Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2024: Best Sunscreens For Your Face

While it might be tempting to shop for a gift with a big wow factor this Mother’s Day, why not spring for something practical—an item your mom will actually use on a regular basis?

Enter sunscreens. They’re not be flashy or luxe, but they are an everyday necessity, regardless of the weather or time of year. And why? “UV rays travel through the clouds to damage our skin even on cloudy rainy days and in winter,” explains Dr. David Kim, a board-certified dermatologist at New York City’s Idriss Dermatology. He adds, “It's hands down the best anti-aging skincare product, because UV rays degrade collagen and elastin, while causing fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.” Also important to note is that skin cancer—which affects 20% of Americans and typically results from cumulative UV exposure—is preventable with regular use of sunscreen and staying out of the sun.

Sunscreens can be broken down into two categories: physical and chemical. Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide are FDA-approved for use in mineral sunscreens—which block and reflect UV rays—while chemical suncreens usually feature oxybenzone, avobenzone, and, octocrylene that work by absorbing UV rays. Chemical sunscreens are better at resisting sweat and water, but “can irritate sensitive skin and get absorbed in significant levels,” says Dr. Kim. Also, oxybenzone and octinoxate are harmful to coral reefs—so much so they’re banned in Hawaii. If you’re someone who’s prone to hyperpigmentation or are in the midst of family planning (egg retrieval, IVF, pregnancy, breastfeeding), Dr. Kim recommends sticking with physical sunscreens.

No matter your preferences, let this gift guide of ten face sunscreens ideal for even sensitive and oily skin take the guesswork out of finding one that’ll suit you best.

Lightsaver Activated Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 33) - Tinted, $45

“What I learned throughout my career is that people know the importance of sunscreen,” says Dr. Kim. “However, many don't like to use sunscreen because of the heavy texture and unpleasant scent.” That’s why he created Lightsaver, an award-winning mineral sunscreen that makes daily SPF application “a true pleasure to use.” The groundbreaking formula is lightweight, subtly tinted for a natural glow, and so gentle it’s been approved by the National Eczema Association.

Naked Sundays SPF50 CabanaClear™ Water Gel Serum, $25

While silicones are safe for topical use and found in many face sunscreens, they can trigger itchiness and redness on very sensitive faces. To remedy that, the popular Australian sunscreen company Naked Sundays developed this breakthrough clear gel SPF serum that’s silicone-free, water-based, and transparent for an invisible finish.

Ciele blush & PROTECT SPF 50+, $34

What’s the one makeup item that instantly lends every complexion, regardless of age or background, an alluring and radiant glow? Blush. This genius product from the luxurious sunscreen-cosmetic brand founded by makeup artist Nikki DeRoest marries the ease of a cream blusher—just dab and tap away —with SPF 50.

Prequel Wide Brimmed UPF 50+ Hat, $30

While wearing SPF daily is the best way to shield yourself again the sun’s harmful rays, hats also come in handy. And this chic new one from Prequel checks all the boxes. It’s made from breathable cotton, and sports a wide brim to protect and cool your face and neck. It also boasts a UPF50+ protection rating, and is reversible so you can wear it two ways.

Sunbetter Tone Smart SPF 68 Sunscreen Compact, $65

Packaged in a sleek mirrored compact for quick application throughout the day, this creamy mineral-based sunscreen evens out skin tone for a soft, natural glow. Just press the sponge into the buildable product, then tap liberally onto the face, neck, and chest. Don’t forget the back of your hands, which tend to show age faster.

Colorescience Sunforgettable® Total Protection Brush-On, $69

While many of us have gotten into the healthy habit of putting on suncreen first thing in the morning, far less of us are good about reapplying every two hours throughout the day. Enter this handy product from Colorescience combining a soft brush and mineral-based powder SPF. Using it couldn’t be any easier: just tap and flick, then generously swirl on. Don’t forget your ears, which are the third most common place for skin cancer.

Vacation Shake Shake SPF 50, $29

The playful retro design of Vacation’s just-unveiled Shake Shake is one of several reasons why it’s one of the buzziest new sunscreens. The innovative “Shakerball” makes using it engaging and even fun, while the brand’s proprietary ZincWater™ dries silky smooth with no white cast. It layers beautifully under makeup, too, with zero pilling.

OneSkin OS-01 SHIELD Protect + Repair SPF 30+, $48

Sunscreen protect your face from future sun-induced damage, but how many can reverse existing damage? This mineral-based version from OneSkin can. A proprietary Senescence Blocking Peptide targets aging cells that trigger the decline of healthy cells, while a potent pair of antioxidants and non-nano mineral-based broad spectrum SPF offer comprehensive, peace-of-mind protection.

Herbivore Star Seed Sheer Glow Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30, $38

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the sun’s UV rays can damage your skin within as little as 15 minutes. So to make everyday sunscreen use easy and a pleasure, Herbivore recently launched this whipped and freshly-scented mineral-based SPF combining SPF 30, vitamin C, and antioxidant-rich VitaGlow D.