Choosing the right sunscreen is essential for maintaining healthy skin and protecting it from the sun’s harmful rays—no matter the season. Dermatologists consistently recommend using a sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 that offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. With a wide range of options available in 2025, selecting the best formula for your skin type and lifestyle can be challenging.
That’s why we’ve curated a list of the top four sunscreens that stand out for their performance, skin compatibility, and specialized formulations. For those with darker skin tones, Black Girl Sunscreen remains a top choice, while Coppertone Pure & Simple Sunscreen is an excellent option designed specifically for children’s sensitive skin.
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A Quick Look at the Best Sunscreens of 2025
When it comes to protecting your skin, sunscreen is a non-negotiable part of your daily skincare routine—rain or shine. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can penetrate clouds and windows, meaning your skin is vulnerable year-round. Consistent use of sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and broad-spectrum protection can help prevent sunburn, premature aging, fine lines, and even skin cancer.
Here are our top sunscreen picks for 2025, tailored to different skin types and needs:
- Best Sunscreen for Kids: Coppertone Pure & Simple Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50
- Best for Dark Skin Tones: Black Girl Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30
- Best for Sensitive Skin: EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen, SPF 46
- Best for Sports: Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30
Each of these sunscreens was selected based on dermatologist recommendations, ingredient quality, and performance in real-life conditions. Whether you’re shopping for your child, need a formulation for sensitive skin, or are looking for something that can hold up through a workout, we’ve got you covered.
Understanding Sunscreen Types
Choosing the right sunscreen can feel overwhelming—nearly every skincare brand offers one. To simplify the process, it’s helpful to know that sunscreens fall into two main categories:
- Physical (Mineral) Sunscreens:
These contain active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that sit on the skin’s surface and reflect UVA and UVB rays. They’re often recommended for sensitive or acne-prone skin. - Chemical Sunscreens:
Formulated with ingredients such as avobenzone, octisalate, and sometimes oxybenzone, these absorb UV rays before they can penetrate the skin. Although effective, some may cause irritation or raise environmental concerns.
Choosing Between Lotions, Sprays, and Sticks
Sunscreen comes in many forms—lotions, sprays, and sticks—each with its own advantages:
- Lotions and Creams: Best for full-body coverage and ideal for daily use.
- Sticks: Excellent for facial application, especially around the eyes. They’re less greasy and more targeted.
- Sprays: Convenient for reapplication and on-the-go use. Just be sure to apply them thoroughly and evenly.
All formats offer equal sun protection when used correctly and should include:
- SPF 30 or higher
- Broad-spectrum UVA and UVB coverage
- Water resistance (usually up to 80 minutes)
Key Features to Look For
- Water Resistance: Important for outdoor activities, swimming, or sweating—look for up to 80 minutes of durability.
- SPF 30 or higher: Offers sufficient protection for daily exposure.
- Broad-Spectrum Protection: Guards against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
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Best Sunscreen for Kids
Coppertone Pure & Simple Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50
- SPF: 50
- Type: Mineral
- Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide 24.08%
- Form: Lotion
This hypoallergenic formula is ideal for children with sensitive skin, featuring botanical ingredients that nourish while providing strong sun protection. With SPF 50 and broad-spectrum UVA/UVB defense, it’s perfect for little swimmers who spend long hours outdoors. The hard plastic bottle is durable and travel-friendly, ensuring you have enough lotion for the whole day. While water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, frequent reapplication every 1 to 2 hours is necessary, especially during extended water exposure. The formula is free from fragrance, dyes, parabens, PABA, alcohol, octinoxate, and oxybenzone.
Best for Dark Skin
Black Girl Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30
- SPF: 30
- Type: Chemical
- Active Ingredients: Homosalate (10%), Octisalate (5%), Avobenzone (3%), Octocrylene (2.75%)
- Form: Lotion
Many sunscreens leave an unwanted white cast, which can be a challenge for darker skin tones. This lotion’s sheer, clear-drying formula avoids that issue while nourishing skin with jojoba, cacao, and avocado oils. However, those with sunflower seed allergies should note this ingredient’s presence. While SPF 30 offers adequate daily protection, it may not suffice for prolonged outdoor exposure. This product excludes oxybenzone and octinoxate but contains avobenzone.
Best for Sensitive Skin
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen, SPF 46
- SPF: 46
- Type: Mineral
- Active Ingredients: Octinoxate (7.5%), Zinc oxide (9.0%)
- Form: Lotion
Formulated to support sensitive, acne-prone, and rosacea-affected skin, this sunscreen blends effective sun protection with soothing ingredients like niacinamide and vitamin E. It offers a tinted option to minimize white cast, ideal for oily or sensitive skin types. The lightweight, oil-free formula is fragrance- and paraben-free, helping to calm skin without clogging pores.
Best Sunscreen for Sport
Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30
- SPF: 30
- Type: Chemical
- Active Ingredients: Homosalate (6%), Octisalate (4.5%), Octocrylene (4.5%), Avobenzone (2.7%)
- Form: Lotion
Perfect for active lifestyles, this affordable pack of two offers reliable broad-spectrum protection. It is sweat- and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a solid choice for sports and outdoor activities. The non-greasy, clear-rub-in formula minimizes irritation and doesn’t run into the eyes. It’s free from oxybenzone and octinoxate but includes avobenzone.
