We've all asked it at least once: Is wearing sunscreen daily really necessary? The truth is — yes — sunscreen should be a regular step in your routine. Sunscreen delivers impactful sun protection and prevents premature signs of aging (fine lines, wrinkles), while also reducing the risk of skin cancer. That said, finding a sunscreen you’ll actually want to wear is oftentimes the most challenging feat.
We sought to find sunscreens that meet that criteria. And after weeks of testing over 60 sunscreens across various formulations (face, mineral, chemical), applications (sprays, powders), along with post-sun essentials, Shop TODAY editors narrowed down our winners for the first-ever Shop TODAY Sunscreen Awards. We scored all products on their coverage reliability, reapplication ease, wear compatibility (for skin type and tone), sensory experience, among other requirements. We also had a team of board-certified dermatologists review and give feedback to our list of winners.
In light of the launch, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shereene Idriss stopped by Studio 1A to showcase some of the winners that impressed our team of editors the most. What you can expect from the line-up: A 'sheer' SPF body spray, a soothing aftercare lotion and an SPF-infused powder foundation, to name a few.
Your search for the best sunscreen is finally over: Keep reading to discover the winners of the first annual Shop TODAY Sunscreen Awards.
Shop TODAY Sunscreen Award winners seen on TODAY
Best body sunscreen:
What our testers loved: On hot summer days, both kids and adults alike can find body sunscreens greasy, heavy and irritating.
But here's a body sunscreen so lightweight that our testers say they'd be open to applying on their face, too. Compared to some sunscreen body sprays we tried, our team experienced no drawbacks to Banana Boat's Sheer Sensitive Body Sunscreen. Our team gave it a near-perfect rating for many reasons: It's highly lightweight, dries down in just a minute, has zero white cast, causes no skin sensitivities and sprays evenly without missing a spot.
"While I don't have sensitive skin, I appreciate that this formula is alcohol free since the sun/chlorine/shaving tend to dry out my skin during the summer," says partnerships associate editor Lauren Witonsky. "It's also fragrance-free and only has the faintest sunscreen-like scent."
Best mineral sunscreen:
What our testers loved: This is a mineral SPF that soothes, moisturizes and leaves zero white cast.
Though mineral sunscreens generally don’t have many cons, one of their downsides is leaving a white or gray/ashy cast, especially on deeper skin tones. It’s one of the reasons editor Evan Siegel strays from these formulas, but during testing, this mineral SPF from SkinCeuticals left him surprised. “It blended into my skin easily, and it left no white cast,” he claimed.
Plus, the sunscreen comes with many other benefits outside of finish and protection: Per the brand, the formula promises visible anti-aging benefits and repairs post-procedure skin.
Best lightweight sunscreen:
What our testers loved: This milky formula turns transparent when blended to boost radiance and hydration.
Offering a hydrated shield of protection, the Milky Sunscreen from Tatcha is a luxury experience, from unveiling the pump to direct skin application. Though it comes out as a faint milky color, the formula blends quickly and transparently for a smooth base.
"I've been wearing it under makeup and have no issues with my makeup slipping throughout the day," raves social media editor Kara Quill, who adds that the formula feels "nice on my face" and "high end" with zero of the pinkish hue once rubbed in.
Best SPF powder foundation:
What our testers loved: This is a pressed powder with buildable coverage that glides on smoothly with a soft-matte finish.
One of the easiest ways to be consistent with your sunscreen application (and reapplication) is through makeup infused with SPF. This pressed powder foundation is talc-free with a mineral SPF 15 to leave a sheer-to-full coverage that adds radiance and protects.
It comes in 30 shades in cool, neutral and warm undertones to find your perfect match. However, our experts recommend an SPF 30 minimum, so to receive the most daily sun protection, be sure to apply a facial sunscreen before use.
Best scalp spray:
What our testers loved: This scalp spray uses a fine mist that coats the scalp without making strands feel or look greasy.
