The Best Sunscreens to Wear Under Makeup, Hands Down

March 10, 2022

By: Ariel Wodarcyk | Makeup.com by L'Oréal

If you haven’t found a sunscreen that layers well under foundation, it can be tempting to skip it altogether, but don’t. Because even if your makeup has SPF, it’s probably not enough. We’ve tested hundreds (maybe thousands?) of formulas to find the beauty editor-approved SPFs. The sunscreens to wear under makeup that made our list are the ones that never pill or flake, and won’t leave a chalky cast, even on deep skin tones. Keep reading for our favorite sunscreens to slather on before the rest of our beat—from sheer tints to hydrating heroes.

1 / 6

SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 30

We love this sunscreen’s glowy finish — it’s almost like applying a liquid highlighter under your makeup. Infused with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, it’s super hydrating and can even out your skin while protecting against sun damage with broad-spectrum SPF 30.

2 / 6

Garnier Green Labs Pinea-C Brightening Serum Cream SPF 30

This brightening vitamin C serum acts as a lightweight moisturizer and a broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen all in one. It’s oil-free and non-comedogenic, so it’s easy to pair with any foundation, tinted moisturizer or CC cream without worrying about clogging pores.

3 / 6

Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30

If you have dark skin and are sick of covering up the pale cast sunscreen leaves behind with foundation, reach for this vegan, cruelty-free option. It has SPF 30, is infused with avocado and jojoba oils and won’t leave white residue behind.

4 / 6

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral SPF Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid

Hydrate and protect your skin at the same time with this soothing mineral sunscreen. It works for all skin types, is dermatologist-tested, and has hyaluronic acid, perfect for those with sensitive and dry skin.

5 / 6

CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen Face Sheer Tint SPF 30

This lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen has a sheer tint that allows you to get away with applying less makeup on top — though it won’t crease or pill if you pile on more. It has protective ceramides to coat the skin’s barrier and niacinamide to brighten and soothe.

6 / 6

Everyday Humans Resting Beach Face SPF 30 Sunscreen Serum

This must-try sunscreen serum leaves behind a comfortable finish and healthy glow. It contains hyaluronic acid, spinach and green tea to help strengthen the skin and ward off outdoor pollution and aggressors.

Photo: Chaunte Vaughn