Comparing the Best Sunscreens of 2025
To help you make an informed decision, here’s a side-by-side comparison of our top sunscreen picks. Each product has been assessed based on SPF level, formulation type, active ingredients, ingredient exclusions, and price.
| Brand | SPF | Type | Active Ingredients | Free From | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coppertone | 50 | Mineral | Zinc Oxide (24.08%) | Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Parabens, Fragrance | $11.49 |
| Black Girl Sunscreen | 30 | Chemical | Homosalate (10%), Octisalate (5%), Avobenzone (3%), Octocrylene (2.75%) | Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Parabens, Fragrance | Around $10 |
| EltaMD | 46 | Mineral | Octinoxate (7.5%), Zinc Oxide (9.0%) | Parabens, Fragrance, Oil | Around $44 |
| Banana Boat | 30 | Chemical | Homosalate (6%), Octisalate (4.5%), Octocrylene (4.5%), Avobenzone (2.7%) | Oxybenzone, Octinoxate | Around $8 |
What Does SPF Mean?
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is a number that indicates how long a sunscreen can protect your skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation compared to unprotected skin. For example, SPF 50 means your skin will take 50 times longer to burn than if you weren’t wearing sunscreen—when used as directed.
How to Apply Sunscreen Effectively
To ensure proper sun protection, follow these best practices:
- Apply 15–30 minutes before sun exposure: Sunscreen needs time to absorb into your skin to begin working.
- Cover all exposed areas: This includes your face, ears, neck, feet, and even the back. Use an SPF lip balm for your lips.
- Use enough product: Adults typically need about 1 ounce (a shot glass full) to cover their entire body.
- Reapply regularly: Every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating.
What to Look for in a Sunscreen
When choosing a sunscreen, keep the following criteria in mind:
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Ensure the label says “broad-spectrum.” This means it protects against both UVA rays (which cause aging and long-term skin damage) and UVB rays (which cause sunburn and cancer).
SPF 30 or Higher
The American Cancer Society recommends SPF 30 or more for daily use. While higher SPF values do offer more protection, the differences are marginal:
- SPF 15 blocks ~93% of UVB rays
- SPF 30 blocks ~97%
- SPF 50 blocks ~98%
- SPF 100 blocks ~99%
Water Resistance
Ideal for outdoor activities, water-resistant formulas provide up to 80 minutes of protection before needing reapplication.
Safe Ingredients
Check for potential allergens or irritants, and avoid:
- Oxybenzone and Octinoxate, linked to environmental harm, especially to marine ecosystems.
- Alcohol, which can dry out sensitive or dry skin.
Instead, look for ingredients such as:
- Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide: Physical blockers that reflect UV rays.
- Niacinamide & Vitamin E: Soothing and antioxidant-rich additions for sensitive skin.
Tailoring Sunscreen to Your Skin Type
- Dry Skin: Look for moisturizing ingredients like aloe, glycerin, and oils.
- Oily or Acne-Prone Skin: Opt for oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas with a lightweight texture.
- Sensitive Skin: Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic sunscreens are ideal.
- Children and Babies: Choose specially formulated mineral sunscreens with minimal additives for delicate skin.
Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreens: What’s the Difference?
| Physical (Mineral) | Chemical |
|---|---|
| Forms a protective barrier on the skin’s surface | Absorbs into the skin and neutralizes UV rays |
| FDA-approved ingredients: Zinc oxide, Titanium dioxide | Common ingredients: Avobenzone, Octocrylene, Homosalate |
| Less likely to irritate sensitive skin | Lightweight and easier to apply |
| May leave a white cast | Usually dries clear |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best sunscreen overall in 2025?
All four sunscreens serve different needs, but EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen stands out for its skin-friendly ingredients, broad-spectrum protection, and suitability for sensitive skin.
Which sunscreen is best for children?
Coppertone Pure & Simple SPF 50 is our top pick for kids. It’s a mineral-based formula that’s gentle on sensitive skin and free from harsh additives.
What sunscreen works best for darker skin tones?
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 is specifically formulated to blend into darker skin tones without leaving a white cast.
How often should I reapply sunscreen?
Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
What’s the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens?
Mineral sunscreens sit on the skin and reflect UV rays, while chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and neutralize them within the skin.
Can I use sports sunscreen on my face?
Yes, but sports sunscreens like Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 30 may be heavier or greasier than facial sunscreens, so consider your skin type.
Conclusion
Sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine, offering year-round protection against harmful UV rays that cause sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. Whether you’re shopping for your child, have sensitive or darker skin, or need a sweat-resistant formula for active days, the right sunscreen makes all the difference.
Our top picks for 2025—Coppertone, Black Girl Sunscreen, EltaMD, and Banana Boat—combine safety, performance, and skin compatibility. Remember to choose a product with at least SPF 30, broad-spectrum protection, and water resistance, and apply it consistently for the best results. With the right sunscreen, you can confidently enjoy your time outdoors while keeping your skin healthy and protected.