Sunscreen is probably the single most important product that you can add to a skincare routine to help slow down the signs of skin aging. (Ask pretty much any derm, and they’ll likely agree.) The sun hitting your skin can feel glorious, but what it’s doing to an unprotected face isn’t pretty. “The sun induces metalloproteinases that destroy collagen and create oxidative stress that kills the cells,” says Dr. Maritza Perez, Director of Cosmetic Dermatology at St. Luke’s Roosevelt Medical Center. We’re not trying to terrify you, but when it comes to skin health, the importance of SPF protection is serious business.
There are two types of sunscreen, and they work differently to prevent damage. Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin and work by changing ultraviolet radiation into heat. When determining if your SPF falls into this category, look for ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate. Physical sunscreens, which will have terms on the bottle such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, act as a shield to reflect ultraviolet radiation from the surface of the skin. Both are effective means of SPF; however, chemical versions can potentially cause irritation, particularly on sensitive skin. (Learn more about these two types of sunscreen formulas here.)
Whichever type of SPF type you choose, the most important factor is that you actually wear it. “Make it a part of your daily routine, regardless of season,” says Dr. Rachel Nazarian of Schweiger Dermatology GroupTM in NYC. If daily SPF sounds like a hassle, she suggests choosing a moisturizer containing (at least) SPF 30. With a two-in-one formula, you’ll never have to think about applying SPF as a separate layer.
“After you wash your face in the morning, apply your [SPF-infused] moisturizer, and you’ll have coverage year-round,” Nazarian notes. Her suggestion is to find a product that you love — either the way it moisturizes or the way it feels — and you’ll be more motivated to apply it. We’re making that even simpler by selecting the very best of Sephora’s® top-rated sunscreens: you just might find your new favorite in the batch below.
Best sunscreen at sephora
Murad City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50 PA+++
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Murad City Skin® Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50 PA+++ ($68) takes home high marks for being a 100-percent mineral (physical) sunscreen that doesn’t leave a white hue on darker skin tones. Plus, it’s lightweight enough that it won’t congest oily and acne-prone skin.
Obagi Clinical Vitamin C Suncare Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen
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If you prefer a chemical sunscreen, try the Obagi Clinical Vitamin C Suncare Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen ($58). The formula also contains vitamin C to help brighten up dull and uneven skin tones.
Shiseido Future Solution LX Total Protective Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 20 Sunscreen
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Before you dismiss the Shiseido Future Solution LX Total Protective Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 20 Sunscreen ($265) for its hefty price tag, just know this luxe cream is more than just a sunscreen. It’s packed with skin-pampering ingredients like antioxidant green tea and a blend of anti-pollutants to help fight wrinkles and smooth texture.
The Kiehl’s Since 1851 Facial Fuel Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 15
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The Kiehl’s Since 1851 Facial Fuel Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 15 ($35) protects skin with vitamin-packed, non-greasy moisture and UV blockers. It even contains caffeine to help wake up tired-looking complexions
Moroccanoil SunTM Face Lotion SPF 30
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Moroccanoil SunTM Face Lotion SPF 30 ($38) is a lightweight and fast-absorbing SPF that can even be used on oily skin as a daily moisturizer. It contains the brand’s signature ingredient, argan oil, to help hydrate.
Supergoop! Perfect DayTM 2-in-1 Everywear Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 50 + Mini Condition Lip Shield
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There’s literally no excuse to leave any part of your face unprotected with the Supergoop! Perfect DayTM 2-in-1 Everywear Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 50 + Mini Condition Lip Shield ($19). The tube comes with a face and lip sunscreen in one, complete with a tiny mirror for easy application. It’s also water-resistant and enriched with antioxidants, making it a must-pack for your beach bag.
“Miracle Broth” in La Mer The Broad Spectrum SPF 50 UV Protecting Fluid
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The mysterious “Miracle Broth” in La Mer The Broad Spectrum SPF 50 UV Protecting Fluid ($95) is enough to spark our interest in this formula. What it actually does is help boost cell turnover, while a blend of gemstones and seaweed blocks harmful environmental stressors, all as it protects with SPF 50. Bonus: The silky, lightweight formula mixes beautifully with foundation.