The Best Sunscreens for Men in 2024
No matter the time of year, it’s important to take extra steps to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Whether you’re a beachgoer, a sports enthusiast, or simply enjoy spending time outdoors, you need a quality, everyday sunscreen. In this guide, we’re reviewing the best sunscreens for men in 2024 so you can be adequately protected from the sun’s harmful rays during any activity. The Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen is our top choice for its high SPF formula that’s ideal for sensitive skin, but no matter your skin type, the right sunscreen awaits on this list.
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Best Overall
Neutrogena Sunscreen for Men
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Refreshing Mist Spray
COOLA Sunscreen for Men
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Gentle Application
ISDIN Sunscreen for Men
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Long-Lasting Protection
Oars + Alps Sunscreen for Men
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All-Natural Option
Brickell Sunscreen for Men
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Sunscreen for Men: A Buyer's Guide
To enjoy some fun in the sun, many individuals turn to sunscreen for the ultimate protection of their skin. But if you are a man, how do you select the right sunscreen for you? Choosing the perfect sunscreen for men requires knowledge of all the different factors to consider. This guide will ensure you make the best decision when purchasing sunscreen to provide you or your man's skin with the most comprehensive protection.
UVA/UVB Protection
We recommend purchasing a sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Both UVA and UVB rays contribute to sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. Look for terms like “broad-spectrum” or “full-spectrum” on the label to know that you're getting complete coverage.
SPF
The SPF rating indicates the sunscreen’s ability to protect against sunburns caused by UVB rays. The FDA recommends sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, as this will provide adequate protection from UVB rays. If you plan on being outdoors for more than two hours, consider using a higher SPF, such as 50 or 100.
Water Resistance
A water-resistant sunscreen will stay on longer when swimming or sweating so you don’t need to reapply as often. Look for terms like “water-resistant,” “sweatproof,” or “sport” on the label to ensure maximum protection even when you're active.
Physical vs Chemical
Sunscreens come in either physical or chemical formulas. Physical sunscreens use mineral active ingredients such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to reflect the sun’s rays away from the skin. These formulas may appear white or cloudy after application but are ideal for sensitive skin types due to their hypoallergenic properties.
Chemical sunscreens use active ingredients like oxybenzone and avobenzone to absorb the sun’s rays and disperse them away from the skin. These formulas are typically free of added fragrances and oiliness which can help reduce irritation and breakouts.
Non-Comedogenic
Sunscreen should always be non-comedogenic so it won’t block pores and cause irritation, breakouts, or inflammation. Additionally, look for oil-free products so that they won’t clog pores if sweat is present during application.
Natural Ingredients
Purchase a sunscreen that contains natural ingredients such as green tea extract, aloe vera, and Vitamin E to help nourish the skin while protecting it from UV damage. These ingredients are well-known for their anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce redness and sensitivity caused by sun exposure.
Fragrance-Free
Ideally, opt for an unscented product to avoid potential allergens and irritation that can occur with added fragrances. Fragrances may contain chemicals that can irritate or trigger allergic reactions when exposed to direct sunlight. It's also important to read labels carefully as some products labeled “unscented” still contain fragrances.
The Best Sunscreens for Men
Neutrogena Sunscreen for Men
Pros
- Has an SPF rating of 70+
- Resistant to sweat and water
- Ideal for athletic activities
- Lightly scented and safe for skin
Cons
- May leave a white cast on skin
I am familiar with the Neutrogena brand and you may be, too. When it comes to skincare, Neutrogena is among the leaders in the field, so let it protect you from the harmful rays of the sun with its Sport Face Oil-Free Lotion Sunscreen. This sunscreen for men has a broad spectrum SPF 70+ that not only provides superior sun protection against aging UVA and burning UVB rays but also prevents sunburn and clogged pores.
This sun protector is designed to be sweat-resistant and water-resistant and includes an electrolyte complex to help nourish and restore skin balance as you enjoy the outdoors. Using this sunscreen as directed with other sun protection measures can help decrease the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun. Plus, Neutrogena’s new formula contains no PABA, oils, or oxybenzone and uses avobenzone, making it a safer choice for your skin. Our team picked this sunscreen for men as the best overall choice because of its high SPF rating (70+) and suitability for outdoor activities.
COOLA Sunscreen for Men
Pros
- Refreshing and hydrating mist
- Organic and environmentally friendly
- Protects from HEV blue and infrared lights
- Easy to apply
Cons
- Low SPF protection
The next product on our list is not your typical lotion-based sunscreen. The COOLA sunscreen for men is an organic water mist spray that is plant-derived and offers broad spectrum SPF 18 UVA/UVB protection to help reduce the effects of HEV blue light, infrared light, and pollution. This mist is both hydrating and refreshing with an organic coconut and aloe water formula. It’s environmentally friendly, vegan, cruelty-free, and alcohol-free, and enhanced with antioxidants.
This dermatologist-tested sunscreen for men also features BlueScreen digital de-stress technology to provide superior protection from the sun. It is so easy to use -- simply close your eyes, hold the spray 6-10 inches from your face, and mist away. With this light water mist, it will hardly feel like you’re wearing sunscreen! I like that about this product, as some sunscreens can tend to get a little messy.
