Bask in the Glow of Our First Annual Sun Awards

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

We all know by now that sun exposure damages our skin. But did you know that your smartphone screen ages you, too? And that your computer screen and those fluorescent lights at the office are making your dark spots worse? It’s time for all of us to see the light: Everyone—yes, even those of us with darker skin—should take major measures to protect our skin from UV, blue, and infrared light. “These rays send our melanin-producing cells into hyper-mode, which leads to dark spots, hyperpigmentation, melasma, and an uneven tone,” says Naana Boakye, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New Jersey. They also damage collagen.

“Really, sunscreen should be renamed lightscreen,” says Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Connecticut. Because, misnomer aside, the most important thing you can do to keep your skin healthy is to protect it from light with a broad-spectrum sunscreen every single day. “Unless you're in a cave with no cell reception, you need to wear it,” says Jeanine Downie, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Image Dermatology. And it’s not just about looks: One person dies of melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer, every hour, and people with darker skin tones aren’t immune; in fact, when Black people get skin cancer (and one in 1,000 does), they’re more likely to be diagnosed late and more likely to die from it.

But here’s the excellent news: “There are so many amazing sunscreen formulas now. They’re fun to use, and they actually make your skin look better—not just now, but in the future, too,” says Elizabeth Hale, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. There are also stylish ways to protect yourself with clothing and hats. “I remind every patient to ‘slip, slop, slap,’” says David Colbert, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “Slip on a long-sleeved crewneck, slop on an SPF 30, and slap on a hat.” Following his advice is a breeze with our first annual Sun Awards, here to help you score everything from the most office-appropriate SPF tint to a wide-brim hat that won’t fly away. Whatever you need, we’ve got you covered.

How we tested

Oprah Daily editors reviewed hundreds of sunscreens in a range of locales (beach, city, farm) and situations (hikes, races, swims, long days in the office). Our criteria: Every formula had to be SPF 30 or higher, provide broad-spectrum coverage, and be tested by more than one staffer. As we swiped, sprayed, and dusted on each product, we took notes on consistency, scent, blendability, finish, endurance, packaging, and effectiveness. We also tapped an expert panel of five top dermatologists for their picks and advice. Read on for the results!

David Colbert, MD

Board-certified dermatologist and founder of New York Dermatology Group in New York City. Follow him on Instagram.

Naana Boakye, MD

Board-certified dermatologist in New Jersey. Follow her on Instagram.

Mona Gohara, MD

Board-certified dermatologist in Connecticut. Follow her on Instagram.

Elizabeth Hale, MD

Board-certified dermatologist and cofounder of Complete Skin MD in New York City. Follow her on Instagram.

Jeanine Downie, MD

Board-certified dermatologist and founder of Image Dermatology in New Jersey. Follow her on Instagram.

UV Daily Deep Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 40

This brand’s UV Daily SPF has been a derm darling for more than a decade, and fans have been asking for a deeper tint option. So just add more tint, right? But no. It's quite an art to formulate a single shade that adapts to the different undertones in darker complexions with FDA-approved iron oxides in yellow, black, and red. “This formula is like a magic Technicolor dreamcoat—it blended in completely on all our team’s darker skin tones,” says Oprah Daily beauty director Kate Sandoval Box.

Protec(tint) Daily SPF Tint SPF 50

Prepare to streamline your a.m. routine. This buttery formula moisturizes, protects, and doubles as makeup. The coverage is buildable and offers a natural-looking radiance. And with 14 transparent shades, everyone can find a fit. "The match was amazing on my deeper skin tone, and there was no white cast," says Oprah Daily associate editor Shelby Copeland. "It's great for everyday use, blends well, and layers on top of other skincare."

Glow + Protect Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

This is the dream gleam: no greasiness, no stickiness, just the jelly-like glide of a clear, dewy balm. Frankly, if “SPF 50” weren’t on the label in huge block letters, we wouldn’t believe it was in there. “This is perfect for days spent running around or for vacations because it's so easy to throw in a bag and reapply, even on top of makeup,” says Jennie Tung, Oprah Daily senior director of wellness and features. “It’s a touch too shiny for work, but it’s my new weekend go-to.”

Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion SPF 60+

The chemists behind this superhero not only gave us licorice root to soothe breakouts, algae to moisturize dry areas, and hypotaurine, an ingredient that protects the skin from damage caused by blue light; they created a formula that gets stronger as your skin gets hotter, wetter, or sweatier, and it isn’t affected by movement or rubbing. “My dry skin didn’t burn while wearing this on vacation; it felt super hydrated and supple,” says Carrie Carlson, executive director of public relations at our parent company, Hearst. “Also, don’t fear the high SPF level. I’d had a hard time finding one that actually absorbs and doesn't feel heavy—until now.”

Tulip Dew Shield & Glow SPF Sunstick SPF 50

If you've worried about a stick being too harsh on your sensitive skin, fear not: “This is wonderfully gentle and glides on like room-temp butter!” says Sandoval Box. For an all-mineral formula, it's incredibly imperceptible and is the Goldilocks of gleam: not too subtle and not too greasy. Just right.

The Rejuvenating Moisturizing Primer Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Created by a skin cancer surgeon who knows his stuff, this is not only a top-notch zinc sunscreen; it also has the most cutting-edge ingredients, including peptides and growth factors to stimulate collagen. “Finally, a transparent, luxe, silky sunscreen that glides right on and blends in, even over facial stubble,” says Oprah Daily creative director Adam Glassman. “It sits right next to my skincare products—it’s such a beautiful bottle—so I can easily incorporate it into my daily routine as the final step.”

The Tinted Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 50+

“I’ll admit that I’m not always great about wearing SPF—but then I found this serum,” says Oprah Daily contributing lifestyle editor Holly Carter. “My hyperpigmentation is much improved since using the zinc-oxide, oil-based formula daily—that’s a huge win for me. It does take a minute for it to fully blend into my darker complexion, but it perfectly primes my skin for foundation.”

Force Shield Superbeam Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

“It's especially important for people with inflamed skin—like acne or rosacea—to wear sunscreen because UV light makes it angrier,” Boakye says. Yes, choosing one is tricky, but this one offers broad-spectrum protection without clogging pores, is free of potential irritants, and contains niacinamide to help brighten skin and improve the look of acne scars. “I love that it has a glowy finish, unlike other formulas made for acne-prone or oily skin that leave your complexion matte,” says Oprah Daily beauty editor Genesis Rivas. “This lets me have my cake and eat it, too.”

Mineral Sun Glow Broad Spectrum SPF 43

“Of all the sunscreens I tried, this impressed me the most because it’s the first mineral formula that leaves zero white cast on me,” says Rivas. “Instead, it imparts a deliciously dewy glow that looks good on its own or under makeup.” The formula comes in two versatile shades: fair-medium and medium-deep. It’s super lightweight and offers additional skincare benefits thanks to brightening vitamin C and firming peptides.

Ghost-Buster 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 42

Developed by dermatologists and tested on all skin colors, this brand’s sunscreen has a very transparent zinc and an orangish-beige tint that ensures “it blends into darker skin tones quite easily,” says Oprah Daily research director Andrew Gillings. It also contains glutathione, a powerful antioxidant, and squalane to keep your skin hydrated throughout the day.

Hydrasheer 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

If you’re prone to irritation, this clean, fragrance-free, all-mineral formula will be the calming presence you need. “It feels and acts like a soothing, hydrating moisturizing,” says Sandoval Box. Snow mushroom helps defend against free radicals, while niacinamide and glycerin help to fortify the skin’s barrier. Two notes: This product launches on May 22, and you can sign up for the waitlist now. Like all non-tinted mineral formulas, the white lotion can take a little time to rub in, so this might not be the best choice for darker skin tones.

R&R Sun Elixir Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Glow Oil

The top excuse for skipping SPF? “My patients complain that it doesn’t rub in completely,” Downie says. Not a problem here: “This absorbs quickly and leaves the absolute best glow,” says Oprah Daily fashion commerce editor Sara Klausing. Parched skin soaks up the hydrating moringa oil and squalane blend, which also contains vitamin C and rose hip to brighten. “My skin feels so soft, not greasy. It also has a transporting floral scent,” Klausing says.

Make It Glow SPF 30

“Don’t let the name limit you; everyone will love that this fine mist has zero white cast and gives great protection,” Glassman says. “I’ve been using it since it launched.” It also has a bunch of skin hydrators: jojoba oil, avocado oil, shea butter, aloe, and vitamin E. Plus, it’s so darn convenient—“I do like the ease of a spray,” Hale says.

