How to Pick the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin Type (With Product Recommendations)

Sunscreen is one of the most important steps in any skincare routine. It protects your skin from harmful UV rays that can lead to sunburn, dark spots, premature aging, and even skin cancer. But with so many options out there, picking the right one can get confusing especially if you’re trying to match it with your skin type. The good news is that once you understand what your skin needs, choosing the perfect sunscreen gets a lot easier. Here’s a complete, easy-to-follow guide to help you figure it out, plus some product recommendations for each skin type.

A Quick Sunscreen 101

Before we get into specific skin types, here are a few terms to know:

SPF:

Stands for “sun protection factor.” SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%.

Broad Spectrum:

Protects against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.

Mineral (Physical) Sunscreen:

Uses zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to sit on the skin and reflect UV rays. Ideal for sensitive skin.

Chemical Sunscreen:

Absorbs into the skin and converts UV rays into heat. Usually feels lighter and absorbs quickly.

Now let’s look at how to choose the right one based on your skin type.

For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin

Oily or breakout-prone skin needs lightweight formulas that don’t clog pores or make the skin look greasy.

Look for:

• Oil-free or non-comedogenic sunscreens, which means they won’t clog your pores
• Gel-based or water-based formulas that feel lightweight and non-greasy
• Matte finish sunscreens or even powder sunscreen if you want something to control shine

Helpful ingredients:

• Zinc oxide also good for acne-prone skin
• Niacinamide helps calm breakouts and balance oil

Avoid:

• Thick, creamy sunscreens that can feel heavy
• Fragrance or alcohol, which can irritate your skin

Recommended Sunscreens For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin:

• La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin SPF 60 : Oil-absorbing, mattifying, and non-comedogenic.
• EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 : Lightweight with calming ingredients like niacinamide and zinc.
• Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel SPF 30/50 : Feels like water, non-greasy, and great under makeup.

For Dry Skin

Dry skin benefits from creamy, hydrating sunscreens that also help lock in moisture.

Look for:

• Creamy or lotion-based sunscreens that feel rich and moisturizing.
• Sunscreens with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides.

Helpful ingredients:

• Squalane and vitamin E for extra moisture
• Mineral formulas are also good, especially if your skin is sensitive too

Avoid:

• Spray sunscreens with alcohol, they can dry out your skin even more

Recommended Sunscreens For Dry Skin:

• Aveeno Positively Mineral SPF 50 : Gentle, hydrating, and soothing with oat extract.
• CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30/50 : Has ceramides and hyaluronic acid to nourish dry skin.
• Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40 : Moisturizing with a radiant finish, doubles as a primer.

For Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin needs gentle, no-fuss sunscreens without irritating ingredients.

Look for:

• Mineral sunscreen(physical sunscreen) with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide Its gentler on sensitive skin
• Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formulas

Helpful ingredients:

Aloe vera, allantoin, or anything labeled “soothing” or “calming”

Avoid:

• Chemical ingredients like oxybenzone or avobenzone
• Anything with fragrance, dyes, or alcohol

Recommended Sunscreens For Sensitive Skin:

• EltaMD UV Pure SPF 47 : Kid-friendly, gentle, and great for all ages.
• Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30/50 : No fragrance or harsh ingredients, great for easily irritated skin.
• Vanicream Sunscreen SPF 50 : Super gentle with a clean ingredient list.

For Combination Skin

Combo skin needs something balanced and lightweight but still hydrating.

Look for:

Lightweight lotions or gel-creams that hydrate without making you greasy

Helpful ingredients:

• Niacinamide (balances oil)
• Hyaluronic acid (adds moisture)

Avoid:

• Sunscreens that are too heavy for your T-zone or too drying for your cheeks

Recommended Sunscreens For Combination Skin:

• La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Mineral SPF 50 : Feels light and gives a natural finish.
• Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 55 : Lightweight, dries quickly, and non-greasy.
• Paula’s Choice RESIST Moisturizer with SPF 50 : Hydrates without heaviness.

For Normal Skin

You’re lucky, most sunscreens will work for you! Just focus on picking a texture you enjoy using every day.

Look for:

• Broad spectrum at least SPF 30
• A feel-good formula that fits your routine

Recommended Sunscreens For Normal Skin:

1. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 : Invisible, silky texture, and great under makeup.
2. Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 : Moisturizing and leaves a nice glow.
3. Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion SPF 60+ : Water-resistant and lightweight for long days out.

For Darker Skin Tones

One of the biggest issues with sunscreen on darker skin is the white cast. Luckily, there are better options now.

Look for:

• Tinted mineral sunscreens that blend into deeper skin tones
• Sheer or invisible chemical sunscreens that don’t leave residue

Helpful ingredients:

• Iron oxides in tinted sunscreens help protect against hyperpigmentation

Avoid:

• Traditional zinc-based formulas that leave ashiness
• Thick white pastes that don’t rub in properly

Recommended Sunscreens For Darker Skin Tones:

1. Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30/50 : No white cast, super moisturizing, and made for deeper skin tones.
2. Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor SPF 30 : Lightweight, blends in easily, and doubles as a moisturizer.
3. Eucerin Oil Control SPF 50 Tinted Mineral : Tinted to blend with deeper tones, with oil control benefits.

Final Tips for Using Sunscreen Right

• Use at least SPF 30 for daily protection, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.
• Water-resistant formulas are great for beach days, working out, or hot weather.
• Reapply every 2 hours, especially if you’re sweating or swimming.
• Don’t forget spots like your ears, neck, hands, and even your scalp if your hair is thin.
• Apply generously about a nickel-sized amount for your face.

Choosing sunscreen doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you know your skin type and what feels good on your skin, it gets much easier. The best sunscreen is the one you’ll actually use every day. The right formula will not only protect your skin but also feel so good you’ll actually want to reapply it. So find one that works for you and make it part of your routine. Your skin will thank you for it.