The 10 Best Sunscreens To Wear Under Makeup – 2023

Protect your skin against the sun without ruining your makeup with these sunscreens.

Reviewed by Vanessa Huerta, Licensed Esthetician
Written by Shiboli Chakraborti, Certified Skin Care Coach
Edited by Aditi Naskar, Diploma In Health & Wellness
Fact-checked by Ramona Sinha, Certified Skin Care Coach  • 
All products recommended on StyleCraze are independently selected by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through any of these links, we may receive a commission. Learn more about our product selection process here.

Having the best sunscreen to wear under makeup for daily protection is the need of the hour. In fact, many women are leaving out regular sunscreens as they are sticky, greasy products making their makeup patchy. However, you cannot afford to step out without an SPF and make your skin susceptible to photodamage. Worry not! We have come up with a list of sunscreens you can wear under makeup. Check them out!

Top PicksCheck Price
Best Non-Comedogenic:EltaMD UV Clear
Price on Amazon
Best Matte Finish:Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen
Price on Amazon
Best For All Skin Types:Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen
Price on Amazon
Best For Sensitive Skin:COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream
Price on Amazon
Best Fragrance-Free:CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen
Price on Amazon
Best Oil-Absorbing:La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Daily Tone Correcting  Primer
Price on Amazon
Best Non-Greasy:Make prem UV Defense Me
Price on Amazon
Best Moisturizing:COOLA Sun Silk Drops
Price on Amazon
Best Water-Resistant:Dermalogica Protection 50 Sport
Price on Amazon
Best Non-Irritating:Tatcha Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen
Price on Amazon

Top 10 Sunscreens To Wear Under Makeup

1. Best Non-Comedogenic:EltaMD UV Clear

4.6
EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Image: Eltamd

If your skin is prone to acne or conditions like rosacea and discoloration, you can use this sunscreen for smooth makeup application. It contains zinc oxide that guards your skin against the UV rays without irritating it. The zinc oxide is 9.0% transparent, so you can bid farewell to the ghostly white cast. The sunscreen is dermatologically tested and is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation.

Pros

  • No residue
  • Fragrance-free
  • Oil-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Antioxidant protection
  • Untinted formula
  • Sensitivity-free
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Dermatologist-recommended

Cons

  • Expensive
  • May cause breakouts

protip_icon Quick Tip
Cool off your sunscreen in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before applying it during hot summer days.

Why It’s Worth Buying: A whopping 32,100 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
Price at the time of publication: $39.0

2. Best Matte Finish:Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen

4.6
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Matte Sunscreen Image: Neutrogena

The Neutrogena Ultra-Sheer SPF defends your skin from UV rays and all potential damages caused by sun exposure. It is so light that you do not feel it on your face at all. It is non-greasy, prevents patchy makeup, and gives a matte finish. This sunscreen is formulated with Helioplex that provides superior sun protection. This lightweight sunscreen is suitable for all skin types.

Pros

  • 100+ SPF
  • PABA-free
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Lightweight formula
  • Dry-touch technology
  • Dermatologist-recommended

Cons

  • Might cause a burning sensation in the eye.
Why It’s Worth Buying: This product has garnered over 30,575 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
Price at the time of publication: $8.97

3. Best For All Skin Types:Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen

4.6
Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen Image: Supergoop

Protect your skin from sun damage with the Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen. This sunscreen works as a makeup-gripping primer, and the smooth, lightweight texture offers you a natural look. The invisible sunscreen comes with SPF 40 that glides smoothly on your skin, hydrates your skin, and prevents damage caused by UVA, UVB, and IRA rays.

Pros

  • Oil-free
  • Scent-free
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Reef-friendly
  • Lightweight and comfortable

Cons

  • May feel a bit greasy
Price at the time of publication: $27

4. Best For Sensitive Skin:COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream

4.5

If you have forgotten what it feels like being out in the sun, this soothing sunscreen for comprehensive UV protection is going to bring the fun back! This product is formulated with 5,500 ppm of aloe vera leaf extracts and is extremely hydrating. It helps in achieving smooth skin and even complexion. It protects you from both UVA and UVB rays as it is an SPF 50+ and PA+++ sunscreen and provides a refreshing feel under makeup.

Pros

  • SPF 50 and PA+++ (UVA and UVB protection)
  • Contains botanical ingredients
  • Vegan
  • Lightweight
  • Suitable for prolonged sun exposure
  • Suitable for sensitive skin

Cons

  • May sting the eyes.
Why It’s Worth Buying: With over 5,330 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
Price at the time of publication: $15.38

5. Best Fragrance-Free:CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen

4.3
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint Image: Cerave
Now 17% Off

This mineral sunscreen by CeraVe is a happy relief if chemical sunscreen makes your skin feel uncomfortable. The sunscreen has a universal tint that goes well with or without makeup. It is enriched with three essential ceramides and niacinamide that restore the natural barrier of your skin and keep it looking healthy. It is non-greasy and lightweight and blends exceptionally well with the skin for a shine-free makeup look. This tinted sunscreen is recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation as an effective and broad-spectrum sunscreen for combating sun damage. The product is also validated by leading dermatologists as it shows visible results.

