You can effectively protect your skin from the sun without breaking the bank. Below, we’ve crafted a list of the best affordable sunscreens.
Our Recommendations
1. Kids SPF 50
Black Girl Sunscreen Sunscreen for Sun Protection
Black Girl Sunscreen Kids SPF 50
This affordable sunscreen (which is suitable for the face and body) moisturizes and nourishes the skin while protecting it from UVA and UVB rays. It is specifically made with darker skin tones in mind, and doesn’t leave a white cast.
This fragrance-free sunscreen uses chemical filters to adequately protect from the sun’s harmful rays. It is also water resistant, and packed with ingredients that moisturize and soothe the skin.
Pros
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Water resistant (up to 80 minutes)
Cons
- Contains chemical sunscreen filters, which may irritate sensitive skin
Some of the moisturizing and nourishing ingredients in this vegan and cruelty-free sunscreen include avocado, carrot seed oil, sunflower seed oil, chamomile, jojoba, and shea butter.
Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 15%, Octisalate 5%, Acrlates/C10-30 Alkyl Acryate Crosspolmer, Acrylates/C12-22 Alkyl Methacrylate Copolymer, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Carbomer, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Lecithin, Persea Gratissima(Avocado), Phenoxyethanol, Propylene Glycol, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Sodium Hydroxide, Sorbitan Oleate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Water
2. Sport 100% Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+
Banana Boat Sunscreen for Sun Protection
Banana Boat Sport 100% Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+
This drugstore sunscreen uses 100% mineral sunscreen filters (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) to protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays. It is water resistant, making it a great choice for hanging out at the pool or doing physical outdoor activities.
This affordable sunscreen is one of the best mineral sunscreens for those on a budget. It contains only mineral sunscreen filters, and is also free of fragrances. This makes this option a particularly good choice for those with sensitive skin.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Water resistant (for up to 80 minutes)
- National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance
Cons
- May leave a white cast on some skin tones
This fragrance-free sunscreen has the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance, meaning it’s suitable for those with eczema.
Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, Water, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Dimethicone, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan Gum, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Chlorphenesin, Beeswax, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Disodium EDTA
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Nov. 9, 2021.
3. Super Moisture Milk SPF 50
Skin Aqua Sunscreen for Daily Sun Protection
Skin Aqua Super Moisture Milk SPF 50
This fragrance-free sunscreen has a non-greasy and satin finish, and protects from UVA and UVB rays while also lightly hydrating the skin.
This oil-free sunscreen combines both mineral and chemical sun protection ingredients to effectively defend against the sun’s harmful rays. The light and milky texture helps it not feel heavy or overly greasy on the skin.
Pros
- Lightweight, milky texture with a satin finish
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Water resistant (for up to 80 minutes)
Cons
- Contains chemical sunscreen, which may not be suitable for sensitive skin
This affordable sunscreen contains hyaluronic acid, a skincare ingredient that helps pull moisture to the skin to keep it hydrated.
Water, cyclopentasiloxane, zinc oxide, ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, BG, diethylhexyl succinate, polymethylsilsesquioxane, hydrous silica, glycerin, lauroyllysine, lauryl PEG-9 polydimethylsiloxyethyl dimethicone, diethylaminohydroxybenzoyl benzoate Hexyl acid, sodium hyaluronate, acrylates copolymer, hydrogen dimethicone, phenoxyethanol, triethoxysilylethyl polydimethylsiloxyethylhexyl dimethicone, methyl paraben, EDTA-2Na, sodium acetyl hyaluronate, hydrolyzed collagen, arginine, bisethylhexyl hydroxy malonate malonate
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Nov. 9, 2021.
4. Clear Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 30+
Paula's Choice Sunscreen for Daily Sun Protection and Moisturization
Paula’s Choice Clear Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 30+
This lightweight SPF 30 moisturizer leaves a matte finish and doesn’t clog pores, making it one of the best Paula’s Choice sunscreens for normal to oily and acne-prone skin.
