The 7 Best Sunscreens for Glowing, Protected Skin

by Josie Bruels

Sunscreen is a product people are constantly reminded to wear every single day. And for good reason: protecting your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet rays—UVA, which causes premature aging, and UVB, which leads to sunburn and can contribute to skin cancer. But that doesn’t mean it has to feel like a chore—especially when the right formula doubles as a makeup primer or hydrating lotion.

Here are the best sunscreens to slot into your routine and keep you sun-safe (and glowing) all summer long.

No matter which one you choose, don’t forget to apply it properly: use a nickel-sized dollop or follow the two-finger rule to ensure your face and neck get the coverage they need. Apply 15 minutes before heading outside, and reapply every two hours—especially if you’re swimming or sweating.

Cle de Peau Beauté UV Protective Cream SPF 50+

This chemical sunscreen offers up to 10 hours of hydration. It features standout ingredients like Moroccan thyme extract, which helps combat signs of photoaging, along with plant extracts such as mangosteen and ginseng, as well as a complex with Japanese pearl shell extract to help leave the skin looking refreshed.

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Shiseido Ultra Sun Protector Lotion SPF 50+

This non-comedogenic formula offers coverage against both types of ultraviolet rays and is powered by innovative technology that actually strengthens protection when exposed to heat and water. Infused with plant extracts and amino acids that help defend against blue light and signs of aging, it’s an ideal choice for those who are active in the sun.

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Naked Sundays SPF50+ Collagen Glow 100% Mineral Perfecting Priming Lotion

This non-comedogenic mineral sunscreen features ingredients effective for sun protection without oxybenzone, linked to coral reef damage. Gentle enough for sensitive skin, it’s also infused with watermelon extract and leaves a translucent finish (no white cast in sight).

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EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

EltaMD’s tinted sunscreen offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays with a hybrid, non-comedogenic formula that combines both chemical and physical filters. The subtle tint provides a natural-looking glow with no white cast. Infused with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E, it also has a lightweight texture that layers well under makeup and helps even out skin tone.

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La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Ultra Fluid SPF 50 Facial Sunscreen

Another standout physical sunscreen, this formula uses mineral-based titanium dioxide to deliver broad-spectrum protection. It’s a good option for sensitive skin as it is non-comedogenic, gentle, and tinted for a natural glow. Infused with thermal spring water for antioxidant benefits, it absorbs quickly, making it an ideal base under makeup.

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Supergoop! Protec(tint) Daily SPF Tint SPF 50 Sunscreen Skin Tint

Supergoop’s Protec(tint) SPF offers both chemical and physical sun protection—plus clay infused with hyaluronic acid and additional defence against stress on skin from radiation, blue light, and pollution. Available in 14 shades, it’s a sunscreen that doubles as complexion coverage.

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Paula’s Choice Resist Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50

This sunscreen offers chemical protection against UVA and UVB rays, and features ingredients such as oat bran, green tea, and grape seed extract for a soothing effect. It’s a water-based formula aiming to calm and even the skin tone, leaving a smooth finish—ideal for someone who wears sunscreen on its own or layered under makeup.

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