Our experts say that sunscreen should be applied anywhere skin is exposed, including the scalp. Rather than applying a thick wad of sunscreen to your scalp, this scalp spray ditches the chances of greasy strands with a fine mist that requires no rubbing to receive even protection. Just spray along your part, hairline and anywhere that has the risk of being burned — your face and neck included.
Best post-sun care:
What our testers loved: Soothes burns, redness and sensitivity overnight without increasing irritation.
We're guilty of admitting that we, too, forget to reapply our sunscreen. Which, in turn, can cause redness, sensitivity and burns, especially when combined with sweat and sand. Blue Lizard's After Sun Lotion cools sun-stressed skin with aloe to restore hydration levels and improve the appearance of redness.
"Everything I have ever tried, including aloe and other lotions, has burned my skin upon application," says editorial operations manager Jillian Ortiz. "This felt amazing. I got a small sunburn after sitting outside, put this on at night and then all of the redness was gone by the morning."
More Shop TODAY Sunscreen Awards winners to shop
Best tinted SPF for dark skin:
What our testers loved: Despite its smaller shade range, our testers say the shades perfectly complement medium to deep skin tones.
The brand says this tinted sunscreen delivers long-lasting protection, zero white cast and all-day hydration without a greasy feel. Former intern Jasmine Stewart said the shade match was a perfect pairing, helping to conceal dark spots and scars without entirely hiding her skin underneath.
Best SPF lip product:
What our testers loved: It leaves a hydrated sheen and tint (shade dependent) without the stickiness.
When it comes to lip care, we often think of curing chapped lips rather than preventing sunburn. But our previous coverage on the topic reports that excess sun exposure can irritate the lips and corners of the mouth with peeling, dryness, burns and more. As a solution, the viral Naturium Lip Balm provides optimal broad-spectrum protection with SPF 45, plus it leaves lips feeling soft and nourished with ingredients like shea butter and cupuaçu butter.
Best matte SPF stick:
What our testers loved: Requires zero effort to glide smoothly across corners and crevices on the face.
Some sunscreen sticks feel like a tug-of-war rather than a effortless glide. But our testers with normal to combination skin complemented this K-Beauty sunscreen stick's 'beyond easy' application. It goes on clear (which, our team also said doesn't cause any cast on darker complexions), absorbs shine and doesn't require your hands to blend.
Stewart-Jackson and editorial assistant Annie Shigo also said its naturally curved shape helps evenly cover "the cracks and corners of your face" with ease.
Best treatment-forward SPF moisturizer:
What our testers loved: A little goes a long way to instantly hydrate skin.
Producer Sofia Sellar claims you only need a small amount to tackle any dryness with this product. She also noted that its lightweight hydration didn't make her skin "feel like I put too much product on it" when layered with other skin care. Plus, the sunscreen's added benefits for sun damage, including evening skin tone and improving fine lines, make its title rightfully deserved.
Best glow-boosting sunscreen:
What our testers loved: Delivers an extra dose of glow without increasing shine or leaving a white cast.
The Medicube No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen received a near-perfect rating from our testers for meeting all of its claims. According to the brand, the sunscreens doubles as a moisturizer and SPF with a non-greasy glow and zero white cast.
"I was pleasantly surprised that this sunscreen managed to balance the line between leaving no white cast, being hydrating and being lightweight," says associate editor Kamari Stewart-Jackson. "It doesn't leave my skin feeling extra oily throughout the day, so I feel comfortable reapplying it, as well."
The editor also notes the "didn't leave any white cast behind on my husband who's a darker skin tone than me" and that he was "pleasantly surprised with how well it felt on his skin."
Best hydrating SPF stick:
What our testers loved: An SPF stick you'll want to throw in your everyday bag just for how it feels.
When you glide on Round Lab's Moisturizing Sun Stick, you'll instantly notice its cool, balm-like texture. Our testers compliment that it makes the sunscreen comfortable and refreshing to reapply throughout the day.
Best hydrating SPF moisturizer:
What our testers loved: Doesn't increase oiliness and dryness across multiple skin types.
