The key to finding the best drugstore sunscreens under makeup is to prioritize transparency and blendability. You want a sunscreen that won't leave a telltale white cast or feel like a barrier under your foundation. Lightweight sunscreens that promise a seamless finish are a good starting point. For most of us, the idea of slapping on a thick, chalky sunscreen under our makeup is a deal-breaker. But what if I told you there are some incredible options out there that will change your daily routine? From gel formulas to mineral powders, these best drugstore sunscreens under makeup have got you covered.
Key Takeaways
- Look for sunscreens that are labeled as oil-free and non-comedogenic to minimize the risk of clogged pores.
- Choose a sunscreen with a broad spectrum rating to ensure it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Consider a water-resistant sunscreen for added convenience and peace of mind.
- Opt for a gel or serum formula if you prefer a lightweight, sink-in texture.
- Don't compromise on the SPF rating – aim for at least 30 for sufficient protection.
| Everyday Sun Protection | [zw asin=”B0C7SFTTV3″ alt=”e.l.f. Invisible Sunscreen” loading=”lazy”] | e.l.f. Invisible Sunscreen | Provides broad spectrum protection | Lightweight, non-greasy formula | Vegan and cruelty-free | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Weightless, Invisible Protection | [zw asin=”B0DPNL864S” alt=”Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen” loading=”lazy”] | Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen | Weightless, invisible formula | Oil-free and suitable for all skin types | Clinically tested to improve skin clarity | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Radiant, Hydrating Sunscreen | [zw asin=”B0BSP3N82M” alt=”e.l.f. Whoa Glow Sunscreen” loading=”lazy”] | e.l.f. Whoa Glow Sunscreen | Radiant, hydrating formula | Suitable for all skin types | Vegan and cruelty-free | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Convenient, Mineral Sunscreen | [zw asin=”B09GXF7KVD” alt=”Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Powder Sunscreen” loading=”lazy”] | Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Powder Sunscreen | Convenient, mineral formula | Broad spectrum protection | Non-comedogenic and free from oxybenzone and parabens | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Lightweight, Hydrating Sunscreen | [zw asin=”B09MV3MHJD” alt=”Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen” loading=”lazy”] | Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen | Lightweight, hydrating formula | Broad spectrum protection | Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Hydrating, Tinted Sunscreen | [zw asin=”B07YLKXV11″ alt=”CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen” loading=”lazy”] | CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen | Hydrating, tinted formula | Broad spectrum protection | Clinically tested to protect against visible aging | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Lightweight, Hydrating Sunscreen 2 | [zw asin=”B0FPQGLYK9″ alt=”medicube Sunscreen No Cast” loading=”lazy”] | medicube Sunscreen No Cast | Lightweight, hydrating formula | Broad spectrum protection | Non-greasy and non-comedogenic | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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e.l.f. Invisible Sunscreen
Everyday Sun Protection
View on AmazonIf you're looking for a reliable, everyday sunscreen to wear under makeup, the e.l.f. Suntouchable Invisible SPF 35 Sunscreen is an excellent choice. Its lightweight, gel-like formula absorbs quickly and won't leave a white cast on your skin. Additionally, it's vegan and cruelty-free, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin or who prefer eco-friendly products. One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its broad spectrum protection, which offers excellent protection against UVA and UVB rays. It's also fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for acne-prone skin. However, some users may find the formula a bit too oily, especially if they have oily skin. For those with dry skin, this sunscreen may not provide enough moisture, so you may want to consider an additional moisturizer to apply before makeup.
- Brand:e.l.f.
- Type:Gel
- Size/Capacity:N/A
- Material:Gel
- SPF:35
- Count:1
- Additional Feature:Fragrance-free
- Additional Feature:Non-comedogenic
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Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen
Weightless, Invisible Protection
View on AmazonThe Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50 is a great option for those who want a weightless, invisible sunscreen that won't interfere with their makeup. Its oil-free formula is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Additionally, it's clinically tested to help improve skin clarity and reduce the appearance of pores. One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its skin-smoothing formula, which contains chamomile-derived bisabolol and licorice root to help soothe and calm the skin. It's also a great primer for makeup, creating a smooth base and improving the look of makeup for longer wear. However, some users may find the formula a bit too watery, which can make it difficult to apply evenly. For those who want a sunscreen that's not only invisible but also provides additional skincare benefits, the Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen is an excellent choice.
