Types of Sunscreen: Which Form Is Best for You?
There is no single sunscreen texture or formulation that suits everyone. The best sunscreen is one that provides appropriate broad-spectrum protection, suits your skin and activity, and is comfortable enough that you will apply enough of it and reapply it.
Lotions
Lotions are versatile and work well for large areas of the body. They spread easily and make it relatively simple to see where the product has been applied.
They are a good general-purpose option for everyday use, sport and family sunscreen.
Creams
Creams tend to be richer and can suit the face or dry skin. They can also be useful where a thicker, more moisturising formulation is preferred.
Gels
Gels can feel lighter and may be easier to use on oily skin or hair-bearing areas. As with any sunscreen, the final product still needs appropriate SPF and UVA protection.
Sticks
Sunscreen sticks are convenient for small areas such as the face, nose, ears and around the eyes. Multiple passes may be needed to apply enough product.
Sprays
Sprays are convenient for large or difficult-to-reach areas but can be under-applied because it is harder to judge coverage.
Spray generously, rub it in if the label directs you to do so, and avoid inhaling the mist. Do not spray sunscreen directly onto the face; spray it onto your hands first and then apply.
Mineral sunscreens
Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both. They are often chosen by people with sensitive skin and by parents looking for a simple option for children.
Modern mineral products are available in lotions, creams, sticks and tinted formulations.
Organic-filter sunscreens
Organic UV filters include ingredients such as avobenzone and other filters permitted in the country where the sunscreen is sold. These products are often lightweight and transparent on the skin.
Some formulations combine several organic filters, while others combine mineral and organic filters.
See our sunscreen ingredients guide for more detail.
Tinted sunscreen
Tinted sunscreens can reduce the visible white cast of some mineral formulations. Products containing pigments such as iron oxides may also help reduce exposure to some visible light, which can be relevant for certain pigmentation concerns.
Water-resistant sunscreen
Choose a water-resistant product for swimming, exercise or heavy sweating. Water-resistant does not mean waterproof, and the sunscreen still needs to be reapplied according to the label.
Sunscreen for sensitive skin
If your skin is easily irritated, consider a fragrance-free formulation. Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide products are often well tolerated, but inactive ingredients such as fragrance or preservatives can also cause reactions.
If one sunscreen irritates your skin, a different formulation may work better.
Sunscreen for oily or acne-prone skin
Look for a lightweight, non-comedogenic product if heavy creams tend to clog your pores. Gels, fluids and oil-free lotions can be easier to wear.
Sunscreen for dry skin
Creams and moisturising lotions may be more comfortable on dry skin. The best texture is one that you can apply generously without discomfort.
Sunscreen for children
Children do not necessarily need a product labelled specifically for kids. Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, water resistance when appropriate and a formulation the child tolerates are the key considerations.
Read our guide to sunscreen for children.
What matters more than the format?
Whatever type you choose, look for:
- broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection
- an SPF appropriate to current guidance
- water resistance when required
- a product you can apply generously
- a formulation you are willing to reapply
Then use it correctly. See our sunscreen application tips and SPF guide.