Consider technology-based or micro-sized formulas. Many people, especially those with darker skin tones, are turned off by the white cast that some mineral sunscreens leave behind. However, there’s a method you can use to gauge a sunscreen’s blending ability. Under a sunscreen’s formula, look for words like “technology” or “micro-sized,” Dr. David says. They mean the ingredients have been turned into “ultra-fine nanoparticles that make the sunscreen less opaque but are just as effective,” she explains. “These formulas blend into the skin much better and don’t leave behind a chalky look.”

If there’s one thing you should never skip before heading out for the day, it’s putting on sunscreen—no matter what the forecast is outside (and no matter what skin type you have!). Year-round, the best sunscreens will help protect your skin from the sun’s powerful UV rays—minimizing your risk of painful sunburns, skin cancer, and even premature signs of aging, such as dark spots and wrinkles. No skincare routine is complete without sunscreen. Protect your skin from harmful UVB and UVA rays with these ultralight, 100% mineral formulas.Chemical or mineral sunscreens. Classic or tinted. With so many choices of sunscreen products, how can you find the best one for your skin? Formula matters: Physical or mineral sunscreens (made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) sit on top of the skin and deflect UV rays, while chemical sunscreens (made with ingredients like oxybenzone or avobenzone) work by absorbing those rays. If your skin is sensitive or acne-prone, mineral sunscreens are typically your best bet, says Dr. Markus. Plus, they’re a great option if you prefer a more “natural” product (they’re also reef-safe!). “All that said, there is no denying that the chemical sunscreens are more transparent, which sometimes trumps everything. It’s really a personal choice more than anything,” he says. We updated this article in June 2023 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive research done by our team. Meet the Experts: Lauren Ploch, M.D., fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD); Heidi Waldorf, M.D., founder of Waldorf Dermatology Aesthetics; Meghan Feely, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist; Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City; Shari Marchbein, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at Downtown Dermatology in New York City; Joel Schlessinger, M.D., president of LovelySkin.com; Mona Gohara, M.D., associate clinical professor of dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine; and more.

Look for broad spectrum on the label: This ensures your SPF protects against both harmful UVA and UVB rays. (UVA rays prematurely age skin and UVB rays burn; both can cause skin cancer.) Our experts recommend choosing SPF 30 or higher. The sun plays a vital role in our mental and physical health. But, solar radiation and sun exposure cause up to 80% of the visible signs of skin aging. UVA rays are largely responsible for premature skin aging, while UVB rays cause sunburns. And both types of rays can contribute to the risk of developing skin cancer. So, it’s absolutely crucial to protect yourself with expert sun care products! Other than sunscreen, what are sun care products?In addition to SPF numbers, there’s another useful SPF tip to consider. It’s really important to apply sunscreen exactlyas it says on the label as this is the way the sunscreen has been tested. So to get the same level of protection, you need to apply following the instructions. 3. Skin-boosting ingredients are included