8 Best Sunscreen For Men With Different SPF Options

Updated Date: by Reet Patel

Never skip sunscreen just the way the sun never skips rising.

Gone are the days of hats and umbrellas on the head to protect your facial skin from prickly heat.  Now is the time to spend a few minutes in the morning and guard your face with the best sunscreen for men.  And not only in the summer but all the seasons, indoors, and outdoors, while exercising, swimming, and on the fly.

Failing to apply sunscreen can expose your skin to harmful ultraviolet rays, leading to skin aging and skin cancer.  According to the American Academy of Dermatology, around 9500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer every day in the U.S.  UVA, UVB, and blue light (emitted by digital screens) are some harsh rays to avoid penetrating the skin.

In A Hurry? Here Are The Top Sunscreens:

To be honest, it is difficult to find a suitable sunscreen as it has got several factors to meet.  But don’t worry, we have prepared a list of super-effective sunscreen that meets all the expectations.  To achieve optimal performance, we have also added some dos and don’ts of sunscreen.

So let’s get protected.

Quick Comparison of the Best Sunscreens for Men

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Oars + Alps Go Stick Clear SPF 35 Face Sunscreen

Oars + Alps Go Stick Clear SPF 35 Face Sunscreen

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Geologie Broad-Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF30 Moisturizer

Geologie Broad-Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF30 Moisturizer

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Hawthorne Everyday Mineral Face Sunscreen

Hawthorne Everyday Mineral Face Sunscreen

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Paula's Choice Wrinkle Defense SPF 30 Face Moisturizer

Paula’s Choice Wrinkle Defense SPF 30 Face Moisturizer

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Nivea Men Protective Face Lotion with SPF 15

Nivea Men Protective Face Lotion with SPF 15

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Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen SPF 70+

Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen SPF 70+

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Jack Black, Oil-Free Sun Guard SPF 45 Sunscreen

Jack Black, Oil-Free Sun Guard SPF 45 Sunscreen

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CeraVe 100% mineral sunscreen SPF 50

CeraVe 100% mineral sunscreen SPF 50

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Oars And Alps Go Stick Clear Sunscreen

Oars + Alps is one of the premium skincare brands that we take pride in using, reviewing, and recommending.  One of the products from its product line is the Go Stick Clear Sunscreen.

The broad-spectrum SPF 35, 1.7 fluid ounce bottle contains all-natural ingredients (not even UV-blocking chemicals) that offer maximum protection against harmful UV rays.  To name a few active ingredients and their benefits are as follows:

  • Jojoba Oil: Seals moisture into your skin
  • Sunflower Oil: Replenish your skin’s physical barrier
  • Alpine Caribou Moss: Reduce redness, antioxidants-rich, and boost skin elasticity
  • Safflower Seed Oil: Moisturizes your skin and makes it smooth
  • Vitamin E: Fights free radicals & reduce inflammation

The best thing about this all-natural sunscreen moisturizer is it comes in a roll-on-based bottle.  Glide it across your face, ears, neck, and any part of your body without requiring it to massage using your hands.  Also, don’t worry about the product leaving a white residue, which many perfumes or colognes do.  You might get tempted and overuse it.  And since the bottle isn’t transparent, the quantity is next to impossible to measure.

Men with sensitive skin would be happy to use this Go Clear Sunscreen stick since it is fragrance-free and does not contain chemicals like parabens, gluten, glycol, and phthalates.  The formula remains gentle on the skin and lasts for about 80 minutes despite sweating or swimming.  However, you must apply immediately after swimming or sweating.

Along with sensitive skin, it also works exceptionally well on freshly shaven and other skin types.  The best thing is the product doesn’t come in a squeeze tube or liquid-based texture, so no chance of spilling or staining your duffle or gym bag.  Another benefit the sunscreen brings to the table is you can carry it wherever you go.

Even if the sunscreen demands more price, it is worth it, but the stick-based sun protector comes at an average price.

Pros
  • Easy to apply
  • Non-greasy sunscreen
  • Quickly absorbed
  • No chemicals
  • Sweat-protection for long periods
  • Travel-friendly & lightweight texture
Cons
  • Pricey
  • Quantity left isn’t measurable

Verdict

In our opinion, we have seen no product like this before that delivers ample benefits to your skin.

Geologie SPF 30 Unisex Face Sunscreen

Geologie moisturizer comes with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 for men – a minimum requirement for UV protection.  Another benefit this face sunscreen brings to the table is its versatility, which means all men and women can use it.

The dense cream-based texture contains physical and mineral sunscreen.  Unlike chemical-based sunscreen, this one contains zinc oxide that quickly absorbs UV rays and protects your skin.

