Best Sunscreens Under Makeup (2026) Reviewed
Finding a sunscreen that plays well with foundation, concealer, and the rest of your makeup routine is no small task. The wrong formula can pill, leave a white cast, or turn your face into an oil slick by noon. Here are the best sunscreens that layer seamlessly under makeup, organized by skin type and finish preference.
What to Look For
- Finish — Matte formulas work best under powder and long-wear foundations; dewy finishes pair well with skin tints and lightweight coverage
- Absorption time — Fast-absorbing sunscreens prevent pilling when you apply makeup immediately after
- White cast — Chemical and hybrid sunscreens typically disappear into skin better than pure mineral formulas
- SPF level — SPF 30 is the minimum for daily protection; SPF 50 provides extra coverage for extended outdoor time
- Skin type compatibility — Oil-free formulas suit acne-prone skin; hydrating versions work better for dry or mature skin
- Primer properties — Some sunscreens double as makeup primers, smoothing texture and helping foundation grip
Best Sunscreens Under Makeup
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 — Best Overall
- GAME-CHANGING SUNSCREEN - Our most popular SPF, Unseen Sunscreen is a totally invisible, weightless, scentless formula that provides oil-free sunscreen protection for all skin types, tones, & lifestyles.
- COMPREHENSIVE PROTECTION - This feel-good, antioxidant-rich facial sunscreen helps filter blue light (skin-damaging light emitted from your phone, computer, & tablet), UVA, UVB & IRA rays.
- A SUPER-POWERED PRIMER - The unique oil-free formula glides onto skin, providing shine control & leaving a velvety, makeup-gripping finish. Apply generously and evenly as the last step in your skincare routine and before makeup.
- NOURISH & PROTECT SKIN - Our oxybenzone- & octinoxate-free everyday sunscreen includes powerful ingredients like soothing frankincense & hydrating meadowfoam seed that nourish & protect your skin.
- GREAT FOR GUYS - This beard-friendly, broad spectrum sunscreen’s clear texture truly feels like nothing.
This invisible, oil-free formula set the standard for makeup-friendly sunscreens and remains the one to beat.
The gel texture glides on completely clear with zero white cast on any skin tone. It leaves a velvety, silicone-like finish that grips makeup and controls shine throughout the day. The formula also filters blue light from screens.
- Pros:
- Truly invisible on all skin tones
- Works as a smoothing primer
- Scentless and weightless
- Oil-free and non-comedogenic
- Cons:
- Higher price point
- Chemical filters only
Best for: Anyone who wants a foolproof sunscreen that doubles as a makeup primer.
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 — Best for Acne-Prone Skin
- CLEAR SUNSCREEN FOR FACE: This lightweight face sunscreen with transparent Zinc Oxide provides broad spectrum SPF 46 protection and helps protect normal and sensitive skin types from UVA and UVB damage without leaving white cast residue behind
- FOR NORMAL, ACNE-PRONE, AND SENSITIVE SKIN TYPES: UV Clear uses an oil-free, non-comedogenic formula that’s designed for daily use on normal, oily, rosacea, and acne-prone skin so you get effective daily sun protection without feeling greasy
- SUITABLE FOR HYPERPIGMENTED SKIN: Contains Niacinamide which helps to visibly improve skin tone and reduce the appearance of discoloration and blemishes on the skin
- CONVENIENT TRAVEL SIZE SUNSCREEN: This face sunscreen is TSA approved and comes in a convenient travel-size pump bottle that easily fits in handbags, beach bags, and carry on luggage so you can protect your skin at home, work, or on the go
- SUITABLE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: UV Clear comes in both tinted and untinted versions that support a wide range of skin types and complexions; it’s a dermatologist recommended sunscreen that’s fragrance-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free, and non-comedogenic
Dermatologist-recommended for acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation, this lightweight formula protects without triggering breakouts.
The oil-free formula contains 5% niacinamide to calm redness and improve skin clarity over time. It absorbs quickly without leaving residue and sits well under both liquid and powder foundations. The zinc oxide provides gentle mineral protection.
- Pros:
- Contains niacinamide for skin benefits
- Oil-free and non-comedogenic
- No white cast
- Fragrance-free
- Cons:
- Can feel slightly tacky until makeup is applied
- Pump sometimes requires priming
Best for: Those with acne-prone, sensitive, or rosacea-prone skin who need gentle daily protection.
Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40 — Best for Dewy Finish
- MULTITASKING SUNSCREEN - Supergoop! Glowscreen is a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 40 that helps filter blue light and doubles as a makeup-gripping primer for dewy, glowing skin that isn’t greasy or oily—and now it comes in four radiant shades!
- YOUR NEW GLOW-TO - Glowscreen’s hydrating formula perfects skin, giving it a healthy dose of pearlescence and creating a totally dewy, glowy base layer for your look without any visible glitz or glitter.
