Sunscreen is one of the most important steps in any skincare routine—and it’s not just for summer. Daily SPF use helps protect your skin from sunburn, premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer. In fact, sun exposure is responsible for nearly 90% of visible signs of extrinsic aging.
The best sunscreen is ultimately the one you’ll use every single day. That said, choosing a formula that aligns with your skin type, lifestyle, and preferences will make consistent use much easier—and far more effective.
Below, we’ll walk you through:
What to look for in a sunscreen
How to choose SPF based on your skin type
Our expert-curated sunscreen recommendations
Why Daily Sun Protection Matters
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation contributes to:
Premature aging (fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity)
Hyperpigmentation and melasma
Sunburn and inflammation
Increased risk of skin cancer
Beyond sunscreen, you can further protect your skin by:
Layering antioxidants under SPF
Wearing hats and protective clothing
Limiting prolonged sun exposure during peak hours
Quick Guidelines for Choosing the Best Sunscreen
Choose a sunscreen formulated for your skin type
Look for broad-spectrum protection (UVA + UVB)
Opt for mineral sunscreen if you’re prone to melasma or heat-induced pigmentation
Consider your activity level and whether water resistance is needed
Most importantly: choose an SPF you enjoy wearing
Pro Tip: After applying a layer of sunscreen try mixing sunscreen with your foundation for sheer coverage and a naturally radiant finish.
How to Identify Your Skin Type
To determine your skin type:
Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser
Pat dry and apply no products
Observe your skin after 30–60 minutes
Dry: Feels tight or flaky
Oily: Noticeable shine, especially in the T-zone
Combination: Oily in some areas, dry in others
Sensitive: Easily irritated, red, or reactive
Best Sunscreen for Dry Skin
Dry skin benefits from sunscreens that double as moisturizers. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, and antioxidants.
Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin
Oily and combination skin types should look for lightweight, non-occlusive, oil-absorbing formulas that won’t clog pores.
Best Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin or Redness
Sensitive or redness-prone skin needs gentle, anti-inflammatory formulas free from common irritants. Always patch test when trying a new product.
Best Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin
If you’re acne-prone, sunscreen is non-negotiable—especially if you’re using active treatments that increase sun sensitivity. Look for non-comedogenic, calming formulas.
Best Sunscreen for Medium-Dark Skin Tones
Many mineral sunscreens leave a white cast on deeper skin tones. These formulas were carefully selected for their blendability and inclusive finish.
Best Tinted Sunscreens for an Even, Glowing Complexion
If you love a little coverage with your sun protection, tinted sunscreens are the perfect multitaskers. These formulas help even skin tone, enhance radiance, and deliver a healthy glow—all while protecting your skin from harmful UV rays.
Tinted SPFs are especially great for:
No-makeup or minimal-makeup days
Softly blurring redness and discoloration
Adding visible light protection for hyperpigmentation-prone skin
Achieving a polished, natural finish without foundation
Best Sunscreen for Touch-Ups During the Day
Reapplying sunscreen throughout the day is essential for maintaining protection—but let’s be honest, it’s not always easy. That’s where Colorescience shines. Their brush-on mineral SPFs make reapplication quick, mess-free, and makeup-friendly, so there’s no excuse to skip it.
Brush-on sunscreens are ideal for:
Easy SPF reapplication over makeup
On-the-go touch-ups at work, school, or while traveling
Controlling shine while protecting the skin
Sensitive and post-procedure skin
Final Thoughts
Daily sunscreen use is one of the most powerful investments you can make in your skin’s long-term health. With the right SPF tailored to your skin type and lifestyle, sun protection can feel effortless—and even enjoyable.
If you’re unsure which sunscreen is best for you, our expert estheticians are always here to help guide you toward the perfect match.
Don’t forget: Apply generously and reapply as needed before heading out the door!
Sunscreen FAQs: Expert Answers
Do I really need to wear sunscreen every day?
Yes. Sunscreen should be worn daily, year-round, even on cloudy days or when you’re indoors. UVA rays penetrate windows and are a major contributor to premature aging, collagen breakdown, and hyperpigmentation.
What SPF should I use on my face?
For daily use, choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. If you spend extended time outdoors, opt for SPF 40–50+ and reapply every two hours.
Is mineral sunscreen better than chemical sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) sits on top of the skin and reflects UV rays, making it ideal for sensitive skin, melasma, rosacea, and post-procedure skin. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and can feel lighter, but may irritate reactive skin types.
Can sunscreen cause breakouts?
Sunscreen itself doesn’t cause acne—but the wrong formula can. Acne-prone skin should choose non-comedogenic, acne-safe sunscreens that avoid pore-clogging ingredients and heavy occlusives.
How much sunscreen should I apply to my face?
Use approximately ½ teaspoon for the face and neck combined, or the two-finger rule (a line of sunscreen down two fingers). Applying too little significantly reduces protection.
Should I wear sunscreen if my makeup has SPF?
Makeup with SPF can help, but it’s not enough on its own. You would need to apply far more makeup than most people wear to achieve full protection. Always apply a dedicated sunscreen first.
How often should I reapply sunscreen?
Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors, and immediately after swimming or sweating. Powder or spray SPF options are great for touch-ups over makeup.
Can I mix sunscreen with my moisturizer or foundation?
You can mix sunscreen with foundation for sheer coverage, but avoid mixing it with moisturizer before application, as this can dilute SPF protection. Apply sunscreen as a standalone step first for best results.
Is tinted sunscreen better than non-tinted?
Tinted sunscreens offer added protection against visible light, which can worsen hyperpigmentation—especially in medium to deep skin tones. They’re a great option for anyone prone to melasma or discoloration.
What’s the best sunscreen for sensitive skin?
Sensitive skin types should choose fragrance-free, mineral-based sunscreens with calming ingredients like antioxidants and anti-inflammatories. Always patch test when trying a new SPF.
What if I’m still unsure which sunscreen is right for me?
That’s where we come in. Art of Skin Care offers expert-guided skincare recommendations to help you find the best sunscreen for your skin type, concerns, and lifestyle.
Author
Celine LeClerc
Celine LeClerc is a licensed esthetician, Certified Acne Specialist, and the lead esthetician at Art of Skin Care, where she also serves as the Director of Education and Research & Development. With 14 years of experience in the skincare industry, Celine is renowned for her deep expertise and exceptional ability to match clients with the most effective, results-driven skincare solutions.
Guided by a passion for innovation, Celine scours the globe in search of cutting-edge, science-backed products that deliver visible transformations while supporting skin health at every stage of life. Her expertise spans everything from clearing stubborn acne to creating advanced, holistic routines for healthy aging.
At Art of Skin Care, Celine leads with a commitment to education, training both clients and estheticians on the latest advancements in skincare. Her mission is to empower individuals with the knowledge, tools, and routines they need to achieve radiant, resilient skin without compromise.
