Facial Sunscreens Dermatologists Swear By

"This sunscreen is light, oil free, and does not cause breakouts. With a smooth consistency, it does not weigh down my skin, rubs in all the way, and gives high quality protection with only zinc oxide as its UV blocking ingredient," says dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner, Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in the Department of Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. 

"Dermatologists absolutely love this line. Not only does it supply a purely physical and tinted sunblock with 10% micronized zinc oxide and 5.5% titanium dioxide, but it contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin, and the power of the antioxidants such as vitamin E to combat free radical production and environmental harm from skin’s daily exposure to the elements. It is my weekend go-to sunscreen because it acts perfectly as a tinted SPF moisturizer with protection not only against UV (zinc, titanium), but against infrared and visible light exposure (antioxidants). I use it religiously on the weekends during my hikes and cycling routes," says Dr. Melanie Palm, board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon and director of Art of Skin MD.

"It has a perfect blend of peptides, viamint C, and arbutin. It double duties, so layering is not necessary. It rejuvenates and protects while providing luminous skin tone," says dermatologist Dr. Francesca Fusco. 

"I like it because it is fragrance free, formulated to be non-comedogenic and sensitive to skin types prone to acne breakouts. It contains lactic acid and niacinamide to refine skin texture and pigmentation and diminish the appearance and clogging of pores, and it dries matte. At the same time, the hyaluronic acid leaves the skin hydrated and silky. It is formulated with 9% zinc oxide, 7.5% octinoxate, and antioxidants, which help stabilize the formula in the sun to protect against free radicals that create damage associated with UV and infrared radiation. My patients love this product as well as I do for its non-greasy formula that works with makeup and doesn't feel like sunscreen," says dermatologist Dr. Patricia Wexler. 

"My wife is an avid surfer, so I'm very familiar with the importance of providing strong sun protection that can hold up during strenuous activity. With that in mind, my favorite choice is Shiseido's Ultimate Sun Protection Cream Wetforce. It has an SPF of 50, and remains durable in the water. Shiseido's entire sunscreen line is known for going on smoothly and not feeling tacky on the skin—so that's a big plus, as well," says dermatologist Dr. Kenneth Howe. 

"This mineral-based sunscreen powder brush is great on-the-go or as a re-application method throughout the day if makeup has already been applied to the face. I have one in the glove compartment of my vehicle, one in my purse, and one in my workout bag. It is handy for re-application on the face, or hands, neck, and chest without creating a mess..." says Dr. Melanie Palm. 

"Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion SPF 50+ is a novel sun protection product that helps prevent actinic damage and boosts your skin’s health. 11% zinc oxide offers high UVA and UVB sun protection with a sun protection factor of 50+. This ultra-lightweight emulsion can be applied without a greasy or tacky feel. It spreads easily and absorbs quickly. Minutes after application the emulsion is invisible," says dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman.