13 Best Dermatologist-Recommended Face Sunscreens For 2023, No Matter Your Skin Type

Looking for the highest amount of protection possible? "This sunscreen has been clinically shown to provide better sunburn protection compared to products with a lower SPF," says dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD. "It dries fully on the skin without leaving a greasy feeling on the face."

Rave Reviews: "I like the SPF 70 which is what my doctor recommends. The lotion goes on smoothly and does not leave a greasy or oily residue on the skin."

"This sunscreen uses mineral-only protection in a hydrating base enriched with moisturizing botanicals," says Dr. Zeichner. A bonus? He says it can be used on all skin types, including those with sensitive skin. "It also fully rubs in without leaving behind a white cast on the skin."

Rave Review: "It's the best stuff on the market. Not only is it a great sunscreen, but it also does an amazing job at hiding blemishes. Once it dries, it feels like it's not even there...I've been using this in my routine for over five years now."

"For winter months, I opt for a hydrating sunscreen containing ceramides like this one," says dermatologist Lindsey Zubritsky, MD. "This sunscreen is great because it’s mineral-based and contains three essential ceramides to lock in moisture." It's not just expert-approved, though—the budget-friendly SPF has over 40,0o0 five-star reviews.

Rave Review: "It’s a great sunscreen and spreads easily, providing good coverage for dark spots and hyperpigmentation. It isn’t greasy or patchy like white sunscreens can be. I’ve been wearing it daily for over a week and haven’t had any breakouts or anything so far. I will definitely buy it again."

Sunscreens that leave a greasy film on the skin are a total bummer. That's why this unique gel formula is so perfect, especially if you have an oilier skin type. "With so many different sunscreens on the market, there is a formula and texture to suit every preference and need," Dr. Zeichner says.

Rave Review: "It has no scent and I love that. It’s also non-greasy and doesn’t leave a film. If you’re sensitive to scent and need sun protection, this is the one to get."

“Personally, I prefer mineral sunscreens because they are less reactive,” Dr. Gohara says. When it comes to sunscreens that protect as well nourish the skin, she loves this tinted SPF by Avène when she wants a bit of coverage because it's ultra-lightweight and contains skin-soothing ingredients like bisabolol, allantoin, and niacinamide.

Rave Review: "I have sensitive skin and a brown complexion and this works great for me. Just be sure to give it a quick shake and you’re ready to apply."

"This is 100 percent zinc-based, but super light. So, it leaves no residue, unlike other zinc formulas," says dermatologist Morgan Rabach, MD. Besides the non-greasy formula, she also loves that this product is packed with antioxidants and peptides, so it protects from future damage while also repairing skin at the same time.

Rave Review: "I did a test-patch because of my rosacea, and it was actually calming and didn’t cause the redness that usually happens when a product irritates my skin. Additionally, my skin is clearer, because it has helped the overall redness that I usually have. I couldn’t ask for a better product...It’s the most important part of my skincare routine."

This sunscreen was made for and by people of color. Reviewers love that it doesn't leave a white cast on the skin. But what's even better is that since it doesn't have a tint, it's a great option to wear under makeup.

Rave Review: "This is by far the most moisturizing sunscreen I’ve ever used...I love the smoothness and glow it adds to my skin, especially my face. I will definitely keep this product on re-order."

Dermatologist Marnie Nussbaum, MD, says that this formula is great for kids and babies. "It's mineral-based and very gentle on the skin with effective protection," she notes. If you're an adult who's got super sensitive skin, this one's for you.

Rave Review: "I especially use this under my eyes because it is very gentle and doesn't sting my skin. I do not want to be without it."

"I really like powder brush sunscreens, because they're resistant to changes in temperature," says dermatologist Dr. Kavita Mariwalla, MD. "I am a fan of the OG brush-on sunscreen from ColorScience. I keep one in my car at all times in case I'm caught out in a sunny situation unexpectedly."

Rave Review: "I like the powder concept while giving me a high SPF. It’s lightweight and compact, and is excellent for an afternoon touch-up when the morning sunscreen starts to lose its effectiveness. It will last a very long time, it doesn’t go bad."

BareMinerals' tinted SPF comes in 20 shades, all of which have a hyaluronic acid-infused formula that gives skin a dewy glow. "This is the all-in-one package," raves dermatologist Sapna Palep, MD. "It protects against pollution, UV, and HEV (blue light), and can be worn alone or as a primer under makeup—it gives the skin an amazing glow!"

Rave Review: "It gives me a natural look with a moisturized, dewy finish. It’s not heavy at all—it really does feel like a moisturizer but it evens out my skin tone. It’s really pretty and natural for those who don’t want a heavy makeup look!"

Dermatologist Adeline Kikam, DO, is a fan of this lightweight sunscreen. "It's a moisturizing, non-sticky, and fast-absorbing sunscreen that is aesthetically pleasing on all skin including darker skin types." She adds that it has no white cast and that it's also great for you if you have dry and sensitive skin, because it contains squalane and antioxidants in it to replenish and moisturize the skin.

Rave Review: "I’ve been on the hunt for a mineral sunscreen that doesn’t burn my eyes, and doesn’t leave a white cast or clown finish on my skin…I think I found it! The price point cannot be better and I love how this feels. There is a slight white cast when you first put it on but it absorbs quickly."

SkinMedica claims that their SPF has a formula that actually improves the skin’s ability to heal itself—and, Dr. Gohara agrees. “It's combined with the antioxidant vitamin E, which helps to restore the skin and reverse fine lines and wrinkling,” she says.

Rave Review: "I have oily skin, so finding a sunscreen product that is great for every day and doesn’t make my face an oily mess has been difficult. SkinMedica SPF 34 is a dream...it goes on clean and stays that way. I use it on my face and neck and does not make me feel gross. It is absolutely worth the price!"

“Physical sunscreens are best for people with acneic skin,” says Dr. Engelman. “Look for oil-free, gel textures that won’t clog pores, and the ingredients titanium dioxide and zinc oxide." She says this one helps absorb oil without making skin look chalky, so you'll get a perfect matte finish that won't dry out your skin.

Rave Review: "This is a fantastic SPF that is lightly tinted so it lightens up my dark under-eyes as well as the skin under the brow. It has a perfect texture that is easy to apply and does not crease or accentuate wrinkles."