Many people with oily or acne-prone skin worry about using sunscreens, because they often feel thick and greasy. However, this SPF moisturizer is an excellent choice for these skin types, because it protects the skin but doesn’t feel greasy or clog pores. It also contains antioxidants and hydrators that calm the skin.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Lightweight
- Matte finish
Cons
- Contains chemical sunscreen, which may irritate sensitive skin
- Not water-resistant
This lightweight SPF moisturizer contains antioxidants and replenishing ingredients that calm and hydrate the skin without contributing to shine, including vitamin E, grape seed extract, green tea, and oat extract.
Avobenzone 2.0%, Octinoxate 7.50%, Octisalate 5.0%, Octocrylene 2.0% (sunscreen actives), Water (Aqua), Glycerin (hydration/skin-replenishing), Silica (absorbent), Dimethicone (hydration/texture enhancer), Benzyl Alcohol (preservative), Tocopherol (vitamin E/antioxidant), Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract (antioxidant), Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract (antioxidant), Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract (antioxidant), Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract (antioxidant), Peucedanum Graveolens (Dill) Extract (antioxidant), Sambucus Nigra (Black Elderberry) Fruit Extract (antioxidant), Avena Sativa (Oat) Bran Extract (skin-soothing), Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Extract (antioxidant), Lycium Barbarum (Goji) Fruit Extract (antioxidant), Hydrogenated Lecithin (skin-restoring), Titanium Dioxide (texture enhancer), Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer (hydration), Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate (hydration), Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer (film-forming/suspending agent), Xanthan Gum (texture enhancer), Sodium Carbomer (texture enhancer), Benzyl Alcohol (preservative), Sodium Benzoate (stabilizer), Potassium Sorbate (preservative), Phenoxyethanol (preservative).
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Aug. 2, 2021.
5. Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 50
Paula's Choice Sunscreen for Sun Protection
Paula’s Choice Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 50
This is one of the best Paula’s Choice sunscreens if you’re planning on swimming or breaking a sweat. It is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and has ample SPF to protect you from the sun.
It’s important to have a water-resistant sunscreen on hand for when you’re having a more active day. This sunscreen is a great choice, as it is weightless on the skin, and is suitable for both the face and body.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Contains chemical sunscreen, which may irritate sensitive skin
This sunscreen is packed with antioxidants, which further help to protect the skin from environmental aggressors.
Homosalate 10%, Oxybenzone 6%, Octisalate 5%, Avobenzone 3%, Octocrylene 2%, Water (Aqua), Butylene Glycol (hydration/texture-enhancing), PEG-8 (texture-enhancing), Polyethylene (texture-enhancing), Silica (absorbent), Dimethicone (hydration), Picea Excelsa Wood Extract (skin-soothing), Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (vitamin C/antioxidant), Retinyl Palmitate (vitamin A/ antioxidant/skin replenishing), Tocopherol (vitamin E/antioxidant), Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E/antioxidant), Titanium Dioxide (texture-enhancing), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (hydration/skin-soothing), Bentonite (absorbent), Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate (texture-enhancing), Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer (texture-enhancing), Sodium Polyacrylate (texture-enhancing), Kaolin (absorbent), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservative), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), Sodium Hydroxide (pH adjuster), Phenoxyethanol (preservatives), Chlorphenesin (preservative).
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Aug. 4, 2021.
6. Anthelios SPF 50 Gentle Lotion Mineral Sunscreen
La Roche-Posay Sunscreen for Daily Sun Protection
La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF 50 Gentle Lotion Mineral Sunscreen
This is one of the best La Roche-Posay mineral sunscreens for the face and body, particularly if you have sensitive skin. 100% mineral UV filters protect the skin while minimizing the risk of irritation.
This water-resistant sunscreen uses the power of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide (mineral UV filters) to protect the skin from the sun. It blends easily into the skin, and leaves a non-greasy, soft finish.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist tested
- Water resistant (up to 80 minutes)
Cons
- May leave a white cast on some skin tones
This sunscreen contains senna alata, which provides antioxidant protection. It defends against free radicals that can accelerate the development of signs of aging.
Titanium Dioxide 5%, Zinc Oxide 15%, Water, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Isohexadecane, Isononyl Isononanoate, Dicaprylyl Ether, PEG-30, Dipolyhydroxystearate, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Ethylene/Acrylic Acid, Copolymer, Triethylhexanoin, Silica, Poly C10-30, Alkyl Acrylate, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Chloride, Caprylyl Glycol, Diethylhexyl, Syringylidenemalonate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Aluminum Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Aluminum Stearate, Chlorphenesin, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Alumina, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Tocopherol, P-Anisic Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Propylene Carbonate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cassia Alata Leaf Extract, Maltodextrin.
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American Academy of Dermatology. "https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/sunscreen-patients/is-sunscreen-safe"
Accessed Aug. 23, 2021.
7. Anthelios Mineral Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 50
La Roche-Posay Sunscreen for Daily Sun Protection
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 50
If you have more sensitive skin, this mineral face sunscreen may be the best option for you. Mineral UV filters block the sun’s rays, and antioxidants further help protect the skin.
This sunscreen contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide – two mineral UV filters – that help protect the skin from the sun. It is lightweight and absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving a matte finish.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist tested
- Water resistant (up to 40 minutes)
Cons
- May leave a white cast on some skin tones
This sunscreen contains senna alata, which provides antioxidant protection. It defends against free radicals that can accelerate the development of signs of aging.
Titanium Dioxide 6% (sunscreen), Zinc Oxide 5% (sunscreen), Undecane, Triethylhexanoin, Isohexadecane, Nylon-12, Caprylyl Methicone, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Phenethyl Benzoate, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Silica, Tridecane, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Dicaprylyl Ether, Talc, Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer, Aluminum Stearate, Pentylene Glycol, PEG-9 Olydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Alumina,Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Magnesium Sulfate, Propylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, PEG-8 Laurate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate, Tocopherol, Propylene Carbonate, Cassia Alata Leaf Extract, Maltodextrin, Benzoic Acid, PEG-9.
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Aug. 23, 2021.
8. Anthelios Cooling Water Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
La Roche-Posay Sunscreen for Daily Sun Protection
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Cooling Water Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
This face and body chemical sunscreen has an immediate cooling effect, and absorbs into the skin quickly. It also contains antioxidants that further protects the skin.
This is one of the best La Roche-Posay sunscreens if you want just one product for both your face and body. It has a water-like lotion texture that doesn’t feel too greasy, and is water resistant for up to 80 minutes. This makes it a great option for when you’re swimming or doing more physically demanding activities.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist tested
- Water resistant (up to 80 minutes)
Cons
- Contains chemical sunscreen, which may irritate sensitive skin
This sunscreen contains senna alata, which provides antioxidant protection, defending against free radicals that can accelerate the development of signs of aging. If you need higher SPF, there is also an SPF 60 version available.
Avobenzone 2.24% (Sunscreen), Homosalate 8% (Sunscreen), Octisalate 2.4% (Sunscreen), Octocrylene 4.48% (Sunscreen), Oxybenzone 2.88% (Sunscreen), Water, Alcohol Denat., Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Proprylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Polyacrylate, Silica, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Disodium EDTA, Tocopherol, Menthyl Lactate, Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate, Cassia Alata Leaf Extract, Maltodextrin.
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Aug. 23, 2021.
9. Mineral SPF Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid
La Roche-Posay Sunscreen for Daily Sun Protection and Moisturization
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral SPF Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid
This product is a moisturizer and mineral sunscreen in one, and is great for daily use. SPF 30 protects the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, and hyaluronic acid works to hydrate.
This sunscreen is formulated with hyaluronic acid, which helps maintain moisture levels in the skin. It also contains glycerin and vitamin B5 (panthenol), which further moisturize and soothe the skin. This sunscreen uses 100% mineral filters (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide), which are generally better tolerated by sensitive skin.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologist tested
Cons
- Not water resistant (use a water resistant sunscreen when swimming or sweating)
- May leave a white cast on some skin tones
In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this sunscreen contains senna alata, a tropical leaf extract. This ingredient provides antioxidant protection, defending against free radicals that can accelerate the development of signs of aging.
Titanium Dioxide (5.5%), Zinc Oxide (10%), Water, Glycerin, Isohexadecane, Isononyl Isononanoate, Dicaprylyl Ether, Peg-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Dimethicone, Caprylyl Methicone, Ethylene/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Triethylhexanoin, Silica, Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Chloride, Caprylyl Glycol, Panthenol, Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate, Aluminum Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Aluminum Stearate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Chlorphenesin, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Alumina, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Tocopherol, P-Anisic Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Propylene Carbonate, Cassia Alata Leaf Extract, Maltodextrin.