Our team, with a range of oily to dry skin, found this moisture-packed sunscreen suitable for each of their skin types, without any deductions on dryness relief and overall finish. They used it as a morning moisturizer and primer for makeup, and experienced no greasiness no matter how it was layered.
Best SPF setting spray:
What our testers loved: This makeup setting spray is a quick hack to frequent sunscreen reapplication.
We're also guilty to admit that we don't always follow the sunscreen reapplication rule (which, is every two hours, might we add). But Coola's SPF Makeup Setting Mist extends your makeup life while protecting your skin with SPF.
"Whether you need a makeup setting spray or just want a new reapplication mist, this is my recommendation," suggests editor Vivien Moon. "From the scent to the lightweight mist, it really has it all, and I have been raving about it to anybody who will listen."
Best under-makeup SPF:
What our testers loved: When we had our team of dermatologists review our winners, each called out this lightweight and ultra-hydrating sunscreen from Isdin.
"This formulation is well known for its ultra-light texture that absorbs quickly without feeling greasy," mentions board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dara Spearman. "This increases the likelihood that my patients will consistently use it, especially my male patients. It also contains hyaluronic acid for extra hydration, despite the lightweight feel." Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sandra Oska says this makes "an excellent choice for those who want a no-fuss high compliance option."
Plus, Dr. Spearman adds that the sunscreen is the perfect base for makeup and "for reapplication when the skin is already wet, making it suitable for everyday wear, outdoor exercise or a beach day."
Best SPF primer:
What our testers loved: It leaves a smooth canvas for makeup, helping to boost wear and enhance glow.
Former intern Yanel Siqueiros claims the Supergoop! Dewscreen Primer convinced her to ditch her former everyday primer. "This primer is incredibly hydrating, goes on easily, and my makeup sits nicely right on top of it," she highlights. "This product seriously leaves my base looking so, so glowy and has truly been a game changer for my makeup routine."
Partnerships associate editor Erica Marrison even says the product "didn't pill under foundation" and instead, "went on smooth and even gave me a little extra glow."
Best SPF serum:
What our testers loved:
According to writer Emma Stessman, there's lots to like about La Roche-Posay's Athelios UV Air Serum SPF: "It's lightweight, which is major on the hottest of days, and it's easy to rub in so you can apply it on-the-go," she notes. "It kept my skin well-protected during a couple of particularly sunny days and during some hot outdoor runs."
Best sunscreen for acne-prone skin:
What our testers loved: Designed specifically for oily skin to simultaneously protect and treat skin.
For those with oily to acne-prone skin, finding a sunscreen that tackles inflammation without the greasy feel can be a challenge. EltaMD offers a solution, with an updated version of their bestselling UV Clear sunscreen, specifically for those with this skin type.
"This is a winner for patients who have oily or acne-prone skin who want a sunscreen that won’t clog pores, but will also work in the background to calm down inflammation and help fade acne marks," explains Dr. Oska. The hybrid sunscreen contains both chemical and physical UV filters, which, when formulated with niacinamide and Zinc-AOX Pro Technology, help "to reduce visible blemishes, excess oil and pore size while promoting clearer, healthier-looking skin," adds board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp.
Best high-performance tinted SPF:
What our testers loved: Goes on white, but quickly adjusts to your skin tone to even and conceal imperfections.
You have to 'trust the process' when you first apply Colorescience's tinted SPF. At first, the sunscreen dispenses out solid white. But once blended, the color immediately adjusts to your skin tone with a demi-matte finish.
"Throughout the day it maintains the same level of subtle — but not greasy — sheen that makes my skin look hydrated and healthy," compliments deputy managing editor Jess Bender.
Best full-complexion SPF foundation:
What our testers loved: This foundation has buildable coverage that treats, conceals and enhances glow.
