Sun’s out, SPF’s out! With the weather getting warmer, it is especially important to be incorporating SPF into your daily beauty regime. Finding sunscreen products for your face can be tricky, so we’re here to help you break everything down and find the best products for your skin!

Why do we need SPF?

Did you know 80-90% of premature skin aging and skin complications such as skin cancer is due to unprotected exposure to UV rays? SPF helps protect against these harmful rays and boost your skin’s health and appearance.

How much SPF do I need?

It's recommended to use an SPF between 30-50 labeled as “broad-spectrum protection.” Broad-spectrum protection will save your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are responsible for skin aging while UVB rays cause your skin to burn… both of which contribute to skin cancer. Yikes! So, make sure to double-check your labels!

My makeup has SPF in it, so I’m good to go, right?

While it's great that there is makeup on the market with SPF included, that alone is not enough for sun protection. Makeup tends to shift around and rub off throughout the day and should not be relied on for your sole SPF source.

How should I prep my skin when using sunscreen?

Make sure that your skin is clean and moisturized before applying sunscreen. If you’re planning on wearing makeup, wait a few minutes for the sunscreen to set before doing so. This helps eliminate your makeup from caking and ensures a smooth application.

What should I look for when shopping for a facial sunscreen?

The most important thing to look for is that the product is specifically formulated for the face! Body sunscreen should not be used on the face, as it has a thicker formula and can clog your pores (helllooo breakouts). Facial sunscreens are much lighter and more breathable on the skin.

Facial SPF protection also comes in the form of moisturizers, primers, and settings sprays. This range allows you to choose products that best suit your skincare needs and lifestyle!  Below are some of our top recommendations for products that we have tried and love.

 1. Glossier Invisible Shield, SPF 35 - $25

With it’s clear, water-gel formula, this magical sunscreen is lightweight and quickly absorbs into the skin. It doesn’t feel like you’re wearing anything at all! You also don’t need to worry about the ‘sunscreen smell’ or the dreaded white cast that SPFs can sometimes cause. Plus, on top of sun protection, it also protects against environmental pollutants!

 2. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream Sunscreen, SPF 30

If you don’t feel like adding an extra step into your skincare routine, this is a great choice as it doubles as a moisturizer AND SPF.  This 24-hour moisturizer is lightweight and especially great for those with sensitive skin. It’ll keep your skin fresh and hydrated while blocking harmful UV rays.

 3. Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Primer -  SPF 30 - $38

Not interested in changing up your skincare routine? This primer has you covered! Use this as a base for your makeup for a smooth and seamless application that will last the entire day. The SPF acts as a barrier to protect your skin, while the lightweight, gel-cream formula keeps your skin look smooth and flawless.

4. Supergoop! Defense Refresh (Re)Setting Mist, SPF 40 - $30

For you busy gals on the go, this setting spray not only helps lock in your makeup but also allows for easy reapplication of SPF throughout the day! It’s easy to throw in your purse or backpack and acts as a great refresher and sun protectant on the go. It's also formulated with peppermint and rosemary oil, which helps balance out your skin’s natural oils, reducing clogged pores, and adds minerals and antioxidants to your skin, protecting it from outside elements.

5. Clean Screen Mineral SPF 30 Mattifying Face Sunscreen - $38

If you avoid sunscreen because it gives your skin an uncomfortable or irritating burn, this is the sunscreen for you. It's a mineral-based sunscreen that's formulated without oxybenzone. It's also non-comedogenic and formulated with rice starch to tame oil and provide mattifying properties.

We hope you found this helpful in navigating the world of SPF! It's also super important to note that SPF should be a daily part of your skincare routine regardless of the current season/weather. UVB and UVA rays are out all year and it is essential to take the right steps in protecting your skin and helping it look and feel the best it can!