ISDIN Sunscreen for Men
Pros
- Lightweight and gentle on the skin
- Ideal for the face and under makeup
- Won't leave a white cast
- Water-resistant and won't clog pores
Cons
- Some users may not like the fragrance
With SPF 50+ protection, ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica sunscreen offers protection from the sun’s harmful rays with the effect of luxury skincare. This product won’t leave a white cast on your skin and can be used under makeup. It’s also suitable for sensitive skin while protecting against sun-induced damage with its unique formula of zinc oxide, photolyase, and Vitamin E. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly into the skin and is resistant to water and clogged pores.
This 100% mineral sunscreen for men is non-greasy and easy to apply. Simply place about two finger-lengths of product on your skin for at least 15 minutes before stepping out into the sunlight. Reapplying 40 minutes after sweating or swimming, right after towel drying off, or every 2 hours is recommended for the best results. After reading customer reviews, our team discovered that this sunscreen is favored for its gentle application, high SPF, and water resistance.
Oars + Alps Sunscreen for Men
Pros
- Protects from moisture for up to 80 minutes
- Gentle on skin and the environment
- Has an enjoyable scent
- Not greasy or oily
Cons
- Nozzle clogs on occasion
Our next sunscreen for men comes in yet another spray form, and I find the design of the can very appealing. Aesthetics aside, the Oars + Alps Hydrating SPF Sunscreen Spray is designed to keep your skin healthy and protected from harmful UV radiation. It is infused with the refreshing scent of coconut water, bamboo, and amber and contains Vitamin C and antioxidants for ultimate sun damage protection. It contains less alcohol and is less drying than traditional sunscreen sprays and won't leave behind a greasy or oily feel on your skin.
This sunscreen for men is not only gentle on the skin but also on the environment. The spray can is non-aerosol and recyclable, so you can enjoy extra protection without creating extra waste. The sunscreen is also vegan and cruelty-free and contains no harmful chemicals such as sulfates, parabens, and oxybenzone. Its water and sweat-resistant formula lasts for up to 80 minutes and combined with ingredients like olive leaf extract and Alpine caribou moss, this product effectively nourishes, moisturizes, and hydrates the skin while providing 50 SPF protection.
Brickell Sunscreen for Men
Pros
- Has all-natural ingredients
- Hydrates, protects, and moisturizes skin
- Designed for men of all skin types
- Lightweight and not greasy
Cons
- The scent may not appeal to some users
The last selection on our list specifies that it is designed for men, and I have noticed that not a lot of sunscreens have this detail. That is because Brickell is known for its natural and organic skincare products just for men, and the Brickell Men's Element Defense Sunscreen is no exception. This ultimate SPF 45 sunscreen for men is a light, non-greasy formula that not only shields your skin from UVA/UVB rays but also deeply hydrates and moisturizes.
Created with all-natural ingredients, this sunscreen effortlessly blends into your skin, leaving no white residue or clogged pores. Whether you're hitting the beach, engaging in sports, or simply enjoying the outdoors, this product is your go-to sun protector. It is suitable for men of any age and skin type, including normal, oily, sensitive, dry, or combination skin. The power lies in its sunflower oil for skin replenishment, green tea antioxidants for anti-aging benefits, and Vitamin E to combat free radicals.
People Also Ask
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Q: What type of sunscreen should I use for my skin type?
A:Consider your skin type (dry, oily, sensitive) and the product’s SPF when choosing a sunscreen. For people with sensitive skin, try a hypoallergenic sunscreen. Those with normal or oily skin may prefer an oil-free, non-comedogenic product. For extreme sun exposure, a broad spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF is best.
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Q: How much sunscreen should I apply?
A:For optimal protection, you should apply at least one ounce of sunscreen and reapply every two hours or after swimming or heavy sweating.
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Q: Are there any special precautions I should take when using sunscreen?
A:Yes. You should avoid contact with eyes and do not use sunscreen on broken or damaged skin. Also, be sure to wear protective clothing (long sleeves and pants) when possible.
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Q: Are there any natural alternatives to conventional sunscreen products?
A:Yes, there are natural alternatives to conventional sunscreen products, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide-based sunscreens, which create a physical barrier against UV rays. Additionally, certain oils like coconut oil, raspberry seed oil, and carrot seed oil offer some degree of sun protection, although they may not provide as high an SPF as conventional sunscreens.
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Q: What are the benefits of using sunscreen specifically for men?
A:Using sunscreen specifically designed for men ensures tailored skincare benefits, such as addressing unique skin concerns like oiliness or sensitivity, while offering effective sun protection to prevent premature aging and skin damage. Additionally, formulations may cater to men's preferences, like lightweight textures and subtle scents.
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Q: Can women use sunscreen for men?
A:Yes, women can use sunscreen designed for men without any issue. Sunscreen formulations typically focus on providing broad-spectrum protection and skincare benefits, which are beneficial for all genders, regardless of marketing targeting.
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