SPF 50 sunscreen lotion from Sun Bum can function not just as a sun protection product but also as a moisturizer.

This non-comedogenic sunscreen delivers protection against both UVA and UVB rays and it is packed with Vitamin E to bring the best skincare benefits. This product has been created as a reef-friendly, water-resistant, and oil-free best sunscreen cream as a suitable remedy for all skin types.

Many users exclaimed that they really love the banana-like smell that this product produces. Many are satisfied with the protection it offers from the UV rays.

Benefits of Face Sunscreen

A face sunscreen or sunblock lotion effectively blocks and reflects harmful ultraviolet radiation to protect your skin. You should use the face sunscreen lotion throughout the year because it offers the following benefits. 

1. No need to worry about ultraviolet radiation anymore

Our planet’s ozone layer is constantly depleting and radiation from the sun is getting more and more harmful. It can severely affect your skin and cause serious health concerns, such as skin cancer. 

The face sunscreen lotion protects your skin against ultraviolet radiation. Since the sun’s warmth can be quite pleasing during the summer season, you should apply sunscreen before enjoying it. 

The sunscreen lotion will ensure your skin is well-protected and you get an ample amount of vitamin D to stay healthy. Try it daily so that you can freely move outside without an umbrella! 

2. No risk of premature ageing

Premature ageing has become a serious concern for many people. Nobody wants to look old and therefore people often spend money on anti-ageing products. Although those products are important, they won’t be quite effective if you don’t have the sunscreen lotion. 

The face sunscreen prevents sun damage and ensures your skin doesn’t develop signs of ageing. There won’t be fine lines and wrinkles on your face if you use sunscreen lotion daily. You can maintain a young-like appeal at least for 40 years if you protect your skin with this product. That’s why it is quite essential. 

3. Prevents blotchiness

Erupting red veins and blotchiness can severely affect your natural appeal. Intense sun rays can make your skin look weird because red spots develop all over the skin. Apply face sunscreen to ensure such imperfections do not appear on your face. Consider it an excellent solution for blotchiness. 

4. No more sunburns on your skin

Skin weakens due to sunburn and it gets prone to bruises and infection. Issues like swelling, hives, peeling and itching become common due to sun damage. The UVB rays are responsible for such issues and blisters might appear on your skin if you don’t apply any kind of protection. 

The risk of lethal melanoma increases due to frequent sunburn. It’s not an easily curable skin condition. Therefore, experts recommend the regular use of sunscreen lotion. This product prevents sunburn and allows you to spend hours in the sunlight. 

5. It significantly lowers the risk of skin cancer

Melanoma concerns many people because it’s a life-threatening condition. An affordable product like face sunscreen can be the best protection against such a health risk. Apply sunscreen daily and you will protect your skin against skin cancer. 

Although most buyers apply sunscreen only for beauty purposes, protection against skin cancer is an additional perk. You must try this solution, especially if you are in your 20s! 

6. It prevents tanning

Many people take sunbathe to tan their skin. Tanning is not bad for your health, but what if you just want to enjoy the warmth of the sun? What if you do not want to tan your skin? Cover your entire body with sunscreen to prevent tanning caused by the UVB rays. 

How to Choose the Best Face Sunscreen Lotion?

Face sunscreen is not just another beauty product. You are buying it to block harmful sun radiation and maintain smooth skin. So, assess the following factors before you buy that product. 

1. Assess Sun Protection Factor (SPF)

A face sunscreen does not block the UVB light completely. The SPF or Sun Protection Factor describes how much UVB light filters out. You should look for a product with an SPF of at least 30. It will be able to block up to 97% of UVB rays. 

Suppose your sunscreen has an SPF of 15, it will block about 93% of UVB rays. The American Dermatologist Association recommends that your sunscreen should have an SFP of 30 or higher. Thus, it will protect your skin perfectly against all the problems caused by sun radiation. 

Most people apply sunscreen lotion to the face and neck. Experts recommend applying sunscreen to all the exposed body parts. Your hands, neck, face, and other exposed areas should have sun protection. Thus, you can spend hours in the sunlight without worrying about sunburn and other skin conditions. 

Do not presume that the face sunscreen will completely prevent skin issues caused by sun radiation. It is still harmful to your skin and therefore prolonged sun exposure is not good for your skin! 

2. Choose a face sunscreen lotion according to your skin type

Just like your face serum, toner, and moisturizer, sunscreen is also formulated differently for different skin types. Remember, one product does not suit all! 

• If you have oily skin, you should buy a non-comedogenic face sunscreen lotion. It means the product will not block your pores and maintain a cleaner look. 
• Avoid non-comedogenic products if you got dry skin. You should buy a sunscreen containing ingredients, such as ceramides or hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin. You can also apply a moisturizer with an SPF of 30 or at least 15. 
• Users with sensitive skin should buy mineral or physical sunscreen. Physical sunscreen contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to create a protective layer over your skin. Its ingredients do not penetrate your skin to prevent skin infections. Users with normal skin can try a regular face sunscreen lotion for complete protection. 

3. How the product is formulated?

Different types of sunscreen products come with different delivery methods. This method can make the product feel and work differently. You will find three types of sunscreen formulations on the market, which are as follows:

• Sunscreen lotion

Being the most widely chosen product for sun protection, the Sunscreen lotion is like any other lotion. You get it in different size tubes to squeeze the lotion out and apply it around your face and body. 

This product is available for all skin types. You can protect the entire body with sunscreen lotion against UVB rays. It is pretty handy and easily available in any cosmetic store. Therefore, sunscreen lotion is quite popular. 

• Sunscreen spray

You do not need a sunscreen spray to protect facial skin. The lotion is perfect for this job, but the spray can be pretty handy to apply the lotion on hard to reach body parts. It works way better than lotion if you want to coat the skin under body hair. Consider it the best product for skin protection if you want to apply it without touching the skin. 

People often refer to it as aerosol sunscreen because some sprays do contain aerosol. Check product labelling carefully if you do not want an aerosol blended product. You will receive a better quality product to cover all body parts with the sunscreen formula. 

• Sunscreen stick

Some people do not like sunscreen spray because its tiny droplets easily get into skin pores and cause irritation. The Sunscreen Stick is a great solution for such users. You get the product in the form of a stick that you can rub over the skin to create a protective layer. 

It’s the most suitable sunscreen formulation for travelers. Whether you are going to enjoy sunbath at a beach, planning to swim, or going out hiking, carry the stick with you. The product won’t leak and last much longer than a typical sunscreen spray. 

4. Check the ingredients list before buying the product

Sunscreen products are formulated differently in different countries. Certain ingredients are approved in certain countries whereas banned in other countries. You should look for a product containing the following ingredients:

• Mexoryl SX: This ingredient is a popular choice because it can effectively block UVA1 rays and prevents the premature ageing problem. 
• Oxybenzone: It is an important ingredient in broad-spectrum sunscreen products. It can block UVA and UVB rays and your product may contain 6% or more of this ingredient. 
• Octinoxate: This ingredient can effectively absorb the UVB radiation to protect your skin cells from sun damage! 
• Avobenzone: This ingredient is also available in many sunscreen products because it blocks UVA radiation. 
• Titanium Dioxide: It is a broad-spectrum UV filter and popular dermatologists consider it quite essential for sun protection. Since it cannot filter UVA1 rays, it is often blended with other ingredients for effective results. 
• Zinc Oxide: It is useful for users with sensitive skin. This ingredient develops a protective layer to block harsh UV rays and prevent skin damage. You should not try a sunscreen spray if it contains Zinc Oxide. It might cause health issues due to inhaling or penetration! 

The above-listed ingredients are used only to block UV rays and protect the skin. Modern brands blend a variety of other ingredients to offer more benefits than simple protection against sun damage. Assess each ingredient carefully to know what type of product is perfect for your skin. 

5. Buy the sunscreen product after assessing the level of exposure

How long you will be out in the sunlight? Will you spend just a few minutes or more than 30 minutes? If you are going to spend more than 30 minutes, you should choose an SPF30 product. It will keep your skin safe against sun damage for hours.

Conclusion

Among the many considerations, you should consider SPF and suitability for your skin type as essential considerations when you wish to shop for the best sunscreen cream. From our review of the top options in the market, we have identified the following as the best for different skin types:

• Oily skin: Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60 from La Roche-Posay
• Dry Skin: Tinted Moisturizer Natural Skin Perfector SPF 30 from Laura Mercier
• Sensitive Skin: Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk from Shiseido

All these products are proven to be beneficial for each skin type from our review.