Moreover, the SPF moisturizer has Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid that delivers anti-aging and moisturizing benefits, respectively.  Also, the face sunscreen remains unaffected under sweat or water for a maximum of 40 minutes.  Stay nourished, stay young.

What else we like about this face sunscreen is it doesn’t contain oil and fragrance.  And since there is no presence of oils, it works great on delicate skin and offers a mattified look.  All this is not an overnight task; even Rome took years to build.  

Pros
  • Travel-friendly
  • No fine lines and wrinkles
  • No harmful ingredients
Cons
  • Expensive for some

Verdict

If you are looking for a specific skincare product that caters to your sensitive skin and protects from the sun’s heat, Geologie sunscreen is for you.

Hawthorne Everyday Mineral Face Sunscreen

Hawthorne Everyday Mineral Face Sunscreen

USP: Maximum protection against sun’s UVB rays

Hawthorne designs products for all the whole-day skincare routines.  One such product from Hawthorne’s product line is Mineral sunscreen.

Unlike other SPF moisturizers on the list, this one contains one extra ingredient to keep your skin protected from the sun’s heat.  It means, along with zinc oxide (found usually in all SPF face moisturizers), this face sunscreen has Titanium Dioxide.

Both protecting ingredients contain broad-spectrum SPF 30, which ensures 97% protection from the sun’s rays.

Step out without worrying too much about scorching or prickly heat.

Besides, there is the inclusion of:

  • Green Tea: Fights free radicals & Antioxidant benefits
  • Coconut Alkanes: Natural moisturizer

Both ingredients make the skin smooth and offer a mattified look.  Besides, the restrictions on parabens, phthalates, silicone, and sulphate make non-greasy formulas compatible with all skin types.

Along with UV light, Hawthorne’s face sunscreen also protects your skin from HEV rays given off by digital screens.  Consider applying it every 2 hours to protect from harmful rays.  It will take 15 minutes to start showing its effect.

Though the product comes in a squeeze tube, you won’t struggle a lot in dispensing the cream, unlike pump-based bottles.  Besides, you can also carry it wherever you want without worrying about transport security administration (TSA).

Pros
  • Hides signs of aging
  • Travel-friendly
  • Affordable product
  • Controls shine
Cons
  • No major cons

Verdict

In our opinion, it is the best moisturizer with sunscreen SPF to kick start your skin hydrating journey.  You can even start in your middle age to gain the anti-aging benefits.

Paula’s Choice Moisturizer with SPF 30

Paula’s Choice sunscreen SPF for men is a skincare brand that sells its products after achieving satisfactory in-house results.  One such product you can use in your daily routine is PC4MEN Broad-Spectrum SPF 30.

Along with providing SPF protection, it even manages to hide fine lines and wrinkles.  You get two benefits from a single 2-fluid-ounce squeeze tube.  All thanks to vital ingredients:

  • Green Tea: Antioxidants-rich & protects against sun rays
  • Aloe: Deep hydration
  • Argan Oil: Manages uneven skin tone, fades sun spots, and improves radiance
  • Vitamin E: Skin-aging benefits
  • Oatmeal: Slough away impurities
  • Ginkgo Leaf: Prevents external pollutants 
  • Willow Bark Extract: Soothes skin & reduces redness

Since the ingredients don’t contain oils, they won’t make the skin look oily.  Besides, the broad-spectrum sunscreen protects you from UVA and UVB rays, which makes skin healthy.  Thanks to the inclusion of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.  Unlike other sunscreens, this one is lightweight, and even after applying, you won’t feel it.  It controls shine and offers a matte finish look.  

No matter what season you are travelling in or whether you are indoors or outdoors, it is important to wear sunscreen.  Also, the cream-based texture works well on every skin type, which makes it one of the versatile sunscreens after Oars + Alps Go Stick Clear Sunscreen.

Pros
  • Irritation-free formula
  • No chemicals or synthetic ingredients
  • Protects your skin from rays
  • No greasy residue
  • Super effective sunscreen
Cons
  • Some users complain about unpleasant smell

Verdict

In our opinion, men with sensitive and oily skin can really enjoy this sunscreen as it remains gentle and oil-free.

Nivea Men Protective Face Lotion with SPF 15

Nivea is a popular skincare brand that has millions of users across the globe.  It has been serving the industry for many years, which is one of the reasons for its popularity.  One such product from Nivea’s product line is hydration protective face lotion with SPF 15.

The pack of 4 squeeze tubes comes at quite an economical rate.  The two key ingredients that play a crucial role are Pro-vitamin B5 and Aloe Vera.  The combination of ingredients delivers ample moisture and nourishment to the skin, which is why it is known to be the best for mitigating dryness

The broad-spectrum SPF 15 protects your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.  The SPF 15 blocks 93% blue light, which is another advantage this Nivea face lotion offers to its users.

