8 Best Water-based Sunscreen for Face 2023

The main aim of using sunscreen is to protect your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Sunscreen acts as a barrier that absorbs or reflects the UV rays, preventing them from penetrating your skin.

Moreover, sunscreen is one of the most crucial things you can do to prevent the early signs of aging. Sun damage can cause of wrinkles, age spots, and other signs of aging.  Regular application of sunscreen and limiting excessive sun exposure can help prevent this damage.  

Using a water-based sunscreen for the face offers several benefits that make it a great option for sun protection and skincare. Here are some key advantages:
  • Lightweight and Non-Greasy: Water-based sunscreens are often lighter in texture and absorb more quickly into the skin. They are lighter and less greasy than oil-based sunscreens, making application more comfortable and enjoyable.
  • Suitable for All Skin Types: Water-based sunscreens are frequently designed to be non-comedogenic, which means they are less likely to clog pores. As a result, they are appropriate for a wide range of skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
  • Hydration Boost: Many water-based sunscreens contain hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which aid in the maintenance of the skin's moisture balance. This is especially beneficial for people who have dry or dehydrated skin.
  • Less Likelihood of Irritation: Water-based sunscreens are generally well-tolerated by people with sensitive skin. They are less likely to irritate or worsen pre-existing skin conditions.
  • Resistant to Sweat and Water: Many water-based sunscreens are formulated to be water-resistant, which means they provide protection even when you're sweating or swimming. However, you will still need to reapply sunscreen every two hours (especially after swimming or sweating).


Best Water-based Sunscreen for Face

1. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Body & Face Sunscreen SPF 60

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Body & Face Sunscreen SPF 60

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Multi-award winning sunscreen with advanced protection in a fast-absorbing, velvety texture that leaves skin hydrated and smooth. Our most popular, best sunscreen, for face and body is formulated with Cell-Ox Shield® technology: broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with antioxidants.

Benefits
- Octinoxate- & Oxybenzone-free sunscreen provides broad spectrum SPF 60 protection
- Face and body sunscreen in a non-greasy, fast-absorbing texture leaves skin hydrated and smooth with a velvety texture
- A powerful antioxidant complex to help protect skin from free radicals caused by UV rays
- Water resistant (80 minutes)
- Formulated and rigorously tested for skin tolerance, even on sensitive skin

Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 - more than 8,300 global ratings

The best sunscreen. Goes on smooth, streak-free, lasts a long time in water, no smell. My daughter loves it. She doesn’t have to go out looking like a ghost (white face )



2. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Sunscreen

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Sunscreen

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Neutrogena® Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 delivers superior broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection and hydration with a water-light, refreshing feel. This water-resistant sunscreen lotion with SPF 50 leaves skin looking healthy and moisturized for up to eight hours without any greasy residue or white marks. The non-greasy sunscreen has a light, clean feel and layers invisibly under makeup. Neutrogena® Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 is oil-free and non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog pores.

- Broad spectrum SPF 50 sun protection
- Hydrates skin for 8 hours
- Non-greasy and oil-free sunscreen

Ratings: 4.4 out of 5 - more than 2,070 global ratings

I have had three basal or squamous cell carcinomas removed from my face. My dermatologist had me use a "chemo cream" on my face to eradicate damaged cells. That left my face raw and sensitive even after the effects of the cream had healed. She said I needed to use a 50 SPF sunscreen every day of the week to protect my skin from further damage. This was one of three brands she recommended. After using her samples, I decided to stick with this brand full time. I am very pleased with the results.



3. CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

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100% Mineral-based sunscreen, also known as a physical sunscreen, reflects UVA/UVB rays to help protect the skin. Developed with dermatologists by CeraVe Skincare. 

Oxybenzone free, avobenzone free, and benzene free, this sunscreen contains physical filters Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. Formula is also oil free, fragrance free, noncomedogenic, and suitable for sensitive skin. Recommended by both the Skin Cancer Foundation and National Eczema Association as an effective, broad spectrum sunscreen.

How to Use
Physical sunscreens can often leave a white cast when applied in thick layers. For best results, apply CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen evenly to the entire face and neck in thin layers and thoroughly massage into skin. Suitable for use under foundation and face makeup.

Ratings: 3.9 out of 5 - more than 16,600 global ratings

I have VERY sensitive, reactive skin with ivory complexion and this sunscreen calms my skin and keeps it hydrated all day on my body and under makeup on my face. I’m so happy I have found another mineral sunscreen My face can tolerate!



4. Cetaphil Sheer 100% Mineral Liquid Sunscreen for Face SPF 50

Cetaphil Sheer 100% Mineral Liquid Sunscreen for Face SPF 50

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CETAPHIL Sheer Mineral Face Liquid Sunscreen is an ultra lightweight, 100% mineral sunscreen designed for daily use on the face. Broad spectrum SPF 50 reflects both UVA and UVB rays to help prevent sunburn and decrease the risk of skin cancer and early signs of aging due to sun exposure. 