Pros

  • SPF 30 with a sheer tint
  • Developed with dermatologists
  • Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation
  • 100% mineral sunscreen
  • No white cast
  • Oxybenzone-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • No chemical filter
  • Dermatologist-recommended

Cons

  • The tint may seem dark on very fair skin.
Price at the time of publication: $13.3

6. Best Oil-Absorbing:La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Daily Tone Correcting  Primer

3.8
La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Image: La Roche-posay

This tone correcting primer by La Roche-Posay doubles as a sunscreen. This primer and sunscreen has SPF 50 and is 100% mineral-based. It has a slight tint, so you can either wear it alone or under makeup for improved texture. It is formulated with Cell-Ox technology that provides antioxidant protection and broad-spectrum sun protection to your skin. The product is safe as it is allergy-tested.

Pros

  • Titanium dioxide sunscreen primer
  • Covers discoloration
  • 100% mineral-based sunscreen
  • Lightweight
  • Oil-absorbing formula
  • Matte finish
  • Tested for skin tolerance
  • Ophthalmologist-tested
  • Fragrance-free
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Oxybenzone-free
  • Octinoxate-free

Cons

  • Thick consistency
Why It’s Worth Buying: With over 1,018 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
Price at the time of publication: $39.99

7. Best Non-Greasy:Make prem UV Defense Me

4.3

The Make p:rem (Making a Pragmatic Remedy) is a light UV defense cream. This sun gel claims to lower your skin temperature. It not only protects you from the harmful UV rays but also works as an anti-heat cream. It blends easily and contains SPF 50 and PA++++, which makes this product extremely effective. If you are in love with K-beauty, try this Korean brand, for its proven efficacy.

Pros

  • SPF 50 and PA++++
  • Moisturizes the skin
  • Non-sticky
  • Oil-free
  • No white cast
  • Quickly absorbed
  • Non-greasy
  • No harmful chemicals
  • Imparts a dewy glow after application

Cons

  • May not suit oily skin.
Price at the time of publication: $24.99

8. Best Moisturizing:COOLA Sun Silk Drops

This lightweight and gel-based sunscreen uses a plant-derived Full Spectrum 360° technology. These drops protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays, blue light, infrared rays emitted by the sun, and pollution. It has sheer coverage, so you will not find a white cast. It contains hyaluronic acid that keeps the skin moisturized for long.

Pros

  • SPF 30 (broad-spectrum)
  • 70% certified organic ingredients
  • Reef-friendly
  • Cruelty-free
  • Non-GMO
  • Paraben-free
  • Vegan
  • Lightweight
  • Breathable formula
  • Gluten-free

Cons

  • Expensive

protip_icon Pro Tip
To reapply sunscreen without ruining makeup, you can use a sunscreen spray or a setting spray with SPF.

Price at the time of publication: $46

9. Best Water-Resistant:Dermalogica Protection 50 Sport

4.6
Dermalogica Protection 50 Sport Image: Dermalogica

If you are someone who has to spend a lot of time outside under the sun, and your skin needs heavy-duty protection, this water-resistant sunscreen is what you need. The Dermatologica Protection 50 Sport is designed to protect your skin from prolonged exposure. It contains oleosome microspheres that enhance the performance of the SPF, prevent moisture loss, and protect your skin from damage. This sweat-resistant sunscreen does not make the skin greasy after application and is perfect for all-day wear. The best part is that the brand did not test the product on animals.

Pros

  • SPF 50
  • Water-resistant (40 minutes)
  • Perfect for sport enthusiasts
  • Lightweight formula
  • Gluten-free
  • Vegan
  • No artificial fragrance
  • No artificial color
  • Paraben-free
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

None

Price at the time of publication: $36

10. Best Non-Irritating:Tatcha Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen

4.5
Tatcha Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen – SPF 35 Image: Tatcha

How about a mattifying sunscreen that has anti-aging benefits and also takes care of your enlarged pores? The Tatcha Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen does both. It contains silk and Japanese wild rose extracts that minimize the appearance of pores, keeps the skin smooth, and improves its texture. It also contains loquat leaf extract, which is loaded with antioxidants to keep your skin youthful. This sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection without a white cast and imparts a matte finish to your face.

