To help you find a comfortable and effective way to protect your skin outside, we’ve consulted with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sanober Doctor, MD, ABAARM, to cover the essential criteria for picking out the best sunscreen for me. We’ve also included our top 10 picks for sunscreens for men, selected from among the most popular options available online and ranked using the criteria outlined in our guide below.
Quick List - Top Sunscreens for Men
Neutrogena
Lightweight SPF 70 Protection for Active Lifestyles
EltaMD
Lightweight, Broad-Spectrum Protection for Sensitive and Acne-Prone Skin
La Roche Posay
Best Tinted Sunscreen That Blends Nicely into the Skin
Dr. Sanober Doctor is a dual-board certified dermatologist, & a leading expert in Integrative and holistic Dermatology. She is the face behind the popular YouTube channel- 'Healthy Aging with Dr. Doctor.' She is also the founder & creator of 'AGEnesis™- The Holistic Aging Blueprint' & 'Baby SkinWise™- the World's 1st Audiovisual Skincare Guide for Parents'. Dr. Sanober is a proactive, compassionate medical practitioner with a thorough understanding of overall mind-body-spiritual wellness.
With over a decade of weightlifting experience, Christopher Heffner is an avid fitness enthusiast who enjoys starting his day with a good workout. He also has a background in engineering and business, bringing a unique blend of technical knowledge and practicality to his endeavors.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Sunscreen should become part of men's daily routine.
Beyond avoiding the immediate sting of sunburn, consistent sunscreen application yields long-term benefits, including reducing the risk of photoaging and mitigating the development of wrinkles, age spots, and textural irregularities. More critically, it significantly reduces the risk of skin cancers, including melanoma. This proactive measure safeguards cellular DNA from the cumulative damage of ultraviolet radiation, preserving aesthetic appeal and physiological integrity.
Sunscreen isn't just for days at the beach, either. UV radiation permeates the atmosphere year-round, even on cloudy days. Daily application is advisable, regardless of weather conditions. Pay particular attention to sun exposure during peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Consistent use, even for brief periods outdoors, is the cornerstone of effective sun protection.
Men tend to have an active lifestyle, and protecting themselves with regular sunscreen application is essential.
UVA and UVB are known to affect the skin adversely; hence, having a broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential.
SPF 30 is the minimum protection that can be obtained and should be adhered to.
Consider formulations that minimize irritation if you're a man with sensitive skin. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide (Dr. Doctor suggests non-nano-zinc oxide as an even better option) or titanium dioxide offer gentle, physical protection, ideal for people with sensitive skin.
Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products can also reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions, while non-comedogenic sunscreens prevent pore blockage, mitigating acne breakouts.
Sunscreens come in a variety of types for different levels of activity.
The presence of emollients, water-based formulations, tends to give a lightweight, non-greasy feel to sunscreens.
The amount needed to be sprayed to achieve adequate protection is a lot, and the threat of inhaling the ingredients is present with spray sunscreens.
Additionally, lotions adhere better to the skin, creating a uniform barrier against UV rays. By applying a liberal and even layer of lotion, you maximize your skin's defense against sun damage, leaving less room for missed spots and potentially providing better overall coverage.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Spectrum Protection | SPF | Factors for Sensitive Skin | Sweat/Water Resistance Time | Lightweight | Form | Container Size | |||||
1 | Neutrogena Ultra Sheer® Dry-Touch Oxybenzone-Free Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 70 | ![]() | Lightweight SPF 70 Protection for Active Lifestyles | UVA、UVB | 70 SPF | Hypoallergenic、Non-Comedogenic | 80 Minutes | Lightweight | Lotion | 3 Fl Oz | |
2 | EltaMD EltaMD, Inc.|UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 | ![]() | Lightweight, Broad-Spectrum Protection for Sensitive and Acne-Prone Skin | UVA、UVB | 46 SPF | Mineral Sunscreen | Lightweight、Non-Greasy | Lotion | 1.7 Fl Oz | ||
3 | Banana Boat Sport Ultra | ![]() | Water Resistant Protection From the Sun | UVA、UVB | 50 SPF | 80 Minutes | Lightweight | Spray | 6 Fl Oz | ||
4 | La Roche Posay Tinted Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid | ![]() | Best Tinted Sunscreen That Blends Nicely into the Skin | UVA、UVB | 50 SPF | Fragrance-Free、Mineral Sunscreen、Hypoallergenic | 40 Minutes | Lightweight | Lotion | 1.7 Fl Oz | |
