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9 Best New Face Sunscreens to Use This Summer and Beyond, Tested and Approved by Cosmo Beauty Editors
Not only do these formulas provide ample sun protection, they feel amazing on the skin too.
As Cosmopolitan’s beauty director, it is my duty to remind you that sunscreen is, hands down, the most important step in your skincare routine. That’s true year-round, but it becomes especially crucial in the summer months when the UV index is at its highest. (Another refresher: Exposure to UV rays is the primary cause of skin cancer. It also leads to signs of premature aging like dark spots and wrinkles.)
I also know that, historically, sunscreen hasn’t been the most exciting or aesthetically pleasing product to use, especially on your face. But the latest launches are changing that narrative, making applying—and reapplying—SPF feel more enjoyable and less like smearing on goo. Below, you’ll find lotions and gels that blend seamlessly into any skin tone, a light-reflecting pick that doubles as a primer, and a cute little stick for on-the-go moments. Add one or all to your summer beauty lineup—I promise your future face will thank you.
Ready to dive in? Behold the 9 best sunscreens for your face in 2026, according to my fellow Cosmo beauty editors and me.
Best Deal
EltaMD UV Clear Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50
EltaMD UV Clear Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50
Pros
- Loved by virtually every dermatologist we've ever spoken to
- Suitable for sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin
Cons
- Unlike the original UV Clear, this doesn't come in any tinted versions
Why we love it: This sunscreen isn’t just considered safe for acne-prone skin; it’s made for acne-prone skin, so in addition to protecting skin from UV damage, it helps treat and prevent breakouts. In clinical studies, when used as a part of a gentle daily skincare routine for 12 weeks, UV Clear Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing was proven to reduce acne by 65 percent, visible oil and shine by 61 percent, and pore size by 25 percent—all impressive claims for an SPF.
Cosmo editor review: “I’ve used the original UV Clear for nearly a decade, so my expectations were high—especially because I’ve been dealing with more hormonal breakouts lately. After six weeks of daily use (with no other routine changes), my skin genuinely looks clearer and brighter. I’ve had fewer inflamed breakouts along my jawline, and my post-acne marks from old breakouts have faded, too.” —LAUREN BALSAMO, BEAUTY DIRECTOR
Features at a Glance
| Protection level | SPF 50 |
| SPF type | Hybrid |
| Key ingredients | Niacinamide, ZincAOXPro (blend of antioxidants and zinc oxide |
Ciele Prime & Protect SFP 30 Radiate
Ciele Prime & Protect SFP 30 Radiate
Pros
- Zero white cast
- Helps create a smooth base for longer-lasting makeup
- Comes in two sheer, glow-boosting shades
Cons
- Some testers it has a slight orange tone on super pale skin
Why we love it: We love makeup that does more, and this face primer from Ciele has all the hydration and protection benefits we could ask for in a multitasking formula. You can wear it on its own for a smoothing, glow-boosting effect, or use the makeup-gripping SPF under your fave makeup products for extended wear and ample sun protection.
Cosmo editor review: “I'm obsessed with the entire Ciele range (all of their makeup products contain mineral SPF)—especially this new glowy version of their SPF 30 primer. It goes on so easily (no white cast) and makes whatever face makeup I apply on top look super smooth and glowy." —LB
Features at a Glance
| Protection level | SPF 30 |
| SPF type | Mineral |
| Key ingredients | Vitamin E |
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Invisible Gel Face Sunscreen SPF 40
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Invisible Gel Face Sunscreen SPF 40
Pros
- Water resistant (so good for beach and pool days)
- Gel-like texture doubles as a primer
Cons
- Matte finish may not mesh well with dewy makeup
Why we love it: When you have oily skin, the last thing you want is a sunscreen that's gonna make your face feel extra greasy. Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer gel formula is a lightweight, oil-free sunscreen designed for oily skin types. It dries down to a matte finish and helps absorb excess sebum throughout the day.
Cosmo editor review: "I normally hate the feeling of silicone-based primers, especially sunscreens, because they make my face feel tight and dry (even though I have very oily skin). But this one from Neutrogena manages to be both lightly mattifying and hydrating. I wore it in the desert amid the Coachella heat and dust, and my makeup didn’t pill, and my face didn’t burn. Win." —BETH GILLETTE, BEAUTY EDITOR
Features at a Glance
| Protection level | SPF 40 |
| Sunscreen type | Chemical |
| Key ingredients | Vitamin E |
Tatcha The Milky Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50+
Tatcha The Milky Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50+
Pros
- Helps reduces redness and dryness
- Layers well under makeup
Cons
- Some testers say the watery texture can be difficult to apply
Why we love it: Even though it contains SPF 50, this lotion feels more like a hydrating serum or milky essence that soaks into the skin with ease, making it ideal for dry skin or simply anyone who hates the feel of traditional sunscreens. It’s got ectoin, aloe, and vitamin E infused into the formula so it soothes, protects, and hydrates the skin as you wear it.
