Walk into any store and you’ll face an entire aisle of sunscreen options. Some promise invisible protection, others tout natural ingredients, and a few claim they’ll feel like nothing at all. It’s enough to make your head spin.
The truth is, not all sunscreens are created equal. Some leave white streaks across your face, others feel greasy within minutes, and plenty break their promises the moment you start sweating. Your skin needs real protection, and you deserve products that actually work the way they claim to.
After testing dozens of brands and examining countless formulas, we’ve identified the ones that truly deliver. These aren’t just marketing hype. They’re brands that have earned their reputation through consistent results, satisfied users, and formulas that hold up in real life.
How We Selected the Best Sunscreen Brands
We didn’t just read marketing materials and call it a day. Our team tested these brands firsthand, read through ingredient lists, and gathered feedback from people with different skin types and concerns.
Here’s what we looked at:
- Broad-spectrum protection: Does it actually block both UVA and UVB rays, or is it all talk?
- Formula consistency: Can you apply it without fighting white casts, greasiness, or pilling?
- Ingredient quality: Are the active ingredients safe, effective, and backed by science?
- Skin type compatibility: Will it work for oily skin, dry patches, sensitive complexions, or all of the above?
- Price accessibility: Are you getting good value, whether you’re spending $10 or $50?
- Product variety: Does the brand offer options for your face, body, sports, and daily wear?
- Consumer feedback: What do real people say after using these products for months?
Every brand here passed our tests with flying colors. We’re confident you’ll find something that works for your needs and preferences.
Best Sunscreen Brands of 2025 (Expert Review)
Each of these brands brings something special to the table while maintaining high standards for sun protection. Here’s what makes them stand out.
1. La Roche-Posay
La Roche-Posay has built a reputation among dermatologists as a go-to recommendation for sensitive skin types. Their formulas feature thermal spring water that soothes irritation while providing serious sun protection. If you’ve struggled with sunscreens that cause breakouts or redness, this brand offers gentle yet effective solutions.
The brand excels at creating lightweight textures that feel comfortable throughout the day. You won’t find heavy, pore-clogging formulas here. Their anthelios line specifically targets people who need high protection without compromising on wearability or elegance.
They offer specialized products for different concerns, from anti-aging to acne-prone skin. The French pharmacy heritage means you’re getting scientifically backed formulas. Anyone seeking dermatologist-approved options should start here.
2. Neutrogena
If you want reliable sun protection without breaking the bank, Neutrogena delivers quality at accessible prices. This brand appears in countless bathrooms because it balances effectiveness with affordability. Their widespread availability means you can grab a bottle at nearly any store.
What sets them apart is the extensive research backing their formulations. You’re getting pharmaceutical-grade protection at drugstore prices. Their Ultra Sheer and Hydro Boost lines address different texture preferences while maintaining high SPF ratings.
Active individuals appreciate their sport formulas that resist sweat and water during outdoor activities. Parents trust this brand for their children’s delicate skin. People who need everyday protection without fuss will find Neutrogena hits the sweet spot between quality and convenience.
3. EltaMD
Dermatologists frequently stock EltaMD in their offices, which speaks volumes about its credibility. This medical-grade brand uses transparent zinc oxide that disappears on all skin tones. Their formulas contain beneficial ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid that improve skin health beyond sun protection.
Those with rosacea, melasma, or post-procedure skin find EltaMD particularly gentle and effective. The brand focuses on mineral-based protection that sits on the skin’s surface rather than absorbing into it. You’re paying a premium, but the quality justifies the investment for many users.
What makes them special is the combination of sun protection with skincare benefits. Each formula addresses specific concerns while preventing damage. If you’re serious about skin health and willing to invest, EltaMD offers professional-grade options worth considering.
4. Supergoop!
Supergoop! revolutionized sunscreen by making it feel less like a chore and more like a treat. Their innovative products include setting sprays, primers, and lip balms that integrate sun protection into your daily routine. You’ll actually look forward to applying these products.
The brand shines in creating multi-functional products that streamline your morning routine. Why apply separate primer and sunscreen when one product does both? Their Unseen Sunscreen has become a cult favorite for its invisible, velvety finish that works under makeup.
People who love beauty products but sometimes forget sunscreen will find this brand changes their habits. The playful packaging and pleasant textures remove all excuses for skipping protection. Anyone seeking elevated sunscreen experiences should explore what Supergoop! offers.