Moreover, the ingredients won’t clog pores, which means no chance of acne outbreaks.  Also, the formula is weightless and does not leave a white cast on the skin.  You don’t need to struggle to absorb the sunscreen into the skin.

Make sure you apply it 15 minutes before you step out of the house and re-apply it every 2 hours.  You can carry the squeeze tube anywhere across the globe as it is travel-friendly.

Pros
  • Thoroughly moisturizes your skin
  • Hypoallergenic face lotion
  • Protects skin from UVA and UVB rays
  • No greasy shine
Cons
  • No major cons

Verdict

As discussed, it is one of the best sunscreen moisturizers to fight against dryness since it has got moisturizing ingredients that keep your skin nourished throughout the day.

Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen SPF 70+

Neutrogena is one of the most popular skincare brands in the world that has millions of users globally.  The sport face broad-spectrum sunscreen is specifically for tough guys who exercise and emit a lot of sweat.

The sweat-resistant broad-spectrum SPF 70 is the only one on the list with a high SPF.  However, no matter what SPF levels you wear, you still need to re-apply every 2-hours.  Also, no SPF is going to offer 100% protection.

Nevertheless, you are still better off wearing sunscreen when stepping out of your house.  The Helioplex technology ensures super effective, broad-spectrum protection against UV radiation.

The 2.5-fluid ounces squeeze tube contains a blend of natural ingredients and chemical sunscreen to let you freely walk or sit on the beach or pump up your muscles at the gym.  The thick-cream-based texture is water-resistant, which means even if you sweat or go out on rainy days, this cream will not drip off.

Since it is oil-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic, it is best for both oily and acne-prone skin types.  Neither will it make your skin sticky and oily nor cause acne.

Pros
  • Travel-friendly
  • Irritation-free formula
  • Budget-friendly
  • No dripping off after heavy exercise
  • Dermatologist-recommended
  • No acne outbreaks
Cons
  • Not ideal for sensitive skin

Verdict

A sunscreen that protects your skin from harsh rays and leaves a natural look, even after hours of application, is worth your investment.

Jack Black Sunscreen

Jack Black is another premium skincare brand that makes sure it remains close to its customer’s hearts.  The company offers every essential skincare product that helps either in the AM or PM.

One such product for the AM routine is Sun Guard SPF 45 Sunscreen.  The formula quickly absorbs into the skin without leaving any greasy residue.  It means it won’t let the dirt and dust stick to the skin.

Unlike other sunscreens on the list, this one with broad-spectrum SPF 45 takes time to show its effect, which is why you must apply it before 30 minutes of going out.  Also, you must re-apply it every 80 minutes to maintain the SPF protection level.  That’s the same time the sunscreen protects from water or sweat.

Walk out or dive in freely without worrying about dripping off or losing the sunscreen effect.

Though the product contains physical and chemical sunscreen (zinc oxide, octinoxate, octisalate), it remains irritation-free and gentle on the skin.  Plus, the 1.5 squeeze tube is free from parabens and alcohol.  Isn’t it good for sensitive skin?  The tube is also available in 4 fluid ounces, but you won’t be able to carry it on the fly.

The opaque white texture of SPF 45 sunscreen contains Vitamin C and calendula flower extract to fight free radicals causing harm to your skin and pamper irritated skin, respectively.

Pros
  • No white cast
  • Protects your skin from UV radiation
  • Pleasant fragrance
  • Keeps skin clog-free
Cons
  • Contains Chemicals

Verdict

Men with any skin type can use this oil-free sunscreen to protect against ultraviolet radiation and make their skin smooth and soft.  In our opinion, it is the best sunscreen for men’s faces.

CeraVe SPF 50 Sunscreen

CeraVe 100% mineral sunscreen SPF 50

USP: Mineral-based sunscreen with hydration

CeraVe is a skincare brand recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation and the national eczema association.  Its mineral-based SPF 50 sunscreen is developed under the supervision of dermatologists.

So what makes CeraVe sunblock for men unique from other sunscreens on the list?

Ability to Lock in Moisture

Your skin produces ceramides that maintain a natural glow and protective barrier, and when the skin fails to produce, your skin starts getting dry.  CeraVe SPF 50 sunscreen comes with three essential ceramides that maintain your skin barrier and deliver sufficient moisture.  Also, it flushes out impurities and pollutants from your skin’s surface, keeping it protected from all the environmental stressors.

Hyaluronic acid is another ingredient that provides ample moisture to the skin, leaving it nourished throughout the day.