Cosmo editor review: “Never in my life has a sunscreen blended into my dry skin as seamlessly as this SPF. I wore it on repeat in Florida while swimming and exercising, and it didn’t leave behind a white finish when mixed with water or sweat. And since it absorbs into the skin so nicely, it works just like a hydrating primer underneath any level of makeup.” —JASMINE HYMAN, ASSISTANT BEAUTY EDITOR
Features at a Glance
| Protection level | SPF 50 |
| Sunscreen type | Chemical |
| Key ingredients | Aloe, ectoin, vitamin E |
ILIA Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
ILIA Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Pros
- Provides 8-hour oil control while still being hydrating
- Made with clean, all-natural ingredients
Cons
- While tinted, it doesn't provide any meaningful coverage
Why we love it: If you’re looking for a lightweight mineral sunscreen that’s made with clean ingredients and leaves skin with a natural-looking finish, Ilia’s new Sun Serum is your girl. It comes in two ultra-sheer shades (light/medium and medium/deep) that cancel out any white cast and give skin a more even-toned look.
Cosmo editor review: “I love the idea of Ilia’s iconic Super Serum skin tint, but it’s just too dewy for my combo skin. This new SPF from Ilia has the perfect finish, though. While the coverage is just a sheer hint of tint, the way it makes my skin look smooth and velvety all day long is simply amazing.” —LB
Features at a Glance
| Protection level | SPF 50 |
| Sunscreen type | Mineral |
| Key ingredients | Hyaluronic acid, echinacea extract |
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Air Daily Supercharged Serum Sunscreen SPF 50
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Air Daily Supercharged Serum Sunscreen SPF 50
Pros
- Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free
- Provides all-day hydration and antioxidant protection
Cons
- Some testers say it has a "sunscreen-y smell"
Why we love it: Thanks to this light-as-air formula, there’s no excuse for skipping sunscreen because it’s “too heavy” or “too greasy”. The serum-like texture soaks into skin in seconds, leaving behind zero greasy film or residue. It’s also got antioxidants to better protect skin from environmental pollutants that contribute to inflammation and premature skin aging.
Cosmo editor review: “La Roche-Posay does sunscreen so well, I would blindly test and probably love just about any formula they dropped. But this one really impressed me—so much so, it was the only SPF I wore for four days in Miami and at the Miami Open. It's a serum, not a cream, so it glides on skin effortlessly without feeling sticky or goopy on skin. It also doesn't pill, making it fantastic to wear under makeup. ” —BG
Features at a Glance
| Protection level | SPF 50 |
| Sunscreen type | Chemical |
| Key ingredients | Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide |
SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense SPF 50
SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense SPF 50
Pros
- Blends to a clear, non-greasy finish
- Helps smooth fine lines and improve skin tone with continued use
- Barrier-friendly ingredients help soothe inflammation.
Cons
- Expensive as far as sunscreens go (especially for the size of the bottle)
Why we love it: Even though it’s made with 15 percent zinc oxide, this new SPF from Skinceuticals has no white cast. Like literally, none. It’s also shockingly lightweight and non-greasy, too. And thanks to the zinc oxide (which is naturally anti-inflammatory) and barrier-repairing ingredients, the formula is suitable for even the most sensitive skin types.
Cosmo editor review: “So many mineral sunscreens promise no white cast, but unless they’re tinted they don’t deliver. This is the exception. With minimal blending, it goes on with zero whiteness on a range of skin tones. I brought this to a bachelorette party a few weekends ago, and all eight girls on the trip loved how it looked and felt on their skin on our boat day.” —LB
Feature at a Glance
| Protection level | SPF 50 |
| SPF type | Mineral |
| Key ingredients | Niacinamide, panthenol, cellulose, beta glucan |
Bubble Sun Rise Mineral Sunscreen Stick Broad Spectrum SPF 40
Bubble Sun Rise Mineral Sunscreen Stick Broad Spectrum SPF 40
Pros
- Glides onto skin easily (even hard to reach places)
- Gentle formula is suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Has a bit of white cast, so you'll need to blend it well upon application
Why we love it: A “swipe and go" kinda product that lets me live my life without fuss, which is why I'm a firm believer in this sunscreen stick from Bubble. It glides on skin so easily straight from the tube, but still feels really gentle and lightweight on my skin. It’s also incredibly nourishing, thanks to plant oils, squalane, and aloe leaf juice.
