How to choose the best SPF for your skin

Whichever one you choose, you’ll look forward to using these sun-safe picks every single day.

First things first: sunscreen is non-negotiable. And while the sunscreens of yesteryear may have been greasy and uncomfortable to wear, these days it’s easier than ever to find an SPF that’s suited to your skin’s unique needs. Read on and discover this season’s best sunscreens for you.

If you have sensitive skin

If just the idea of wearing sunscreen makes you itch, have no fear. There are a wide range of non-irritating formulas that provide full-spectrum protection and feel weightless. Opt for a gentle SPF that’s safe for all skin types, such as Darphin Intral Environmental Lightweight Shield Broad Spectrum SPF. The mineral-based fluid provides a sheer, luminous finish that doubles as a makeup base, making for a pared-back routine that won’t bug your skin.

If you tend to sweat

Let’s get real: we’re human, we perspire. With excess sweat comes the risk of your sunscreen losing its efficacy or making its way toward your eyes, causing an uncomfortable stinging sensation. Try a water-resistant SPF, like Shiseido Ultra Sun Protector Lotion in SPF 50. It has a featherlight feel and offers high protection that actually covers the skin more evenly when the skin is exposed to water or perspiration, thanks to its exclusive WetForce technology.

If you have oily skin

Those on the oilier side will agree: the last thing you want to do is slather on a thick sunscreen multiple times a day. For a more pleasant SPF experience, lean into an oil-free gel, such as Lancôme UV Expert Aquagel Defense Moisturizer with SPF 50. It’s fast-absorbing, sweat-resistant and non-greasy to boot. It also contains skincare ingredients like soothing rose and dark-spot-minimizing mint extract. What more could you ask for?

If you’re a skincare minimalist

If you can’t bear anything but sun protection that feels light as air, Clinique SPF 50 Mineral Fluid For Face will do the trick. This 100 percent mineral sunscreen feels virtually undetectable, is fragrance-free and easily blends into skin without the chalkiness or residue of some mineral sunscreens. It’s a winner.

If you’re outside a lot

Re-applying sunscreen every two hours is essential when you’re out and about, and La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra Fluid Lotion Face SPF 50+ makes it easy. A leader in the SPF category for over 30 years, this sensitive-skin-friendly fluid dries down to an invisible finish, so you can safely re-apply it without a mirror. Plus, it comes in a bag-friendly bottle that reduces the chance of spillage to zero.

If you’re the active type

Boasting 80 minutes of water-and-sweat-resistant protection, Vichy Idéal Soleil Sport SPF 60 has your SPF needs covered, whether you’re running, swimming, or anything in between. Upon application, it has a unique cooling sensation that feels super refreshing, and it can be used on wet or dry skin, so there’s no need to dry off before re-applying.

The opinions shared in the articles featured are the author’s, as published by our content partner, and do not necessarily represent the views of Shopper Drug Mart® / Pharmaprix® or its affiliates.

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