Sunscreen is the single most important step in any skincare routine. No matter your skin type, age, or how much time you spend outdoors, daily SPF is non-negotiable. As someone who loves beauty and values smart, effective products, I’ve spent years searching for the best sunscreens that work for all skin tones—without leaving a white cast, feeling heavy, or making my skin look greasy. For a long time, finding a sunscreen that worked well for darker and paler skin tones was a challenge. Many formulas left behind a chalky residue that made them impossible to wear.

Thankfully, brands have finally caught up, and now there are excellent options for every skin tone, from the fairest to the deepest. A great sunscreen should disappear into the skin, provide broad-spectrum protection, and work well under makeup. It should also be budget-friendly, easy to apply, and comfortable enough to wear every day. After testing countless formulas, I’ve found the best sunscreens that check all these boxes.

What to Look for in a Sunscreen

Before diving into specific products, it’s important to know what makes a sunscreen truly effective.

  • Broad-Spectrum Protection: This means it protects against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
  • SPF 30 or Higher: Dermatologists recommend at least SPF 30 for daily use, but SPF 50 is even better.
  • No White Cast: This is especially important for deeper skin tones. The best sunscreens blend seamlessly.
  • Lightweight and Comfortable: A sunscreen you actually enjoy wearing means you won’t skip it.
  • Works Under Makeup: If a sunscreen pills or feels greasy, it’s not practical for daily wear.

With these factors in mind, I’ve rounded up the best sunscreens that deliver complete protection without compromising on texture, finish, or wearability.

Best Everyday Sunscreens for All Skin Tones

1. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

This is a cult favorite for a reason. It’s lightweight, fragrance-free, and designed for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

  • Why I Love It: It contains niacinamide, which helps calm redness and even skin tone.
  • Great for: All skin types, especially sensitive or acne-prone skin.
  • Finish: Sheer and non-greasy.

This sunscreen absorbs quickly and never leaves a cast, making it perfect for all skin tones.

2. Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30

Created specifically for melanin-rich skin, this sunscreen is hydrating and completely invisible.

  • Why I Love It: It doubles as a moisturizer, so it’s great for dry skin.
  • Great for: Medium to deep skin tones.
  • Finish: Dewy and hydrating.

It blends in beautifully and never leaves an ashy residue, making it one of the best choices for darker skin.

3. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen SPF 60

This sunscreen is perfect for those who need high protection without a heavy feel.

  • Why I Love It: It’s ultra-light but provides powerful SPF 60 protection.
  • Great for: Dry to combination skin.
  • Finish: Soft and moisturizing, but never greasy.

It melts into the skin effortlessly, making it ideal for everyday use.

4. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

For those who hate the feel of traditional sunscreen, this one is a game-changer.

  • Why I Love It: It has a completely invisible, primer-like texture.
  • Great for: All skin tones, especially if you wear makeup.
  • Finish: Silky and matte.

It works beautifully under foundation, making it a favorite for makeup lovers.

5. Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+

This Japanese sunscreen is a favorite for a reason—it’s incredibly lightweight and leaves no residue.

  • Why I Love It: The water-based formula feels refreshing.
  • Great for: Oily and combination skin.
  • Finish: Hydrating but non-greasy.

It absorbs instantly, making it a fantastic option for anyone who dislikes the feel of sunscreen.

Best Tinted Sunscreens That Enhance Skin Tone

Tinted sunscreens can be a great way to even out the complexion while providing sun protection. These options work well for all skin tones without looking gray or too light.

6. MDSolarSciences Mineral Tinted Crème SPF 30

This mineral sunscreen blends beautifully and gives a soft, radiant finish.

  • Why I Love It: It smooths out skin tone without feeling heavy.
  • Great for: All skin tones, thanks to its adaptable tint.
  • Finish: Natural and slightly luminous.

It’s perfect for no-makeup days when I want a little extra glow.

7. Tower 28 SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen

A mineral sunscreen that doubles as a skin-enhancing tint.

  • Why I Love It: It comes in multiple shades, making it ideal for deeper skin tones.
  • Great for: Normal to dry skin.
  • Finish: Dewy and skin-like.

It’s lightweight, hydrating, and works beautifully as a light foundation substitute.

Best Sunscreens for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin

For those with oily or acne-prone skin, finding a sunscreen that doesn’t feel greasy or clog pores is essential.

8. CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

This dermatologist-approved sunscreen is packed with ceramides to keep skin healthy.

  • Why I Love It: It’s soothing and great for sensitive skin.
  • Great for: Oily and acne-prone skin.
  • Finish: Matte but not drying.

It works well under makeup and won’t clog pores.

9. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 55

A budget-friendly classic that feels weightless on the skin.

  • Why I Love It: It provides high SPF protection without a greasy feel.
  • Great for: Oily and combination skin.
  • Finish: Matte and smooth.

It’s an easy-to-find option that delivers serious protection.

Sunscreen Application Tips for Maximum Protection

Even the best sunscreen won’t work if it’s not applied correctly.

  1. Use Enough: Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen. A nickel-sized amount for the face and a shot-glass amount for the body is ideal.
  2. Reapply Regularly: Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors.
  3. Don’t Forget Key Areas: The ears, neck, and hands often get overlooked. These areas show signs of aging just as quickly as the face.
  4. Layer with Makeup-Friendly SPF: If you wear makeup, reapplying sunscreen can be tricky. I love using an SPF setting spray or a powder sunscreen to touch up throughout the day.

Sunscreen Is for Everyone

The beauty industry has come a long way in creating sunscreens that work for all skin tones. Gone are the days of thick, white formulas that leave an ashy cast. Now, there are plenty of lightweight, invisible options that provide the protection we all need without compromising on wearability.

Finding the perfect sunscreen is personal, but with so many great formulas available, there’s no excuse to skip this essential step. No matter your skin tone, there’s a sunscreen out there that blends effortlessly, feels amazing, and keeps your skin protected every single day.