Best Facial Sunscreen of 2026

No matter the time of year -- yes, even in the fall and winter -- you should always wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun's damaging UV rays . After all, wearing sunscreen can help protect your skin from cancer. Our Picks When it comes to finding the best sunscreen, Dr. Pearl Rimtepathip, a board-certified dermatologist at MetroDerm , says, "The best sunscreen is one that a person will use and reapply the most." To help you find the right one for your needs and skin type, we spent months testing 87 different sunscreens, paying close attention to ingredients, finish, consistency, price and whether the product is cruelty-free. What is the best face sunscreen overall? The best sunscreen is one you'll wear consistently, but our top pick is EltaMD UV Clear. The best sunscreen for you will depend on your skin type, skin concerns, preference for mineral or chemical formulas, makeup or skincare routine and budget. However, after our testing, we have found EltaMD UV Clear to be the best. Not only did it win a CNET Editors' Choice award, but it also impressed us with its carefully selected ingredients for sensitive skin. It should work for most skin types. Best face sunscreen of 2026 Pros No white cast Fragrance-free Lightweight Moisturizing Has a tinted version Cons Takes time to blend Why we like it : This mineral and chemical sunscreen rubs in without any white cast (a white film that titanium dioxide or zinc oxide can leave on the skin). It's designed for those with acne, rosacea and hyperpigmentation and includes niacinamide (vitamin B3), an ingredient that can soothe inflammation and reduce redness. All of EltaMD’s sun care products are paraben-free, fragrance-free, vegan, noncomedogenic, sensitivity-free and oil-free. Combined, these factors make this the best face sunscreen on this list. Who it’s best for : EltaMD products are great if you have various skin concerns, such as rosacea or sensitivity. This formula is neither thick nor thin, and there's no smell. It takes a bit of rubbing to get the formula to sink in, but once rubbed in, it feels lightweight and moisturizing on the skin -- suitable for all skin types. Who should not get it : Despite its name, this face sunscreen isn't clear out of the pump. If you're opposed to the white hue, EltaMD also makes a tinted face sunscreen. Pros Works for all skin tones No white cast Fragrance-free Cons Not as hydrating as other formulas Why we like it: Supergoop's sunscreen formulas are meant not to feel like sunscreen at all. Unseen is a thick, clear gel that dries down to a soft matte finish, creating a great base for applying makeup. It is non-irritating, noncomedogenic, dermatologist-tested, fragrance-free and vegan, making it great for all skin types. Who it’s best for : Because this formula is clear, it also works for all skin tones -- other face sunscreens can leave behind a white film or have a tint that's too light for darker...

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