Wearing sunscreen daily is non-negotiable for preventing sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging—but when you’re layering it under foundation, concealer, or powder, it needs to be invisible, lightweight, and makeup-friendly. No one wants pilling, greasiness, or a white cast ruining their glowy base. In 2025, sunscreen innovation has hit new heights with primer-like textures, blurring effects, and reef-safe formulas that double as skincare.
In this expert-curated guide, we’ll break down the top 12 sunscreens that excel under makeup, based on dermatologist recommendations, editor tests, and real-user reviews from sources like Glamour, WWD, and Wirecutter. Whether you have oily, dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin, these picks ensure broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection (SPF 30+) without compromising your makeup look. Plus, all are widely available in the USA via Sephora, Ulta, Amazon, or brand sites.
Why Choose a Sunscreen Specifically for Under Makeup?
Traditional sunscreens can feel heavy, disrupt your base, or cause breakouts. Makeup-compatible formulas prioritize:
- Lightweight textures: Gels, serums, or primers that absorb in seconds.
- No white cast: Clear or tinted options that blend seamlessly across skin tones.
- Pilling prevention: Silicone-free or hybrid bases that layer smoothly.
- Added benefits: Hydration, pore-blurring, or antioxidants for all-day wear.
Dermatologists like Dr. Annabelle Garcia emphasize gels and lotions over creams for faster absorption and less residue. In 2025, with rising UV index trends, broad-spectrum SPF 50 is ideal for urban dwellers and makeup lovers alike.
Identify Your Skin Type for the Perfect Match
Tailor your choice to avoid irritation or shine:
- Oily/Acne-Prone: Matte, non-comedogenic gels (e.g., with niacinamide).
- Dry/Dehydrated: Hydrating serums with hyaluronic acid.
- Sensitive: Mineral-based, fragrance-free options.
- Combination: Blurring hybrids for T-zone control.
- All Tones: Test for inclusivity—many now offer tints in 10+ shades.
Top 12 Best Sunscreens Under Makeup in the USA for 2025
We’ve selected these based on 2025 editor awards (e.g., WWD’s SPF Awards testing 150+ formulas), user ratings (4.5+ stars on Ulta/Sephora), and no-pill performance under liquid, cream, and powder makeup. Prices are approximate (USD) as of November 2025.
1. Vacation Inc. Crystal Gel SPF 50 (Best Overall)
- Why It Wins: Nongreasy gel texture absorbs instantly, leaving a dewy base that grips makeup—no pilling, even under full glam. Fragrance-free and water-resistant.
- Best For: All skin types; versatile for reapplication.
- Key Ingredients: Chemical filters (avobenzone, octocrylene); aloe for soothing.
- Price: $36 | Where to Buy: Sephora, Vacation website.
- Tester Note: “It’s like a primer with SPF—foundation glides on flawlessly.”
2. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50 (Best Primer-Like)
- Why It Wins: Clear gel doubles as a makeup primer, blurring pores with a matte finish. Reapplies invisibly over makeup without greasiness.
- Best For: Oily/combination; urban blue-light protection.
- Key Ingredients: Chemical (homosalate, octisalate); dimethicone for smooth canvas.
- Price: $38 | Where to Buy: Ulta, Sephora.
- Tester Note: “Stays put all day under foundation—my go-to for office looks.”
3. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 (Best for Sensitive Skin)
- Why It Wins: Lightweight mineral-chemical hybrid with niacinamide to calm redness; no white cast and non-irritating under makeup.
- Best For: Acne-prone/sensitive; dermatologist staple.
- Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide (9.5%), octinoxate; hyaluronic acid for hydration.
- Price: $43 | Where to Buy: Amazon, Dermstore.
- Tester Note: “Absorbs like a dream—my concealer doesn’t budge.”
4. Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day Ultra-Sheer Priming Sunscreen Stick SPF 40 (Best Stick for Touch-Ups)
- Why It Wins: Portable stick with matte blur; primes pores without oiliness. Glides under or over makeup seamlessly.
- Best For: Oily skin; on-the-go reapplication.
- Key Ingredients: Chemical (homosalate, octocrylene); peptides for smoothing.
- Price: $32 | Where to Buy: Sephora.
- Tester Note: “Velvety finish—perfect for oily T-zones under powder.”
5. Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+ (Best for Acne-Prone)
- Why It Wins: Clear, non-comedogenic stick with quick-dry formula; no residue under foundation.
- Best For: Oily/acne-prone; travel-friendly.
- Key Ingredients: Chemical (avobenzone, octisalate); wet-force technology for sweat resistance.
- Price: $28 | Where to Buy: Ulta, Shiseido site.
- Tester Note: “Rave reviews across testers—no breakouts, all-day wear.”
6. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Ultra-Light SPF 50 (Best Mineral Option)
- Why It Wins: Fluid texture with antioxidants; mattifies without dryness, ideal under makeup for reactive skin.
- Best For: Sensitive/dry; eco-conscious (reef-safe).
- Key Ingredients: Titanium dioxide (6%), zinc oxide (5%); thermal spring water.
- Price: $37 | Where to Buy: Amazon, Target.
- Tester Note: “Subtle mattifying—prevents shine under blush.”
7. SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF 50+ PA++++ (Best Korean Import)
- Why It Wins: Serum-like with centella for soothing; dewy glow without greasiness. Viral on Reddit for no-pill layering.
- Best For: All types; redness-prone.
- Key Ingredients: Chemical (Uvinul A Plus); hyaluronic acid, centella.
- Price: $20 | Where to Buy: YesStyle, Amazon.
- Tester Note: “Glowing but not greasy—best under minimal makeup.” (User review)
8. Augustinus Bader The Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 (Best Splurge)
- Why It Wins: Luxe cream-serum hybrid with TFC8 tech for repair; buttery texture absorbs to a glowy base.
- Best For: Dry/mature; anti-aging boost.
- Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide (22.5%); peptides, amino acids.
- Price: $95 | Where to Buy: Sephora, Augustinus Bader site.
- Tester Note: “Feels like moisturizer—hydrates under highlighter.”
9. Tower 28 SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen (Best Tinted)
- Why It Wins: Sheer tint in 14 shades evens tone; lightweight foundation alternative that layers like a dream.
- Best For: Fair to deep tones; no-makeup days.
- Key Ingredients: Non-nano zinc oxide (16%); aloe, green tea.
- Price: $32 | Where to Buy: Sephora.
- Tester Note: “Velvety coverage—fades spots without heaviness.”
10. The Inkey List Polyglutamic Acid Dewy Sunscreen SPF 30 (Best Budget)
- Why It Wins: Hydrating yet lightweight; plumps skin for smooth makeup application.
- Best For: Dry/sensitive; everyday value.
- Key Ingredients: Chemical (avobenzone); polyglutamic acid, squalane.
- Price: $15 | Where to Buy: Sephora, Ulta.
- Tester Note: “Soft and hydrated—great under cream blush.”
11. Nyx Professional Makeup Blur Screen Primer SPF 30 (Best Drugstore)
- Why It Wins: Affordable blurring primer with SPF; matte-finish grip for long-wear makeup.
- Best For: Oily/budget-conscious.
- Key Ingredients: Chemical (octinoxate); dimethicone crosspolymer.
- Price: $15 | Where to Buy: Target, Ulta.
- Tester Note: “Blurs like a pro—foundation lasts 8+ hours.”
12. CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 (Best for Eczema/Ultra-Sensitive)
- Why It Wins: Fragrance-free with ceramides; creamy but non-greasy for barrier support under makeup.
- Best For: Eczema-prone; gentle daily use.
- Key Ingredients: Titanium dioxide (5.5%), zinc oxide (9%); niacinamide.
- Price: $15 | Where to Buy: Walmart, Amazon.
- Tester Note: “Seals in moisture—no sting in eyes during application.”
How to Apply Sunscreen Under Makeup for Optimal Results
- Prep Skin: Cleanse, tone, and moisturize. Wait 1–2 minutes for absorption.
- Apply Generously: Use 1/4 teaspoon (2 finger-lengths) on face/neck. Pat, don’t rub.
- Layer Smartly: Let dry 1 minute before primer/foundation. For reapplication, use a mist or powder SPF.
- Avoid Pilling: Use compatible textures (e.g., gel over lotion). Patch-test new combos.
Pro Tip: Reapply every 2 hours—opt for sticks or mists over makeup.
Budget vs. Splurge: Quick Comparison Table
| Category | Budget Pick (<$20) | Splurge Pick (>$50) | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | The Inkey List Dewy SPF 30 ($15) | Augustinus Bader Mineral SPF 50 ($95) | Hydration vs. luxury repair |
| Oily Skin | Nyx Blur Screen SPF 30 ($15) | Dr. Jart+ Priming Stick SPF 40 ($32) | Matte blur vs. portable priming |
| Sensitive | CeraVe Hydrating SPF 30 ($15) | EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 ($43) | Basic barrier vs. niacinamide calm |
| Tinted | Tower 28 SunnyDays SPF 30 ($32) | Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Tint ($18) | Sheer coverage vs. dewy glow |
Common Mistakes to Avoid for Seamless Wear
❌ Over-Applying Moisturizer: Leads to pilling—use a lightweight one. ❌ Skipping Reapplication: UV peaks midday; use SPF powder for touch-ups. ❌ Rubbing In: Pat for even spread. ❌ Ignoring Expiration: Check dates—efficacy drops after 3 years. ❌ White Cast Traps: Opt for micronized minerals or chemical filters.
Final Thoughts: Protect and Perfect Your Base in 2025
The best sunscreens under makeup aren’t just protective—they enhance your routine, from blurring pores to boosting radiance. Start with Vacation or Supergoop! for foolproof layering, and remember: Consistency beats perfection. With these USA-available gems, you’ll slay sun safety without sacrificing your selfie game.
Which skin type are you, and what’s your current SPF struggle? Share in the comments for personalized recs! ☀️💄