Sunscreens are an essential product for protecting your skin from sun damage and reducing your risk of skin cancer. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to identify the best sunscreens actually worth using.
That‘s why Reddit can be a valuable resource. Real users provide authentic feedback on products, cutting through marketing claims. Redditors get straight to the point about factors like texture, white cast, irritation potential, and more.
Let‘s explore some of Reddit‘s top sunscreen recommendations and what makes them so great.
#1 Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen
The La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen is Reddit‘s top pick for the best overall sunscreen.
One Redditor liked it so much they purchased it in bulk, with another praising it for not irritating their sensitive eyes. Beyond anecdotal evidence, La Roche-Posay‘s sunscreen is supported by science-backed research.
Its proprietary UVMUNE 400 technology absorbs longer UVA wavelengths than most sunscreens, protecting against premature aging. It‘s designed to layer easily under makeup – 91% of test subjects said it blended well, unlike sunscreens that leave an oily residue.
With its skin-like finish, water resistance, and best-in-class UVA/UVB protection, the Anthelios sunscreen is an excellent choice for daily wear.
Pros:
- Best-in-class sun protection
- Unlikely to cause skin irritation
- Blends smoothly with makeup
Cons:
- Only available in a 1.7 oz bottle
#2 Best Budget-Friendly: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen
The Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen is popular on Reddit for its exceptional quality and reasonable price.
One user said their skin felt softer after one use, with another calling it their favorite for its lightweight formula that absorbs instantly like a moisturizer.
Despite the low cost, it offers superior UVA/UVB protection using Helioplex technology to increase shelf-life and enhance effectiveness. It‘s also PABA-free and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for sensitive, acne-prone skin.
However, it contains oxybenzone so it‘s not reef-safe. But for affordable, high-quality protection, the Neutrogena sunscreen is a wonderful choice.
Pros:
- Helioplex enhances shelf life and effectiveness
- Lightweight, non-greasy feel
- Won‘t irritate sensitive or acne-prone skin
Cons:
- Contains oxybenzone so it‘s not reef-safe
#3 Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Hero Cosmetics Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen
The Hero Cosmetics Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen is perfectly designed for acne-prone skin, says one Redditor. This dermatologist-approved, non-comedogenic formula is carefully crafted to avoid clogging pores or causing breakouts.
Additional Redditors call it their "hg" sunscreen for calming inflammation and leaving skin glowy without irritation. Its subtle green tint also helps balance facial redness. The only negative is it‘s not water-resistant.
These claims are validated by Dr. Dray, who recommends this sunscreen for acne-prone and sensitive skin. However, its zinc oxide formula may appear ashy on some deeper skin tones.
Pros:
- Benefits acne-prone and sensitive skin
- Non-greasy, won‘t clog pores
- Tones down redness
Cons:
- Not water-resistant
- May not suit all skin tones
#4 Best Under Makeup: Unsun Mineral Tinted Face Sunscreen
The Unsun Mineral Tinted Face Sunscreen is Reddit’s top choice for wearing smoothly under makeup.
Multiple Redditors say this face sunscreen blends beautifully, providing light coverage while letting their natural complexion shine through. It‘s formulated to double as a primer, allowing concealer and foundation to layer without pilling or slipping around.
We love Unsun‘s use of antioxidant and nutrient-rich ingredients like green tea, shea butter, and vitamin E to nourish skin while protecting it. However, some users indicate the Medium/Dark tint looks ashy on medium skin tones.
Pros:
- Protects while evening skin tone
- Acts as a makeup primer
- Uses high-quality, nutrient-rich ingredients
Cons:
- Tinting may not suit all skin tones
#5 Most Moisturizing: Skin1004 Facial Sunscreen
The Skin1004 Facial Sunscreen earns the nickname "sun serum" for its ultra-hydrating properties. One Redditor claims it‘s even better than the famed Skin Aqua Super Moisture Milk sunscreen when it comes to moisture.
This innovative sunscreen utilizes 100% Centella Asiatica extract, a potent antioxidant that calms inflammation. It also includes hyaluronic acid to lock moisture into the skin.
While it’s not water-resistant, its lightweight, fast-absorbing, and deeply moisturizing formula makes Skin1004 a joy to apply every day.
Pros:
- Hydrating yet non-greasy
- Uses high-quality ingredients that promote skin health
Cons:
- Not water-resistant
#6 Best Lip Sunscreen: Aquaphor Lip Repair + Sunscreen
The Aquaphor Lip Repair + Sunscreen is not only Reddit’s top lip sunscreen pick but also the #1 dermatologist-recommended option.
One user calls it their “hg” for chronically dry lips, with another deeming it a “glorious gift to mankind." This lip sunscreen includes moisturizing oils and butters to heal dryness while providing SPF 30 protection.
Because it‘s designed to adhere to the lips, it does have a thick, stiff texture. You have to press firmly to spread it around initially. But once applied, it stays put very well.
Pros:
- Effectively moisturizes and protects
- Formula stays put on lips
Cons:
- Thick, stiff texture makes application tricky
#7 Best Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen
When a Redditor asked for reef-safe sunscreen suggestions for an upcoming cruise, the most popular response was Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen. One user called it their "favorite sunscreen ever," amazed that the bottle changes colors in UV light.
Blue Lizard contains no ingredients toxic to marine environments, making it an excellent eco-friendly choice. It provides water-resistant protection for up to 80 minutes and is free of fragrances, dyes, oxybenzone, and octinoxate.
It’s safe for sensitive skin too. However, feedback on the texture is mixed, with some finding it comfortable and others saying it feels like glue.
Pros:
- Reef-safe and water-resistant
- UV color-change bottle
- Suitable for sensitive skin types
Cons:
- Texture doesn‘t agree with everyone
How to Pick the Best Sunscreen
When selecting a sunscreen, consider these primary factors:
SPF
SPF indicates protection level against UVB rays. While ideal levels vary by skin type, most dermatologists recommend using SPF 30 at minimum. Higher levels provide more protection.
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Look for “broad-spectrum” labeling. This means the sunscreen shields from aging UVA rays in addition to burning UVB rays.
Water Resistance
Water-resistant sunscreens adhere better, resisting sweat and water to maintain protection during swimming or outdoor sports.
What Else to Know Before Buying
Reapply Frequently
Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours minimum, more if sweating or swimming, as protection wears off over time.
Consider the Environment
Some sunscreen chemicals like oxybenzone harm ocean life and coral reefs. Seek reef-safe options to help preserve marine ecosystems.
The Bottom Line
With knowledge of Reddit’s top picks across key categories and insight into choosing high-quality sun protection, finding your perfect sunscreen match just got much easier. Protect yourself against sun damage while keeping your skin happy with one of these dermatologist-approved and Redditor-adored formulas.
