/* /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// */
/* EDIT – Do you need a video opener? Set to ‘true’ if animated video, if not set to ‘false’ */
var hasVideo = true;
/* /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// */
/* Video loading image, Use image from first frame */
/* Hero, Desktop & Tablet use 8:3, 2000px x 750px squooshed mozJPG at 75% compression */
var desktopHeroImage = “https://www.refinery29.com/images/11975120.jpg”;
/* Hero, Mobile use 720px 1:1,5:6,4:3, 1280px wide squooshed mozJPG at 75% compression */
var mobileHeroImage = “https://www.refinery29.com/images/11975121.jpg”;
/* /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// */
/* Please add accessible alt text */
var desktopHeroAltText = “”;
var mobileHeroAltText = “”;
/* /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// */
/* EDIT – Desktop & Tablet wide video URL from JWPlayer, use min 1920px x 720px 8:3 wide asset, 6-10 second loop, no audio */
var desktopVideo = “https://studio-assets.rf29.net/Editorial/SPF-Awards-2026/SPF_Awards_Desktop.mp4”;
/* /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// */
/* EDIT – Mobile video URL from JWPlayer, use 720px 1:1,5:6,4:3 squre/tall asset, 6-10 second loop, no audio */
var mobileVideo = “https://studio-assets.rf29.net/Editorial/SPF-Awards-2026/SPF_Awards_Mobile.mp4”;
/* /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// */
/* EDIT: Build additional functions here. */
function initOther()
/* Call addtional functions */
/* /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// */
/* DO NOT ALTER */
function addOverlay()
const a = document.getElementById(“overlay”);
a.innerHTML = “
“;
let isRightRail=!1;function setupRightRail()let e=document.querySelectorAll(“.r29-article”)[0].classList.contains(“right-rail-article”);isRightRail=!0==efunction setupOpener()if(!1==isRightRail)let e=document.querySelectorAll(“.opener .full-width-opener”);e[0].style.opacity=1,e[0].style.transition=”all 0.3s ease-in-out”,e[0].style.webkitTransition=”all 0.3s ease-in-out”,e=void 0function loadVideo()var e=document.getElementById(“tmp-video-hero-desktop”),t=document.getElementById(“tmp-video-hero-mobile”);window.innerWidth>960&&(e.src=desktopVideo,e.load()),window.innerWidth>767&&window.innerWidth<961&&(e.src=desktopVideo,e.load()),window.innerWidth<768&&(t.src=mobileVideo,t.load())function setupVideo()document.getElementsByClassName("full-width-opener")[0].setAttribute("id","tmp-content"),document.getElementById("tmp-content").innerHTML='
‘,loadVideo(),addOverlay()function setup(e)1==e&&setupVideo()function ready(e)(document.attachEvent?”complete”===document.readyState:”loading”!==document.readyState)?e():document.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,e)document.onmouseleave=function()window.isReady=!1,window.addEventListener(“resize”,function()window.isReady=!1),window.isReady=void 0!==window.isReady&&window.isReady,ready(function()var e=setInterval(function()window.imagesLoaded&&(imagesLoaded(“#tmp-load”,background:!0,function()window.isReady=!1,clearInterval(e)),clearInterval(e)),100);if(!1!==window.isReady)return;window.isReady=!0;let t=setTimeout(function()clearTimeout(t),setup(hasVideo),setupRightRail(),setupOpener(),initOther(),200));
Growing up, sunscreen felt like a chore. I’d run as fast as my legs could carry me to get away from my mom, dodging that inevitable sticky, chalky slathering. These days, though, my skin — and makeup — routine isn’t complete without it. Not only has skincare come a long way, leaving those suffocating formulas behind, but we’ve also had our eyes opened to just how important sun protection really is.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, an estimated 234,680 cases of melanoma — a serious form of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body — will be diagnosed in the US this year. The good news is that applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, alongside wearing sun-protective clothing like wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses, can significantly reduce your risk.
If you’re an R29 regular, you’ll know we’re incredibly passionate about sunscreen. In 2024, we won the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Media Impact Award for our advocacy work to ban teen tanning bed use and promote sun safety through our Sun Blocked series — so it’s fair to say we’re well-versed in the very best formulas out there.
Without further ado, here’s every sunscreen we think deserves its flowers — from face SPFs that disappear instantly into skin to tinted bases that never leave a white cast behind.
