Sunscreen That Works: My Favorite Picks for 2025

This year’s best sunscreens are skincare and sun protection in one- your glow just got safer.

As for my skincare routine, I usually do not appreciate any products prior to using my sunscreen. It’s not limited to beach trips or summer vacations only; it’s one of the necessary routines every day. 

Whether you are doing errands, working at the window, or just having a coffee, UV rays are still around. Just take it from me, the skin can only be radiant when it’s covered with protection and the SPF is its daily shield.

In 2025, I have finally found some sunscreen products in particular that are really effective and light in texture. If you ever feel that it is hard to get your hands on a formula that blends well and is actually a sun blocker, today’s article is definitely for you.

Check out my best choices this year:

The Best Sunscreens in 2025 that Everybody Should Have

Before we proceed to the product reviews, we should first go over why using sunscreen should be a standard practice in your skin care regimen.

Guards Against Aging: If you always find your anti-aging serums to be helpful, then at the same time, you are not using a good cream, it would be the same as refilling a leaking bucket with water. 

Prevents Sunburn and Skin Damage: Certainly, no one is in favor of getting sunburns as a result of a long-working day or seeing their skin peeling. The sunscreen will work effectively in protecting your skin from UVA and UVB rays. 

 Cuts Down Skin Cancer Risk: You have to take this very seriously—daily sunscreen usage would certainly lead to a lower incidence of skin cancer in the long term. 

Keeps the Skin Tone Even: Sunscreen assists in the blocking of dark spots and hyperpigmentation that is instigated by the sun rays. 

Now that we are familiar with all the reasons for why it is mandatory to use sunscreen, let me reveal to you those I admire as my go-getters that are all about supporting the skin, proving efficacy of performance, and suitable for daily use.

Banana Boat Light As Air SPF 50

If you are one of the people who don’t like to feel greasy skin from sunscreen, Banana Boat Light As Air is a game-changer. This product is really light, and it doesn’t make your skin greasy at all. 

Moreover, the application goes smoothly, and the absorption is very fast. The way it just swipes lightly over my skin is one thing I really enjoy, it is just like applying the moisturizer minus the sticky feel that the rest of the sunblock’s would leave behind.

And here’s why I love it:

• The Light As Air sunscreen is super light and non-sticky
• It is suitable for everyone’s skin type (including combination skin!)
• It’s not a pore-clogging element at all
• The product is the one which is water-resistant and thus exactly suits your light sports or a day trip)

It is a fantastic makeup base that stays put and I often use it as the first coat of my tinted moisturizer. Because the product doesn’t cause pilling either, I’m always making sure that the layer I put on is not too heavy. Whatever your plan, either it’s beach visitation or a brunch date, this will be your aid.

Equate SPF 50 Ultra – The Best Drugstore Gem

Let’s be all honest, great skincare doesn’t have to be synonymous with high prices. Equate’s SPF 50 Ultra is among my favorite drugstore sunscreens that are not only affordable but also work as well as some luxury sun brands if not even better.

To be honest, the texture of this sunscreen was nothing out of the ordinary and I was expecting it to spread easily. A surprise to me, it was not only smooth to apply, but also not at all ghostly. 

What’s more, it doesn’t have any scent and my skin tends to be super sensitive, so it brings a big relief; in addition to our best buddy, SPF 50 to reinforce protection on super sunny days.

The reasons for its popularity include:

• It has good coverage and is cost-effective.
• It’s an efficient choice for protecting the skin as it has a high SPF index.
• No fragrance and the presence of a person with sensitive skin are the reasons why this product is suitable for certain types of skin.
• Non-comedogenic is a feature that makes the article less likely to cause the pores to become clogged.
• Purchasing a sunscreen that will not cut into your budget is a necessary step if you want to put together a skincare routine when you are low on money. 
• It shows that one can stick to the budget even with sun protection.

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

This write-up is strictly for the ladies in the house who cannot do without makeup. First off, if you were on the hunt for the best sunscreen that can easily double as a primer, then you do not need to look any further because Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen is here for the rescue!

You are sure to get the effect of a totally clear, velvety smooth sunscreen that will give you that perfect matte finish under your foundation.

The consistency is the same as a silicone-based primer (who doesn’t love smooth skin!) but there are no side effects. I use it for the days when the makeup is full and it is great how it holds everything in just right.

What’s got me so excited about it:

• Plays the role invisibly with no whitish look
• Suitable for any skin color
• You can perform its duty, and it also becomes a primer
• Free of animal products, as well as cruelty-free

In addition to the above, it has a whole lot of antioxidants that will definitely rid your skin of free radicals, basically making it more than just a sunscreen but a beauty multitasker.

Tips for Making Sunscreen a Habit

• If it is a difficult task for you to use sunscreen every day, then try giving yourself some nice, gentle reminders as you read on the following four that have been so helpful to the writer:  
• Pick the spot you pass by most – Mine is by the toothbrush, so I remember it every morning.
• Feel it on your face – Now, put on sunscreen the same way you apply your favorite facial serum but take care to do it in the morning before going out.
• Use it in a closed space too – UVA rays can get into your home through the glass. Your skin still needs protection even if you’re home.
• Don’t forget to use the time strategy – If you’re out for long periods, remember to reapply every 2–3 hours. I have a small bottle of sunscreen in my bag and I just use it to refresh my face anytime.

This is for:

• Cleanse + moisturize your skin.
• Apply sunscreen generously – about 2 finger lengths for the face and neck.
• Let it settle for 2–3 minutes before applying foundation.
• Use a makeup sponge or fingers to apply your base over it without disrupting the sunscreen.

Final Thought

Applying sunscreen is not only for the purpose of saving yourself from sunburn, but it has also become an everyday habit of respect for oneself, loving oneself, and long-term care. 

Also Available at Amazon:

Banana Boat Light As Air, Equate SPF 50 Ultra, and Supergoop Unseen, are the three sunscreens that make it quick, fashionable, and efficient. If you need a sunscreen that is thin, cost-effective, or invisible under makeup, you can choose from the options given in the article according to your lifestyle.

Also, please don’t forget that a good complexion today is the result of sun protection for tomorrow. Let us cherish our radiance, girls.

FAQs

Q: Can I deter the application of sunscreen on cloudy days? 

A: No. Solar UV (ultraviolet) radiation is still on the earth even if clouds overshadow it. Therefore, daily SPF is mandatory.

Q: What are the things that makeup wearers can apply for the best sun protection? 

A: They can go for Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen! It functions like a primer and provides SPF.

Q: What amount of sunscreen is best to apply on the face? 

A: You need around 2 finger lengths (or a quarter of a teaspoon) for your face and neck.

Q: Is SPF found in makeup enough? 

A: It has a protective effect, but it is not ideal for its efficacy. In the case of makeup makeup, wear sunscreen separately.

Let’s Chat!

Do you have a go-to sunscreen? Tried any of these Picks? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments or on Instagram @emelieparis.

.