Best Sunscreen

Before I tell you about the best sunscreen. You need to know that Naturally, our body needs the warm rays and radiant energy from the sun to stay alive. If you google what the early morning sun supplies to the body, you would see answers like Vitamin D. However overexposure to the sun’s UV (Ultraviolet) rays can harm our skin and this usually leads to sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer even.

Now you may be wondering why are we protecting ourselves from something we claim is beneficial. I only need you to do one thing here and the thing is to not overthink it. In reality, all we try to do in this life is find and create balance.

Only see the relationship between the sun and sunscreen as a balance found. Hear me out, it is not just about using any sunscreens, the goal is choosing the sunscreen that chose you and you can only do this when you understand sunscreens.

Understanding The Best Sunscreen

Sunscreens are topical skincare products that contain ingredients that protect the skin from exposure to UV Rays. They come in two main types: Chemical (organic) and Physical (inorganic) sunscreens.

Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays, while physical sunscreens reflect them, this is where the white caste saying was derived from because since the chemical sunscreen sinks into your skin it leaves no white caste but the physical sunscreen as the name implies stays on your skin hence leaving the residue called white caste.

Physical or Chemical Sunscreens which should you go for? As usual, this blog is all about simplicity so I will try to explain in the simplest form. The truth is this argument has been going on for a while but what I can tell is that they are both safe products. It all depends on your choice and needs.

Key Ingredients to Look Out For In a Sunscreen 

1. Broad-spectrum protection: Look for sunscreens that offer broad-spectrum protection, shielding your skin from both UVA and UVB rays.

2. SPF (Sun Protection Factor): SPF indicates the level of protection against UVB rays. Dermatologists recommend using a minimum SPF 30 for daily use.

3. Water resistance: If you plan to be in the water or perspire heavily, opt for water-resistant sunscreens to ensure prolonged protection.

Now you know about the basics of sunscreen stay tuned and read about my top picks for you in no order.

Below is the list of 10 Best Sunscreen to buy in 2024:

1. Rohto Skin Aqua Sunscreen

I’m starting with this because this is a staple in my daytime skincare routine. I have personally used more than 10 bottles of this categorically tell you it is the best sunscreen for all skin types.  I mean I have a combination skin type and many oily skin girlies have attested to how great this sunscreen is to their skin.

The Skin Aqua Sunscreen is a Japanese sunscreen popular for its lightweight and non-greasy formula. It offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, ensuring your skin is shielded from the sun’s harmful effects.

Ingredients

Come on, of all the sunscreens I have seen, tested, and used, this stands out because it contains collagen.

It is blended with 4 kinds of moisturizing components to keep your skin hydrated which are Super hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronic acid, amino acid, and collagen.

Packaging and Design

It comes in a pumplike container as well as a tube container. This makes it cater for home and travel use differently. The descriptions are written in Japanese so you may need to google for translation but you won’t need that because I will explain everything here.

Texture and Scent

The sunscreen gel has a refreshing water-light texture and it is renewed to feature newly improved UV Light durability technology that better boosts UV protection. It is fragrance-free.

Results

Expect an instant plump look after application. Thanks to the hydrating properties it keeps your skin hydrated as long as you reapply.

Pros

1. Waterproof to sweat and water.

2. Contains Collagen

3. Free of aroma, coloring, and paraffinum liquidum.

Cons

1.  May sting the eyes
2. Some users may find the scent too subtle.

2. Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Hybrid SPF 50

The Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Hybrid SPF 50 is a physical sunscreen. It is a standout product that addresses the specific needs of melanated skin, providing reliable sun protection without compromising on comfort or aesthetics.

Ingredients

The infusion of natural with natural ingredients like Aloe, Shea, Carrot, Sunflower, Avocado, Jojoba, and Lavender sets the Black Girl Sunscreen apart from other sunscreens. Other active ingredients include Homosalate: 10%, Octisalate: 5%, Octocrylene: 5%, Zinc Oxide: 5%

Packaging and Design

The product comes in a sleek and travel-friendly bottle that is not only practical but also aesthetically pleasing.

Texture and Scent

One of the standout features of this Sunscreen is its lightweight and non-greasy texture. The formula absorbs effortlessly into the skin, leaving no residue or white cast. The subtle, pleasant scent adds to the overall user experience, making it enjoyable to incorporate into your daily skincare routine.

Results

Black Girl Sunscreen delivers on its promises hence this sunscreen provides reliable sun protection without the chalky residue commonly associated with some sunscreens.

Pros

1. Broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection.
2. Lightweight, non-greasy formula.
3. Infused with natural ingredients for added skincare benefits.
4. Suitable for all skin tones.
5. Sleek and travel-friendly packaging.

