The good news: More brands are finally formulating options with darker complexions in mind in order to avoid this problem. Below are eight options that all passed our test by going on sheer, offering broad spectrum protection, and giving us a glow.
The best sheer sunscreens for every skin tone
Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
This sunscreen can be used both on the face and body and protects your skin from UVA and UVB rays. It doesn’t have that old-school sunscreen scent and goes on 100-percent sheer.
Shop now: Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30, $16
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Dermatologists love this sunscreen for all skin types and complexions and rightfully so! This cult-favorite is oil-free and great for people with sensitive skin and discoloration caused by acne and rosacea.
Shop now: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, $37
Glossier Invisible Shield Daily Sunscreen SPF 35
If you’re someone who doesn’t like sunscreen, this one will change your mind quickly. It’s a lightweight, water-gel formula that essentially feels like nothing when applied to the skin, plus, it’s makeup-friendly.
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Shop now: Glossier Invisible Shield Daily Sunscreen SPF 35, $25
EleVen by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35![EleVen by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35]()
If you’re someone who likes to wear makeup, this serum will work as a great base, helping your foundation go on smoothly and providing a semi-matte glow.
Shop now: EleVen by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35, $50
Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen![Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen]()
Give your skin the luxury it deserves with this two-in-one moisturizer and sunscreen. It promises “light-as-air hydration” while also reducing the appearance of pores. It’s a great option for those who like to wear makeup as it won’t pill or cause flashback (aka a white cast on your skin in photos).
Shop now: Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen, $35
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++
Here’s a great option no matter your skin concerns or complexion. We’re filing this one under “provides protection and feels and smells like nothing.”
Shop now: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++, $34
Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 PA+++
Finding a mineral sunscreen that doesn’t create a white cast can be tricky for darker complexions, but this one goes on completely sheer—we promise! Not to mention, it will hydrate, cool, and calm your skin due to the water lily and sugarcane-derived squalane.
Shop now: Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 PA+++, $30
Bea Skincare Solar Defence SPF 30![Bea Skincare Solar Defence SPF 50]()
If your skin concerns include discoloration, photo-aging, and hyperpigmentation, this sunscreen was made with you in mind. It’s so good that finding it in stock is almost impossible (but you can currently pre-order it).
Shop now: Bea Skincare Solar Defence SPF 30, $34
Dr. Barbara Sturm Sun Drops SPF 50
These sun drops are 100-percent worth the investment and your skin will thank you. It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid for hydration; green tea leaf extract to protect from free radicals; and a combination of cassia extract, vitamin E, and beta glucan to protect against premature aging and support the skin’s regeneration of damaged cells, which all means one thing: Your skin is going to be glowing.
Shop now: Dr. Barbara Sturm Sun Drops SPF 50, $145
Want to learn more about sun care for darker complexions? Check out this video:
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