With the best face sunscreens, you needn’t worry about that white cast numerous ‘screens leave behind. Many formulations now cater to deep skin tones, ensuring that those of us with darker complexions have ample choices for sun protection. Whether you prefer a chemical or physical sunscreen, you can now find options that offer defense without compromising your appearance.
We’ve tested dozens of formulas to bring you the best face sunscreens for melanin-rich skin. Each provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays and boasts an SPF of 30 or higher. Moreover, these top-rated picks tout a flattering, non-ashy finish, so you can reapply as often as needed (every two hours is ideal). Read on for sunscreens that blend like a dream, wear well under makeup and protect against sun damage.
Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion SPF 50+ Sunscreen
Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion is a translucent and silky sunscreen that absorbs quickly into the skin without requiring much rubbing. It wears like a serum and leaves skin looking naturally radiant and glowing. It also has a noticeable citrus scent.
Tennis star Naomi Osaka’s water-resistant tinted mineral sunscreen is available in three shades and offers oil-control properties to keep your face shine-free all day.
Think of this sunscreen as a magical cloak for your skin in that it goes on invisible. It’s a revolutionary SPF formula that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, while also acting as a makeup-gripping primer.
Whether you’re on the beach or just running errands, Black Girl Sunscreen has got you covered (literally). No ashy residue, no funky smell, just pure protection and hydration. And with jojoba and avocado on the ingredient list, you can rest assured that your skin will stay moisturized all day long.
Mele Dew The Most Sheer Moisturizer SPF 30 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
This sheer and translucent formula provides hydrating sun protection that doesn’t leave any white cast or residue behind. Plus, its compact size allows you to take it with you wherever you go, from music festivals to picnics in the park.
This moisturizer doubles as a sunscreen, and it’s packed with vitamin C to brighten and protect your skin against hyperpigmentation. You can pretty much have your cake and eat it, too (or in this case, have your moisturizer and sunscreen in one).
Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Refillable Invisible Face Moisturizer SPF 30 with Niacinamide
With ingredients like kalahari melon and baobab, this nourishing sunscreen is like a smoothie for your skin. Not only is it packed with antioxidants to protect against sun damage, but it’s also refillable and formulated with clean, good-for-you ingredients.
Kosas DreamBeam Silicone-Free Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40
From peptides to ceramides, this sunscreen is packed with everything your skin needs to stay healthy and radiant. It also doubles as a dreamy makeup primer, melting seamlessly into your skin for a flawless canvas.
Eleven by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35
Leave it to tennis champ Venus Williams to serve up a matchless mineral sunscreen that won’t leave you looking ashy. With ingredients as safe as a solid baseline shot, this game-changing serum, packed with SPF 35, delivers a demi-matte glow that’s a smash hit for every skin tone.
Enriched with sea moss, fermented guava and squalene, this mineral sunscreen strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier and hydrates without weighing down. Perfect for all skin types, it addresses dark spots, fine lines, and dryness and leaves a radiant finish.