5. Blue Lizard
Blue Lizard brings something unique to the table with its smart bottle technology that changes color in UV light. This Australian brand specializes in mineral sunscreens that parents love for their children. The formulas go on white but blend into the skin, showing you where coverage exists.
Families appreciate how these sunscreens make application foolproof, especially with squirmy kids. You can actually see where you’ve applied it. The brand focuses on reef-safe, environmentally conscious formulas that protect both skin and oceans.
Their products suit people with very sensitive skin or those recovering from procedures. The mineral-based formulas provide immediate protection upon application. If you prioritize natural ingredients and environmental responsibility, Blue Lizard aligns with those values while delivering solid protection.
6. CeraVe
CeraVe brings dermatologist-developed formulas to the masses at surprisingly affordable prices. Their sunscreens contain ceramides that restore and maintain the skin’s protective barrier. You’re getting skincare benefits alongside sun protection, which feels like a smart two-in-one approach.
This brand stands out for its focus on skin health rather than just blocking rays. The formulas work exceptionally well for dry or compromised skin types. Their face sunscreens feel hydrating rather than drying, addressing a common complaint many people have.
Anyone dealing with eczema, dryness, or barrier damage will find CeraVe particularly beneficial. The brand offers both mineral and chemical options to suit different preferences. People who want pharmacy-quality sunscreen with added skincare benefits should give CeraVe serious consideration.
7. Coppertone
Coppertone has protected generations of families with consistent, trustworthy formulas you remember from childhood. This classic American brand offers extensive variety across different activities and age groups. Their long history means they’ve perfected formulas through decades of feedback and improvement.
What makes them worthy is their commitment to accessible sun protection for everyone. You’ll find Coppertone products at every price point and in every store. Their sport and water babies lines have become staples for active families who need protection that lasts.
Budget-conscious shoppers appreciate the value Coppertone provides without sacrificing quality. Large families need affordable options that still work effectively. Anyone seeking no-nonsense, proven protection that won’t disappoint will find Coppertone delivers exactly what it promises.
8. Banana Boat
Banana Boat brings fun back to sun protection with tropical scents and feel-good formulas. Their sport performance line grips skin during intense activities and humid conditions. You’ll notice the difference when you’re sweating heavily and your sunscreen stays put.
The brand excels at creating water-resistant formulas that endure swimming and water sports. Their products blend nostalgia with modern technology, updating classic formulas for current standards. You get that vacation feeling even during everyday use, which makes regular application more enjoyable.
Athletes and outdoor enthusiasts trust Banana Boat for long-lasting protection during challenging conditions. Families heading to the beach appreciate formulas that resist washing off immediately. People who associate sunscreen with summer fun will find this brand delivers both protection and positive vibes.
9. Hawaiian Tropic
Hawaiian Tropic transforms sun protection into a sensory experience with signature tropical scents. This brand proves sunscreen doesn’t have to smell clinical or unpleasant. Their formulas contain island-inspired ingredients like coconut and papaya that nourish while protecting.
What sets them apart is the luxurious feel that makes you think of vacation. You’re not just preventing sunburn but treating yourself to something pleasant. The brand balances effective protection with an experience that appeals to your senses.
People who find traditional sunscreen smells off-putting will appreciate Hawaiian Tropic’s approach. Those seeking affordable luxury in their sun care routine should explore their offerings. Anyone who wants their sunscreen to feel like a small indulgence rather than a necessity will love this brand.
10. Sun Bum
Sun Bum captures the laid-back California beach lifestyle in every bottle. This brand grew from a genuine need for sunscreen that surfers and beachgoers actually wanted to use. Their formulas are vegan, reef-friendly, and packed with vitamin E for added skin benefits.
The brand shines through its commitment to fun, effective products that align with active lifestyles. You’ll find options for every situation, from daily facial SPF to hardcore sport formulas. Their playful branding makes sun protection feel less like a medical requirement and more like part of your lifestyle.
Environmentally conscious consumers appreciate their reef-safe, cruelty-free stance on ingredients. Young adults and teens connect with the brand’s authentic, unpretentious vibe. Anyone seeking quality sun protection with a side of good vibes should check out what Sun Bum offers.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right sunscreen brand comes down to matching your specific needs with what each offers. Some prioritize dermatological excellence, while others focus on affordability or sensory experience. The good news is that every brand featured here provides reliable protection you can trust.
Consider your skin type, lifestyle, and budget when making your selection. Whether you need medical-grade formulas or family-friendly options, these brands have proven themselves through consistent quality and real results. Your perfect sunscreen match is waiting in this list, ready to protect your skin for years to come.