Cons

1. Availability may be limited in certain regions.
2. Some users may find the scent too subtle.

3. Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen

This is one of the best chemical sunscreens because it combines protection and natural ingredients. You should make the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics Sunscreen a staple in your skincare routine because it is one of the best sunscreens out there.

Ingredients

Water, Oryza Sativa Rice extract 30% + Grain fermented extracts, Dibutyl Adipate emollient (solvent) Propanediol solvent (moisturizer/​humectant) Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (sunscreen)

Packaging and Design

Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen comes encased in an elegant, minimalist tube. The sleek design makes it travel-friendly, ensuring you can effortlessly carry your sun protection wherever your adventures take you.

Texture and Scent

It is similar to a light moisturizing cream, and it is not sticky or slippery even if you apply it several times. One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its lightweight texture. The formula glides on smoothly. Even if you apply a large amount before makeup, it does not clump or get cakey.

Results

After absorption, it provides a natural glow without a white caste.

Pros

1. The formula glides on smoothly.
2. Doesn’t clog pores.
3. Suitable for daily use.
4. Can be used as a makeup base

Cons

1. Limited availability in some regions

2. Might be pricey if you are on  a budget

4. Anthelios Ultra-Light Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 60

This multi-award-winning facial sunscreen provides advanced protection in a lightweight, matte finish fluid. It helps visibly reduce the appearance of sun damage and is formulated with Cell-Ox Shield® technology: broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with antioxidants.

Ingredients

Avobenzone 3% • Homosalate 10% • Octisalate5% • Octocrylene 7%

Packaging and Design

The product is packaged in a user-friendly tube to ensure the sunscreen’s durability and effectiveness.

Texture and Scent

It has a lightweight texture, making it easy to apply and reapply without leaving a greasy or sticky residue on the skin. It is also fragrance-free.

Results

The broad-spectrum protection helps prevent sun damage, including sunburn and premature aging. The addition of antioxidants contributes to a more radiant and healthy complexion.

Pros

1. Oxybenzone and Octinoxate-free facial sunscreen provides broad spectrum SPF 60 protection
2. Non-whitening, fast-absorbing texture provides a smooth base for makeup application
3. A powerful antioxidant complex to help protect skin from free radicals caused by UV rays
4. Water resistant (80 minutes)
5. Formulated and rigorously tested for skin tolerance, even on sensitive skin

Cons

1. Might be pricey if you are on  a budget

5. Tocobo Bio Watery Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++

This Cruelty-free and vegan-certified chemical sunscreen has a mild formula of naturally derived ingredients and it absorbs moisture into your skin without white cast. It is SPF 50+ PA++++ | Reliable and stable UV A/B protection with a silky and soft texture.

Texture and Scent

It has a watery texture that glides onto the skin effortlessly, leaving behind a non-greasy and transparent finish.

Results

The non-sticky texture is great and it helps your skin retain a healthy level of hydration.

Pros

1.High SPF50+ and PA++++ for comprehensive sun protection.

2. Lightweight, watery texture that absorbs quickly.

3. Bio-friendly formula with beneficial ingredients like aloe vera and green tea extract.

4. Practical and travel-friendly packaging.

5. Pleasant and subtle scent.

Cons

1. The product may not be suitable for those with extremely sensitive skin, as fragrance is present.
2. While the packaging is travel-friendly, the tube size may be smaller than some other sunscreens in the market.

1. Limited availability in some regions

6. Bioré Aqua Rich UV

This fragrance-free rich chemical sunscreen is developed from Bioré Japan’s water-based sunscreens, iconic for their fresh textures and invisible clean protection. With SPF 50 UVA & UVB, this feather-light watery essence with sunscreen spreads easily and absorbs instantly to hydrate and helps protect from UV rays.

Ingredients

Water, alcohol, Octocrylene, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate. It also contains moisturizing components like hyaluronic acid and royal jelly extract.

Texture and Scent

It has an ultra-lightweight texture and has a gel-like consistency. It is also fragrance-free, making it ideal for individuals sensitive to scents.

Results

With its water-resistant formula, it’s an excellent choice for outdoor activities, ensuring lasting protection even in humid conditions.

Pros

1. Contains Hyaluronic which helps boost skin’s natural moisture
2. Absorbs instantly on all skin tones with a sheer finish & no white cast
3. Suitable for sensitive skin
4. Works great under makeup
5. Vegan-friendly, with no ingredients of animal origin and no animal testing

Cons

1. Limited availability in some regions

7. IsNtree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF50

This is a chemical sunscreen that easily blends the benefits of a high SPF with the hydrating prowess of hyaluronic acid. It has broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. This sun gel caters to both sun care and skin hydration needs.

