Assess your goals.
Do you want a sunscreen you can apply every single day without fail, or already have a favorite and just want a stick or powder to touch up? The best sunscreen for you rn will be totally based on your needs and goals. But as a rule, always opt for an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen every single day as the last step of your skincare routine, and reapply throughout the day (whether that's with a stick, powder, or your usual go-to morning SPF).
Decide on mineral versus chemical.
Ah, the age-old question: Chemical versus mineral sunscreens. Really, there's no correct answer on which is better; it comes down to personal preference. Lemme explain the difference: Chemical sunscreens feature active chemical filters (like homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene) that actually absorb the sun’s rays, convert them into heat, and then release them from your skin.
Mineral sunscreens, however, use mineral filters (like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) that create a physical barrier between your sun and the skin. For this reason, these formulas tend to be richer in consistency, taking longer to rub in and leaving a white residue on your skin behind.
FWIW, dermatologists tend to prioritize mineral sunscreen for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types, as they tend to be gentler (dermatologists Ava Shamban, MD, and Jeannette Graf, MD, previously recommended these because zinc oxide and titanium dioxide can be a lil oil absorbing; however, they're also a bit heavier on your skin too, of course). But if you have a deep skin tone, it can be pretty difficult to make mineral sunscreens blend into your skin without looking ashy.
If you like a super lightweight formula that blends easily and has no white cast, you should probably go for a chemical sunscreen. But if you're into clean beauty or have ultra-sensitive skin, try a mineral formula. I included a mix of options above for every type and need.
Consider your skin type.
As with the rest of your skincare routine, the best sunscreen for you is totally dependent on your skin type. There are so many potential finishes and ingredients that could help moisturize and plump your skin, or potentially make you a greasy mess. As a guideline, opt for hydrating formulas if you have dry skin with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, and glycerin, plus sealing oils that lock it all in and give your skin a glow. But if your skin leans oily, choose mattifying sunscreens—like invisible gels or powders—that feature smoothing and blurring dimethicone to help curb shine throughout the day.
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