GoKawiilI wasn’t always a sunscreen devotee. Even the best sunscreens felt gross and made me break out. Like so many millennials, I didn’t understand the risks of turning into a lobster at the beach when I was in high school or of spending hours in tanning beds leading up to prom. I know better now, and thankfully, sunscreens have come a long way in terms of formula and feel. I now put it on every day, hoping to undo my sun-worshiping sins, or at least prevent any more damage.
“Wearing sunscreen is so important because it protects us from harmful UV rays that can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer,” says Ellen Marmur, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of MMSkincare. “Because of these risks, I recommend wearing sunscreen every day. Whether you are driving your car, going to the beach, or even just going on an airplane, sunscreen plays a pivotal role in protecting your skin.”
OK, so we’ve established that sunscreen is important. But once you commit to wearing it daily, picking a sunscreen can be a daunting task. There are so many options out there, and they really are very different. If you want to explore further than our top pick, Blue Lizard's Mineral Sunscreen, we talked with skin-care experts and road-tested them all year round. Here’s what you need to know to help you pick the right sunscreen for you, and our top picks for the best sunscreens out there right now.
For more outdoor guides, check out our guides to the Best Lightweight Hiking Boots, the Best Merino Wool Clothing, and the Best Electric Cargo Bikes.
Updated May 2026: We've added new options from La Roche-Posay, Good Weather Skin, and Tubby Todd. We've also moved some older recommendations to an honorable mentions list and updated links and prices.