Discover the best formulas to see you through the day – whether your skin is oily, dry or everything in between. A daily broad-spectrum SPF may be the last step in your skin routine, but it is undoubtedly the most important. With the power to ward off sunburn, premature aging, and the menacing specter of skin cancer, it emerges as an indispensable ally in preserving a youthful and flawless visage. However, as with all skincare, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s important to choose a sunscreen that suits your skin type to avoid other issues from flaring up. In the realm of sun protection, any good SPF provides essential broad-spectrum protection, but a true gem shine with supercharged skincare benefits, lightweight textures, and flattering tints making them the ultimate must-haves. Here, the Ounass beauty team reveals the absolute best sunscreens for your skin type.
SHOP NOWFor Oily Skin
Using regular sunscreen on oily skin can make the skin feel greasy and contribute to breakouts. However, chemical filters are typically drier than mineral or physical sunscreens, making the former a better choice if you have oily skin. They also tend to have a thinner consistency and therefore sit better under makeup, work within the skin and absorb rays like a sponge. Try lightweight formulas from Kiehl's, Dermalogica and Clinique that double up as skincare with their active complexes.
For Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin requires meticulous attention when it comes to sunscreen selection. Opting for mineral sunscreens fortified with titanium dioxide or zinc proves to be a wise choice, as they are celebrated for their non-irritating properties. For instance, we love La Mer’s Broad-Spectrum SPF infused with the goodness of Miracle Broth™ – a powerful yet soothing formula that helps boost skin’s natural powers of renewal.
For Melanated Skin
Melanated or darker skin requires tailored sunscreen solutions due to its unique sun protection needs. While more melanin provides some natural defense against UV rays, sunscreen remains crucial for preventing skin cancer. Thankfully, the latest SPF launches offer effective protection without any ashy, white cast, such as these tinted ranges by Clinique and Laura Mercier which are excellent for everyday use.
For Acne-prone Skin
When it comes to acne-prone skin, lighter and non-comedogenic lotions reign supreme, as they prevent pore-clogging and unwanted breakouts. Thicker products are a no-go, as they can exacerbate flare-ups and hinder your journey to flawless skin. Embrace the power of niacinamide, a star ingredient known for its redness-reducing properties, to soothe and calm your complexion. We love a formula that multi-tasks, like Sensai’s cellular protective cream SPF that protects and heals.
For Dry Skin
Look to formulas with hydrating ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides to retain moisture and promote a plump, healthy complexion. We love the SPF 50 Drops by Rodial for its silky, weightless texture and formula rich in antioxidants and humectants for that added boost of moisture.