The 10 Best Face Sunscreens for Every Skin Type

Sunscreen Made Simple

How many times have you applied sunscreen, only to find it leaves behind a thick, white cast that feels too sticky on the skin? Facial sunscreens should be sheer enough to wear under makeup and give you the protection you need without making you feel like there's a heavy, thick residue on your face. To help you out, here is a list of some of the best sheer facial sunscreens.

Algenist Sublime Defense Ultra Lightweight UV Defense Fluid SPF 50

This ultra lightweight sunscreen from Algenist actually lives up to its name perfectly, as it's extremely sheer and pairs beautifully with any makeup you choose to apply on top of it as well. The texture is light, and when first squeezed out of the bottle it is white, but when massaged into the skin it turns clear and leaves no chalky residue behind. Perfect for any skin type, it gives a strong SPF protection of 50, ideal for the hottest and sunniest summer days.

Pair it with: Algenist Splash Absolute Hydration Replenishing Gel Moisturizer

Pacifica Sun + Skincare Mineral SPF 50 Face Stick

Unlike liquid versions, this mineral stick sunscreen from Pacifica Beauty gives you total control in putting sunscreen exactly where you want it. Not only does it protect your face from harmful UV rays it also gives a boost of skincare as well, infused with ingredients such as probiotics and caffeine to help nourish and firm. The perfect 100 percent vegan and cruelty-free option for whatever your sporty heart desires, its waterproof formula lasts through a day of surfing or fun activities on the beach.

Pair it with: Alterna Caviar Resort Sea Tousled Texture Spray for the perfect yet effortless beach waves.

Alba Botanica Facial Sunscreen SPF 30

This facial sunscreen from Alba Botanica is perfect for the most sensitive skin types, because of its minimal ingredients. Free of sulfates, synthetic fragrances, gluten, artificial colors, and parabens, it's the best formula for people to use who have encountered skin allergies from certain ingredients. It's also hypo-allergenic which means it doesn't clog pores and helps prevent future ​breakouts. Apply generously and let the sun protection begin, you'll love the texture and feel along with knowing you're using a quality sunscreen.​

Pair it with: Alba Botanica Very Emollient Sunscreen Spray SPF 50

Juice Beauty SPF 30 Sport Sunscreen

Juice Beauty's chemical-free sunscreen is formulated for sporty days at the beach or park when there's a lot of activity happening. Made with skin loving ingredients such as resveratrol, aloe leaf juice, and sunflower oil, your skin gets all the hydration and anti-aging benefits while being protected from sun damage. Organic jojoba and soothing aloe help it to glide easily and absorb well on the skin. The perfect formula for an active outdoor lifestyle, apply generously and have fun.

Pair it with: Juice Beauty Tinted Mineral Moisturizer SPF 30

Clé de Peau Beaute UV Protective Cream SPF 50+

An anti-aging elixir for the skin, this advanced protective facial sunscreen by Clé de Peau is formulated with some of the most luxurious ingredients that fight off pollution and dryness in a single application. The sunscreen is packed full of nutrients such as gingko ​biloba, vitamin C, mangosteen, and Asian ginseng extract to restore skin's elasticity and help skin appear more youthful. Sounds fabulous, don't you think?

Pair it with: Clé de Peau Beaute La Créme Facial Moisturizer

Giorgio Armani Maestro UV Makeup Primer

If a makeup primer and sunscreen in one is what you're looking for, this Maestro UV Primer from Giorgio Armani Beauty is everything you need. Packed into one chic and easy to use dropper, this invisible shield primer with SPF 50 protects against sun damage while using antioxidants to restore skin and repair collagen loss. Its lightweight barely-there texture will make you feel like you have nothing on, perfect for people who don't want the feel or look of products on their skin. Worn alone or under makeup, it's suitable for sensitive skin types, too.

Pair it with: Giorgio Armani Maestro Fusion Makeup

SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense Sunscreen

Ideal for all skin types, SkinCeuticals' dermatologist approved facial sunscreen is designed to specifically target the concern of hyperpigmentation. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide help provide the broad spectrum sun protection that you need every day, while the translucent color spheres provide a universal tint that matches to all skin tones and helps to keep your complexion shine and oil-free.

Pair it with: SkinCeuticals Advanced Brightening System

Clinique Mineral 50 Sunscreen Fluid

Clinique's light-weight sunscreen is 100 percent composed of minerals and offers SPF 50 for the fairest and most sensitive of skin. Its invisible shield technology allows any skin tone to use it without leaving residue behind and it's a perfect primer to wear under makeup. Formulated without parabens, the product is safe for contact lens wearers, and acne prone skin types due to its non-acnegenic oil. Free of fragrance, the sunscreen is approved by dermatologists and ophthalmologist tested.

Pair it with: Clinique Beyond Perfecting Powder and Concealer

Peter Thomas Roth Max Mineral Naked Broad Spectrum SPF 45

Say goodbye to uneven skin tone and hello to a flawless complexion with full sun protection thanks to this naked broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen from Peter Thomas Roth. It contains a universal tint and light-scattering optics that help even out skin tone before applying makeup and is perfect even if you wanted to simply wear it by itself. Vitamins A, C, E, and safflower help to protect and nourish the skin and give a boost of antioxidant benefits, too.

Pair it with: Peter Thomas Roth Potent-C Power Serum

Glossier Invisible Shield Daily Sunscreen SPF 35

Glossier's clear, water gel formula SPF 35 absorbs into skin instantly for a natural daily glow. The sunscreen contains no tint so it's perfect for all skin tones, and helps neutralize harmful free radicals, keeping your skin safe from any pollutants you don't want hanging around. Use it daily as the last step in your skincare routine before applying makeup, or wear it alone for ultimate protection.

Pair it with: Glossier Boy Brow and Haloscope Duo