- GOOD TO GLOW - With hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, and niacinamide, this face sunscreen leaves skin naturally supple and dewy from the inside out. One step, and you’re good to glow.
- POWERFUL INGREDIENTS - Our hydration blend helps boost moisture in the skin, leaving it feeling soft and nourished. Sea lavender provides antioxidant protection, while supporting long-lasting hydration.
- HOW TO APPLY - Apply generously and evenly as the last step in your skincare routine and before makeup.
This glowy primer-sunscreen hybrid gives skin an instant lit-from-within look while providing solid SPF protection.
Light-reflecting pearls create a luminous base without chunky glitter. The formula contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide for hydration and radiance. Available in four flexible shades that work across a range of skin tones.
- Pros:
- Creates a glowing, hydrated base
- Doubles as highlighter
- Hydrating formula with skincare benefits
- Multiple shade options
- Cons:
- Too dewy for very oily skin
- Not ideal under matte foundations
Best for: Those who want a radiant, glass-skin finish under sheer or dewy makeup.
Beauty of Joseon Daily Relief Sunscreen SPF 40 — Best K-Beauty Pick
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This cult-favorite Korean sunscreen delivers a moisturizing, no-white-cast formula at an accessible price point.
The creamy texture blends seamlessly and leaves skin hydrated without greasiness. Rice extract provides nourishment while the lightweight finish makes it an ideal base for any makeup look. The formula is gentle enough that it won’t sting eyes.
- Pros:
- Excellent value
- Hydrating without heaviness
- No white cast
- Gentle, non-irritating formula
- Cons:
- May be too moisturizing for very oily skin
- SPF 40 rather than 50
Best for: K-beauty fans who want an affordable, hydrating sunscreen that layers well under makeup.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Clear SPF 50 — Best for Sensitive Skin
- Non-comedogenic SPF 50 sunscreen with Azelaic Acid for Acne-prone and Rosacea-prone skin
- Barely-there texture blends invisibly into all skin tones
- Oxybenzone-free and Octinoxate-free daily sunscreen for the face provides broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection
- Helps decrease the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun if used as direct with other sun protection measures (see Directions).
Formulated specifically for acne and rosacea-prone skin, this French pharmacy favorite soothes while it protects.
Azelaic acid calms redness and inflammation while Cell-Ox Shield technology provides robust broad-spectrum protection. The barely-there texture blends invisibly and won’t cause breakouts or irritation.
- Pros:
- Contains soothing azelaic acid
- SPF 50 protection
- Invisible finish on all skin tones
- Non-comedogenic
- Cons:
- Premium price
- Smaller tube size
Best for: Those with rosacea, reactive skin, or persistent redness who need high protection.
Bioré UV Aqua Rich SPF 50 — Best Budget Option
- 3 BENEFITS IN 1 STEP - Daily facial moisturizer, SPF 50 sun protection, and primer for makeup
- All DAY HYDRATION - Infused with hyaluronic acid for all-day visible hydration while protecting your skin from UVA & UVB rays
- NO WHITE CAST - Fast-absorbing and invisible, this facial sunscreen hydrates and protects, absorbing instantly on all skin tones
- DOUBLES AS A PRIMER - This oil-free and non-comedogenic (doesn’t clog pores) facial moisturizing lotion hydrates & smooths skin without pilling or feeling greasy
- SAFE INGREDIENTS - This sensitive skin moisturizer with broad spectrum SPF 50 protection is oxybenzone-free, octinoxate-free, oil free, dermatologist-tested and vegan friendly
This Japanese drugstore staple delivers impressive protection and a weightless finish at a fraction of prestige prices.
The water-based gel absorbs instantly and leaves a smooth, non-greasy base for makeup. Hyaluronic acid provides lightweight hydration. The formula works well under both liquid and powder foundations without pilling.
- Pros:
- Affordable
- Lightweight gel texture
- No white cast
- Fast absorption
- Cons:
- Contains alcohol (may dry sensitive skin)
- Light fragrance
Best for: Budget-conscious shoppers who want effective protection without the premium price tag.
Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Matte SPF 45 — Best for Deeper Skin Tones
- BLACK GIRL SUNSCREEN - Made by women of color, for people of color. This lightweight gel formula provides sun protection for skin while leaving a matte finish and helping to prevent premature aging
- NO WHITE CAST - Our sunscreen dries completely clear on all skin tones, making it ideal for outdoor activities, daily wear, or for under your makeup without leaving any white residue
- MATTE FINISH - Stay fabulous while protecting your face from UVA and UVB rays with Make It Matte. This gel sunscreen is infused with ingredients such as aloe and shea butter
- SAFE INGREDIENTS - This sunscreen is free from parabens, fragrance, oxybenzone, and octinoxate to offer effective sun protection while being gentle on skin and safer for coral reefs
- HOW TO USE - Apply a generous amount 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours, after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating, or immediately after towel drying
Specifically formulated for melanin-rich skin, this gel sunscreen leaves zero white cast and a shine-free finish.
