The 16 Best Sunscreens of 2023
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The most lightweight, water-resistant, and hydrating sunscreens made it to the top of our list.
Travel + Leisure / David Hattan
Fact checked by Rich Scherr
Few things, if any, are more essential to your morning routine than applying sunscreen. “Every day, we treat skin cancers that may have been prevented by sunscreen,” says Los Angeles-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jasmine Yun, who co-owns Van Dyke Yun Dermatology.
We spoke to three board-certified dermatologists to learn more about what sunscreen is, why we need it year-round, how to use it effectively, and which ones they each swear by. They all agree you should look for broad-spectrum sunscreen (which protects against both UVA and UVB rays) and an SPF protection of at least 30.
Certain sunscreens boast active ingredients that target your skin’s specific needs, like tattoo protection and acne mitigation. Our favorites are also water-resistant, have broad-spectrum formulas, and leave skin with a velvety soft feel (with no white cast!). Whatever you’re looking for, we’ve rounded up the best sunscreens on the market for every need and budget, from mineral options to water-based formulas and more.
Best Overall: EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
Why We Love It
This broad spectrum, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free formula is kind to all skin types.
What to Consider
It includes active ingredients such as the chemicals octinoxate and octisalate, which are banned in some destinations.
When it comes to universal appeal, EltaMD’s UV Sport sunblock is hard to beat. Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, this traveler-loved sunscreen does it all: The airy lotion can be used on your face as well as your body thanks to its fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula that won’t clog pores or aggravate acne. A blend of active ingredients like octinoxate, octisalate, and zinc oxide help to scatter UVA and UVB rays off of skin as the lotion absorbs without leaving any greasy residue. Designed to be water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, it’s ideal for swimmers or sports enthusiasts of all kinds — the no-drip formula won’t run into your eyes if you start sweating. The best part? It’s available in a TSA-approved 3-ounce size (as well as a larger 7 ounces), so you can toss it in your carry-on when you’re on the go.
Although it performs phenomenally on most skin types, this EltaMD’s sunscreen does contain octinoxate, which is banned from destinations like Hawaiian because it threatens the health of coral reefs. Another ingredient, octisalate, also poses an environmental risk. If this is a concern, consider reef-safe options like our best reef-safe and best unscented picks.
Price at time of publish: $30 (3-ounce)
The Details: SPF 50 | 3 ounces, 7 ounces | Zinc oxide, octinoxate, octisalate | Not reef-safe
Best Reef-safe: Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Sun Milk Body Lotion SPF 50
Why We Love It
It leaves skin moisturized for hours and has an irresistible tropical scent.
What to Consider
The pump cap may leak during travel.
This skin-softening sunscreen delivers UVA/UVB protection thanks to non-nano zinc oxide, which makes it a great everyday option for both face and body. It’s also packed with hydrating ingredients like coconut, which also lends it a straight-from-the-tropics fragrance. We love how easily this cruelty-free formula absorbs into the skin, and it performs beautifully when it comes to water resistance. To top it off, it has a silky texture and never transferred to our clothes during reef-safe sunscreen testing.
Price at time of publish: $15 (1.7 ounces)
The Details: SPF 50 | 1.7 ounces, 3.4 ounces | Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide | Reef-safe
Best Travel-size: Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
Why We Love It
A little goes a long way, which helps save room in your suitcase.
What to Consider
It can leave a slight white cast.
During our travel-size sunscreen test, we loved that this mineral offering from Babo Botanicals lasted well over several days of use. Loaded with nourishing ingredients like shea butter and sunflower oil, the lotion absorbed into our skin quickly — which can be a tall order for mineral sunscreens — and left it feeling hydrated. It does a great job of resisting sweat and water, and if you need one more reason to ride the waves, it’s reef-friendly.
Price at time of publish: $19
The Details: SPF 50 | 3 ounces | Zinc oxide | Reef-safe
Travel + Leisure / Melody Chiu
Related: The 11 Best Travel-size Sunscreens of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Best Fragrance-free: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Why We Love It
There are no fragrances or chemical irritants, so this is great for sensitive skin.
What to Consider
It can leave a white cast on darker complexions due to the active titanium dioxide.
