When it comes to skincare, the consensus among dermatologists and facialists is clear: sunscreen is the most crucial step in your routine. Not only does it protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, reducing the risk of skin cancer, but it also plays a vital role in minimizing signs of aging and dark spots. While sunscreen is a year-round necessity, it truly shines during the summer months.
Thankfully, applying SPF has never been easier, thanks to the innovative formulas introduced by beauty brands in recent years. These new sunscreens feel lightweight, blend seamlessly, and absorb into the skin without leaving behind the greasy residue that sunscreen was once known for. Even mineral-based SPFs now offer hydrating textures and no white cast, making daily application a breeze.
Below, we highlight the standout SPF launches of the year that have impressed our editors, from sprays and sticks to shimmering body oils. These products will make you look forward to applying sunscreen before every beach day, poolside hangout, and sun-filled adventure on your summer agenda.
1. Best Mineral-Based Face SPF
CeraVe’s Invisible Mineral SPF 50 is the ideal sunscreen for everyday use. This formula seamlessly blends into the skin, providing hydration with ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. It even withstood rigorous testing during the brand’s 2026 CerAwards, showcasing its effectiveness and staying power.
2. Best Sunscreen Spray
La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios UV Pro-Sport Invisible Spray elevates the sunscreen spray category with its weightless, water-resistant formula. It offers easy and quick application, without leaving any stains or causing irritation to the eyes.
3. Best Serum SPF
Summer Fridays introduces a serum-like mineral SPF that combines broad-spectrum protection with skin barrier-supporting ingredients. This lightweight, milky elixir provides sun protection while giving the skin a fresh, dewy glow.
4. Best Face Stick
Eadem’s Sunsuede is a versatile product that serves as both a primer and sunscreen. With a blurring, cloud-like finish, it can be worn under makeup for a smooth canvas or for midday touch-ups. Its lightweight formula is perfect for on-the-go use.
5. Best For Oily Skin
Ilia’s Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen is designed to cater to oily skin types. Along with broad-spectrum protection, this silky SPF contains sebum-balancing botanicals to control shine for up to eight hours while providing hydration.
6. Best For Active Days
Shiseido’s cult-beloved SPF lotion is perfect for active days spent outdoors. This face-and-body sunscreen is sweat-resistant and packed with antioxidants and skin-nourishing ingredients, offering comprehensive sun protection.
7. Best For On-The-Go
Sulwhasoo’s sunscreen compact simplifies reapplication with its weightless, broad-spectrum coverage. Housed in a sleek compact with a puff applicator, this sun cushion allows for easy touch-ups without disrupting your makeup.
8. Best For A Glowy Finish
Naturium’s mineral SPF provides a radiant glow with broad-spectrum sun protection. Enriched with niacinamide and glycerin, this product hydrates the skin, leaving it looking and feeling healthy.
9. Best Shimmery Body Oil
Saltair’s Sunscreen Body Oil enhances the skin’s luminosity with nourishing oils and a subtle shimmer. This product not only leaves your skin glowing and bronzed but also offers protection from the sun’s rays.
10. Best Moisturizer With SPF
This multitasking moisturizer-sunscreen hybrid provides broad-spectrum sun protection while hydrating the skin. Non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin, this formula creates a smooth base for makeup application.
11. Best Brightening SPF
Celimax’s sunscreen doubles as a skin-brightening serum, thanks to ingredients like tranexamic acid and niacinamide. This lightweight formula helps prevent and fade dark spots, making it an ideal daily sunscreen that layers well under makeup.
12. Best Tinted SPF
EltaMD’s tinted sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection, hydration, and skin-evening coverage. This product serves as a lightweight alternative to foundation, providing SPF 50 protection with a natural finish.
13. Best Lip SPF
Ultra Violette’s lip balm combines nourishing properties with broad-spectrum sun protection. Available in four shades, this lip product offers sun protection without the sticky feel or chemical aftertaste often associated with SPF lip products.
14. Best Brush-On Sunscreen
Tarte’s Creaseless SPF 30 Mineral Powder is a convenient option for on-the-go sun protection. This mineral powder can be applied over makeup to set it in place and provide midday touch-ups, all while blurring fine lines and pores for a smooth finish.