The lightweight gel texture disappears completely into deeper skin tones without any ashy residue. Shea butter, coconut oil, and squalene nourish skin while the matte finish creates the perfect canvas for foundation.
- Pros:
- Absolutely no white cast
- Matte finish controls oil
- Nourishing ingredients
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Cons:
- May not be moisturizing enough for dry skin
- Chemical filters only
Best for: Those with deeper skin tones who struggle to find sunscreens without white cast.
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 — Best Drugstore Pick
- [ BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 30 ] A micro-fine zinc oxide sunscreen for UVA/UVB protection. This CeraVe moisturizer with SPF is a hydrating facial lotion that spreads easily, is absorbed quickly, and leaves a non-greasy finish
- [ OIL FREE DAY CREAM ] Use this daily face sunscreen as the last step in a morning skincare routine. If layering with an eye cream, moisturizer or facial serum, apply Cerave AM facial lotion after other product applications have been fully absorbed
- [ SUNSCREEN WITH NIACINAMIDE ] Contains Hyaluronic Acid to retain skin's moisture and Niacinamide to help calm skin. MVE Technology delivers hydration throughout the day
- [ ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES ] Ceramides are found naturally in the skin and make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier. All CeraVe products are formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier
- [ GENTLE ON SKIN ] Recommended for daily use by the Skin Cancer Foundation. Fragrance free, oil free, non-comedogenic, paraben-free. Suitable for dry skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, and acne-prone skin
This dermatologist-developed moisturizer-sunscreen hybrid delivers reliable protection with skin-barrier benefits.
Three essential ceramides help restore and maintain the skin barrier while niacinamide calms and brightens. The formula spreads easily without leaving a chalky residue and works well under most foundations.
- Pros:
- Contains ceramides and niacinamide
- Widely available at drugstores
- Fragrance-free
- Good for sensitive skin
- Cons:
- SPF 30 only
- Can leave slight white cast on deeper tones
Best for: Those who want an affordable, no-fuss option that combines moisturizer and sunscreen.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost SPF 50 — Best Lightweight Formula
- 1.7-fluid ounces of Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Face Moisturizer with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen and a supercharged antioxidant complex for all day, weightless hydration
- The weightless, fast-absorbing daily facial moisturizer with SPF for normal to dry, sensitive skin is clinically proven to provide all day hydration and visibly improves the look and feel of dry skin in just one use
- The facial moisturizer is formulated with hydrating hyaluronic acid, an essential hydrator found naturally in skin, glycerin for deeper hydration, and antioxidants, including vitamin E, to help fight against daily environmental aggressors
- Non-greasy formula is free of fragrance, dyes, parabens, mineral oil and phthalates. The non-comedogenic face moisturizer is invisible on all skin tones and can be worn alone or under makeup, making it perfect for daily use in your skincare routine
- To use as a sunscreen for face, apply generously and evenly on face and neck 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply the daytime face and neck moisturizer at least every two hours and use a water-resistant sunscreen if swimming or sweating
This water-gel formula delivers high SPF protection with the lightweight feel of a serum.
Hyaluronic acid provides all-day hydration while the non-greasy formula absorbs quickly and layers invisibly under makeup. The weightless texture makes it easy to forget you’re wearing sunscreen at all.
- Pros:
- SPF 50 protection
- Hyaluronic acid for hydration
- No white cast
- Fragrance-free option available
- Cons:
- May not be hydrating enough for very dry skin
- Some versions contain fragrance
Best for: Those who want high protection in a barely-there formula.
Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF 50 — Best for Dry Skin
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Eight types of hyaluronic acid make this K-beauty sunscreen a hydration powerhouse that preps dry skin beautifully for makeup.
The watery gel texture absorbs quickly without stickiness and leaves skin plump and moisturized. Ceramides strengthen the skin barrier while centella asiatica soothes irritation. Works excellently as a hydrating primer.
- Pros:
- Intensely hydrating
- Multiple types of hyaluronic acid
- No white cast
- Soothing ingredients
- Cons:
- May be too hydrating for oily skin
- Takes slightly longer to absorb
Best for: Those with dry or dehydrated skin who want sunscreen that doubles as a moisturizing primer.
Verdict
For most people, the Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen offers the most reliable performance under makeup with its invisible finish and primer-like texture. Those on a budget should try the Bioré UV Aqua Rich, which delivers similar weightless protection at a lower price point. If you have acne-prone skin, the EltaMD UV Clear remains the gold standard for gentle, non-clogging sun protection.