- Brand:Supergoop!
- Type:Gel
- Size/Capacity:1.7 oz
- Material:Gel
- SPF:50
- Count:1
- Additional Feature:Contains chamomile-derived bisabolol
- Additional Feature:Suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin
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e.l.f. Whoa Glow Sunscreen
Radiant, Hydrating Sunscreen
View on AmazonThe e.l.f. Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30 is a great option for those who want a radiant, hydrating sunscreen that doubles as a primer for makeup. Its sheer peach shimmer gives the skin a natural, glowy finish, while its hyaluronic acid and squalane formula help to soothe and hydrate the skin. Additionally, it's vegan and cruelty-free, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin or who prefer eco-friendly products. One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its hydrating formula, which is suitable for all skin types, including oily, normal, dry, and combination skin. It's also a great primer for makeup, creating a smooth base and improving the look of makeup for longer wear. However, some users may find the formula a bit too shiny, which can be overwhelming for those who prefer a more matte finish. For those who want a sunscreen that's not only hydrating but also provides a radiant glow, the e.l.f. Whoa Glow Sunscreen is an excellent choice.
- Brand:e.l.f.
- Type:Gel
- Size/Capacity:N/A
- Material:Gel
- SPF:30
- Count:1
- Additional Feature:Contains hyaluronic acid and squalane
- Additional Feature:Suitable for oily, normal, dry, and combination skin
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Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Powder Sunscreen
Convenient, Mineral Sunscreen
View on AmazonThe Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Powder Sunscreen is a great option for those who want a convenient, mineral sunscreen that can be used under or over makeup. Its broad spectrum protection offers excellent protection against UVA and UVB rays, while its translucent matte finish helps to absorb excess oils and leave a smooth finish. Additionally, it's non-comedogenic and free from oxybenzone and parabens. One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its mineral formula, which is made with naturally sourced sea minerals. It's also a great option for those with sensitive skin, as it's fragrance-free and non-irritating. However, some users may find the formula a bit too powdery, which can be difficult to apply evenly. For those who want a convenient, mineral sunscreen that's easy to apply and won't clog pores, the Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Powder Sunscreen is an excellent choice.
- Brand:Hawaiian Tropic
- Type:Powder
- Size/Capacity:0.15 oz
- Material:Mineral
- SPF:30
- Count:1
- Additional Feature:Contains naturally sourced sea minerals
- Additional Feature:Suitable for sensitive skin
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Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen
Lightweight, Hydrating Sunscreen
View on AmazonThe Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen SPF 60 is a great option for those who want a lightweight, hydrating sunscreen that won't clog pores. Its broad spectrum protection offers excellent protection against UVA and UVB rays, while its fragrance-free and non-comedogenic formula makes it suitable for sensitive skin. Additionally, it's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a great option for outdoor activities. One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its lightweight, serum-like formula, which absorbs quickly and won't leave a greasy residue. It's also a great option for those with dry skin, as it provides long-lasting hydration. However, some users may find the formula a bit too watery, which can make it difficult to apply evenly. For those who want a lightweight, hydrating sunscreen that won't clog pores, the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen is an excellent choice.
- Brand:Neutrogena
- Type:Serum
- Size/Capacity:1.7 fl oz
- Material:Serum
- SPF:60
- Count:1
- Additional Feature:Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
- Additional Feature:Suitable for sensitive skin
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CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen
Hydrating, Tinted Sunscreen
View on AmazonThe CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen for Face is a great option for those who want a hydrating, tinted sunscreen that provides broad spectrum protection. Its mineral formula contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Additionally, it's clinically tested to help protect against visible aging caused by the sun, including wrinkles, dark spots, fine lines, and discoloration. One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its hydrating formula, which contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides to help retain skin's natural moisture. It's also a great primer for makeup, creating a smooth base and improving the look of makeup for longer wear. However, some users may find the formula a bit too thick, which can be difficult to apply evenly. For those who want a hydrating, tinted sunscreen that provides broad spectrum protection, the CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen is an excellent choice.