Drugstore sunscreen brands deliver some of the best bang for your buck, and Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Lotion is a great value pick thanks to its strong SPF (it boasts a Sun Protection Factor of 50+) and broad spectrum protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays provided by active ingredients like zinc oxide. Recommended by and designed with dermatologists, this mineral sunscreen provides full coverage protection without leaving any greasy residue on the skin. However, it can leave a white cast on darker skin tones due to titanium dioxide, which refracts light. The lotion lives up to its Sensitive name, as it’s formulated without any skin-irritating chemicals, parabens, or fragrances — and there’s no oxybenzone or octinoxate either, meaning it’s reef-safe, too. The Aussie brand has also doubled the water-resistant formula, which now allows you to sweat, swim, or do whatever sort of water sports your heart desires for up to 80 minutes before you need to reapply. Blue Lizard even offers a 30-day guarantee to try it out, so you can return it if you don’t love it.
Price at time of publish: $10 (3-ounce)
The Details: SPF 50+ | 3 ounces, 5 ounces, 8.75 ounces | Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | Reef-safe
Best for Dark Skin: Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Why We Love It
This broad spectrum, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free formula never leaves a white cast.
What to Consider
Boosted with nourishing oils, it may be overly hydrating for oil-prone skin.
Black Girl Sunscreen is a Black-owned and woman-owned brand that’s designed with more melanated skin tones in mind. Titanium dioxide, which sits on the skin’s surface in order to prevent sun damage, is primarily what causes a white cast in sunscreens, so this protective formula is made without it. Instead, it’s infused with natural botanicals like jojoba, cacao, and avocado oils, which are incredibly nourishing and help fight sun damage and other signs of aging, like fine lines and hyperpigmentation. The sheer, fragrance-free formula creates a natural, lightweight barrier for skin that doubles as a moisturizer, so you can (and should!) use it daily. It’s great for sensitive skin (and safe for coral reefs) as it’s free of parabens, fragrances, oxybenzone, silicone, aluminum, and more. It’s also certified vegan and cruelty-free.
Price at time of publish: $18
The Details: SPF 30 | 3 ounces | Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene | Reef-safe
Best for Acne-prone Skin: Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturizer SPF 30
Why We Love It
Just like Cetaphil’s beloved cleanser, this affordable sunscreen is great for sensitive skin and won’t clog pores.
What to Consider
This lightweight formula is both sunscreen and moisturizer, so you may not want to use an additional moisturizer if you have oily skin.
When it comes to acne-prone skin, “Look for the words ‘non-comedogenic’ or that it won’t clog pores,” suggests board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dina Strachan, who runs Aglow Dermatology in New York City. Both she and Dr. Yun consider Cetaphil a go-to, with Dr. Yun explaining that she likes the brand’s DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturizer with SPF 30 because it’s “effective against UV rays, reasonably priced, and won’t cause breakouts.” Opting for a fragrance-free formula like this one is also a good idea in order to avoid unnecessary irritants. The lightly hydrating formula blends quickly into an invisible matte finish, absorbing excess surface oil with Micropearl technology to reduce shine.
Price at time of publish: $17
The Details: SPF 30 | 4 ounces | Avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene | Reef-safe
Best for Face: Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen
Why We Love It
This lightweight formula offers a matte finish and features antioxidants that benefit your skin.
What to Consider
It goes on like a thin serum, which can feel a little too runny for some.
This is a best-selling product for a reason: Summer Fridays’ ShadeDrops Mineral Milk spreads easily and absorbs immediately, with a soft-to-the-touch matte finish rather than any lingering white or greasy sheen. It’s vegan and great for sensitive skin since it’s free of parabens, microplastics, triclosan, and other chemical active ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate. We love that it’s broad spectrum and infused with vitamins plus soothing chamomile, which are added bonuses for skin. It’s also slightly tinted but blends in naturally on a range of skin tones.
Price at time of publish: $36
The Details: SPF 30 | 1.7 ounces | Zinc oxide | Reef-safe
Related: The 11 Best Reef-safe Sunscreens of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Best for Dry Skin: Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench SPF 45 Hyaluronic Cloud Moisturizer
Why We Love It
This seriously moisturizing cream is formulated with hyaluronic acid and ceramides, which provide intense hydration.
What to Consider
It’s pricey for its small size, and the applicator can be a little finicky.
