Best Sunscreens for Your Face, According to Experts




LiftActiv Sunscreen Peptide-C Face Moisturizer with SPF 30Dermatologists agree that wearing sunscreen every single day is the single most important thing you can do to keep your skin healthy and youthful long-term.

Not only can UV exposure cause skin cancer, it’s also behind about 80% of visible skin aging, according to a study in the journal Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology. According to Sara Hogan, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at Luxe Dermatology and Aesthetic Center in McLean, Virginia, the best way for everyone to prevent skin concerns from hyperpigmentation to crow’s feet is by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher daily to protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays. “Ultraviolet radiation stimulates an imbalanced production of melanin, which results in dyspigmentation and damages collagen and skin fibers, which contributes to wrinkles and laxity,” she says.

Vichy LiftActiv Sunscreen Peptide-C Face Moisturizer with SPF 30

Vichy’s face sunscreen souped up with antioxidants and anti-aging actives like peptides came out on top in GH Beauty Lab testing. It scored high on almost every front: ease of application, making skin feel hydrated, appealing texture, not causing breakouts or irritation, no tacky residue or white cast and protecting against sunburn.

“My skin looks and feels more healthy and vibrant after using this,” a tester said. Another called it “a perfect product.” While the majority of users loved the floral scent, some weren’t fans of it.




Matte Effect Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30

Hawaiian Tropic Matte Effect Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30

A winning drugstore face sunscreen in GH Beauty Lab testing, Hawaiian Tropic leaves skin with a shine-free matte finish. Lab evaluations found the formula doesn’t irritate skin, run into eyes or leave a white cast. (Some users found it was runny or could be tacky, though.) True to its tropical name, testers loved the pleasant “not chemical” coconut scent. “It works much better than anything I have used,” one reported.