Rio Radiance SPF 50 Body Lotion

“Many patients apply SPF to their faces but don’t think about their bodies! You should put it on all exposed skin daily,” Boakye says. This is just like your regular body lotion but with a delicious tropical fragrance and broad-spectrum protection. “Some body lotions, SPF or not, can take a lot to rub in because of my arm hair, but this one sunk right in—no white cast, no greasiness, no need to rub until the end of time,” says Rivas.

Sport Active Defense SPF 70

There’s nothing easier than a spray when you’re out swinging a racquet, logging your steps, or tackling weeds and need to reapply, and this clear mist is specially designed to stay on through sweating for up to 80 minutes. Plus, it has vitamins C and E (antioxidants that help neutralize harmful molecules from the sun’s rays). “I’ve been keeping this in the backpack I use on the weekends; it kept me covered through a hike with my dog and a pool day with my family. The mint scent was a pleasant surprise!” Sandoval Box says.

Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 30

Before you head out to walk, swim, sail, or swing a nine iron, give yourself a full-coverage, hydrating base with this water-resistant SPF. “I was first turned on to this brand because of its brilliant pain-relieving creams, and then I tried this sunscreen,” Glassman says. “It’s fragrance-free, goes on smoothly, and leaves no white residue, and I feel very protected while wearing it.”

Kids 360 Coverage Mist SPF 50+

Rubbing sunscreen onto little ones should qualify as an Olympic sport. “But after years of practice, I swear by sticks for their faces and sprays for their wiggly bodies,” Sandoval Box says. “This new one comes with the niftiest pump I’ve ever seen. It’s aerosol-free but still sprays a long, continuous mist as you squeeze the handle.” Best of all, when you run out, you can twist off the top and pour in a refill.

Scalp & Hair Mist SPF 30

“I have been seeing a lot more skin cancers on the scalp lately, so I recommend this regularly,” Gohara says. It protects against UV rays and contains moisturizing monoi oil and panthenol to hydrate and strengthen dry, damaged strands. It's also water-resistant. “I love how well it absorbed into my scalp without making it (or my hair) look greasy,” says Rivas.

Skin Glow SPF 30 Primer

Get ready to rise, shine, and prime with this hydrating, quick-to-absorb formula. “The tint is more beige than brown and blends into my skin without leaving any white cast,” says Copeland. “Instead, it gives me a gleamy finish that works nicely with the makeup I apply on top. I love it.”

Tint & Protect Tinted Serum Foundation SPF 50

Normally, the pros tell you not to rely on the sunscreen in your foundation because it's minimal and you’re unlikely to apply enough of it. This is the exception. It has a broad-spectrum SPF 50, the silkiest texture, and a wealth of shades: 13, to be exact. “I find myself reaching for it every morning,” Tung shares. “The color warms up my skin, and it offers great coverage. I don’t even need concealer.” It also comes with a dropper, which dispenses the perfect, nickel-size amount for your face (that said, one staffer found it a bit messy).

The Kissu Lip Tint SPF 25

We have never met a chicer SPF lip balm. It has the creamiest texture plus beautiful and buildable coverage—even the tube has a luxurious heft. The formula contains silk proteins and botanical lanolin to help smooth and moisturize, and comes in three pretty shades. "Every single one looks good on every single skin tone," says Rivas.

Hydrating transparent Lip Balm SPF 30

“My lips feel perpetually chapped, so I’ve tried every lip balm with SPF under the sun. This one is the least waxy and most moisturizing one around, and it doesn’t skimp on the SPF level,” Sandoval Box says. “Plus, it isn’t overly shiny—a good thing once I learned from Dr. Hale that lip glosses can amplify the sun’s rays.”

What You Need to Know About Sunscreen

Look for an SPF 30 or above.
“Frankly, anything under an SPF 30 doesn’t count,” Downie says. An SPF 30 blocks 97 percent of UV rays; an SPF 50 blocks 98 percent. Feel free to reach for even higher SPFs, which “somewhat compensate for the fact that most people aren’t putting on enough sunscreen,” Hale says. But a big number doesn’t mean you get to skip reapplying.

Make sure the formula is “broad-spectrum.”
These are the magic words for a sunscreen that’s going to protect you from UVA, UVB, blue, and infrared light, Boakye says.

Buy a new bottle every year.
All sunscreens must have an expiration date, although it can be ridiculously hard to find on the tube (it’s often stamped into the crimped edge—and you may need a magnifying glass to read it). Chances are, if you opened yours last summer, it’s time to toss it and restock. When you do, “store it in a cool place indoors and not a glove compartment or golf bag, which can subject it to higher temperatures and faster degradation,” Hale says.

