7 dermatologists share the best SPF to wear everyday

We’ve all heard it before: The best sunscreen is the one you want to wear everyday. But with so many incredible options from both buzzy Instagram brands as well as tried-and-true favorites you’ve seen at the drugstore for years, where to begin? 

Sunscreen isn’t exactly a cheap investment: You can easily spend upwards of $25 on a bottle of it, making trying a ton to find your favorite an expensive proposition. To help out, we’ve spoken with top skincare pros to get their take on the sunscreen they wouldn’t mind everyday, whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or don’t mind splashing out a bit. 

Keep reading for six of the best sunscreens to wear everyday, then shop the dermatologist-favorite picks below.

Dermatologists’ top picks for everyday SPFs:  

Beauty of Joseon Day Dew Sunscreen SPF 50, $18: Dewy-finish formula packed with hydrating ingredients

CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30, $14: Top pick for people with hyperpigmentation

Alastin Hydratint Pro Mineral Sunscreen, $84: Budget-friendly derm favorite for sensitive skin

La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Correct Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 70, $40: Niacinamide-infused formula leaves zero white cast

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua Fresh, $18: Calming formula leaves matte finish and zero white cast

Expert Spotlight

Dr. Jenny Liu, M.D. FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist who chats skincare with almost one million followers on Instagram. She’s also an assistant professor at the University of Minnesota, where she practices general and cosmetic dermatology and sees predominately the skin of patients of color, including many complex hair loss conditions.

Dr. Scott Walter is a dermatologist based in Golden, Colorado, at Hill Center For Dermatology PC. Outside the clinic, he also has an impressive following on Instagram and TikTok as @denverskindoc, where he talks about skin education, sun safety, and more to more than 1 million followers.

Dr. Naana Boakye is a board-certified dermatologist, skincare formulator and author, based in New Jersey. She earned her M.D. from Temple University in 2004, followed by an M.P.H. in epidemiology from George Washington University.

Dr. Claire Wolinsky is a NYC-based dermatologist who specializes in non-surgical facial rejuvenation, acne, and rosacea. She’s also an accomplished oil painter who uses her expertise with light and visuals to create subtle results with laser and injectable procedures. She completed her training as Chief Resident at Mount Sinai School of Medicine.

Based out of North Carolina, Dr. Zain Husain is a board-certified dermatologist who also founded Noor Dermatology, where he currently practices. When he’s not talking about dermatology and skincare to more than 33,000 followers on Instagram, he’s recording an episode of his Skinside Out podcast.

Vancouver-based Dr. Katie Beleznay is a double board-certified cosmetic dermatologist (Canada and US) specializing in acne, lasers, and facial rejuvenation. She currently practices at Humphrey & Beleznay Cosmetic Dermatology and is a clinical instructor at the University of British Columbia (UBC). She's a huge presence on social media, with more than 200,000 followers on her derm-focused Instagram alone.

Dr. Meredith Price is a board-certified dermatologist based in Grosse Pointe, Michigan. She has more than 10 years of experience specializing in diseases of the skin, hair, and nails. She graduated from Wayne State University School of Medicine in 2009 and talks all things skincare on her Instagram, @gpdermdoc.

FAQ

For everyday use, broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is recommended. This level provides strong protection from both UVA and UVB rays while remaining comfortable enough to wear daily. A higher SPF isn’t necessarily more effective so how it feels on your face matters more than choosing an ultra-high SPF that feels heavy or irritating.

A good everyday SPF should feel comfortable enough to wear consistently. Look for:

  • Broad-spectrum protection that’s SPF 30+
  • A lightweight texture that absorbs easily
  • A finish that works with your skin type (hydrating, matte, or natural. 

Both can work well for everyday SPF, depending on your skin type and preferences.

  • Mineral sunscreens are often recommended for people with sensitive skin
  • Chemical sunscreens tend to feel lighter and more invisible

The best everyday sunscreen is the one you’re happy to apply generously every day.

Yes, as long as it offers broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and you apply enough product. Many people prefer moisturizer-SPF hybrids for daily use because they simplify the morning routine, but if you’re spending a lot of time outdoors, a dedicated sunscreen may offer more reliable protection.

Yes. UVA rays can penetrate windows and contribute to skin aging, even if you’re inside (bad news, we know). Wearing SPF every day helps protect against cumulative sun damage from incidental exposure during commutes, errands, and time near windows.

If you’re mostly indoors, reapplication may not be necessary. If you’re outdoors, sweating, or exposed to direct sunlight, reapply every two hours.  

Yes, a lot of everyday sunscreens are designed to layer well under makeup without pilling or greasiness. Just apply the sunscreen first, allow it to set, then follow with makeup as usual.

  • We only spoke to dermatologists (MDs) to recommend products for this article. 
  • All recommendations from the featured dermatologists are independently chosen. They don’t have any brand affiliation with the featured brands or products.
  • We never pay experts for their recommendations.

If These Walls Could Talk” operates independently and exercises sole editorial discretion in all content decisions. While certain brands, products, or services referenced may have current or prior relationships with our affiliated marketing agency, such relationships do not influence our editorial content. We disclaim any liability for conflicts of interest, omissions, or outcomes arising from reliance on our content. All information is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as professional or individualized advice.

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