15 Best Drugstore Sunscreens 2023

Aug 22, 2023

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It’s becoming clearer and clearer—and many dermatologists will agree—that sunscreen is one of the most effective anti-aging products you can buy. Research shows that sun damage is responsible for up to 80 percent of visible skin aging (not to mention skin cancers), and the simple act of wearing SPF will not only protect you from that damage but can reverse some of it. So, slathering on sun protection = fewer lines, wrinkle, and dark spots.

For such a powerfully positive product, you may think you need to shell out a significant amount of cash for one that gets the job done—but you’d be wrong. In fact, lower-priced drugstore formulations are just as effective as their pricier counterparts. Yep, whether you’re looking for a spray sunscreen, an SPF that’s pregnancy safe, something for the kids, or a great zinc oxide formula, you don't need to spend big bucks. "Many of the ingredients used in prestige SPFs are the very same ones used in lower-priced products," says New York City dermatologist Shari Marchbein, MD, assistant professor of clinical dermatology at New York University School of Medicine. "Often, products are priced higher because of packaging and marketing, and sunscreen is no exception. Occasionally, you may find one that's more expensive because there are years and years of good science or specific ingredients that make it worth the splurge, but this is the minority of sunscreens."

Meet our experts: Shari Marchbein, MD, a dermatologist in New York City and assistant professor of clinical dermatology at New York University School of Medicine, Jeremy Brauer, MD, a dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon and founder of Spectrum Skin & Laser in Purchase, New York, Rahi Sarbaziha, MD, a dermatologist and founder of Integrative Aesthetics in Beverly Hills, California

It's also important to note that all sunscreens are regulated the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, regardless of price, so you can rest assured that a product will be safe and effective, no matter the cost, explains dermatologic surgeon Jeremy Brauer, MD, founder of Spectrum Skin & Laser in Purchase, New York. Your biggest problem: Sifting through the hundreds of options to find the best-of-the-best.

We can help with that, so we tapped Dr. Marchbein, Dr. Brauer, and other dermatologists to help you zero in on the best drugstore sunscreens for every skin tone and type. These are their perennial favorites.

This hybrid mineral/chemical SPF was recommend by all three of our expert dermatologists. And with good reason: It's sheer, ultra-lightweight and extremely cosmetically elegant. "What makes this so special is that it also contains three essential ceramides with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide," Dr. Marchbein says. "In addition to causing sun damage, the sun can also cause moisture loss and dry out skin, and prolonged sun exposure can compromise the skin barrier, which means that your skin is losing ceramides–the lipids that help your skin barrier retain moisture—while spending time outdoors. Ceramides are essential to healthy skin, and you're getting them with this product."

Tester review: "I have sensitive skin on my face and find that chemical sunscreens don’t tend to work well if I’m applying makeup over. This blended beautifully. I’m quite fair, but a darker-toned south Asian friend tried it and it left no white cast."

Here's a great natural SPF for those who are looking for one, formulated with 20% non-nano zinc oxide and tinted so it blends in beautifully with your complexion. "It's perfect for daily use," says Dr. Brauer, "and contains certified organic Nutri-Soothe Herbal Blend, which is rich in antioxidants to moisturize and nourish while protecting skin from damage." In fact, sweet white lupine, an ingredient you'll find in this formula, may also help to shield your complexion from visible blue light.

Tester review: "This is one of my favorite sunscreens—it’s matte, lightweight, dries down quickly and is not tacky or sticky. The golden color just right for me. Just keep in mind, though, that it does contain wheat, so if you have a problem with that, avoid this one."

A high SPF? Check. Reef-safe? Check. An incredible, nostalgic scent? You betcha! This one checks so many boxes. "I love that it's a broad spectrum sunscreen that offers long-lasting sun protection while enriching the skin with Vitamin E," says dermatologist Rahi Sarbaziha, MD, founder of Integrative Aesthetics in Beverly Hills, California. You'll also appreciate that it provides 80 minutes of water resistant protection, making it perfect for a day at the beach or swimming laps.

Tester review: "I'm always trying new sunscreens, but they usually fall short and I always go back to this brand. It never let's me down and always keeps my skin protected. I have pretty fair skin that tends to be sensitive to products, but when I'm at the beach or by the pool I use this sunscreen everywhere, including my face, with no issue. I have never noticed this sunscreen staining any of my clothing or bathing suits like some other brands do that I have tried."

If you're looking for a daily moisturizer that also provides you with a healthy dose of sun protection and won't irritate your skin or cause it to break out, this is the product for you, says Dr. Marchbein. "Another of my daily favorites, this moisturizer with SPF is lightweight, non-comedogenic and contains antioxidants like vitamin E, niacinamide and vitamin B5." Plus, this well-priced pack comes with two 2.5-ounce bottles.

Tester review: "I tried this product a couple of years ago, and I'm so glad I did. It's so moisturizing and my skin feels great after using it. I have sensitive skin, so I need a sunscreen that I can use all the time and won't give me a rash or make my skin itchy. It might leave a slight white residue if it's not rubbed in all the way, but that's no big deal for me."

If you've ever dealt with breakouts, you know to see out oil-free products that won't clog pores. This zinc oxide-based SPF fits the bill, and can be worn under makeup if you're currently using concealer to mask existing pimples. "It also contains a calming ingredient trio of niacinamide, lactic acid, and hyaluronic acid to nurture sensitive skin and nourish the skin’s overall appearance," says Dr. Brauer.

Tester review: "Sunscreen is vital for me to keep my dark patches at bay, so I've tried and invested in many sunscreens. This one, by far and away, is the best. First, like so many others have said, it's lightweight, transparent, non-greasy, doesn't run into your eyes, and is flawless under makeup. It also dries down, so you aren't left with the tacky or wet feeling of so many sunscreens."

Neutrogena is known for the quality of its sunscreens, and for good reason—sheer, weightless, hydrating, non-irritating are just some of the adjectives testers use to describe this product, which uses chemical filters to absorb the sun's rays. "This broad spectrum moisturizer with sunscreen has been a favorite daily facial moisturizer for over a decade given its lightweight, oil free, non-comedogenic formula," Dr. Marchbein adds. "It’s perfect for acne prone and sensitive skin as it contains antioxidants and works well alone or under makeup." Sounds like winning to us.

Tester review: "I use it daily as my base sun protection since I have skin cancer scars on my face. It's a great moisturizer—just be careful applying it because a little bit covers quite a bit of surface area."

Dermatologists love Cetaphil's no-muss, no-fuss approach to skincare so it's not surprise that the brand would land on this list. "I love that this hypoallergenic mineral sunscreen provides long-lasting sun protection with 80 minutes of water resistance and nourishes the skin with Vitamin E," says Dr. Sarbaziha. It's an all-mineral formula that glides on effortlessly and won't clog pores.

Tester review: "For Texas summers, I need a water resistant SPF because I sweat just taking my dog to go out. This one reduces shine and doesn't run into my eyes when I sweat. It has a slight white-cast, but I'm fair skinned so it doesn't show up on me. Plus, this is so lightweight. If you don't like a liquid consistency, this isn't for you (it's runny like a serum), but it's exactly what I was looking for. I am a happy, sun-protected camper. This is the only facial sunscreen I'll be taking with me on an upcoming cruise."

This one is a favorite of both Dr. Marchbein's and Dr. Brauer's: "It's a lightweight tinted sunscreen that contains a mix of titanium dioxide, prebiotic thermal water, Vitamin E, dimethicone, and silica to hydrate and protect from the sun’s UVA/UVB rays," says Dr. Brauer. The secret to its skin-soothing properties is La Roche-Posay's signature thermal water, which contains a complex blend of minerals that's been shown to help soothe eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions.

Tester review: "I've tried a few different tinted sunscreens and the main issues I have are oiliness, transfer, and lack of real coverage. Compared to some other brands I think this performs the best. It actually gives me some decent coverage without being very oily and it dries down to where there is no transfer. You want to shake it up well and it is on the runny side, however, I first put it on my face with my hands and then follow up with a damp blending sponge to blend everything in."

Perfect for days when you're exercising outdoors or just pounding the pavement, this OG Supergroup formula provides 80 minutes of sweat and water resistance, plus it contains beta-glucan to provide long-term moisturization. "It's a lightweight, non-greasy lotion that's perfect for everyday use," Dr. Brauer says.

Tester review: "I live in San Diego and we're outdoors a lot—this lotion goes on like a regular moisturizer and has the SPF 50 protection which is great for me since I’m red-haired with fair skin. It absorbs quickly and isn’t heavy and doesn’t have that white look of typical sunscreens. This feels healthy in my skin. I think it’s worth it and will get it again when I run out."

An SPF with chemical filters that's been clinically tested to rub in sheer on all skin tones and to be well-tolerated by even the most irritation-prone complexions, Anthelios UV Correct is perfect for those who have existing sun damage as it contains a proprietary antioxidant technology featuring niacinamide to visibly reduce the most noticeable signs of skin aging. "It's more than just a sunscreen, it truly promotes healthier-looking skin," says Dr. Sarbaziha.

Tester review: "I have mature skin that needs moisture, and this sunscreen does the trick. Most moisturizers with sunscreen irritate my skin horribly, but this one doesn't— it's so gentle. My advice to avoid pilling is to start with dry skin, pat it on evenly all around with your fingertips, then smooth it in. Also, if you have oily skin, it might not be right for you."

"Specifically formulated for sensitive skin, this broad spectrum mineral sunscreen utilizes zinc oxide as its key ingredient for broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection," says Dr. Sarbaziha. In fact, this Uber-gentle formula has been awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance, so you know it won't aggravate even the most easily-irritated of complexions.

Tester review: "Usually sunscreens are too oily and give me pimples, but that's not the case with this one. I haven’t tested it on a beach day yet, but it seems to work well for one to three hours of outdoor time on a sunny day."

"This is one of my favorite broad spectrum sunscreens," says Dr. Marchbein. "It's cosmetically elegant, appropriate for face and body, has eighty minutes of water resistance, and combines antioxidants with thermal spring water and UVA/UVB filters." Asnd if you're looking to swipe on and go, this one is renowned for its ability to seep into skin super-fast.

Tester review: "Finally, a sunscreen that does not leave you with a white mask. I got a sample before and I wanted to try the full size—and I'm so glad I did. You can easily spread the product on your face and the coverage is really good. I highly recommend it."

Spray sunscreens are a dream for reapplication—so easy. This one offers that convenience and so much more. The advanced formula combines brand spectrum protection with powerful antioxidants like vitamin C and niacinamide, which scavenge free radicals before they can do any damage to your skin. It's technology typically found in higher-priced formulas, but now you can get it for the price of two Venti lattes.

Tester review: "A great sunscreen that's easy to apply and stays put even when sweating. I love being outside and golfing, so I always have to make sure I have sunscreen in reach to apply often. This spray has made it super easy to reapply without getting my hands too greasy. The added vitamins and moisturizing ingredients are a nice bonus."

When you're active outside, reapplying sunscreen can be a total buzzkill. But it's necessary: You should be generously slathering on your SPF of choice every two hours or after excessive sweating or swimming. Sticks are easy to stash in your gym bag, beach tote, or belt bag, making getting a second coat on your skin a cinch.

Tester review: "I bought this to take with me on a trip and loved that it wouldn’t count as a liquid for plane travel. Although it’s on the smaller side, it applies very smoothly and evenly so you only need a few swipes per body section. I found it easy to apply and held up for the three hours we spent at the beach. Plus, I didn’t have to worry about the product blowing away or leaking as the spray sunscreen does. It has a mild but nice scent as well. I would recommend—it fits easily into a purse or backpack."

It's a common complaint: Sunscreen is typically greasy and only exacerbates the oiliness of some skin types. Thankfully, the folks at Eucerin have solved for this with a lightweight lotion that includes oil-absorbing minerals. The result: A beautiful matte finish that's hard to find with many SPF products. Plus, this one is hypoallergenic and formulated with five antioxidants to offer an added layer of protection from UV damage.

Tester review: "I’ve been using Black Girl Sunscreen for a while now because I loved that it had no white cast, but i wanted to find a cheaper alternative with a higher SPF number. I ordered this one and was not disappointed—there’s no white cast, which I appreciate as someone who’s brown. It has no strong fragrance and it’s moisturizing without being too greasy or heavy. You also get a lot for the price, and as someone who uses sunscreen everyday, I love that. I also like the pump bottle; it’s not messy."

There are only a handful of ingredients approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration to be used in sunscreens, so whether you spend $10 or $100, those active ingredients will be the same. In short: "Luxury sunscreens and drugstore sunscreens are both evaluated equally for safety and efficacy," says Dr. Brauer. For this reason, many dermatologists—including the ones we interviewed for this story—agree that it's possible to get a high-quality SPF product at the drugstore.

"You do not need to spend a fortune to have healthy sun protected skin," insists Dr. Marchbein. "While you can, of course, choose to spend more, many effective skincare products, especially cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreens, can be found at drugstore for lower prices. A solid skincare routines do not need to be complicated, difficult, or expensive."

"When selecting a drugstore sunscreen, consider the following factors: SPF, broad spectrum protection, active ingredients, and additional ingredients," recommends Dr. Sarbaziha. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using an SPF of 30 or higher that's clearly labeled as broad spectrum for the best protection.

Additionally both Drs. Sarbaziha and Brauer recommend considering your skin type when selecting the optimal formula for you. "If you have a skin condition, you should use sunscreens formulated for sensitive skin to avoid irritation," says Dr. Brauer. If you have acne or oily skin, Sarbaziha wants you to lean toward formulas that are oil-free and labeled non-comedogenic.

Mineral or physical sunscreen uses mineral filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to reflect the sun’s rays away from the skin, says. Dr. Marchbein. "These ingredients form a protective barrier over the skin, essentially working like a shield." Conversely, a chemical sunscreen utilizes organic filters (avobenzone, octocrylene, and homosalate are common ones) to absorb into skin to protect it from the sun. "These ingredients penetrate the top layer of the skin to absorb UV rays before they can damage the skin."

While both types of filters are approved for use in the United States, the FDA recently classified only mineral sunscreen ingredients as G.R.A.S.E. (generally recognized as safe and effective), leading some to believe that their chemical counterparts should be avoided. Ultimately, our experts believe that you should use whichever you prefer. But Dr. Brauer notes, "While they are both effective at protecting from the sun, physical sunscreen may cause less irritation for certain patients. And regardless of the sunscreen of choice, those with sensitive skin should always test a new product by placing a small amount on the upper inner arm to evaluate any reactions before applying it more broadly on your face or body."

Brian Underwood is the beauty director at Women’s Health. He is an award-winning journalist with more than 15 years of experience covering beauty and lifestyle for several national media outlets and previously served as beauty and wellness director at Oprah Daily. His work has appeared in Woman’s Day, Life & Style Weekly, Good Housekeeping, and many more. He also serves as a member of the Skin Cancer Foundation’s gala committee and lives in New York City with his daughter.

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