When it comes to skincare and beauty, nothing beats the natural beauty of a makeup-free face, and this makes it important to protect the face with the right sunscreen.
For a face without makeup, finding the best sunscreen is crucial for effective sun protections and a lightweight, non-greasy feel.
In this article, we’ll explore a curated list of sunscreens specifically picked for makeup-free faces.
Whether you’re embracing a natural look, having a no-makeup day, or aiming for a fresh-faced appearance, these sunscreens offer the perfect balance of sun protection. Let’s dive in and find the ideal sunscreen for your face.
The Best sunscreen for face without makeup to buy now
We carefully selected the following sunscreens, specially formulated for the face, to offer you the optimal option for applying without makeup. Our choices are based on a lightweight and non-greasy formula that avoids pore clogging and white cast or heavy residue.
These sunscreens provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. We also recommend a non-irritating and hypoallergenic sunscreen (one that won’t cause an allergic reaction on the skin).
Feel free to make a choice from the list below:
1. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55
Neutrogena ultra sheer is just the perfect makeup-free face sunscreen that goes on easily and absorbs quickly for an invisible, light-weight feel on your skin. With ultra sheer, you don’t have to worry about the effects of the sun on your bare face because it contains Avobenzone which is considered a broad-spectrum sunscreen ingredient, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
It has a mild scent, does not leave a white cast, and doesn’t cause breakouts. It absorbs perfectly, even on dark skin. Since you won’t be applying makeup, this is just the perfect sunscreen for you.
- Active ingredients: Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (10%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (10%)
- SPF: 55
- Pros: Non greasy, doesn’t leave white cast on the skin.
- Cons: Some users may experience eye discomfort or irritation.
- Price: $10 USD
2. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen SPF 60
La Roche is a highly recommended sunscreen for photo-protection, sun damage, and sensitive skin types. It absorbs fast and leaves the skin hydrated and smooth.
It doesn’t leave a white cast or a greasy look on your skin, doesn’t clog pores or cause breakouts, and it provides perfect sun protection even without makeup. It also contains Senna Alata, a tropical leaf extract, which is a powerful antioxidant complex that helps protect the skin from free radicals caused by ultraviolet rays.
Its ability to deliver a broad spectrum protection makes it one of the best sunscreens for a face without makeup.
- Active ingredients: Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (10%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (7%)
- SPF: 60
- Pros: Water resistant (80 minutes), works perfectly on sensitive skin.
- Cons: May stain your white clothes
- Price: $38 USD
3. EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen SPF 46
EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen is the ultimate solution for a flawless, protected complexion. This exceptional sunscreen leaves no residue, ensuring a clean and comfortable feel on your face.
Its lightweight and silky texture effortlessly blends into your skin, making it suitable for wearing without makeup. It is specifically designed for acne-prone, hyperpigmentation, and rosacea-prone skin types, it addresses your unique concerns while providing powerful sun protection.
Its ability to provide broad-spectrum protection makes it one of the best choices for a no-makeup natural face. With this sunscreen, you can confidently step out into the sun, knowing that your skin is shielded from both UVA and UVB rays.
- Active ingredients: Zinc oxide (9%), Octinoxate (7.5%)
- SPF: 46
- Pros: Contains Niacinamide, which may help in calming and protecting acne-prone skin
- Cons: Some users may experience a burning sensation.
- Price: $41 USD
4. CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50
CeraVe SPF 50 is a broad spectrum sunscreen that contains two active ingredients Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide which forms a protective layer on your skin surface to help reflect the sun’s UVA and UVB rays without causing irritation on sensitive skin types.
It is non-comedogenic and oil-free, providing a mild sensation that helps calm the skin. One drawback of this product is that it can leave a white cast on the skin because it is a physical sunscreen, and some individuals may also experience eye irritation.
- Active ingredients: Titanium Dioxide (9%), Zinc Oxide (7%)
- SPF: 50
- Pros: Contains physical sunscreen ingredients that help reflect UVA/UVB rays.
- Cons: May potentially leave a white residue on the skin.
- Price: $13 USD
5. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
Supergoop Unseen is truly a game-changer when it comes to fresh-faced protection. You won’t have to worry about any white cast because it absorbs into the skin almost immediately.
What’s more, it feels incredibly lightweight, almost as if you’re wearing nothing at all and not only does it shield you from the sun’s UV rays, but it also provides defense against the blue light emitted by electronic devices.
It is a scentless sunscreen with broad spectrum SPF 40 and can be worn under makeup, or on its own for a natural look.
- Active ingredients: Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (8%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (4%)
- SPF: 40
- Pros: Filter blue light and UV rays
- Cons: You may experience allergic reactions.
- Price: $22 USD
6. Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen SPF 50
Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen is a non-chemical sun protection for sensitive facial skin with a subtle tint that easily blends into fair or light skin tones, helping to improve fine lines and wrinkles.
It also offers broad-spectrum protection, making it a great option to apply on the face without makeup.
The lightweight formula is easy to apply, and it provides excellent sun protection without any greasy residue. I love that it’s made with natural ingredients, making it gentle on the skin.
- Active ingredients: Titanium Dioxide (4%), Zinc Oxide (4%)
- SPF: 50
- Pros: Non greasy and suitable for dark skin
- Cons: You may experience breakout and eye burn
- Price: $18 USD
7. Alba Botanica Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
This is a sunscreen that you would not want to trade for anything. Trust me, Alba Botanica is lightweight, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic formula that offers broad spectrum defense for even the most sensitive skin.
It offers several benefits that you might not find elsewhere. It effectively prevents facial breakouts, boasts user-friendly application, and provides a lightweight feel.
You can easily apply it to your face without makeup because it easily absorbs into the skin and does not contain synthetic fragrances. Trust me, it is highly recommended!
- Active ingredients: Titanium Dioxide (2%), Zinc Oxide (14.5%)
- SPF: 30
- Pros: Biodegradable formula, cruelty free, water resistant and no white cast
- Cons: It may leave white cast on brown skin type.
- Price: $12 USD
8. Coola Mineral Face Matte Tint Sunscreen SPF 30
Coola Mineral Face Matte Tint stands out as one of the top choices for a no-makeup face SPF option due to its exceptional qualities. Not only does it deliver lightweight hydration, but it also effectively minimizes shine, giving your skin a refreshed appearance with a subtle hint of coverage.
In addition to its benefits, Coola Mineral Face Matte Tint is made naturally, with 70% of its ingredients being sourced organically. Moreover, it offers a notable water-resistant feature, allowing you to enjoy up to 80 minutes of water activities before requiring reapplication.
- Active ingredients: Zinc Oxide (10.5%)
- SPF: 30
- Pros: Ideal for oily or combination skin type and does not cause eye burn
- Cons: May have a greasy texture and a strong scent.
- Price: $36 USD
9. Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunscreen SPF 50
The Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence is a game-changer for anyone seeking for the best sunscreen for face without makeup for oily skin. Its lightweight and watery texture glides on smoothly, leaving no white cast or greasy residue.
It’s perfect for everyday wear and feels refreshing on the skin. With its high SPF 50 protection and broad-spectrum coverage, you can be rest assured that you’ve found the best sunscreen for your no-makeup days.
- Active ingredients: The specific active ingredients are not disclosed by the manufacturer.
- SPF: 50
- Pros: No white cast and perfect for oily skin
- Cons: You may notice an alcoholic scent
- Price: $15 USD
Sunscreen For Face Without Makeup FAQs
How Do I Know Which Sunscreen Suits My Face?
To determine the most suitable sunscreen for your face, consider your skin type and specific needs. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, opt for oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas.
Dry skin benefits from moisturizing sunscreens, while sensitive skin requires hypoallergenic and fragrance-free options. Look for broad-spectrum protection with SPF 30 or higher, and don’t forget to patch test new products to ensure compatibility.Â
How Much Sunscreen Is Needed For Face?
To adequately protect your face, the quantity of sunscreen you should apply to the face is 1/4 teaspoon. Apply it evenly to all exposed areas, including the ears and neck.
Can We Apply Sunscreen Without Makeup?
Yes, you can and should apply sunscreen without makeup. In fact, it’s recommended to use sunscreen as a standalone product to ensure effective sun protection. Applying sunscreen without makeup gives room for better coverage and adherence to the skin.
What Happens If We Apply Sunscreen Without Makeup?
There are no side effects if you apply sunscreen without makeup. Instead, it allows the product to fully bond with your skin, providing better protection against harmful UV rays.Â
Also, using sunscreen alone blocks potential interactions between makeup ingredients and sunscreen, ensuring optimal efficacy and reducing the risk of skin irritation or breakouts.
