The Best Fragrance-Free Sunscreens—Whether You're Allergic or Can't Stand Scent

The key to remembering to wear sunscreen every day? Use one that you actually like to wear. And everyone has their different preferences. Some people want a spray formula that's easy to apply and doesn't cause much mess. Others prefer a lightweight face sunscreen that can be worn with makeup. Some prioritize "clean" and mineral versions.

A preference that can be divisive when it comes to sunscreen is the fragrance vs. no fragrance debate. There are sunscreens that are formulated to smell like you're on a tropical island—with scents of coconut, banana, and flowers. And some people really love when their sunscreen can double as a daily fragrance. And then there are the people who want to avoid fragrance at all costs, either because they're allergic to it or because it's just irritating to their noses (or both).

For those of you who are in the no-fragrance camp, I'm on board with you. Partly because my sensitive skin can get irritated by certain scents and partly because I'd rather choose my own perfume to layer on. Since there are actually quite a few sunscreens out there that have fragrance (and you wouldn't really know until you read the bottle!), I've compiled a list of the best fragrance-free sunscreens I could find. Now there are no excuses for not wearing SPF.

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(Image credit: @giasinatra)

1. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Body & Face Sunscreen SPF 60

2. Elta MD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

3. Alba Botanica Sensitive Sunscreen Spray, SPF 50

4. Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 40

5. Coola Classic Body Organic Sunscreen Spray SPF 50

6. Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

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(Image credit: @sabotaj)

7. Babo Botanicals Sheer Zinc Continuous Spray Sunscreen SPF 30

8. Kiehl's Super Fluid Daily UV Defense

9. Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen

10. SkinMedica Essential Defense Mineral Shield Broad-Spectrum SPF 35

11. Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide, SPF 50+

12. Paula's Choice Resist Super-Light Daily Wrinkle Defense SPF 30

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(Image credit: @marina_torres)

13. Avène Solaire UV Mineral Multi-Defense Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50+

14. Shiseido Ultra Sun Protection Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ WetForce for Sensitive Skin & Children

15. Coppertone Pure and Simple SPF 50

16. Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Physical Daily Defense SPF 30

17. Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Mineral Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 60+

Next, I Polled Derms on the Best SPFs For Acne-Prone Skin—These 14 are Winners

Managing Editor

Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019.

In addition to her work on THE/THIRTY and Who What Wear, she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot).

She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.