Apply generously.
That means spreading “a nickel-size amount on your face and a shot-glass-size amount on all exposed areas of your body,” Gohara says. Another way to measure is “the two-finger-lengths method,” says Boakye. “Run a thick stripe of sunscreen along your pointer finger and middle finger; that’s enough for your face, neck, and ears.” As you spread, make sure you hit the sides of your face, not just the front: “I’ve been seeing so many patients with skin cancer and hyperpigmentation right in front of their ears,” Hale notes. For your body, a smart time to apply sunscreen is before you get dressed. You won’t have clothing straps to contend with or have to worry about the formulas staining your clothes.

Don’t miss a spot.
If you’re using a spray, your skin should look glisten-y and well-coated (and don’t waste any by misting it into the air). If you’re using a stick, run it over the skin a couple of times and then blend with your fingers. If you’re using a powder (and you should only when reapplying), dust it on the same sections of skin a few times—we’re all prone to missing areas, especially when we’re out and about.

Reapply. We repeat: Reapply!
Sunscreen works for only two hours, and it isn’t waterproof. Set a two-hour timer, but also recoat exposed areas anytime you get out of the pool, beach, or hot tub, Downie says. The same goes for when you’re parked in front of a screen. “Every couple of hours, I dust my SPF powder all over my face and neck,” Gohara says.

The best sunscreen is the one you’ll actually wear.
There are two categories of active ingredients in sunscreens: minerals (like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) and chemicals (like oxybenzone, homosalate, octocrylene, avobenzone, and others). Some people have strong preferences for one or the other, but five out of five derms on our panel agree: Go with the one you like most.

Water Babies SPF 50

If there’s a foolproof, universal SPF, this hypoallergenic mineral formula deserves the title: “It’s easy, inexpensive, good for kids and adults, and applies nicely.”

Chem-Free Active Defense SPF 30

“My team at the New York Dermatology Group created this block. It’s an especially lightweight, all-mineral option that stays water-resistant for up to 40 minutes and reflects light off the skin—think of it like a million invisible Japanese sun umbrellas protecting you.”

Hydra Vizor SPF 30

“I love the hydrating quality, impeccable texture, and creamy base of this SPF 30 formula. It adds a beautiful radiance.”

Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50

“Brown skin is more likely to hyperpigment from visible and blue light, but a powder SPF with iron oxides like this one protects me on at-home days when I’m often working at a screen. I keep it next to my computer and brush it on my face and neck every two hours.”

Even Tone Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36

“I never wear foundation, but I do want a little color so I don’t look dead. I get it from this tinted mineral sunscreen; the medium-to-dark shade works nicely on me.”

transparent Fluid SPF 50

“I run 25 miles a week, some of them outside on the weekends, and I wear this throughout. It gives me the high level of protection I need and rubs right into my skin tone.”

Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer SPF 30

“I recommend this to my patients all day long. Many of them want a completely clear multitasker that acts as their moisturizer and their sunscreen and won’t feel like anything on the skin. This is exactly that.”

Golden Rays Sunscreen SPF 50+

“This is a personal favorite. The price is very accessible, and I helped formulate it, so I can vouch for the ingredients: It’s all-mineral, and it contains niacinamide to help brighten skin and green tea extract for an antioxidant effect.”

Orange Gelée Sunscreen Gel SPF 30

“As a child of the ’80s, I was obsessed with the original Orange Gelée—but it had an SPF of basically nothing. I had the chance to work with Vacation on this new version, which nods to the iconic scent and color but also protects skin. The nostalgia is brilliant fun, and the formula creates such a pretty sheen on all skin tones—it’s actually great for darker skin; it acts as an all-over highlight.”

Get Even Sun Milk SPF 33

“I’m a big fan of mineral sunscreens formulated with zinc oxide because they provide broad-spectrum protection that helps stop UVA rays from breaking down collagen and worsening pigmentation. They can sometimes be a bit pasty, but this milky formula rubs in well and hydrates with argan oil.”

Reversible Ultra-Wide-Brim Cap

More of a sporty shade seeker? Voilà! It’s as if a baseball hat and a visor had a baby, thanks to its traditional cap shape and extra-wide brim. “I love wearing it at sporting events because it’s lightweight but doesn’t blow off, and it protects my full face and scalp—plus, I can pull my ponytail through the opening in the back,” says Sandoval Box. It’s also reversible and made from a breathable fabric with UPF 50+ to block out both UVA and UVB rays.