-
American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Aug. 23, 2021. -
Accessed Aug. 23, 2021.
10. Clear Skin Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 60
La Roche-Posay Sunscreen for Daily Sun Protection
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 60
This oil-free sunscreen is perfect for acne-prone and oily skin, because it provides protection from UVA and UVB rays without clogging pores or contributing to shine.
This SPF 60 sunscreen was made with acne-prone and oily skin in mind. It contains powerful UVA/UVB filters that effectively protect the skin, as well as a perlite and silica complex, which helps absorb excess oil to cut down on shine and prevent pores from clogging.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Dermatologist tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Water resistant (up to 80 minutes)
Cons
- Contains chemical sunscreen, which may irritate sensitive skin
This sunscreen also contains senna alata, a tropical leaf extract that provides antioxidant protection, defending against free radicals that can accelerate the development of signs of aging.
Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 15%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 7%, water, silica, dicaprylyl carbonate, styrene/acrylates copolymer, butyloctyl salicylate, methyl methacrylate crosspolymer, nylon-12, PEG-100 stearate, glyceryl stearate, perlite, beeswax, ammonium polyacryloyldimethyl taurate, phenoxyethanol, PEG-8 laurate, behenyl alcohol, sodium stearoyl glutamate, chlorphenesin, p-anisic acid, xanthan gum, tocopherol, disodium EDTA, arachidyl alcohol, diethylhexyl syringylidenemalonate, propylene glycol, cassia alata leaf extract, maltodextrin, stearyl alcohol, t-butyl alcohol, caprylic/capric triglyceride
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Aug. 23, 2021.
11. Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
Paula's Choice Sunscreen for Daily Sun Protection and Moisturization
Paula’s Choice Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
This creamy moisturizer contains mineral-based SPF to protect the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. It also contains hydrating and replenishing ingredients to soften dry skin.
This SPF moisturizer uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, two mineral sunscreens that are suitable for sensitive skin. It also contains a blend of antioxidants, ceramides, and peptides that help to soften, protect, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Gentle
Cons
- Some reviewers note it feels greasy on the skin
- Not water-resistant
The ceramides in this moisturizer help to restore the moisture barrier and strengthen the skin, while the peptides help provide anti-aging benefits.
Titanium Dioxide 3.85%, Zinc Oxide 3.12% (mineral sunscreens), Water (Aqua), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate (emollient/texture-enhancing), Isononyl Isononanoate (texture-enhancing), Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil (apricot oil/non-fragrant oil/emollient), Cyclopentasiloxane (hydration/texture-enhancing), Glyceryl Stearate (emollient/texture-enhancing), PEG-100 Stearate (emollient/texture-enhancing), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Pentylene Glycol (hydration), Cetearyl Alcohol (emollient/texture-enhancing), Dimethicone (hydration), Glycine Soja Sterols (emollient), VP/Eicosene Copolymer (texture-enhancing), Avena Sativa Kernel Extract (oat extract/skin-soothing), Glycerin (hydration/skin replenishing), Sodium Hyaluronate (hydration/skin replenishing), Allantoin (skin-soothing) , Tocopheryl Acetate (antioxidant), Hydrogenated Lecithin (skin-restoring), Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (vitamin C/antioxidant), Superoxide Dismutase (antioxidant), Ubiquinone (antioxidant), Ceramide NG (hydration/skin replenishing), Methicone (hydration), Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 (skin-restoring), PEG-10 Dimethicone (texture-enhancing), Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract (cucumber extract/skin-soothing), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (emollient/texture-enhancing), Tribehenin (skin-restoring), PEG-10 Phytosterol (texture-enhancing), Sorbitan Stearate (texture-enhancing), Polyhydroxystearic Acid (texture-enhancing), Alumina (texture-enhancing), Polysorbate 20 (texture-enhancing), Aluminum Stearate (texture-enhancing), Xanthan Gum (texture-enhancing), Caprylyl Glycol (preservative), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservative), Phenoxyethanol (preservative), Chlorphenesin (preservative).
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Aug. 4, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin hydration is significantly increased by a cream formulated to mimic the skin's own natural moisturizing systems"
Accessed Aug. 4, 2021.
