We Go Through Face SPF Faster Than Any Other Product—15 That Will Save You Money

drugstore-face-sunscreen-292088-1615510696561-main

(Image credit: @kaitlyn_mclintock)

When it comes to sunscreen, there are two universal truths: The first is that it's intrinsic to any skincare routine. (Please, please, please practice safe sun, people!) The second is that you don't have to pay an exorbitant amount of money to get a quality formula. After all, effective doesn't mean expensive.

That goes for face sunscreen, too. Just because it comes from the drugstore doesn't mean it will clog your pores, leave a white cast on your complexion, or do any of the other things we often associate with bad sunscreen. In fact, for some drugstore sunscreens, quite the opposite is true. There are sheer formulas, noncomedogenic formulas, two-in-one moisturizing formulas, and more. You just have to know which ones rise above the rest, and that's what we're here for. Keep scrolling to see the 15 best drugstore face sunscreens, according to editors and reviews.

What to Look For

SPF 30+: According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), consumers focused on sun protection should prioritize a formula with a sun protection factor (aka SPF) of 30 or higher. For some context, a sunscreen's SPF number tells you how much UVB light (the rays that will burn you!) a sunscreen can effectively filter out. A SPF of 30 can filter out 97% of the sun's UVB rays.

Broad Spectrum: When you see "broad spectrum" on a sunscreen label, this tells you that the formula protects you against both UVB and UVA rays. This is imperative!

Budget-Friendly Price: Any dermatologist will tell you that the most effective sunscreen is the sunscreen that you'll actually wear. Therefore, the cost of sunscreen and how it fits into your budget is an important factor to consider. Because, in all honesty, sunscreen should be the one product you go through the fastest.

Consider Your Skin Type: Certain sunscreen formulas are heavier than others. If you're oily or prone to breakouts, look for a formula that's oil-free or non-comedogenic. If you run dry or have mature skin, a sunscreen with a richer consistency or a formula that advertises lots of hydration or glow might be your best bet.

Your Ideal Packaging: Ease of application and re-application is another key to success when it comes to protecting your face from the sun's damaging rays. Whether you prefer a lotion, spray, stick, oil, etc., make sure you're choosing the most strategic vehicle choice for your sunscreen and one that will make the application feel as enjoyable and effortless as possible.

The Best Face Sunscreens You Can Find at the Drugstore

This article was originally published at an earlier date and has been updated.

Explore More:
Kaitlyn McLintock
Associate Beauty Editor

Kaitlyn McLintock is an Associate Beauty Editor at Who What Wear. Although she covers a wide range of topics across a variety of categories, she specializes in celebrity interviews and skincare and wellness content. Having lived in Los Angeles and Austin, Texas, she recently relocated back to her home state of Michigan where she works remotely. Prior to Who What Wear, she freelanced for a variety of industry-leading digital publications, including InStyle, The Zoe Report, Bustle, Hello Giggles, and Coveteur. Before that, she held a long-term internship and subsequent contributor position at Byrdie. When she's not writing, researching, or testing the latest and greatest beauty products, she's working her way through an ever-growing book collection, swimming in the Great Lakes, or spending time with family.