Face
Tatcha The Milky Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++
“I look forward to using this sunscreen every morning, it feels that good on the skin. It boasts SPF 50+ broad-spectrum protection, meaning it shields against UVA (responsible for premature aging and skin cancer) and UVB (which causes sunburn). Beyond sun protection, the formula is packed with moisturizing skincare ingredients like ectoin and vitamin E. It’s so quenching, even on my chronically dry cheeks, that I often skip moisturizer altogether and use this in its place. That’s not to say it’s unsuitable for oily or combination skin. I have a mix of both, and the lightweight, milky texture dries down to sit somewhere between matte and dewy, so skin feels comfortably hydrated, not greasy. I recommend this to anyone looking for a featherlight sunscreen that doesn’t compromise on hydration or protection.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.
Sofie Pavitt Face Screentime Non-Comedogenic Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 30
“As one of NYC’s most sought-after estheticians, Sofie Pavitt has heard endless complaints about sunscreen — mostly, that they break people out — so she decided to launch her own. Screentime, the latest addition to her eponymous skincare brand, delivers SPF 30 protection in a formula that’s hydrating without feeling heavy. The texture is silky and indulgent, making it a step I genuinely look forward to every morning. Even better, it’s infused with ectoin and niacinamide (two of my favorite ingredients) to support a healthy skin barrier and help balance excess oil.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer.
belif Dew Guard Milky Sun Serum Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 40
“Korean sunscreen is considered to be in a league of its own, and I understand why when I use this milky SPF. If you’re a fan of belif’s Aqua Bomb Hydrating Moisturizer like I am, you’ll adore this. It’s equally light and quick to absorb (in fact, I’d liken it to a serum-like texture), and it feels like you’ve got nothing on your skin at all. The hundreds of 5-star reviews are further proof that it deserves its flowers, with users praising its naturally radiant finish, hydrating feel without clogging or making skin oily, and sleek packaging that slips easily into bags and pockets.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.
Dr. Idriss Major Fade Disco Block Discoloration Treatment SPF 50
“When it comes to an accessible SPF that I can walk into a store and purchase, Dr. Idriss’ Major Fade Disco is the easy answer. It checks every box, no cast, no eye stinging, no greasy texture. It is perfect; the formula is a cloud-like moisturizing lotion without being too thick and heavy, so I can wear it in place of a moisturizer. This lies perfectly under makeup, never pills, and, most importantly, keeps my face protected.” — Sophia Dennis, head of programming and brand strategy for Refinery29 Beautycon.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen SPF 40
“The countless five-star reviews speak for themselves: this is comfortable, invisible (meaning no white cast whatsoever), and worth every single cent. The sun protection comes from a handful of chemical filters, namely avobenzone and homosalate, which allow it to be inconspicuous on all skin tones. It looks and feels like a makeup primer, absorbing in record speed and leaving a softly mattified finish, but it’s packed with UVA and UVB protection that’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. If you’re a sunscreen aficionado, it’s a lot like Allies of Skin’s The One SPF 50 — but a fraction of the price.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.
Supergoop! Superscreen Rich Hydrating Cream SPF 40 Moisturizer
“Out of all the SPF products in Supergoop!’s lineup (and there are many), this one is my holy grail. I’ve gone through multiple jars at this point, and I can confidently say it’s my all-time favorite daytime moisturizer. The formula is loaded with ectoin, ceramides, and algae extracts, so my skin consistently looks softer, smoother, and more plump when I use it daily. It also delivers SPF 40 protection thanks to a blend of chemical filters like avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene. I have acne-prone skin, and this has yet to break me out, even when worn underneath an additional sunscreen for good measure.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer.
House of Dohwa Rice Bran Sunscreen 50ml SPF50+ PA++++
“This is glass skin in a bottle; whenever people ask me how my skin looks so good and glowy, I know that it’s because of this product. This is lightweight and thin, so it layers on top of your moisturizer. I reach for this in the warmer months as it absorbs incredibly quickly and supports summer skin in a perfect way. The packaging is also much different than any other skincare product I have tried. It comes in a paper-like tube, so when the product is almost finished, you can rip the tube to get the last drops.” — Sophia Dennis, head of programming and brand strategy for Refinery29 Beautycon.
e.l.f. Cosmetics Suntouchable Invisi-Stick SPF 50
“This sunscreen stick was a godsend on my last vacation for two reasons: 1) It prevented my hair part from getting burned. If this has never happened to you, consider yourself lucky, because it’s incredibly painful. I was able to swipe this invisible stick down the center of my part without disturbing my slicked bun or making my hair crispy, flaky, or white. It dried down completely without residue. 2) It makes reapplying sunscreen over makeup so quick and easy. It’s even great on the lips. My beach bag wasn’t complete without it, and I love that while it features SPF 50 broad-spectrum protection, it doesn’t leave any sign of application — no white cast, no greasy finish. It’s genius.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.
