Our Favorite No-Pill Sunscreens to Wear Under Makeup
February 24, 2023
Any expert will tell you that the most important step in your skincare routine is applying sunscreen — no ifs, ands or buts about it. That said, if your trusty SPF starts to pill, flake off or cause little gritty balls to form under your makeup, it may be tempting to skip sunscreen altogether. Thankfully, we’re here to help you steer clear of sticky formulas and find lightweight sunscreens you can apply before your makeup without worrying about pilling.
Not sure where to start? Take a look at our editors’ favorite sunscreens to wear under makeup, ahead.
Our Favorite No-Pill Sunscreens to Wear Under Makeup
Best Brightening Sunscreen
Garnier SkinActive Green Labs Pinea-C Brightening Serum Cream Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30
This three-in-one powerhouse product combines broad-spectrum SPF 30 with a vitamin C and pineapple serum to help brighten and even out your skin. The oil-free formula feels like a lightweight moisturizer, so it hydrates your skin and dries down quickly before makeup application.
Best Drugstore Tinted Sunscreen
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint
With a tinted sunscreen, you can get away with applying less foundation and concealer, saving you time and product. Plus, unlike most mineral sunscreens, the sheer tint in this product prevents it from turning chalky on tan or deep complexions. It also contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to nourish the skin.
Best Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Sunscreen for Face SPF 50
If you have sensitive skin that’s prone to burning, we recommend this option. This fast-absorbing option from La Roche-Posay was specifically developed for sensitive skin and has a glowy, tinted matte finish.
Best Anti-Aging Sunscreen
Vichy LiftActiv Peptide-C Sunscreen
If fighting signs of aging is a concern, look to this Vichy option. With phyto peptides, vitamin C, Vichy mineralizing thermal water and SPF 30, it improves the look of dark spots, uneven skin tone and loss of definition and firmness.
Best High-End Tinted Sunscreen
SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
This mineral sunscreen provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection and gives skin a radiant, tinted finish. Not only does it help boost your skin’s defense against environmental aggressors, it’s also fragrance- and paraben-free.
Best Primer and Sunscreen
Lancôme UV Expert Defense SPF 50+ Primer & Moisturizer
Looking for a multitasking product that will protect, moisturize and prime at the same time? This Lancôme option is for you. This oil-free face primer and moisturizer with SPF 50 provides long-lasting hydration, sun protection and a suitable base for makeup. It should be the last step in your skincare routine, applied prior to foundation.
Best Sunscreen With Vitamin C
L’Oréal Paris Derm Intensives Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Invisible UV Fluid
This lightweight sunscreen from L’Oréal Paris is packed with antioxidants, such as vitamin C, to help defend your skin against environmental damage caused by free radicals. Over time, you may notice that your complexion looks brighter and your fine lines are reduced.
Design: Juliana Campisi
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