12. Resist Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50
Paula's Choice Sunscreen for Daily Sun Protection
Paula’s Choice Resist Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50
If you need a higher SPF, this is a great daily sunscreen. This chemical sunscreen has a lightweight formula, and contains additional ingredients that soothe and protect the skin.
This satin-matte finish sunscreen is excellent for daily use. The chemical sunscreen ingredients (avobenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, and octocrylene) protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays, while the antioxidants further protect from environmental aggressors that can cause premature aging.
Pros
- Satin-matte finish
- Lightweight
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Not water-resistant
- Contains chemical sunscreen, which may irritate sensitive skin
In addition to the sunscreen ingredients and antioxidants, this product contains oat extract and green tea extract, which soothe the skin and calm redness. It’s important to note that this sunscreen is not water-resistant, which means it shouldn’t be used for swimming or sports.
Avobenzone 2.0%, Octinoxate 7.50%, Octisalate 5.0%, Octocrylene 2.0% (sunscreen actives), Water (Aqua), Glycerin (hydration/skin-replenishing), Silica (absorbent), Dimethicone (hydration/texture enhancer), Tocopherol (vitamin E/antioxidant), Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract (antioxidant), Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract (antioxidant), Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract (antioxidant), Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract (antioxidant), Peucedanum Graveolens (Dill) Extract (antioxidant), Sambucus Nigra (Black Elderberry) Fruit Extract (antioxidant), Avena Sativa (Oat) Bran Extract (skin-soothing), Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Extract (antioxidant), Lycium Barbarum (Goji) Fruit Extract (antioxidant), Hydrogenated Lecithin (skin-restoring), Titanium Dioxide (texture-enhancing), Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer (hydration), Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate (hydration/antioxidant), Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer (film-forming/suspending agent), Xanthan Gum (texture enhancer), Sodium Carbomer (texture enhancer), Benzyl Alcohol (preservative), Sodium Benzoate (stabilizer), Potassium Sorbate (preservative), Phenoxyethanol (preservative).
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Aug. 4, 2021.
13. Resist Super Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30
Paula's Choice Sunscreen for Daily Sun Protection
Paula’s Choice Resist Super Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30
This lightweight, lightly-tinted product is one of the overall best Paula’s Choice sunscreens. It contains mineral sunscreen filters that protect the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, as well as calming ingredients and protective antioxidants.
This lightweight SPF 30 sunscreen has a matte finish and is great for daily use. It contains mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide), which is particularly beneficial for sensitive skin, since mineral sunscreens are less likely to irritate the skin compared to chemical sunscreens.
Pros
- Matte finish
- Lightweight
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May leave a white cast on darker skin tones
- Not water-resistant
This sunscreen contains bisabolol and willow bark extract, which calm the skin and alleviate redness. It also contains a blend of antioxidants to further protect against environmental aggressors. It’s important to note that this sunscreen is not water-resistant, which means it shouldn’t be used for swimming or sports.
Zinc Oxide 13% (broad-spectrum sunscreen agent), Water (Aqua), Cyclopentasiloxane (hydration), PEG-12 Dimethicone (texture enhancer), PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone (texture enhancer), Lauroyl Lysine (skin-conditioning agent),Sodium Chloride (stabilizer), Trihydroxystearin (texture-enhancing), Dimethicone Crosspolymer ( suspending agent), Resveratrol (antioxidants), Quercetin (antioxidants), Epigallocatechin Gallate (antioxidants), Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E/antioxidant), Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (vitamin C/antioxidant), Adenosine (skin-restoring), Bisabolol (skin-soothing), Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract (skin-soothing), Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Extract (antioxidant), Haematococcus Pluvialis Extract (astaxanthin/antioxidant), Hydrolyzed Corn Starch (texture-enhancing/mattifying agent), Polysorbate 80 (texture-enhancing), Hydrated Silica (texture-enhancing/mattifying agent), Triethoxycaprylylsilane (texture enhancer), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate (emollient texture enhancer), Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate (texture enhancer), Caprylyl Glycol (preservatives), Hexylene Glycol (preservatives), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservatives), Iron Oxide (CI77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Phenoxyethanol (preservatives).
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Aug. 2, 2021.
