Frequently asked questions
What SPF do dermatologists recommend for the face?
The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher for face and body. Many dermatologists tell us this is just a baseline, suggesting SPF 50 is really the gold standard because it offers a high enough SPF to protect you during everyday activities with realistic reapplication expectations of 1–2 times per day.
Is SPF 100 too much for the face?
High SPF isn’t necessarily better. While SPF 100 does offer more protection against the sun’s UV rays, the extra protection is marginal, explains Gretchen Frieling, MD, a triple board-certified dermatopathologist in Massachusetts. The big problem: SPF 100 tends to lend a false sense of security, so the average person may reapply less frequently. “There is a heavy misconception in some consumers that a higher SPF means indefinite time in the sun, when in reality, the best practice is to reapply your sunscreen for every hour or two you are out in the sun, depending on your activity level and activity type,” says Dr. Frieling.
Is mineral sunscreen better than chemical sunscreen?
You may know that there are two types of sunscreen: physical (a.k.a. mineral) and chemical. Dermatologists tend to recommend mineral sunscreen because it’s gentler on sensitive skin. The active ingredients sit on top of the skin rather than being absorbed into it and reflect UV away from the skin. But there’s a big downside to mineral SPFs: The active ingredients—zinc oxide and titanium dioxide—tend to leave a white cast, particularly on those with a darker complexion. Chemical sunscreens—powered by active ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate—are easier to rub in and work like a sponge to absorb the sun’s rays rather than deflect them.
No matter which type you choose you go with, dermatologists say the most important thing is to look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen for protection against both UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF 30 or higher. Water-resistance is also key, especially if you have plans to swim or exercise outdoors. Derms say reapplying every two hours is crucial.
What type of sunscreen do dermatologists recommend for mature skin?
Look for formulas that combine broad-spectrum sun protection with hydrating or antioxidant ingredients, says Dr. Queller. Hydrating ingredients include hyaluronic acid to soften lines and combat premature aging, niacinamide to even skin tone and peptides to plump skin and soften lines. She also recommends looking for antioxidants that support skin hydration and overall skin health, like vitamin C.
How to find the right sunscreen for your skin type
There are a few things to look out for when it comes to shopping for a facial sunscreen based on your skin type, according to Rachel Nazarian, MD and board-certified dermatologist based in NYC.
If you have oily skin, Dr. Nazarian recommends looking for a formula that’s oil-free and non-comedogenic.
If you have dry skin, look for sunscreens with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides. “For people who have sensitive skin (including babies, children, or those with rosacea or allergies to the ingredients in chemical sunscreens), I love to recommend mineral sunscreens,” she says.“These formulas are typically tinted, so this is a good option for people wanting to block visible light from sun exposure or those who are looking for a little color correction and coverage in their product.”
What ingredients should you avoid in sunscreen?
While you shouldn’t judge a sunscreen based on whether it’s chemical or mineral, Debra Luftman MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology says you may want to gravitate toward one or the other based on your skin type. There are also other things to look out for on the ingredient list. “For patients with sensitive skin, rosacea, or a compromised skin barrier, I generally recommend avoiding added fragrance or alcohol, which may cause stinging or dryness,” she says. She also recommends not relying on sunscreen-infused makeup as your primary source of protection as it’s difficult to get the advertised SPF level without using way more than you typically would. “I would also stay away from any product that doesn't clearly state broad-spectrum protection, has an SPF below 30 or doesn't provide water resistance,” she notes.
How we evaluated face sunscreens
To bring you the ultimate guide to face sunscreen, we asked dermatologists and Glamour editors to test both tried-and-true broad-spectrum sunscreens and the newest, most promising launches of 2026.
We evaluated based on the type of sunscreen (mineral or chemical) and method of application (stick, spray, lotion, powder, and more). We checked the consistency and how the formula feels on the skin, how well it absorbs, and whether it leaves a white cast on various skin tones; we considered the finish (is it dewy or mattifying?), and—of course—overall efficacy. Below are the best of the best, tested by beauty editors and experts who wear them daily.
Meet the experts
- Marisa Garshick, MD, board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in NYC
- Rachel Nazarian, MD a board-certified dermatologist based in NYC
- Gretchen Frieling, MD, a triple board-certified dermatopathologist in Massachusetts
- Jenna Queller, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of DermWorks
- Debra Luftman MD, a board certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology