11 Best Drugstore Sunscreens That Are In Your Budget – 2023
Keep your skin healthy and protected from harsh UV rays and photodamage.
Oyendrila Kanjilal Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 2 years
Oyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skincare coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience, ... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
The constant rise in temperature and pollution calls for the mandatory application of sunscreen. Hence, we decided to bring the best drugstore sunscreens for you. Sunscreen is known for protecting the skin from UV, UVA rays which helps in reducing the risk of many skin diseases (1). Its photoactive agents reduce the signs of aging and hyperpigmentation and also combat the effects of UV rays (2).
However, if you are confused about which one to buy, check out the list of these 11 drugstore sunscreens that we have curated especially for you!
Top Picks
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Best For Acne-Prone Skin Neutrogena Clear Face Oil-Free Sunscreen With SPF 55 Neutrogena $10.87 ON AMAZON Read More › $10.87 ON AMAZON - 2
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Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence $35.99 ON AMAZON Read More › $35.99 ON AMAZON - 8
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Best Gel-Based Sunscreen Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Gel $24.99 ON AMAZON Read More › $24.99 ON AMAZON - 10
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In This Article
11 Best Drugstore Sunscreens
The Neutrogena Clear Face Oil-Free Sunscreen is formulated with a unique Helioplex complex, a sunscreen technology with superior broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. This ultra-light sunscreen is perfect for the face and body. It leaves a matte finish look. It does not clog the pores and makes your face breathe properly.
Along with the active ingredients, it also contains chamomile flower extract, cinnamon bark extract, and cedar bark extract that soothe, calm, and heal the skin. Cedarwood oil is a potent astringent that helps tighten and tone the skin temporarily. Cinnamon essential oil nourishes the skin, slows down aging, and revives the skin tone. For more information about the product, click this video.
Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (2.7%), Homosalate (4%), Octisalate (4.5%), Octocrylene (6%), and Oxybenzone (4.5%)
Skin Type: Oily, acne-prone skin
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Treats acne breakouts
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
- Prevents sunburns
- Fragrance-free
- Non-greasy
Cons
- May not suit sensitive skin
- May cause burning sensation to eyes
StyleCraze SaysBest Luxurious Formula: Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Sunscreen Lotion With SPF 30
The Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Sunscreen Lotion has a broad spectrum SPF 30 that protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays. It is formulated with vitamins C and E and leaves the skin positively radiant.
The invigorating blend of mango fruit extract and shea butter complex rejuvenates the skin and restores skin resilience. The mango fruit extract is rich in vitamin C and magnesium that reduce inflammation, alleviate acne breakouts, and soothe the skin. The fatty acids present in shea butter restore the healthy skin barrier.
This dermatologically-tested formula is oil-free and does not leave any greasy residue. It provides water-resistance for up to 80 minutes. Its tropical fragrance refreshes your mood.
Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (2%), Homosalate (5.5%), Octisalate (4.5%), and Octocrylene (4%)
Skin Type: All skin types
Pros- Lightweight
- Grease-free
- No white residue
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
- Dermatologically-tested
- Hydrating
- Restores skin radiance
Cons
- May cause a burning sensation
Best For Sensitive Skin: Alba Botanica Sensitive Sunscreen Spray With SPF 50
The Alba Botanica Sensitive Sunscreen Spray is an air-powered sunscreen that can be applied from any angle. It protects from UVA and UVB rays. It is a lightweight, fast-drying, fragrance-free formula with SPF 50 to protect against sunburns and premature skin aging and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Along with the active ingredients, this lightweight sunscreen is infused with aloe leaf extract, chamomile flower extract, and green tea extract to protect from free radical damage. This invigorating blend of antioxidant-rich botanical extracts not only protects the skin but also soothes irritation and sunburn. Check this video to learn more about the product.
Active Ingredients: Homosalate (15%), Octocrylene (8%), Ethylhexyl Salicylate (5%), and Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane (3%)
Skin Type: Sensitive skin
Pros- Lightweight
- Fast-drying
- Fragrance-free
- Water-resistant
- Gluten-free
- 100% vegan
- Reef-friendly
Cons
- May cause skin irritation
- Leaves a white residue
Sun Bum Unisex Clear Zinc Sunscreen
The Sun Bum Unisex Clear Zinc Sunscreen is formulated with added aloe vera and vitamin E to safeguard against harmful sun radiation. The topical application of zinc oxide as an active ingredient acts as a mild astringent to treat minor abrasions, burns, chaffing, and skin irritation. It is non-comedogenic and adds a barrier to deliver UVA and UVB protection.
Active Ingredients: Octinoxate (7.5%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (6%), and Zinc Oxide (7%)
Skin Type: All skin types
Pros- Hypoallergenic
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
- Moisturizes skin
- 100% vegan
- Reef-friendly
- Smells good
Cons
- Not sweat-proof
- May cause mild irritation
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Light Fluid Sunscreen
The La Rosche-Poshay Anthelios Light Fluid Sunscreen blends seamlessly with the skin tone and protects against UVA and UVB rays. It is oil-free and formulated with Cell-Ox Shield Technology (specifically designed for sensitive skin) to offer broad-spectrum SPF 60 protection.
It combines UVA and UVB filters with powerful antioxidants that safeguard against free radical damage. This fast-absorbing fluid is further formulated with Senna Alata, a tropical leaf extract that blurs the signs of premature aging and defends skin cells from oxidative damage.
Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (15%), Octisalate (5%), and Octocrylene (7%)
Skin Type: Normal to combination skin, sensitive skin
Pros- Non-greasy
- Dermatologically-tested
- Fast-absorbing
- Allergy-tested
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
- Non-whitening
- Suitable for use under makeup
Cons
- Not sweat-resistant
- May stain clothes
Pro TipBest Sweat-Resistant: EltaMD UV Daily Broad Spectrum SPF 40
The EltaMD UV Daily Broad Spectrum SPF 40 offers 24-hour long protection from the sun. It is infused with zinc oxide that reflects harmful blue light emitting from screens and combats UVA and UVB rays. This water and sweat-resistant sunscreen can be even applied while going for a swim. The sunscreen is also enriched with hyaluronic acid that moisturizes your skin, improves its elasticity, and reduces fine lines.
Additionally, the antioxidant, tocopheryl acetate in the formula protects your skin against free radical damage and reduces aging signs. The sunscreen glides on easily and absorbs quickly without leaving any residue on your skin.
Active Ingredients: 9.0% Zinc oxide, 7.5% Octinoxate
Skin Type: Dry skin
Pros- Dermatologically tested
- Broad-spectrum protection
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Lightweight
- Reduces wrinkles
- Non-comedogenic
- Glides easily
- Absorbs quickly
- Water-resistant
- Leaves no residue
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Unscented
Cons
- Greasy
The Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunscreen is formulated with an invigorating blend of moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, royal jelly extract, and citrus mix that seal skin hydration. The sunscreen leaves the skin feeling soft, smooth, and plump. This fast-absorbing formula glides easily on the skin. It leaves no white residue.
The powerful UV filters with a broad-spectrum SPF 50 protect the skin from UVA and UVB sun rays and soothe the symptoms of sunburn. The product is made in Japan and is suitable for the entire face and body. It is allergy-tested and waterproof for up to 80 minutes.
Active Ingredient: Hyaluronic acid
Skin Type: All skin types
Pros
- Fast-absorbing
- Water-resistant
- Hydrates skin
- Seals moisture
- Leaves no white cast
- Allergy-tested
- Suitable for face and body
Cons
- May not suit fair skin tones
The CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen is a hydrating face lotion with broad-spectrum SPF 50 that protects the skin from sun damage and UV rays. This ultra-gentle mineral sunscreen is formulated with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to form a protective barrier on the skin’s surface. It helps reflect the sun’s UVA and UVB rays without irritating the skin.
The three essential ceramides are fatty acids that act as a protective barrier that seals hydration and prevents skin dryness and irritation. The product also helps protect the skin from environmental damage. The infused niacinamide helps calm and soothe the skin. Hyaluronic acid plumps the skin and reduces the signs of premature aging.
The product is gentle and oil-free and has been awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance and the Skin Cancer Foundation Daily Ise Seal of Approval.
Active Ingredients: Titanium dioxide (9%) and zinc oxide (7%)
Skin Type: Sensitive skin
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Paraben-free
- Chemical-filter free
- Seals moisture
- Gentle on skin
- Dermatologist-approved
- Allergy-tested
Cons
- May not suit African-American skin tone
- May clog pores
The Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Gel provides head-to-toe protection from UV rays. This SPF 30+ formula is infused with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that provide broad-spectrum protection from sun rays. This mineral formula also contains vitamin E and hydrogenated castor oil that plumps the skin, seal hydration, and safeguard against the harmful sunburn. The product has a unique smart cap technology where the cap turns blue when you are in contact with UV rays.
Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide
Skin Type: Sensitive skin
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- No irritating chemicals
- Water-resistant up to 40 minutes
- Long-lasting protection
- Moisturizes skin
Cons
None
The Vichy Capital Soleil Face Sunscreen Lotion is an ultra-lightweight formula that provides broad-spectrum protection with SPF 50. It is formulated with UV filters, 15 mineral-rich Vichy Volcanic mineral water, vitamin E, and grapeseed extract. The signature ingredient Vichy Volcanic Water contains 15 different minerals that protect the skin from environmental aggressors. The vitamin E and grapeseed extract hold the moisture levels and safeguard against the harmful sun damage.
