The importance of using sunscreen to protect against skin cancer and premature aging is well documented, but the question often is, which one to choose? Good face sunscreens contain a sun protection factor (SPF) to help determine the level of UV sun protection your skin will benefit from.
Always choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your face from both UVA and UVB rays, and depending on your skin type and tone, you have a number of things to consider beyond the SPF rating. Read our article on choosing the right sunscreen before making your purchase, and even though you will have your sunscreen on, consider also wearing a hat, especially when the UV factor in your environment is high.
It can be confusing to determine which amount of protection is ideal. While all face sunscreens provide protection, here’s how they stack up vis a vis their SPF value:
- SPF15 blocks 93% of all UV rays
- SPF 30 blocks 97% of all UV rays
- SPF 50 blocks 98% of all UV rays
Top 10 Face Sunscreens for Summer 2023
1. Editor’s Top Pick – Vichy Ideal Soleil Sport SPF 60 Ultra-Light Refreshing Lotion
Recommended by the Canadian Dermatology Association, Vichy Ideal Soleil is a broad spectrum sunscreen designed for active people, for both face and body. It’s hypoallergenic, excellent for sensitive skin, tested under dermatological control, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free and paraben-free.
Available on Amazon.
2. LaRoche Posay Anthelios Ultra-fluid SPF 50+ facial sunscreen
This sunscreen with a cult following is broad-spectrum, ultra-light, oil-free and delivers unique invisible protection against sun damage. It is recognized by the Canadian Dermatology Association, is non-irritating to eyes, and suitable for all skin types.
For customers who make purchase decisions based upon corporate eco-responsibility, it’s good to know that LaRoche Posay is committed to respecting marine life and tests their face sunscreens in a lab under marine life conditions in association with external organizations like CRIOBE, Tara Pacific, Ifremer, CSM (Centre Scientifique de Monaco).
Available on Amazon.
3. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 60
Best-selling Neutrogena Ultra Sheer dry-touch sunscreen SPF 60 is recognized by the Canadian Dermatology Association. This ultra-light sunscreen is fast-absorbing and provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection. It is non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores and provides non-shiny finish with a clean feel. It is 80-minute water- and sweat-resistant and is Oxybenzone free.
Available on Amazon.
4. Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch SPF 30 Lotion
Recognized Sun Protection by the Canadian Dermatology Association, this sunscreen lotion offers broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection in an oil-free and non-greasy formula.
This lotion contains Vitamins C & E, with mango fruit extract and a shea butter complex. In addition to caring for your skin with broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection, Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch is Reef Friendly, PETA certified and cruelty-free.
Available on Amazon.
5. Ombrelle Sensitive Expert Face Lotion SPF 60
Recognized by the Canadian Dermatology Association, this sunscreen is fragrance and colorant free and is suitable for sensitive skin. It’s a non-comedogenic, lightweight cream with broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with a non-greasy and mattifying effect.
Available on Amazon.
6. CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 30
This sunscreen and moisturizing lotion in one is formulated with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to calm and moisturize your skin as well as protect it from the sun. It’s recognized by the Canadian Dermatology Association and at a little more than $20 it’s affordable and gets rave reviews, especially from people who suffer from eczema and cystic acne.
Available on Amazon.
7. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Targeted Protection Stick SPF 60
This practical stick format for easy application and reapplication is handy for sensitive zones such as face, eye contour area, lips & ears. Recommended by the Canadian Dermatology Association, this sunscreen stick contains patented Mexoryl® technology and other sunscreen filters formulated to provide excellent protection against UVA/UVB rays.
Available on Amazon.
8. Live Clean face Mineral Sunscreen Lotion 45 SPF
Ontario brand Live Clean offers a broad-spectrum UVA/VB-protection mineral sunscreen designed specifically for the sensitive skin of your face. Live Clean Face Mineral Sunscreen is Non-comedogenic and dermatologist tested for comfortable and easy application.
The lotion offers water resistance for 80 minutes and lasting sun protection. With active ingredients Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide this sunscreen is 98% naturally derived, and free of petroleum and other nasty chemicals.
Available on Amazon.
9. CyberDERM Simply Zinc Lite SPF 50
Co-founded by two doctors and a chemist, Ottawa-based CyberDerm touts itself to be the original ‘cleanical’ line of medical grade sun care line.
Their Simply Zinc Lite SPF50 sunscreen provides mineral-based sun protection and tackle a secondary concern with Norwegian Spruce Extract, an antioxidant that protects against aging stressors. Based on user reviews, the Lite version is best suited to all skin tones.
Another sunscreen that is recognized by the Canadian Dermatology Association is Marcelle CC Cream. This made in Canada cream covers sun spots, evens out skin tone and texture, controls shine, minimizes fine lines and wrinkles, improves skin elasticity, and protects skin from environmental stressors. Plus, its long-lasting formula means it stays on all day.
Available on Amazon.
As Dermatologist Dr. Lara Gunton explained, “the best type of sunscreen is the one you will actually wear, regardless of ingredient types.” Choose the best one for your skin tone, skin type and budget, and just make sure you wear it. Your older self will thank you.
Our editors have independently chosen the products listed on this page. If you purchase something mentioned in this article, we may earn a small commission.
The information provided on TheHealthInsider.ca is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. TheHealthInsider.ca advises consulting a medical professional or healthcare provider when seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.