La Roche-Posay UVAir SPF50 Serum Sunscreen
“I didn’t think anything could sway me from my trusty Anthelios Ultra Light Face Fluid, but UVAir SPF 50 Serum Sunscreen has swiftly taken its place in my morning routine. Thanks to the chemical UVA and UVB filters, it feels more like a milky serum than a sunscreen, and it takes just moments to work into the skin. This is why I love using it for reapplication, even over makeup, as tapping it in never disturbs my foundation base — if anything, it makes my skin glow. The bottle is also compact enough to slip into even the tightest pockets and tiniest bags, making top-ups a no-brainer. I love the precise application tip, which makes it easy to measure out three fingers’ worth of product.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.
INNBEAUTY PROJECT Mineral Sun Glow Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 43 PA +++
“I put this sunscreen to the test on a recent ski trip and was seriously impressed — both by how hydrating it is and how good it makes my skin look. For a mineral formula, there’s zero chalky cast (thanks to three tinted shade options), and the subtle, shimmery glow reads radiant, not sweaty. It’s infused with vitamin C, plus ectoin, squalane, and peptides, which I swear leave my skin looking more supple and lit-from-within over time. I also love how it wears under makeup — think healthy, glowing skin with the added bonus of SPF 43 protection.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer.
Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Daily Sunscreen SPF 50
“HaruHaru Wonder makes some wonderful K-Beauty products, and its Black Rice line is one of my favorites. This sunscreen has a velvety and somewhat fluffy texture, making it feel reparative on the skin. It also protects against blue light if you’re concerned about that. It’s perfect for the days I’m at my window-facing desk, on back-to-back calls. This also has a crowd-pleasing finish, not incredibly glowy or matte — just your skin but better.” — Sophia Dennis, head of programming and brand strategy for Refinery29 Beautycon.
Makeup
Merit The Uniform Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50
“I’ve been through three tubes of Merit’s tinted sunscreen already, and I’m just about to open another ahead of spring, when I prefer a little less coverage. The SPF filter is mineral, but the added tint dials down any ashiness, with reviewers praising how easily it applies, sinks into the skin, and the distinct lack of white cast. One pump is enough to cover my entire face and neck, softening the look of past breakouts and blurring my dark under-eye circles. I’m always impressed by how well it lasts, even on warmer days, and would say it wears more like a lightweight foundation with added SPF.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.
Ciele Prime & Protect SPF 30+ Smoothing Primer
“This silky primer is basically spackle for uneven texture — it smooths everything out while gripping onto foundation and concealer and never letting go. It also offers SPF 30 via 10% zinc oxide, and on my skin, it doesn’t leave a noticeable white cast (likely because I’m not applying as much as I would with a standalone sunscreen, so it’s always important to layer up). That said, if you have deeper skin, the Radiant Bronze shade is worth trying for a truly undetectable finish. Overall, I found it really helps extend the wear and look of my makeup — and as a primer alone, it’s among the best I’ve tried; the sunscreen is almost a bonus, if it weren’t the whole point!” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer.
Hourglass Illusion Luminous Glow Foundation SPF 30
“You’d never guess there was sunscreen in this foundation — it’s that lightweight and imperceptible on the skin. Since a small squeeze goes a long way, I like to apply it over my dedicated sunscreen, knowing my skin is extra protected. Thanks to glycerin and dimethicone, it’s moisturizing and applies like a dream, blurring texture and lingering marks left behind by breakouts. And the staying power? Excellent. At the end of the day, I always enjoy catching my reflection in my apartment elevator mirror and seeing my makeup still perfectly intact.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.