Montecito

A sun hat is the cherry on top of your sun-care regimen. And this versatile, packable number (with UPF 50+ and three color options) is the perfect pick for everything from summer travel to gardening. “I reach for it when I want to feel pulled together while protecting my face and haircolor,” says Oprah Daily market director Rae Ann Herman. We especially love the clean rancher style, complete with faux-leather cord, and the drawstring inside to adjust the fit.

Ultrabraid Large-Brim Visor

“As someone with a pretty large head and tons of hair, I love a forgiving visor style,” says Carter. “I like that this one’s wide brim wraps around the back for 360-degree protection.” UPF 50+ and vacation-ready, it also comes in over 30 shades and rolls right up—so keep it handy: “It's the constant intermittent exposure that adds up and damages skin,” Boakye says.

Hiker’s Hat

You’ll stay well-shielded on all your outdoor summer adventures with this find—and beat the heat, to boot. It’s made of a special organic fabric with UPF 50+ that helps wick away moisture, so your head feels up to eight degrees cooler. And the mesh on top keeps air flowing freely. “This hat is everything—it blocks the sun, keeps me cool, and looks super stylish,” says Herman. And let us not forget to mention that there’s a hidden pocket to stash a key, a little cash, and a Band-Aid or two!

Ultra Adventure Hat

Functional and fun? Check and check. Reasons to love it abound: It’s packable, moisture-wicking, adjustable, and made from UPF50+ fabric, and it has special slits to keep your sunglasses in place (gotta love that!). Its unique shape even covers the back of your neck. “I like that the neck cape doesn’t get in the way of my crossbody bag—it truly is the perfect outdoor companion,” says Oprah Daily associate style editor Justine Anthony.

Shelby Convertible Roll-up Hat

“A tan is temporary. The damage it causes is forever,” Hale says. Once you hear that, baking poolside isn’t so appealing. Of course, you can still lounge with sunscreen and this wide-brim hat. How to pack all this fabulousness into a suitcase? The non-crushable design rolls up so snugly, it’ll even fit into your carry-on. And with wire in the brim so you can adjust its shape and a chin strap to toggle on or tuck in, you can really make it your own. “That seven-inch brim is giving me luxe energy—love it,” says Rivas.

Long-Sleeved UPF 50 Swim Tee

“My personal goal is to never expose my décolletage and arms ever again,” says Hale, who enjoys the outdoors in long-sleeved UPF clothing. This classically stylish striped top “is a timeless staple,” says Klausing. “It looks just as good layered with jeans as it does over a swimsuit, all while offering UPF 50 protection.”

Ella Twill Jean Jacket

“This terrific-fitting jean jacket works beautifully when the sun goes down,” says Glassman. “And it’s a cooler look than a cardigan! It’s woven, so it has UPF 30 protection and makes for a perfect travel companion.”

Cruz Rashguard

“I love female-founded Carve Designs’ high-quality and divinely soft fabrics!” says Klausing. “Its signature UPF 50+ rashguard is made from recycled water bottles and has flattering, adjustable ruching on the sides. From neutrals to brights, there’s a range of great colors to complement different skin tones.”

Trekkie North High-Rise Jogger

“Made from a lightweight, ripstop fabric with UPF 50+ protection, these versatile joggers are ideal for hiking, gardening, travel, and everyday wear,” says Klausing.

Zenergy UPF Neema Zip Bungee Dress

“This UPF dress is super chic and perfect for day into night,” says Glassman. “It’s a sporty-feminine look with a four-way stretch fabric, so you can roll it or fold it—it takes up very little room in your suitcase—and then look fresh as a daisy when you get to your location. This is a classic you will have for a lifetime.”

Quinn Top

“I always recommend a UPF shirt: It’s easy to throw one on, and, besides, everyone always misses a spot on their back. Plus, you won’t go through as much of your sunscreen,” Boakye says. This blouse, "with details like subtly puffed sleeves and a simple collar, is a feminine alternative to the timeless button-down,” says Klausing.

You Might Also Like

• Watch Oprah Talk About Longevity with Dr. Peter Attia

• Why Are Americans So Bad at Getting Old?

• Yes, You Really Can Make Your Skin Cells Younger