Ingredients

Titanium Dioxide (9%) Zinc Oxide (7%) Ceramides, Niacinamide

Packaging and Design

The sunscreen comes in a sleek and compact tube that is perfect for on-the-go application

Texture and Scent

The gel texture of IsNtree’s sunscreen is lightweight and absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving any sticky or greasy residue.

Results

The non-comedogenic formula prevents breakouts, making it suitable for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Pros

1. Blocks UV rays gently: SPF 50+ PA++++ blocks UV rays chemically

2. Alleviates irritated skin: Active ingredients help to soothe heated skin and prevent dryness

3. Moisturizes skin: Eight types of Hyaluronic acid locks in moisture in the skin

4. Moisturizing feeling without a white cast or sticky finish, making it comfortable to use every day.

5. Non-coated environment-friendly packaging made with recycled green tea paper and soy ink.

Cons

1. Limited availability in some regions

8. Cerave Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Face Lotion

CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen Face Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 is a 100%-mineral, oil-free sunscreen with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide that forms a protective barrier on your skin’s surface to help reflect the sun’s UVA and UVB rays without irritating sensitive skin. This makes it fall into the category of physical sunscreens.

Ingredients

Titanium Dioxide (9%) Zinc Oxide (7%) Ceramides, Niacinamide

Packaging and Design

The Cerave sunscreen comes in a squeeze tube packaging which allows precise dispensing, minimizing product waste.

Texture and Scent

The lotion has a non-greasy texture, making it easy to apply to the skin.

Results

Cerave’s Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen delivers on its promises. Beyond sun protection, users can expect their skin to feel supple and moisturized throughout the day.

Pros

1. 100% Mineral Sun Filters which help reflect the sun’s damaging rays

2. Fragrance-free and paraben-free to be gentle on the skin

3. Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation.

Cons

1. May leave a white caste

9. Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

They refer to it as a cult favorite and I think I agree because I have seen quite many positive reviews.  With an oil-free formula & a natural finish, this innovative, antioxidant-rich essential glides onto the skin to provide broad spectrum UVA/UVB & infrared protection while helping to filter blue light. Bonus: It doubles as a makeup-gripping primer!

Ingredients

Active Ingredients:Avobenzone, 3%, Homosalate 8%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 4%

Packaging and Design

The product comes in a sleek, minimalist tube with a pump dispenser. The compact design makes it easy to carry and ensures a mess-free application. The labeling is informative, detailing key information about the product’s benefits and usage.

Texture and Scent

One of the standout features of Supergoop’s Unseen Sunscreen is its velvety-smooth texture. The gel-like formula glides effortlessly onto the skin, leaving behind a weightless and matte finish.

Results

As the name suggests, the sunscreen truly lives up to its “unseen” claim. Upon application, the Unseen Sunscreen effortlessly blends into the skin, creating an invisible shield against harmful UV rays. Its mattifying effect is particularly appealing to those who prefer a non-greasy finish.

Pros

1. Helps increase skin moisture & protect against all visible light

2. Invisible on all skin tones, making it inclusive for all users.

3. Helps the skin be resilient & provides a soothing effect

4. Helps increase hydration levels for a more even skin texture

Cons

1. It is pricier compared to some other sunscreens on the market.

10. COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50+/ PA+++

This Cosrx Sunscreen is formulated with Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract, the daily soothing sunblock is so lightweight that it feels like a moisturizer.

Ingredients

Aloe Complex 55,000ppm : Soothes & hydrates

Packaging and Design

The sun cream comes in a sleek and sturdy tube, making it convenient for travel and daily use. The flip-top cap ensures easy dispensing without any mess.

Texture and Scent

It has a lightweight and non-greasy texture. The cream glides smoothly onto the skin, absorbing quickly without leaving a white cast. The subtle scent is refreshing, reminiscent of aloe vera.

Results

The aloe vera extract not only protects the skin from sun damage, it also helps soothe redness or irritation.

Pros

1. High SPF (50+) and PA+++ for effective sun protection.

2. Aloe vera extract provides soothing and hydrating benefits.

3. Lightweight and non-greasy texture.

4. Quick absorption without leaving a white cast.

5. Suitable for sensitive skin; paraben-free formula.

Cons

1. Has a subtle scent and may not appeal to those who prefer fragrance-free options.

Conclusion On the Best Sunscreen

Phew, let’s stop here for now. In case I didn’t mention your holy grail sunscreen please feel free to drop the name in the comments and I will read it. Remember to bookmark our site so you can go to the Understanding Sunscreen section before swiping that card.