This sunscreen is hypoallergenic, fragrance free and paraben free, and designed to be gentle on even the most sensitive skin. 

How to Use
Mineral sunscreens can often leave a white cast when applied as they contain titanium dioxide and zinc oxide which work to prevent sun damage by staying on the skin's surface. For best results, we recommend applying in thin layers and thoroughly massage into skin until it is fully absorbed (repeat as needed). 

Tip: Try priming skin with a light layer of your favorite moisturizing lotion and let is absorb before applying sunscreen.

Ratings: 4.5 out of 5 - more than 3,300 global ratings

This is the ONLY sunscreen that I have found that does not leave my kid's face all white. It is so very light which makes it very easy to apply, no more glue-like sunscreens. This is also the only sunscreen that my 3-year-old with extremely sensitive skin tolerates, it does not give him a rash, which is amazing. Although it says face, I use it for my kid's face and arms. The little bottle lasts a long time. I would 1000% recommend this product.



5. Alba Botanica Sheer Mineral Face Sunscreen SPF 50

Alba Botanica Sheer Mineral Face Sunscreen SPF 50

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Help prevent sun damage and premature signs of aging with Alba Botanica SPF 50 Sheer Mineral Face Lotion. This fragrance-free face moisturizer with SPF provides up to 80 minutes of water resistance for broad-spectrum protection that helps shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Featuring a blend of ingredients like niacinamide, squalane, and vitamin E, Alba Botanica's cruelty-free, mineral-based formula dries quickly without feeling heavy or sticky.

Ratings: 4.3 out of 5 - more than 3,800 global ratings

This sunscreen is great even for those with melanin. It doesn’t leave a white cast. It leaves my skin super moisturized and glowy, but not oily.



6. Babo Botanicals Baby Face Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 

Babo Botanicals Baby Face Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

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Gentle baby sunscreen stick you can trust! The Sensitive Baby Mineral Sunscreen Stick is essential in protecting your little one’s delicate skin from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. This convenient baby sunscreen stick is water resistant and created with natural origin mineral zinc oxide for effective broad spectrum SPF50 protection for face & body. 

Made with 17 plant-based ingredients including nourishing shea butter. This SPF formula is one of the first-ever sunscreens to be EWG Verified™ to ensure the highest level of safety and quality. You can feel good using this fragrance-free baby sunscreen stick on your little one.

Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 - more than 900 global ratings

We love this face stick! My kids are very fair skinned and require frequent and consistent sunscreen use in the summer. This is by far our favorite stick. We’ve tried Think Baby and Blue Lizard too. Both of those also work, however, this one rubs in much easier (much to my children’s delight) and doesn’t leave much of a white cast! It’s definitely a favorite in our house. My daughter is also very sensitive with moderate eczema and this does not cause her to have any skin issues at all.



7. Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Stick 

Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Stick

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Our natural, easy roll-on zinc-based Mineral face stick sits on top of your skin to block sun, leaving a matte finish with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 protection from UVA/UVB rays. It is lightweight and silky, this Sun Bum collection is sure to leave your skin feeling clean, natural and protected!

How to Use
Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating and every 2 hours. Sonny’s Tip: A white tint is normal, as this rad screen sits on top of your skin as opposed to absorbing into your skin!

Ratings: 4.4 out of 5 - more than 2,760 global ratings

One week at the beach and never burned! Works great! But I expected it to be the size of a regular size deodorant container, and it was half the size of a deck of cards. A little pricey, but well worth it!



8. Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen

Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen

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Thinksport sunscreen provides effective sun protection for athletes, sports and active use. The broad spectrum UVA & UVB sun cream is suitable for daily use on even sensitive skin, offering gentle defense against the sun’s rays. It is easy to apply, give protection from the sun begins instantly. The fast absorbing SPF 50+ sun lotion won’t leave your skin feeling oily or sticky, and has no unpleasant chemical scent.

Moreover, this sunscreen is passed Whole Foods Premium Care requirements, Thinksport vegan, Leaping Bunny certified sun creams contain no PABA, parabens, phthalates, BPA, oxybenzone, avobenzone, petroleum, gluten, dairy, or toxic chemicals.

Ratings: 4.4 out of 5 - more than 2,600 global ratings

This sunscreen really works to prevent sun burning, thick enough that it stays on! Spent 8 hrs fishing on the ocean and I did not burn !!!



FAQs

a. What Does SPF Mean in Sunscreen?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It shows how effectively sunscreen shields your skin from UVB rays. Higher SPF values offer greater protection.

b. How Often Should I Apply Sunscreen to My Face?

In general, sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, particularly after swimming or sweating. You might not need a second application if you work inside and are seated away from windows. But be careful how often you go outside. Just to be safe, keep a spare bottle of sunscreen at your desk.

c. Can Sensitive Skin Use Sunscreen?

Yes, there are sunscreens formulated specifically for sensitive skin. Look for products labeled as "hypoallergenic" or "dermatologist-tested."


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