If you’re looking to splurge on a true treat for dry skin, Peter Thomas Roth’s cream-to-water moisturizing sunscreen is where it’s at. The dermatologist-recommended formula absorbs lightning-fast and keeps skin feeling dewy and hydrated for up to 72 hours, owing its deep moisturizing capacity to a potent blend of hyaluronic acid and pentavitin that locks in water and plumps up skin. Together, these drench your skin in an ultra-light “cloud” of non-greasy hydration. Unlike other sunscreens formulated for dry skin, this never feels gunky or heavy — rather, it goes on almost invisible after the initial creamy sensation, providing broad spectrum protection against the sun’s harmful rays. To keep skin as soft as possible, it’s formulated without any fragrance.
Price at time of publish: $23
The Details: SPF 45 | 1.7 ounces | Octocrylene, octisalate, homosalate, avobenzone | Reef-safe
Best for Babies: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Dermo-Kids Gentle Sunsceen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 60
Why We Love It
This super gentle sunscreen won’t cause irritation and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
What to Consider
It’s not available in a travel size.
“With thinner skin and a developing immune system, babies need a gentle sunscreen,” says Dr. Yun, who recommends LaRoche-Posay Anthelios Kids Gentle Lotion Sunscreen, which she’s used on her own three kids. This gentle, pediatrician-tested formula goes on clear and offers broad-spectrum protection. And while this provides serious sun protection for your littles, Dr. Yun adds that it’s a good idea to “try to practice sun avoidance and wear hats and cover-ups.”
In addition to not feeling greasy or leaving any white streaks, sand brushes off this formula easily on trips to the beach. It’s free of potential irritants, from oxybenzone and parabens to fragrance and oils.
Price at time of publish: $33
The Details: SPF 50 | 6.7 ounces | Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene | Reef-safe
Related: The 10 Best Scalp Sunscreens of 2023
Best Water Resistance: Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
Why We Love It
This sunscreen offers 80 minutes of water resistance — not to mention, one of the most delicious fragrances on the market.
What to Consider
The scent may be too strong for some.
Few smells trigger summer nostalgia quite like Sun Bum. The brand’s Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion is bananas good — and banana-scented, too. This non-comedogenic, oil-free formula is made for all skin types, including sensitive — although anyone with super-sensitive skin should opt for a face sunscreen that doesn’t have fragrance to minimize any potential reactions. Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, this is the perfect companion for a beach vacation spent dipping in and out of the ocean, as the formula grips the skin and won’t wash off while splashing around in the waves. And rest assured, it’s reef-friendly, so there’s no need to worry about swimming or snorkeling with it on. It offers powerful UVA/UVB protection as well as skin-nourishing properties courtesy of free-radical-fighting vitamin E.
Price at time of publish: $19 (8-ounce)
The Details: SPF 50 | 3 ounces, 8 ounces | Octocrylene, octisalate, homosalate, avobenzone | Reef-safe
Best Spray: Supergoop Play 100% Mineral Body Mist SPF 30 with Marigold Extract
Why We Love It
It’s easy to use at any angle and shields skin against environmental pollution.
What to Consider
It might leave a very subtle white sheen on some skin tones.
Unlike most aerosol spray sunscreens, Supergoop Play! features an air-powered valve that is both better for the environment (no chemical gasses released with each spray!) and for ease of application. Feel free to twist and turn the bottle however you want — the spray works at any angle, so there’s no need to hold it upright when applying.
The mineral formula also features active ingredients like zinc oxide and skin-boosters like safflower oil, lemon mint, and watercress, which all help create a barrier against environmental pollution for your skin and hair. It’s also packed with soothing chamomile and antioxidant-rich marigold. Beyond the water-resistant formula itself, part of what sets this sunscreen apart is its gentle yet effective mist. Unlike the firehose-like nozzles of some sport sunscreens, this spray is more of a refreshing spritz.
Price at time of publish: $34
The Details: SPF 30 and 50 | 6 ounces | Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | Reef-safe
Related: The 17 Best Packable Sun Hats for Your Summer Getaways
Best Lightweight: Drunk Elephant Umbra Tinte Physical Daily Defense SPF 30
Why We Love It
This sheer, serum-like sunscreen fights against free radicals with the help of antioxidants.
