Every summer, a whole new crop of sunscreens enters the beauty scene, and this year's class can't be matched. From innovative textures and finishes to skin-friendly ingredients, these formulas not only keep skin protected, but also nourished. Below, our favorite new sunscreens for every skin type and concern, head to toe, as well as top SPF tips from leading dermatologists.
Featured Experts
- Dr. Deborah Longwill is a board-certified dermatologist in Miami
- Elaine Kung, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York
- Marisa Garshick, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York
Our Favorite New Body Sunscreens
The Best New Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Concern
If You Enjoy Outdoor Activities…
“Choose sweat-resistant and water-resistant sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher,” says New York dermatologist Elaine Kung, MD. “Reapply every two hours, or immediately after water activities or heavy perspiration.” La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Pro Sport SPF 50 ($33) offers 80-minute water-resistance and stays put when you break a sweat.
If You Prefer a Spray…
Look for one with an ultra-fine mist that contains skin-care actives, like Isle of Paradise Daily Defense Sunscreen Body Mist SPF 50 ($26), so it will blend in nicely and won’t be drying. “Always rub it in after you spray it on to ensure even coverage, which is something many people forget,” says New York dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD.
If You Prefer a Mineral-Based Lotion…
Opt for a broad-spectrum formula that rubs in without a greasy feel or white cast, so you’ll actually be inclined to use it. Native Tropical Breeze Body Sunscreen SPF 30 ($24.50) is supercharged with 20-percent zinc oxide, blends in well, is safe for sensitive skin and smells like vacation.
If You Want a Shimmery Glow…
Try a sunscreen-infused body oil that will leave your skin glistening, but not greasy, like the beachy-scented LUX UNFILTERED N°30 High Gloss SPF Oil ($44). “SPF body oils can provide a luxurious feel, but ensuring sufficient application for the stated SPF is vital, so apply them liberally,” says Dr. Kung.
Our Favorite New Face Sunscreens
The Best New Sunscreens for Every Skin Type and Concern
If Your Skin Is Dry…
“Try a hydrating cream or lotion that pairs UV protection with ingredients like squalane, hyaluronic acid and/or ceramides,” says Miami dermatologist Dr. Deborah Longwill. We like Aussie-founded Ultra Violette Supreme Screen SPF 50 ($36), which blends in like a dream and keeps skin hydrated for up to 72 hours.
If You Have Sensitive Skin…
“Choose sunscreens that are fragrance- free, alcohol-free and formulated with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are the gentlest options,” says Dr. Kung. Tower 28’s SOS FaceGuard Broad Spectrum SPF 30 ($32) is designed specifically for sensitive skin and boasts three medical seals of approval: eczema, rosacea and psoriasis.
If Your Skin Is Oily and/or Acne-Prone…
You may be inclined to avoid sunscreen for fear that it will make things worse, but skipping SPF is not worth the risk. Look for one that’s lightweight (perhaps a gel), nongreasy and non-acnegenic, like Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50 ($38), which was recently reformulated with a higher SPF, but maintains the same invisible finish fans love.
If You’re Concerned With Dark Spots…
Dr. Garshick recommends formulas with brightening ingredients and antioxidants to combat dark spot–inducing free-radical damage. K-beauty brand Goodal’s Green Tangerine VITA-C Dark Spot UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50 ($23) contains antioxidants vitamins C and E and niacinamide, plus green tangerine extract, which has potent brightening properties.
If You’re Concerned With Redness…
Give green sunscreen a go. Though the concept may sound a little funky, green cancels out red in color theory (like color-correctors in makeup). Mineral-based EltaMD UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting Green Tint SPF 50 ($52) is great for those prone to sensitivities, especially rosacea, and post-procedure skin
If You Prefer a Tinted Sunscreen…
MERIT The Uniform Tinted Mineral SPF 45 ($38) comes in 15 ultra-sheer shades for a “your skin but better” finish. Dr. Garshick suggests using the two finger–length rule to ensure you’re applying enough. “You can layer makeup over tinted sunscreen or wear it alone, using a buildable formula to get more coverage,” she says.
If You Like a Sunscreen Stick…
We like TULA Skincare Protect + Go Dewy Glow Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 ($29), which glides on clear and gives skin an instant glow. “Sticks provide mess-free, targeted application for areas like the lips, nose, ears, neck and scalp,” Dr. Kung says, noting to apply them generously. “They are particularly excellent for children and athletes.”
If You Wear Sunscreen and Makeup…
Try Laura Geller Beauty’s Spackle Skin Perfecting Primer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 ($38), which combines the brand’s cult-classic makeup-prep step with a hybrid sunscreen. Dr. Longwill says, “SPF primers are a great way to streamline your routine, but it’s important to make sure you’re applying enough product to get the full sun protection listed on the label.”
If You Prefer a Powder Sunscreen…
Éminence Organic Skin Care’s newly reformulated Sun Defense Minerals ($58) shields skin from both UV damage and blue light. It offers SPF 30 protection and a silky-matte finish, and it comes in six shades. “Applied with a brush, this type of powder sunscreen is ideal for touch-ups over makeup, as well as individuals with oily skin,” says Dr. Kung