Cosmo editor review: “I’m keeping this cute little stick for on-the-go touchups in my bag all summer long. It works great on both face and body, and even though it’s ultra-moisturzing, it doesn’t make my skin feel greasy or slick.” —LB
Features at a Glance
| Protection level | SPF 40 |
| Sunscreen type | Mineral |
| Key ingredients | Sunflower seed wax, shea butter, argan oil, meadowfoam seed oil |
Dr. Idriss Major Fade Disco Block Discoloration Treatment SPF 50
Dr. Idriss Major Fade Disco Block Discoloration Treatment SPF 50
Pros
- Has a subtle illuminating effect to instantly reverse dullness
- Formula is non-pilling and layers nicely under makeup
Cons
- Some testers say it makes their eyes burn
Why we love it: Skipping sunscreen is the fastest way to a face full of hyperpigmentation, whether it be sun spots or melasma, since UV exposure sends pigment-making cells into overdrive. Luckily, this formula feels like a dream to wear—and it’s got hexylresorcinol to help lighten existing dark spots too.
Cosmo editor review: “I’ve been recommending this sunscreen to all of my friends complaining about their dark spots. Not only is SPF critical for preventing more discoloration, but this one actively fades it with brightening ingredients and antioxidants. Plus, it has a nice glowy finish that makes skin look instantly more luminous.” —LB
Features at a Glance
| Protection level | SPF 50 |
| Sunscreen type | Chemical |
| Key ingredients | Hexylresorcinol, ceramides, glycerin |
What type of face sunscreen is best?
The best type of sunscreen for your face is one that you will use every single day—no ifs, ands, or buts. The most important thing to remember is that you should always choose an SPF of 30 or higher (anything below that won't protect much) and make sure the formula protects against UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are the ones that are responsible for sunburn, as well as causing skin cancer. UVA, on the other hand, penetrates deeper into your skin, which can cause photo-aging (aka fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots, and sagging skin—no, thank you).
Do you put sunscreen on before or after moisturizer?
Usually, you should apply sunscreen after your moisturizer as the final step of your skincare routine in the morning. This is important so that your SPF creates a barrier on your skin and isn’t diluted by any skincare you layer on top. Powders, sunscreen sticks, and sunscreen sprays should all be applied after moisturizer as well.
How to choose the best sunscreen for you:
Assess your goals.
Do you want a sunscreen you can apply every single day without fail, or already have a favorite and just want a stick or powder to touch up? The best sunscreen for you rn will be totally based on your needs and goals. But as a rule, always opt for an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen every single day as the last step of your skincare routine, and reapply throughout the day (whether that's with a stick, powder, or your usual go-to morning SPF).
Decide on mineral versus chemical.
Ah, the age-old question: Chemical versus mineral sunscreens. Really, there's no correct answer on which is better; it comes down to personal preference. Lemme explain the difference: Chemical sunscreens feature active chemical filters (like homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene) that actually absorb the sun’s rays, convert them into heat, and then release them from your skin.
Mineral sunscreens, however, use mineral filters (like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) that create a physical barrier between your skin and the sun's rays. For this reason, these formulas tend to be richer in consistency, taking longer to rub in and leaving a white residue on your skin behind.
FWIW, dermatologists tend to prioritize mineral sunscreen for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types, as they tend to be gentler (dermatologists Ava Shamban, MD, and Jeannette Graf, MD, previously recommended these because zinc oxide and titanium dioxide can be a little oil absorbing; however, they're also a bit heavier on your skin, too, of course). But if you have a deep skin tone, it can be pretty difficult to make mineral sunscreens blend into your skin without looking ashy.
If you like a super lightweight formula that blends easily and has no white cast, you should probably go for a chemical sunscreen. But if you're into clean beauty or have ultra-sensitive skin, try a mineral formula. I included a mix of options above for every type and need.
Consider your skin type.
As with the rest of your skincare routine, the best sunscreen for you is totally dependent on your skin type. Some so many potential finishes and ingredients could help moisturize and plump your skin, or potentially make you a greasy mess. As a guideline, opt for hydrating formulas if you have dry skin with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, and glycerin, plus sealing oils that lock it all in and give your skin a glow. But if your skin leans oily, choose mattifying sunscreens—like invisible gels or powders—that feature smoothing and blurring dimethicone to help curb shine throughout the day.
Meet the experts:
Ava Shamban, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles, CA. She’s the founder of Ava MD where she treats acne, skin cancer, fine lines and wrinkles, and more. Cosmo has interviewed her about sunscreen for oily skin before.Jeannette Graf, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of Dermatology at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine. She was previously interviewed about sunscreen for oily skin.
Why trust Cosmopolitan?
Lauren Balsamo is the beauty director at Cosmopolitan, with more than 13 years of experience researching, writing, and editing beauty stories ranging from the best skincare routine for your 30s to a comprehensive roundup of the best drugstore skincare brands. She regularly tests and analyzes new sunscreens while working with the industry’s top experts to assess new brands, trends, and technologies.
Lauren Balsamo is the beauty director at Cosmopolitan where she writes, edits, and produces all types of beauty content—from product reviews to personal essays and trend reports. She has covered beauty for more than a decade at Cosmopolitan. Follow her on Instagram.
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