Pros

  • SPF 35
  • Paraben-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Urea-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • DEA/TEA-free
  • Free of  aminobenzoic acid, homosalate, and oxybenzone
  • No synthetic fragrance
  • Non-sensitizing
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Non-irritating
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Expensive
Price at the time of publication: $68.0

Wearing sunscreen protects your skin from harmful radiation, premature aging, and external polluters. These are the important things to consider before buying the best sunscreen creams to wear under makeup.

Things To Consider Before Buying Best Sunscreen To Wear Under Makeup

  • Broad Spectrum Protection

The best sunscreen creams have a wide range of SPF and PA ratings. SPF blocks only the UVB rays, not UVA rays that cause wrinkles and aging. So pick a broad spectrum that protects from UVB and UVA. Also, look for mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Sunblock with this is best to choose since these ingredients are gentle on the skin.

  • Clinically Tested

It is important to ensure that your sunscreen is clinically-tested and approved by dermatologists and ophthalmologists or doctor-recommended. The creams, gels, and lotions should be suitable for your skin. They must not result in undesired side effects like allergies, rashes, or irritation. The sunscreen products must be gentle on your sensitive skin.

  • No Harsh Chemicals

Many sunscreen creams are loaded with chemicals that may harm the skin in the long term and even cause skin cancer. It is better to use sunscreen lotion and gels that are scientifically formulated and chemically free. They must not contain any traces of oxybenzone, octinoxate, paraben, silicone, mineral oil, or phthalate.

  • Lightweight and Gentle

The sunscreen creams should be gentle on the skin and non-sticky when applied. They must be lightweight and non-greasy for the makeup to go on well. The sunscreen should be free from artificial fragrances and contain oil-absorbing formula with a long-lasting impact.

  • Other Features

Choose sunscreen creams and lotions that are non-comedogenic and prevent clogged pores. For acne-prone skin, go for an oil-free sunscreen. Choose sunscreen gels that are cost-effective and good in quality.

Infographic: Sunscreen Under Makeup: Benefits And How To Apply

Many women hesitate to use traditional sunscreens under makeup because they are sticky and oily and make their makeup seem uneven. However, you cannot afford to go out without an SPF and expose your skin to photodamage either. This is where these special sunscreens come to your rescue.

The infographic below will guide you through the benefits and tips for the best sunscreen to wear under makeup. Check it out!

Sunscreen Under Makeup: Benefits And How To Apply (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Save the high-quality PDF version on your device now.

Download Infographic in PDF version Download Infographic
Download Infographic in PDF version

The Bottom Line

Sunscreens are definitely one of the most important skincare products, especially during the summer season. It is important to wear the right kind of sunscreen, which is clinically-proven, dermatologically-approved, and will not form patches on your skin. It is important to not just buy based on the reviewer’s experience as they may vary. However, if you’re a makeup enthusiast, you know that sometimes layering sunscreen with other makeup products can make your face look cakey, but wearing it is nonetheless necessary. Vanessa Huerta, licensed esthetician, explains, “Skin will metabolize products in the order that you apply them. You always want to apply sunscreen before your makeup is applied.”

In this case, some lightweight sunscreens might be the right pick for you! The EltaMD UV Clear Sunscreen is a great option for acne-prone skin, while the Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen is ideal for those who want a natural finish. But if you are looking for a product with broad-spectrum, mineral-based formula, try the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Daily Tone Correcting Primer. Sunscreens that are non-greasy and give a seamless matte finish are the ones that can be donned before any makeup product for long-lasting makeup application. But, steer clear of those sunscreens that can cause a burning sensation in the eye or are not non-comedogenic.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach. She thoroughly learns about and tries new and trending products. Shiboli prepared this list of the best sunscreens to wear under makeup by sifting through multiple user reviews and in-depth research of the products’ formulations. She knows what is good for the skin and always makes it a point to analyze the ingredients. So, the shortlisted sunscreens are lightweight and non-sticky for a comfortable application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you wear sunscreen under makeup?

Yes, you can, and you should wear sunscreen under makeup. You can also wear sunscreen over your makeup – use a spray SPF.

How can I apply sunscreen under makeup?

Check out this article and learn how to apply makeup over sunscreen like a pro.

Should I use sunscreen as a makeup primer?

Yes! You can use sunscreen as a primer to keep your makeup intact and also shield the skin from sun damage. It makes the makeup look flawless.

Is chemical sunscreen better for makeup?

Yes. A chemical-based sunscreen doesn’t react or interfere with makeup. It is ideal for use under makeup.

Do you need sunscreen if your foundation has SPF?

Even if your foundation is infused with SPF, you can apply a layer of sunscreen under it to provide additional protection to your skin.


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