14. Calm Redness Relief SPF 30 Mineral Moisturizer
Paula's Choice Sunscreen for Redness and Daily Sun Protection and Moisturization
Paula’s Choice Calm Redness Relief SPF 30 Mineral Moisturizer for Normal to Dry Skin
This mineral-based SPF moisturizer is one of the best Paula’s Choice sunscreens for sensitive and redness-prone skin, and is even gentle enough for rosacea-prone skin. It contains additional ingredients that calm and hydrate the skin.
This is a great SPF moisturizer for sensitive and redness-prone skin, partially due to the fact that it contains mineral sunscreen (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide), which is gentler on the skin. Additionally, it has calming, hydrating, and redness-reducing plant extracts, antioxidants, and peptides.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Gentle
Cons
- Not water-resistant
Some of the nourishing and calming ingredients in this gentle formula include apricot oil, oat extract, allantoin, and vitamin E.
Titanium Dioxide 3.85%, Zinc Oxide 3.12%, Water (Aqua), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate (texture-enhancing/emollient), Isononyl Isononanoate (texture-enhancing/emollient), Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil (apricot oil/non-fragrant plant oil/emollient), Cyclopentasiloxane (hydration), Glyceryl Stearate (emollient), PEG-100 Stearate (texture-enhancing), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Pentylene Glycol (hydration), Cetearyl Alcohol (emollient), Dimethicone (hydration), Glycine Soja Sterols (soybean/emollient), VP/Eicosene Copolymer (texture-enhancing), Avena Sativa Kernel Extract (oat extract/skin-soothing), Glycerin (hydration/skin replenishing), Sodium Hyaluronate (hydration), Allantoin (skin-soothing), Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E/antioxidant), Hydrogenated Lecithin (skin replenishing), Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (vitamin C/antioxidant), Superoxide Dismutase (antioxidant), Ubiquinone (antioxidant), Ceramide NG (hydration/skin replenishing), Methicone (hydration), Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 (texture-enhancing), PEG-10 Dimethicone (texture-enhancing), Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract (cucumber extract/skin-soothing), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (emollient), Tribehenin (emollient), PEG-10 Phytosterol (texture-enhancing/emollient), Sorbitan Stearate (texture-enhancing), Polyhydroxystearic Acid (texture-enhancing), Alumina (stabilizer), Polysorbate 20 (stabilizer), Aluminum Stearate (texture-enhancing), Xanthan Gum (texture-enhancing), Caprylyl Glycol (preservative), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservative), Phenoxyethanol (preservative), Chlorphenesin (preservative).
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Aug. 4, 2021.
FAQs
What’s better: mineral or chemical sunscreen?
Both mineral (also known as physical) and chemical sunscreens will effectively protect you from the sun. Choosing between the two comes down to personal preference and what works best with your skin. People with sensitive skin often tolerate mineral sunscreens over chemical sunscreens, since they are gentler on the skin. However, mineral sunscreens can leave a white cast on darker skin tones, and some formulas can be harder to rub in compared to chemical sunscreens (that said, both of these factors vary from product to product). Ultimately, both mineral and chemical sunscreens will keep you protected from the sun. Simply choose a sunscreen that works best for your needs, and a product you can see yourself comfortably using on a daily basis.
How do I choose the best sunscreen?
When picking out a sunscreen, there are a few factors you’ll need to consider. First, you’ll want to keep your skin type in mind (particularly when picking out a face sunscreen), as well as any skin concerns you may have (such as having acne-prone skin) so that you can look for an option that is suitable for your skin’s needs. You should also decide whether a chemical or mineral sunscreen is best for you. Finally, you’ll need to consider whether you need a water-resistant sunscreen (for swimming or sweating) or not. Once you know the requirements you have for a sunscreen, you can look for a product that checks all your boxes.
Is it good to use sunscreen everyday?
Yes, you should be applying sunscreen on a daily basis. This includes days when you aren’t spending a lot of time outside or when it’s cloudy, because UV rays can still penetrate through windows and clouds. Wearing a sunscreen on a daily basis will keep your skin safe and prevent visible sun damage from forming.
The Bottom Line
There are plenty of excellent sunscreens on the market that are on the more affordable side. Once you’ve found an affordable sunscreen that you love, be sure to wear it daily to keep your skin safe and protected.