What to Consider
There’s also a flattering tinted version.
For those who want something that goes on like air, look no further than Drunk Elephant’s Umbra Sheer Daily Defense. The physical formula is barely-there and absorbs instantly, so there’s no thick or moisturizer-like residue — yet it provides solid UVA/UVB protection with SPF 30. Suitable for all skin types, it relies on zinc oxide to lock in moisture while blocking out UV rays. Other botanicals at work include sunflower shoot extract, which mitigates skin damage by neutralizing free radicals, and astaxanthin-rich algae extract, which fights oxidative damage. Raspberry seed oil also provides hydration and protection from environmental pollution.
Price at time of publish: $34
The Details: SPF 30 | 3 ounces | Zinc oxide | Reef-safe
Best Water-based: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion SPF 50
Why We Love It
This ultra-moisturizing lotion keeps skin hydrated for up to eight hours.
What to Consider
It can sting slightly if it gets in your eyes.
Water-based sunscreen is the perfect choice for anyone with oily or acne-prone skin, as it goes on smooth and matte rather than oily or greasy. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion is ultra hydrating without feeling cloying, keeping your skin moisturized for up to eight hours. It feels cooling and gel-like during application but without any lingering stickiness and never leaves white streaks. An update on this oil-free, non-comedogenic classic formula includes avobenzone, which protects against both types of UV rays, and no longer uses oxybenzone. Note that while most users love the summery fragrance, it is somewhat strong. This is also an excellent choice for watersports enthusiasts, as it’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Price at time of publish: $15
The Details: SPF 50 | 3 ounces | Octocrylene, octisalate, homosalate, avobenzone | Reef-safe
Best for Scalp: Supergoop! Poof 100% Mineral Part Powder SPF 35
Why We Love It
It’s essentially dry shampoo amped up with broad spectrum protection.
What to Consider
You need to work it in a bit around your part and hairline to blend it completely.
When it comes to protecting your scalp from the sun, you can opt to go with a spray or a powder sunscreen. Our go-to is Supergoop! Poof 100% Mineral Part Powder, which combines the allure of a dry shampoo with the protective power of SPF 35 — plus, it helps prevent dandruff. Painful, flaky scalp sunburn will be a thing of the past with this 100 percent zinc oxide powder, which goes on sheer and freshens hair rather than weighing it down with greasy formula. It’s also oxybenzone- and octinoxate-free, so this is as kind to the coral reefs as it is to your skin. To use it, spritz it about 1-2 inches away from your scalp after finishing your haircare routine, then blend in with your fingers or a hairbrush.
Price at time of publish: $34
The Details: SPF 35 | 0.71 ounces | Zinc oxide | Reef-safe
Best for Oily Skin: Jan Marini Physical Protectant Broad Spectrum SPF 45
Why We Love It
It features “microscopic sponges” that work to absorb excess oils.
What to Consider
It’s a splurge for just a 2-ounce bottle.
This small-but-mighty bottle is a savior for oil-prone skin types. Loaded up with antioxidants like green tea extract, alpha-bisabolol, and co-enzyme Q10 to soothe skin and mitigate signs of aging, it features microscopic sponges that help with oil control. The particles absorb excess surface oils and leave a smooth, nearly weightless matte finish in a flattering sheer tint. While it’s a bit of a splurge, you can use this formula as your daily sun protection thanks to its 80-minute water resistance and physical filters for blocking UVA and UVB rays.
Price at time of publish: $57
The Details: SPF 45 | 2 ounces | Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide | Reef-safe
Best for Tattoos: CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Body Lotion
Why We Love It
This gentle formula is oil- and oxybenzone-free, making it a great choice for sensitive skin.
What to Consider
It can leave a white cast if you layer it on too thick.
Fresh tattoos are essentially open wounds, so you’ll want to take extra care to shield them from the sun entirely, whether with clothing or bandages. For ink that’s healed, CeraVe makes an ultra-gentle formula that boasts broad spectrum protection and a mineral-based dermatologist-developed formula that reflects UVA/UVB rays, which in turn helps keep your tattoos from fading.
This lightweight lotion is formulated sans oxybenzone, fragrance, and parabens — plus, it is allergy tested and non-comedogenic, so it won’t cause breakouts and is suitable for super-sensitive skin. Backed by both the Skin Cancer Foundation and the National Eczema Association, it’s also loaded up with three essential ceramides, which help improve the skin’s moisture barrier.