We previously reviewed Hourglass Cosmetics' Illusion Luminous Glow Foundation when it first launched, and were quickly impressed by its coverage. For those searching for a one-and-done foundation, I [San Miguel] found this product highly buildable, moisturizing and long-wearing. I sometimes don't set my makeup when I use this, since it doesn't settle into creases, transfer or turn greasy after a few hours of wear. There's also sun protection and skin care benefits, so if you forget one step, this foundation tackles it all!
How does sunscreen work?
Sunscreen protects the skin from UV rays by using two formula types: Mineral- and chemical-formulas. "Mineral-based sunscreens are physical blockers with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which sit on top of the skin and reflect or scatter the UV rays away from the skin," explains Dr. Spearman. "Chemical based sunscreens absorbs UV rays and converts it to heat, which is then released from the skin instead of causing damage to the skin."
But for different parts of the body, you'll see formulas adjusted for ease of use. For instance, facial sunscreens depend on "the cosmetic elegance of the formulation," explains Dr. Oska, which can look like tinted, stick or powdered formulas. "For the body, the focus is typically on sunscreens that are more water- and sweat-resistant, and easy to spread over broader areas," she adds. Though you can apply these types of sunscreens on the scalp, too, dedicated formulas for this area can be easier to apply on the hairline or parts, and are often "friendlier formulation to avoid greasiness of the hair," the dermatologist says.
Key features to look for in a sunscreen
When shopping for a sunscreen, the best formulas prioritize protection, finish and wear. “A good sunscreen is one that you enjoy using, does not irritate your skin, doesn’t break the bank and motivates you to be consistent and diligent with reapplication,” says Dr. Camp. The most important features to look for in a sunscreen, according to our team of dermatologists, include:
- Broad spectrum protection: All of our experts emphasized that this is an essential feature to look out for in a sunscreen, as it "ensures coverage against both UVA and UVB rays," says Dr. Oska. UVB rays lead to reddening and sunburns, while UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and can cause long-term damage (premature aging, skin cancer), per the Skin Cancer Foundation.
- SPF rating: This number is different than broad spectrum protection. "The SPF number indicates how effective the sunscreen is for UVB rays only," explains Dr. Spearman. "Ideally, this should 30 or higher. Under 30, the sunscreen is much less effective and should be avoided."
- Water-resistance: If outdoor activity leads to sweating, or during outdoor water play, sunscreen should also be water-resistant.
- Cosmetic benefits: "Cosmetic elegance should not be underestimated, as a well-formulated sunscreen is more likely to be used consistently," suggests Dr. Oska. As an example, the dermatologist explains that tinted formulas can be beneficial for those with darker skin tones prone to hyperpigmentation, "as they provide added protection against visible light."
- Price point: A sunscreen that works effectively, is easy to use and meets your cosmetic needs is only worth while if it also meets your price point. Choose a sunscreen that doesn't break the bank, but also meets all of the criteria above.
Frequently asked questions
Shop TODAY’s inaugural Sunscreen Awards spotlights the best sunscreens across various product categories, based on hands-on testing and expert input. The awards are designed to highlight top-performing formulas that deliver reliable sun protection while meeting different skin needs and preferences.
We tested a wide range of sunscreens and SPF products, including face and body formulas, sprays, sticks, tinted options, lip products and scalp products. The selection spans both mineral and chemical sunscreens, as well as products tailored for specific concerns like acne-prone skin, darker skin tones and everyday wear.
Products were evaluated over time for key factors like broad-spectrum protection, blendability, finish and overall feel on the skin, including how they layer with makeup or other products. Category-specific testing also played a role, like assessing even application for sprays or reapplication performance for sticks, to ensure each product performs well in real-life use.
A sunscreen’s finish, active ingredients and overall feel and play a role in how you choose a sunscreen for your skin type. That includes:
Oily skin: For those with oily to acne-prone skin, our experts recommend lightweight, oil-free formulas. You can also look for key words like ‘non-comedogenic’ if you have considers of pores or breakouts.
Dry skin: “Dry skin should look for more hydrating sunscreens with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, typically these are a bit heavier,” recommends Spearman.