5 | Sky and Sol Face and Body Sunscreen | ![]() | Sunscreen Made With Edible Ingredients | UVA、UVB | 50 SPF | Mineral Sunscreen、Fragrance-Free | 80 Minutes | Non-Greasy | Lotion | 3 Fl Oz | |
6 | CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen | ![]() | Sun Protection and Skin Hydration | UVA、UVB | 50 SPF | Mineral Sunscreen、Hypoallergenic | Lightweight、Non-Greasy | Lotion | 2.5 Fl Oz | ||
7 | Thrive Bodyshield 50 | ![]() | Reef Act Compliant Mineral Sunscreen | UVA、UVB | 50 SPF | Mineral Sunscreen | 80 Minutes | Lightweight、Non-Greasy | Lotion | 5.8 Fl Oz | |
8 | Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion | ![]() | Antioxidant-Rich and Full of Nourishing Ingredients | UVA、UVB | 50 SPF | 80 Minutes | Lightweight | Lotion | 2.4 Fl Oz | ||
9 | Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Spray | ![]() | Spray Sunscreen for the Outdoors | UVA、UVB | 50 SPF | Fragrance-Free | 80 Minutes | Lightweight | Spray | 5.5 Fl Oz | |
10 | Paula's Choice RESIST | ![]() | Sunscreen and Face Moisturizer | UVA、UVB | 50 SPF | Fragrance-Free | Lightweight | Lotion | 2 Fl Oz |
Spectrum Protection | UVA、UVB |
---|---|
SPF | 70 SPF |
Form | Lotion |
---|---|
Container Size | 3 Fl Oz |
Spectrum Protection | UVA、UVB |
---|---|
SPF | 46 SPF |
EltaMD UV Clear is a highly acclaimed facial sunscreen designed to provide broad-spectrum protection while addressing the needs of sensitive and acne-prone skin. Featuring SPF 46, this lightweight, oil-free formula shields against both UVA and UVB rays, reducing the risk of sunburn and skin damage. Enriched with niacinamide (vitamin B3), it helps soothe and calm irritated skin while providing essential hydration. The sunscreen’s clear, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly and seamlessly into the skin, making it ideal for use under makeup or alone. Its formulation is also designed to minimize the appearance of redness and discoloration, making it a great choice for those with rosacea or hyperpigmentation. EltaMD UV Clear offers effective sun protection with additional skincare benefits, making it a staple for maintaining healthy, radiant skin.
Form | Lotion |
---|---|
Container Size | 1.7 Fl Oz |
Spectrum Protection | UVA、UVB |
---|---|
SPF | 50 SPF |
Form | Spray |
---|---|
Container Size | 6 Fl Oz |
Spectrum Protection | UVA、UVB |
---|---|
SPF | 50 SPF |
Pros:
This mineral-tinted sunscreen is tested by dermatologists to be suitable for sensitive skin. It offers broad-spectrum protection and antioxidant benefits to help you protect your skin from free radical damage. Specifically, it's formulated with thermal spring water and senna alata, all of which are packed with antioxidants to prevent skin aging.
The major complaint about this sunscreen is its greasy consistency. Nevertheless, many are happy with the gentle formula that doesn't cause breakouts or irritate their skin. There are reports that the tint has a light coverage that layers well under their foundation or primer.
Form | Lotion |
---|---|
Container Size | 1.7 Fl Oz |
Spectrum Protection | UVA、UVB |
---|---|
SPF | 50 SPF |
Form | Lotion |
---|---|
Container Size | 3 Fl Oz |
Spectrum Protection | UVA、UVB |
---|---|
SPF | 50 SPF |
Form | Lotion |
---|---|
Container Size | 2.5 Fl Oz |
Spectrum Protection | UVA、UVB |
---|---|
SPF | 50 SPF |
Form | Lotion |
---|---|
Container Size | 5.8 Fl Oz |
Spectrum Protection | UVA、UVB |
---|---|
SPF | 50 SPF |
This sunscreen is formulated free of oxybenzone and octinoxate and is infused with antioxidant-rich sunflower and rosemary leaf extracts. These ingredients calm, nourish, and protect your skin from the environment. This broad-spectrum SPF lotion acts as a shield on the skin but is lightweight, comfortable to wear, and provides 80 minutes of long-lasting protection.
A few reviewers noted that it might not be the product for everyone because they felt like it was too greasy and was not reef-safe. Meanwhile, many others had no issues with the sunscreen, noting the formulation doesn't leave any white cast and that it absorbs easily.
Form | Lotion |
---|---|
Container Size | 2.4 Fl Oz |
Spectrum Protection | UVA、UVB |
---|---|
SPF | 50 SPF |
Form | Spray |
---|---|
Container Size | 5.5 Fl Oz |
Spectrum Protection | UVA、UVB |
---|---|
SPF | 50 SPF |
Form | Lotion |
---|---|
Container Size | 2 Fl Oz |
No. 1: Neutrogena|Ultra Sheer® Dry-Touch Oxybenzone-Free Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 70
No. 2: EltaMD|EltaMD, Inc.|UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
No. 3: Banana Boat|Sport Ultra
No. 4: La Roche Posay|Tinted Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid
No. 5: Sky and Sol|Face and Body Sunscreen
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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