The powerful blend of antioxidants blur the signs of aging and add a new lease of life to dull, dehydrated skin. The product is safe for daily use and easily gets absorbed in the skin, leaving a matte finish. It helps protect the skin at the cellular level and keeps it looking young.
Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (3%), homosalate (10%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (5%), and Oxybenzone (6%)
Skin Type: Sensitive Skin, aging skin
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Allergy-tested
- PABA-free
- Water-resistant up to 40 minutes
- Dermatologically-tested
- Leaves no white cast
- Non-sticky
- Moisturizes skin
- Ultra-lightweight
Cons
- Not suitable for African-American skin tone
Dr. Dennis Gross Dark Spot Sun Defense Sunscreen
The Dr. Dennis Gross Dark Spot Sun Defense Sunscreen is formulated with Mela-C Complex, a breakthrough technology that contains melatonin along with vitamins C and E. The Mela-C Complex helps minimize and prevent hyperpigmentation and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The vitamins C and E are potent antioxidants that fight free radicals and protect the skin from oxidative stress.
The product also contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that act as UV filters to protect from UVA and UVB rays. It also contains hyaluronic acid, a humectant, which seals skin moisture and blurs the signs of aging. This broad-spectrum, high-protection, SPF 50 formula is safe and gentle and contains no chemical filters. It also is FDA-approved to nourish and protect the skin.
Active Ingredients: Mela-C complex, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide
Skin Type: Sensitive skin
Pros- Paraben-free
- FDA-approved
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Hydrating
- Reduces hyperpigmentation
- 100% vegan
- Non-greasy
Cons
None
These are the 11 best drugstore sunscreens that are available online. But how do you decide which one is the best? The following checklist may help.
Choosing The Best Drugstore Sunscreen – A Detailed Buying Guide
- Buy a sunscreen that has broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
- It should be non-comedogenic and oil-free to offer a sweat-resistant feel and matte finish.
- Check the ingredients list. A good-quality sunscreen should contain avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, oxybenzone, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide.
- Natural botanical extracts like aloe vera, chamomile leaf extract, shea butter, and hyaluronic acid help moisturize the skin and leave it soft and smooth.
- Try to grab mineral sunscreens as they are non-comedogenic. The minerals also provide nutrients to skin cells and alleviate inflammation and redness.
- Also, ensure the product fits your budget.
Infographic: Drugstore Sunscreens: Factors To Keep In Mind While Picking One
Slather yourself with sunscreen in case you don’t want to get burned or tanned. Sunscreen is essential in every skin care routine. It is your best bet against premature aging, burns, sun damage, wrinkles, and fine lines. If you don’t know what exactly to look for in a sunscreen, take a look at the infographic below.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
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Sunscreens are extremely important and should be used before going out, especially during the summer season. There are many drugstore sunscreens available in the market that don’t clog the pores and instantly provide you with a natural glow. Along with blocking UV rays and sun rays, some sunscreens effectively act as the perfect protection between your skin and outside impurities. These drugstore sunscreens can also help in reviving your original skin tone which can often get damaged due to excess sunlight. You should always choose sunscreens that have been dermatologist-tested and come with non-greasy formulas.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Oyendrila Kanjilal took her passion for skin care to the next level by becoming a certified skin care coach. In this article, she lists the best sunscreens that you can find in your nearest drugstores and also online. She spent hours pouring over many products and reviews to curate this list for you. She has selected these products based on how effectively they protect the skin from UV rays, their active ingredients, skin type, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is applying sunscreen one time enough?
If you are spending a lot of time outside, applying sunscreen every two to three hours is advisable.
Can you still get a tan with a sunscreen with SPF 50?
No. In fact, sunscreen will prevent tan if applied properly.
What precautions should you take?
You should wait for at least 30 minutes after applying sunscreen. Do not go out immediately after applying sunscreen as it may cause irritation and a burning sensation.
Which sunscreen is the best for daily use?
The Vichy Capital Soleil Face Sunscreen Lotion is the perfect pick for daily use. It gets absorbed quickly and gives you a matte finish.
Is there a difference between sunscreen and sunblock?
Sunscreens typically only block UV-B rays. Sunscreen is a barrier that physically prevents the skin from being penetrated by UV radiation. Using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, sunblocks shield the skin from UV-A and UV-B radiation.
- Geoffrey, Kiriiri et al. “Sunscreen products: Rationale for use, formulation development and regulatory considerations.” Saudi pharmaceutical journal : SPJ : the official publication of the Saudi Pharmaceutical Society vol. 27,7 (2023): 1009-1018.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6978633/ - Latha, M S et al. “Sunscreening agents: a review.” The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology vol. 6,1 (2013): 16-26.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3543289/