Price at time of publish: $16
The Details: SPF 30 | 5 ounces | Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | Reef-safe
Tips for Buying a Sunscreen
Look for broad spectrum coverage
Of all the keywords to keep in mind when shopping for sunscreen, “broad spectrum coverage” is the most essential. “Broad spectrum coverage means that the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays,” explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michelle Henry, clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College. “UVA rays can penetrate the skin more deeply and are associated with aging and skin cancer, while UVB rays are responsible for sunburn. It’s important to choose a sunscreen with broad spectrum coverage to protect against both types of radiation.”
Understand different active ingredients
Mineral and chemical sunscreens employ different active ingredients in order to dispel the sun’s UV rays. Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to reflect the sun’s rays, while chemical sunscreens use a cocktail of avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene to absorb UV rays before they can penetrate your skin.
Choose a sunscreen you’ll wear every day
Sunscreen isn’t just for the beach — it’s an everyday necessity, even if you’re just commuting to the office in your car. Picking a sunscreen that is lightweight, moisturizing, and either fragrance-free or subtly scented is a good bet.
Consider the environmental impact
Certain chemicals, like octinoxate and octisalate, have been known to cause harm to coral reefs. Reef-safe sunscreens are formulated without these chemicals, some of which are even illegal in places like Hawaii. By only purchasing reef-safe sunscreens, you’re helping your body and our oceans avoid nasty chemicals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does sunscreen expire?
“Yes, sunscreen can expire,” says Dr. Henry. “Check the expiration date on the packaging, as expired sunscreen may not provide adequate protection.” If there’s no expiration date listed, Dr. Yun suggests tossing the sunscreen three years after purchase (but hopefully, you’ll have used it up by then!).
Does sunscreen prevent tanning?
“Sunscreen can help prevent tanning by blocking or reflecting UV rays, which cause skin damage and darkening,” explains Dr. Henry, who adds that you’ll want to be extra careful to apply or reapply as directed, otherwise it is still possible to tan.
If you’re looking to tan, consider non-harmful alternatives, says Dr. Yun. “If you need to have that sun-kissed glow or ‘base’ before a vacation or event, we recommend self tanners or spray tans.”
How does sunscreen work?
Dr Yun: “Physical (mineral) sunscreens physically block and scatter the sun’s UV rays (like a shield) before they reach your skin. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays (like a sponge) before they can damage your skin.”
Dr Henry: “Sunscreen works by absorbing, reflecting, or scattering the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen contains chemicals that interact with UV rays, preventing them from penetrating the skin.”
Does sunscreen cause cancer?
Each of the dermatologists we consulted for this article were unequivocal in their answer: No, sunscreen does not cause cancer.
“This was a controversy decades ago when sunscreens only had UVB protection,” says Dr. Strachan, who explains that since people thought that sunblock offered full protection, they’d stay out in the sun longer — therefore exposing themselves to more UVA rays, which can increase your risk of cancer.
Broad-spectrum sunscreen, which addresses both types of UV rays, solves this. “This is why it’s important to have both UVA and UVB protection in a sunscreen,” she says.
Adds Dr. Yun: “All the medical literature including the FDA’s rigorous testing shows that sunscreens do not cause cancer. In fact, the cancer risk from not wearing sunscreen outdoors far exceeds any potential health risk from sunscreen ingredients.”
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
Sophie Dodd is a travel journalist who has tried dozens of sunscreen sprays, lotions, and even SPF-laden eyeshadows over the years in an attempt to allow herself just five more guilt-free minutes in the sun. She spoke to dermatologists and used her own expertise as a writer (and frequent user of many of the products on this list) to narrow down the best sunscreens for every skin type and budget.
We also spoke to three board-certified dermatologists to discuss what factors to consider when selecting sunscreen. The dermatologists we spoke to included:
Jasmine Yun, a Los Angeles-based board-certified dermatologist and co-owner of Van Dyke Yun Dermatology
Dina Strachan, a board-certified dermatologist who runs Aglow Dermatology in New York City
Michelle Henry, clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College.
Related: The 14 Best Waterproof Mascaras
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