Sensitive skin: “If you have more sensitive skin, consider using a physical sunscreen,” suggests Camp, also known as sunblock or a mineral sunscreen. “The active ingredients in sunblock (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) are generally thought to have less potential for skin irritation, making them a good choice for those with sensitive skin.”
Dark skin tones: “Because products with titanium and zinc sit on the skin surface and are not absorbed, they are more likely to leave behind a visible whitish residue,” Camp explains, so deeper skin tones may want to look out for these actives before purchasing. “Some products promote the use of smaller ‘micronized’ particles to reduce the appearance of sunblock on the skin. This is important for some people to consider if they are turned off by products that may cause the appearance of a white cast on the skin,” the dermatologist adds.
There are two types of sunscreen: Mineral and chemical. Though both offer sun protection, they work slightly differently based on their active ingredients and mechanisms.
“Mineral sunscreens use active ingredients, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, to reflect and scatter UV rays from the skin’s surface. They are a preferable choice for sensitive or inflamed skin,” explains Oska. “Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat; they tend to be more blendable, making them a popular choice for daily wear,” she adds, and use avobenzone, homosalate or oxybenzone as its active ingredients.
“The PA+ rating system, commonly used in Asian sunscreens, refers specifically to UVA protection,” explains Oska. “A higher number of plus signs indicate greater protection, with PA+ offering some UVA protection and PA++++ indicating very high protection. Damage from UVA rays contributes significantly to photoaging and skin cancer risk.”
Thus, this is different than SPF rating, which “refers to protection from UVB rays,” notes Camp.
“Ideally, sunscreen should be applied every 90 mins to two hours, sooner if there is a high risk of it being removed from the skin (sweating or swimming),” emphasizes Spearman. “Remember out of sight areas, like your scalp, back of the neck and tops of the ears/feet, as they tend to burn easily and get exposed to direct sunlight for longer periods of time.”
If your skin starts to become red, sunscreen should be applied sooner to avoid sunburn. “I like to remind patients that as soon as the skin becomes red, damage has been done,” Spearman adds. “This would also be a good time to remove oneself from direct sunlight and seek shade.”
Meet the experts
Our team features a range of qualified experts and contributors in our broadcast segments to reveal the latest in trends, remarkable sale events and all things shopping across a variety of categories. Products were independently chosen by members of the Shop TODAY team and a team of board-certified dermatologists, particularly Dr. Shereene Idriss.
- Dr. Shereene Idriss is a board-certified dermatologist, facial rejuvenation expert and founder of Idriss Dermatology and Dr. Idriss Skin Care.
- Dr. Sandra Oska is a board-certified dermatologist at Dermatology Institute & Skin Cancer Center.
- Dr. Brendan Camp is a double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology.
- Dr. Dara Spearman is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Radiant Dermatology Associates.
- Shop TODAY is a team of shopping editors and writers who spend hours every day finding the best new products, tried-and-true favorites and more finds available on Amazon that are worth shopping, according to our high standards.
What our badge means
The Shop TODAY editors and writers interview expert sources, try newly launched products and search the internet to find the best products out there. Based on personal experiences and expert recommendations, we aim to make shopping easier for our readers. With our rigorous methodology created to ensure every product is reviewed the same way, we stand by everything we recommend across our broadcast, digital and social platforms.
How we chose the winners
The Shop TODAY editorial team sorted through a list of 155 products including new launches, editor recommendations, trending products flooding our social media feeds and tried-and-true classics to curate a list of must-have SPF products worth reviewing for our inaugural Sunscreen Awards. We then tested 60 products total over the course of up to three months. Winners were selected based on testing performance, strong broad-spectrum protection and a comfortable, wearable finish. Final selections also considered usability, standout features within each category and recommendations from testers and experts to determine which products truly exceeded expectations.
As an editorial team, we independently create content and determine coverage based on research, reporting and what we think TODAY.com readers would like to read about. The goal of our content is to provide a service and inform readers who are on the hunt for the latest products to help make their life better. Items are sold by retailer, not TODAY. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time. Learn more about Shop TODAY.