Tower 28 Beauty SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Foundation
“This is a product I use at all hours of the day, all times of the year, whether it’s the dead of winter or the hottest day of summer. Actually, it makes my list of favorite products in general. The shade match is perfect; the finish is so natural and skin-like while covering hyperpigmentation and dark circles. While I don’t have many skin concerns, I know that people with acne- and eczema-prone skin who rave over this foundation, as it’s one of the few that doesn’t break them out or irritate their skin. The SPF 30 in this is really just the cherry on top.” — Sophia Dennis, head of programming and brand strategy for Refinery29 Beautycon.
Naturium Phyto-Glow Lip Balm SPF 45
“The skin on our lips is delicate and needs protection against the elements, but most SPF lip balms I’ve tried taste bitter and make the back of my throat itch. None is created quite like Naturium’s. Not only is this one of the most deeply moisturizing lip balms in my growing collection (that’ll be the nourishing shea butter and smoothing squalane), but it also features broad-spectrum SPF 45 protection, shielding against UVA and UVB, all without the wince-inducing taste. In fact, there’s nothing but a subtle hint of minty vanilla. My favorite shade is Getaway, a soft peach that pairs beautifully with a neutral lip liner and makes my lips gleam sans stickiness.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.
ONE/SIZE On ‘Til Dawn Mattifying Sunscreen Makeup Setting Spray SPF 28
“I didn’t think it was possible to love ONE/SIZE’s bestselling setting spray any more than I already did — and then the brand dropped an SPF version. I could cry tears of joy, which would probably be fine because that’s how good this stuff works to lock in my makeup. It feels virtually identical to the original On ’Til Dawn, but with the added bonus of SPF 28. As someone with oily skin who’s used to watching foundation and concealer disappear within hours, I can confirm that this stuff truly locks everything in place all day. Obsessed is an understatement.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer.
Ciele Blush & Protect SPF 50+ Liquid Blush
“Ciele is the brand of SPF makeup. I’ve tried quite a few products from its collection, and my favorite is the Blush and Protect SPF50+. I use the shades Giselle and Berri. This is also marketed as an “acne-safe” blush, so I really enjoy using it on the days that I ditch complexion products. I love the look of a fresh face with a subtle flush, and it’s so great to achieve that with the added benefit of SPF 50 protection.” — Sophia Dennis, head of programming and brand strategy for Refinery29 Beautycon.
Dior Forever Skin Glow SPF 25
“Dior’s new Forever Skin Glow foundation really is beautiful — and a strong contender for one of my all-time favorites. Not only does it glide on seamlessly, but it melts into the skin to provide a sheer veil of coverage that adds dimension and glow, rather than erasing my features. As a result, any makeup I apply on top — think blush and bronzer — is minimal, because I love how alive it makes my skin look, while subtly blurring leftover acne marks. Even better? The added SPF gives extra UV protection, but on a dermatologist’s recommendation, I always layer it over a dedicated SPF 50+.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.
Caliray Lipguard SPF 31 Hydrating Lip Gloss Balm
“SPF lip balms are notoriously hard to get right texture-wise, but Caliray’s gloss nails it. (Not entirely surprising, considering the brand is based in sunny SoCal, and founder Wende Zomnir surfs in her free time.) The formula is plush, hydrating, and comes in several shades. My go-to is Big Sur, a gorgeous rosy brown, but there are also options ranging from bright pink to peachy coral. Since lip skin is especially thin and prone to sun damage and sunburn, daily UV protection is a must. This hybrid formula delivers with UV filters zinc oxide and octisalate to get the job done.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer.
Body
Blue Lizard Sunscreen Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+
“Another mineral sunscreen lotion? Yawn! Or so I thought. This one by Australian brand Blue Lizard genuinely surprised me. The texture is as gentle and hydrating as your favorite body lotion, yet it delivers SPF 50 protection with up to 80 minutes of water resistance, making it a go-to for beach days. The real standout is the packaging: the cap shifts from clear to blue when exposed to UV rays, serving as a built-in reminder to reapply. (It’s also very cool?!) And the price is right in line with what you’d expect from a comparable drugstore pick, making it a no-brainer choice.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer.
Sun Bum Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
“After a terrible sunburn one summer, I had to up my sunscreen game. Last year, just before I left for vacation, I picked up two bottles of this, and now I won’t travel without it. Not only is it a high-factor, broad-spectrum sunscreen that defends against UVA and UVB, but it’s also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and packed with moisturizing ingredients like vitamin E (an antioxidant that provides extra protection against UV). It feels more like a lightweight body lotion than a sunscreen, sinking in fast so you can pull on your swimsuit or beach clothes without getting stuck. My partner usually hates sunscreen but doesn’t mind using this, which is a testament to just how good it is.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.
Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30 Sunscreen Mousse
“An effective yet fun product will always have a hold on me, and this whipped sunscreen is the best. While I never go a day without wearing sunscreen on my face, I’m not great at keeping up with my body, so when I spotted Body Whip, I knew it would be a game-changer for me. This cream comes out of its canister like whipped cream. I don’t know about you, but when I was a kid, half the draw of whipped cream was the fun texture. Vacation has taken this childhood memory and made it into a product I don’t mind using daily, making it so much easier to stay on top of wearing SPF from my head to my toes.” — Sophia Dennis, head of programming and brand strategy for Refinery29 Beautycon.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Body and Face Sunscreen SPF 60
“For years, I’ve recommended La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios range to anyone who will listen. The formulas are some of the most lightweight and elegant out there — an ideal gateway for anyone who thinks they hate sunscreen. (And by hate, I mean they just haven’t found the right one yet.) You really can’t go wrong with anything in the lineup, but my GOAT is the Melt-In Milk for Face and Body. True to its name, the oil-free, milky texture sinks in quickly without leaving a greasy residue. It doesn’t clog my pores, and thanks to chemical UV filters, it goes on with no white cast in sight.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer.
Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Face and Body Lotion Sunscreen SPF 60+
“This is another sunscreen I can’t imagine hot vacations without. It’s light yet deeply moisturizing, can be used on both the face and body, and doesn’t take an age to rub in or absorb. The broad-spectrum SPF 60+ protection is higher than most, and it features licorice root extract, which is said to soothe acne-prone skin. I get back and chest acne, but I never break out while using this, which, for me, makes it worth its weight in gold. As if that weren’t impressive enough, the brand’s patented SynchroShieldRepair technology means protection is strengthened on contact with heat and water, so you can swim and explore safe in the knowledge that you’re protected until it’s time to reapply.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.
Supergoop! PLAY Antioxidant Body Sunscreen Mist SPF 50
“I find it hard to stay consistent with sunscreen unless it’s for my face. Once I’m out of the shower, I tend to lose interest in body care altogether, so an easy-to-apply SPF is important to me. I love a spray; that way, I can apply it quickly without getting my hands messy. This Supergoop! Body Mist is especially great because I can reach my back without having to phone a friend to help keep me protected.” — Sophia Dennis, head of programming and brand strategy for Refinery29 Beautycon.
Coola Classic Body Organic Sunscreen Spray SPF 50
“I’m always pleasantly surprised by how easy it is to use this sunscreen mist, especially because it dries down completely without a trace. I consider it insurance over a dedicated layer of sunscreen, giving me extra protection when I’m out in the elements and feel my skin getting a little too hot, for example, at the beach or on a hike. I simply mist it on, massage it in, and go about my day. Unlike other sprays, it’s not uncomfortably greasy, nor does it run out quickly. It lasted me two weeks on vacation once, even though everyone wanted to borrow it.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Lightweight Sunscreen Spray SPF 45
“This is the sunscreen spray that finally convinced my husband to wear SPF daily — so yes, it gets all the flowers from me. Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer line is a classic for a reason: it’s affordable, reliable, and no-fuss. I used to be skeptical of sprays (it’s hard to tell if you’re applying enough!), but with SPF 70, I feel a little more secure between reapplications — which are easy to stay on top of, since it takes about 30 seconds to mist my whole body. I’ll sometimes rub it in to speed up absorption, but the spray is so fine you don’t really have to. It’s also a chemical formula, so it goes on completely invisible — a win-win all around.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer.
Clarins Body Sunscreen Lotion Spray Broad Spectrum SPF 50+
“I love the ease of a milky spray sunscreen, and they don’t get much better than Clarins’ SPF 50+ Broad Spectrum Lotion. I packed this on vacation last year and, one day at the beach, I was genuinely sad to reach the end of it. The nozzle doesn’t spit like other sprays; instead, it delivers a wide mist of sunscreen across the skin, taking the chore out of application. It smells great without being too strong, and it takes just a few seconds to rub in, so I found myself reaching for it far more often. Reapplication is key to staying safe in the sun.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
The Best SPF Makeup Primers To Try This Summer
