10 Best Sunscreen For Under Makeup 2025 in the United States

The EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46 is a solid choice if you're looking for a sunscreen to wear under makeup. It offers a high level of sun protection with an SPF of 46, and it uses transparent zinc oxide, which means it won't leave that annoying white cast on your skin. This is great if you have darker skin tones or just prefer your sunscreen to be invisible.

The formulation is oil-free and lightweight, making it suitable for acne-prone skin, and it won't feel greasy, which is a big plus if you have oily skin. The addition of niacinamide can help soothe skin that’s prone to conditions like rosacea and hyperpigmentation. It's also non-comedogenic, so it shouldn't clog your pores, another win for those dealing with acne. However, this sunscreen is not water-resistant, so you'll need to reapply it if you’re sweating or swimming. It's fragrance-free, which is helpful if you have sensitive skin or prefer unscented products.

The 1.7 oz pump bottle is convenient for travel or on-the-go use, but it might be a tad small if you're looking for something to last you a long time. This sunscreen is excellent for daily use under makeup, especially if you have sensitive, oily, or acne-prone skin, but not ideal for water activities.

The EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Sunscreen SPF 46 is a solid choice for anyone looking for sun protection that works well under makeup, especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin. It offers broad-spectrum protection with zinc oxide, a physical blocker known for being gentle and effective. The formulation is oil-free and lightweight, which means it absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy feel or white cast—important if you want a natural look or plan to wear foundation on top. Its tinted finish helps even out skin tone subtly, which can reduce the need for heavy makeup.

Another plus is that it contains skincare ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, which help soothe and hydrate skin, making it more than just a sunscreen. It's also non-comedogenic, so it shouldn’t clog pores or worsen acne, a key factor for sensitive skin types. The product comes in a convenient pump bottle that’s easy to carry for reapplication throughout the day. On the downside, while it’s water resistant, it's not waterproof, so frequent reapplication is still necessary with sweating or swimming. The price point can be on the higher side compared to some drugstore options, but its dermatologist recommendation and skin-friendly ingredients support its value.

This sunscreen suits those wanting reliable protection that doubles as a light tinted moisturizer under makeup, especially if you have sensitive or oily skin.

The CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 with Sheer Tint is a good fit for those looking for a sunscreen to wear under makeup. It offers SPF 30, providing a decent level of sun protection. The broad-spectrum protection with Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide ensures that it guards against both UVA and UVB rays, which is essential for preventing sun damage and aging.

The formula is 100% mineral-based, which is gentle on the skin and less likely to cause irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. The inclusion of Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid helps in calming and hydrating the skin, adding skincare benefits to sun protection. The three essential ceramides help in restoring and maintaining the skin's natural barrier, which can be beneficial for dry or compromised skin.

The product is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores, which is great for those with acne-prone skin. The sheer tint available in three shades is designed to blend seamlessly into various skin tones, providing a natural, healthy glow without the white cast common in many mineral sunscreens. However, it’s worth noting that the product is not water-resistant, so it might not be the best choice for activities involving water or excessive sweating. The lightweight texture makes it a good base for makeup, but some users may find the shades slightly limiting if they fall outside the range provided. In terms of formulation, the absence of parabens, fragrances, and common chemical UV filters like oxybenzone and avobenzone makes it a safer choice for those looking to avoid potential irritants.