- Brand:CeraVe
- Type:Lotion
- Size/Capacity:1.7 oz
- Material:Mineral
- SPF:30
- Count:1
- Additional Feature:Contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides
- Additional Feature:Suitable for sensitive skin
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medicube Sunscreen No Cast
Lightweight, Hydrating Sunscreen 2
View on AmazonThe medicube Sunscreen No Cast Just Glow Collagen is a great option for those who want a lightweight, hydrating sunscreen that won't leave a white cast. Its SPF 50 formula provides broad spectrum protection, while its collagen and peptide formula help to soothe and hydrate the skin. Additionally, it's non-greasy and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for all skin types. One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its hydrating formula, which contains hyaluronic acid and ceramide to help retain skin's natural moisture. It's also a great primer for makeup, creating a smooth base and improving the look of makeup for longer wear. However, some users may find the formula a bit too watery, which can make it difficult to apply evenly. For those who want a lightweight, hydrating sunscreen that won't leave a white cast, the medicube Sunscreen No Cast is an excellent choice.
- Brand:medicube
- Type:Gel
- Size/Capacity:N/A
- Material:Gel
- SPF:50
- Count:1
- Additional Feature:Contains collagen and peptide
- Additional Feature:Suitable for all skin types
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "broad-spectrum" mean in sunscreen, and do all sunscreens under makeup offer it?
When it comes to sunscreens, broad-spectrum protection is a must-have. This term refers to a sunscreen's ability to shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays, which can cause damage and increase your risk of skin cancer. Not all sunscreens under makeup offer broad-spectrum protection, so make sure to check the label for this key feature. You'll find that many of the top-rated sunscreens under makeup do offer broad-spectrum protection, but it's always a good idea to double-check the ingredients and labels to ensure you're getting the protection you need. Some sunscreens may also offer additional features, such as SPF 30 or higher, which can provide extra protection against UVB rays.
Can I use a physical sunscreen under my makeup, or will it affect the way my makeup looks?
Physical sunscreens, also known as mineral sunscreens, contain ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that work by sitting on the skin's surface and reflecting UV rays. While these sunscreens can be a bit thicker and more noticeable than chemical sunscreens, many people find that they don't affect the way their makeup looks. In fact, some physical sunscreens can even help create a smooth canvas for your makeup by filling in fine lines and wrinkles. However, if you're concerned about a white cast or residue, look for sunscreens that are specifically labeled as non-whitening or oil-free.
Are sunscreens under makeup really necessary, or can I just use a moisturizer with SPF?
While it's true that many moisturizers do offer some level of SPF protection, these products are often not enough to provide adequate protection against the sun's damaging rays. In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days. Sunscreens under makeup are specifically designed to provide high levels of protection while still being lightweight and non-greasy enough to wear under your regular makeup. They often contain ingredients like antioxidants and moisturizers that can help soothe and hydrate your skin while you're protecting it from the sun.
How long does sunscreen under makeup last, and do I need to reapply it throughout the day?
The length of time that sunscreen under makeup lasts can vary depending on several factors, including your skin type, the type of sunscreen you're using, and the amount of time you spend outdoors. In general, you can expect a well-formulated sunscreen to last for around 4-6 hours before it needs to be reapplied. However, if you're spending time in direct sunlight, swimming, or sweating heavily, you may need to reapply your sunscreen more frequently. Look for sunscreens that are water-resistant or sweat-resistant for added peace of mind.
Are there any specific ingredients I should look for in a sunscreen under makeup?
When it comes to sunscreens under makeup, there are several key ingredients you should look for. One of the most important is niacinamide, which has been shown to provide a range of benefits for the skin, including improved elasticity and reduced inflammation. You should also look for sunscreens that contain antioxidants like vitamin E or ferulic acid, which can help protect your skin from environmental stressors and promote healthy aging. Finally, consider sunscreens that are labeled as hypoallergenic or fragrance-free to reduce the risk of irritation or allergic reactions.
