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The Best Facial Sunscreens

We compared 8 facial sunscreens on owner ratings, reviews, and specs. EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is our top pick for its broad spectrum protection and suitability for sensitive skin.

Updated

The bottom line

EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen (asin B002MSN3QQ) is our top pick for a facial sunscreen. It offers broad spectrum SPF 46 and 50 protection, is oil-free and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin. It has a transparent zinc oxide formula that leaves no white cast and is highly rated by owners with an average rating of 4.5/5 from 70875 ratings. The closest alternative is SKIN1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum UV (asin B0FXH5LHN8), which offers SPF 50 protection and quick absorption but lacks the broad spectrum protection and additional skin benefits of EltaMD. There is no budget pick as all EltaMD variants are priced similarly and offer the same core benefits.

Top pick
EltaMD UV Clear Face SunscreenEltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen $45.00

Best facial sunscreen for sensitive skin

EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen offers broad spectrum SPF 46 and 50 protection, is oil-free and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin. It has a transparent zinc oxide formula that leaves no white cast and is highly rated by owners. Priced at $45, it is a bit expensive but offers significant benefits for those with sensitive skin. Those looking for a water-resistant option should consider other products.

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The field, ranked

  1. EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen Best for sensitive skin, not water-resistant 9.0/10 $45.00 Amazon
  2. SKIN1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum UV, SPF 50 Sunscreen Good for daily use, lacks broad spectrum protection 8.0/10 $15.99 Amazon
  3. EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide, Oil-Free, SPF 46 and SPF 50 Same as top pick, different price 9.0/10 $40.00 Amazon
  4. EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen Same as top pick, different price 9.0/10 $49.00 Amazon
  5. EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen Same as top pick, different price 9.0/10 $20.70 Amazon
  6. EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen Same as top pick, different price 9.0/10 $77.40 Amazon
  7. EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide Same as top pick, different price 9.0/10 $24.50 Amazon
  8. EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen Same as top pick, different price 9.0/10 $19.55 Amazon

What to consider

When choosing a facial sunscreen, consider the SPF protection, formula, and whether it leaves a white cast. EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen has broad spectrum protection, an oil-free and non-comedogenic formula, and no white cast. However, it is not water-resistant, which may be a concern for some users. SKIN1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum UV offers quick absorption and no white cast but lacks the broad spectrum protection of EltaMD.

Also-rans

None of the EltaMD variants earned a pick role as they are essentially the same product with minor price differences. SKIN1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum UV is a good alternative but lacks the broad spectrum protection of EltaMD.

How this was put together

This guide is based on owner ratings and reviews, expert verdicts, and specs for 8 facial sunscreens. We did not test any products hands-on. The evidence is strongest for EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen due to its high owner ratings and positive reviews. SKIN1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum UV has fewer owner ratings but still provides valuable insights.