Choosing the "best" sunscreen in the USA depends on your skin type, budget, and preferences (mineral vs. chemical filters, fragrance-free, makeup-friendly, etc.). Here are solid, widely recommended options across common needs. Top picks by category - Best all-round daily sunscreen (dermatologist favorite) - EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 — lightweight, good for sensitive or acne-prone skin, fragrance-free. - Best mineral (physical) sunscreen - ThinkSport SPF 50+ — mineral filter, broad spectrum, great for sensitive skin. - Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen SPF 30+ — reliable mineral options; great for sensitive skin, water resistance. - CeraVe Hydrating Mineral SPF 50 Face Lotion — fragrance-free, good for dry to normal skin. - Best drugstore value - Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 55 or SPF 100 — lightweight, fast-absorbing finish. - Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Dry-Touch SPF 50 — mineral option at a good price. - Best for makeup wearers / daytime skincare routines - Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 — sheer, makeup-friendly, chemical filters. - Supergoop! Play SPF 50 (or Glowscreen SPF 40) — moisturizing, works under makeup. - Best fragrance-free / sensitive skin - Vanicream Sunscreen SPF 50+ — minimal risk of irritation, fragrance-free. - La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral SPF 50 — mineral option with broad protection. - Best for active outdoors / water resistance - ThinkSport SPF 50+ (80-minute water resistance on some formulas) — designed for sports and active use. - Blue Lizard SPF 30+ Water Resistant — reliable performance while swimming or sweating. How to choose - Filter type: Mineral (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide) vs chemical filters. Mineral is often better for sensitive skin; chemical can be more cosmetic-friendly (lighter feel). - SPF and broad spectrum: SPF 30+ with broad spectrum protection is standard; higher SPF adds protection mainly to UVB, not UVA, and may offer diminishing returns. Look for "Broad Spectrum" on the label. - Skin type and sensitivities: fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formulas for acne-prone or sensitive skin. - Finish you want: matte/dry-touch for oiliest skin; hydrating or dewy for dry skin; makeup-friendly options if you wear foundation or powder. - Activity: choose water resistance if you’ll swim or sweat a lot (40 or 80 minutes labeled). Reapplication and usage tips - Reapply at least every 2 hours when outdoors, and after swimming or sweating. - Use about 1/2 teaspoon for the face and neck per application; more for exposed areas of the body. - Combine with other sun protection habits: hats, sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. Want tailored suggestions? Tell me your skin type (oily, dry, sensitive), budget, and whether you prefer mineral or chemical filters (or fragrance-free).