We’ve heard it time and time again: sunscreen should be an everyday essential in our skin care routines. It keeps skin protected from signs of aging and sunspots and shields skin from harsh rays that can cause skin cancer. If only sunscreen was more exciting to use. Typically, it’s heavy, sticky and sits on top of skin. Worst of all, women of color often find that formulas leave a white or gray film that makes skin appear ashy.
Gone are the days when sunscreens were the unwanted product in your skin care regimen. There are invisible, lightweight formulas that nourish skin and even add luminosity. We’ve rounded up nine sunscreens so lightweight, you’ll forget you’re wearing SPF.
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9 Lightweight Sunscreens That Won't Clog Your Pores
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Australian Gold
Botanical SPF 50 Tinted Face Lotion, $13.99 at Ulta Beauty
Protect your face from harsh sun rays without harsh ingredients with this mineral-based, nonchemical sunscreen. This affordable option is lightweight and dries matte so you don’t look greasy.
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COOLA
Full Spectrum 360° Sun Silk Drops SPF 30, $46 at Sephora
This serum-like sun protection goes on sheer like a serum so you barely feel it. The organic formula protects skin from harsh UV rays and helps prevent signs of aging.
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Dr. Dennis Gross
Instant Radiance Sun Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40, $42 at DermStore
For days when applying foundation seems like a chore, this tinted moisturizer will correct and conceal imperfections with a dewy, radiant finish.
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E.L.F. Cosmetics
Beauty Shield SPF 50 Skin Shielding Primer Universal Tint, $12 at Target
Don’t want to add an extra step to your makeup routine, but still want adequate sun protection? This primer preps skin for your daily makeup while shielding your complexion from sun damage.
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PCA Skin
Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 45, $44 at DermStore
If sunscreens leave you oily and prone to breakouts, this lightweight, medicated formula will hydrate skin and prevent damage from UV rays. It’s infused with powerhouse ingredients like hyaluronic acid and lactic acid to slow down signs of aging.
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Supergoop!
Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40, $32 at Sephora
This invisible sunscreen that goes on completely sheer without white residue is a great option for women with darker skin tones. It’s oil-free and chock-full of antioxidants so skin is hydrated and nourished throughout the day.
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Tarte
Tarteguard Mineral Powder Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $28 at Sephora
Great for those with oily skin, this powder formula can be reapplied throughout the day when your face begins to shine. Apply like a translucent powder to matte out skin so you can be shine-free.
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Volition
Prismatic Luminizing Shield SPF 50, $35 at Volition
To enhance your summer glow, this pearlescent sunscreen protects from the sun's harsh rays while leaving skin with a radiant finish. A great option for makeup-free days for an all-over glow.
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Neutrogena
Age Shield Face Oil-Free Lotion Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 110, $10.97 at Walmart
An age-fighting sunscreen that won’t break the bank. This affordable option helps protect skin from sun-caused damage, like signs of aging and sunspots.