Protection Against Ultraviolet Radiation

The broad-spectrum SPF 50 mineral sunscreen uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to block both UVA and UVB rays.  Since there are two sunscreen filters, the chances of sun damage decrease by almost 97 percent.  The mineral sunscreen does not contain oxybenzone, parabens, chemicals, and fragrance.  Also, the mineral sunscreen is non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, and irritation-free. All these help sensitive skin men use this effective sunblock on their face.

Lightweight & Non-greasy formula

Though the texture is thick and not transparent, the mineral sunscreen still is lightweight and surprisingly non-greasy.  Due to the product being weightless, you won’t feel anything on your face after application.  

Pros
  • Skin hydration and UVB protection
  • Two sunscreen filters
  • Lightweight & non-sticky texture
  • No bad chemicals
Cons
  • No major cons

Verdict

If you want hydration and sun protection at an affordable rate, CeraVe broad-spectrum SPF 50 is for you.  

Do’s & Don’ts for Sunscreen

Some best practices you must opt for and some common mistakes that you must avoid before and after applying sunscreen for men.

best sunscreen for men's face

Avoid Going Out in the Afternoon

Sunbathing is good if it’s between 8 AM and 5 PM, but it isn’t advisable to go out in between hours.  These are peak hours when the sun emits harmful rays.  It does not only cause premature aging but also can lead to skin cancer.

Do Make A Habit of Applying Sufficient Sunscreen

Sun rays are harmful, and sunscreen moisturizer is the only protector of your skin.  Many men apply less sunscreen than required, thinking it to be sufficient to protect against the sun’s rays.  However, it should not be the best practice, and you should apply 0.04 ounces of sunscreen to protect your skin.

Apply it Regularly

Many men think applying sunscreen once in the morning can protect you for the whole day, but the truth is you must apply it every two hours.  The maximum time a sunscreen lasts and protects your skin is two hours, after which the effects start fading away, and your skin becomes vulnerable to the sun’s heat.  We recommend applying immediately after swimming and sweating.  Also, you read the label for more information.

Don’t Miss Out on Broad-Spectrum Protection

UVA and UVB are two types of rays that the sun emits, which can cause premature aging, and in the worst case, even skin cancer.  Applying SPF moisturizer can combat UVB rays, and to some extent, UVA rays, but sunscreen moisturizer with “broad-spectrum” sunscreen protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays.

Do Apply it Indoors

If you think living indoors will not require applying sunscreen moisturizer, you are committing the biggest mistake.  Windows blocks UVB rays, but it fails when it comes to UVA rays.  Therefore, it is advisable to wear sunscreen even if you are indoors.

Use Water-Resistant Sunscreen

Sun and sweat are directly related to each and so is exercise.  Therefore, you must buy sunscreen that is water-proof so no matter you exercise, swim, or climb a mountain, you stay protected and moisturized till the time you are in the sun.  Even if you sweat, it doesn’t affect the performance of sunscreen moisturizer.

Wear Sunscreen Anytime, Anywhere

If you frequently travel abroad, you are at risk of UV rays.  That’s the main reason you must apply sunscreen on the fly, especially if you sit near the window.  

FAQs:

1. Which sunscreen is best for male?

In our opinion, all the broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF 30+ are the best for males. Since men tend to remain in the sun for the maximum time, it is important to focus on skincare and avoid sun tanning. Too much exposure to the sun can also lead to skin cancer.

2. Which are the top 5 sunscreens?

After thoroughly researching, we found Oars And Alps, Geologie, Hawthorne, Paula’s Choice, and Nivea Men to be the best skincare brands delivering qualitative products. The listed sunscreens contain SPF 30+ and are well at protecting your skin indoors or outdoors.

3. Which sunscreen is best for men with dry skin?

Nivea Men protective lotion SPF 15 combats dryness as it contains aloe vera and provitamin B5 that thoroughly nourishes the skin.

4. Can we apply sunscreen on the beard?

Though a beard protects around 90-95% of sun rays, which can penetrate your skin underneath, it still is advisable to apply sunscreen on the facial hair.

5. What is the best sunscreen for being outside all day?

Paula’s Choice Moisturizer with SPF 30 works amazingly well both indoors and outdoors. You need to apply it for at least 15-minutes before stepping out of the house.

Conclusion

Sunscreen is an essential part of the morning routine, and you shouldn’t skip it.  Along with sun protection, it even nourishes your skin.  Throughout the article, you have seen numerous times the word SPF; it’s nothing but the short form of sun protection factor.  And the SPF rating indicates how much your skin remains protected from the sun.

Let us know which one finds you well and how was your experience with the selected sunscreen.  Also, how much time it take to protect your skin and at what intervals do you reapply it?

reet patel

Reet Patel

As a college student, I understand the value of a polished appearance. My dedication to a well-groomed beard signifies the importance I place on self-presentation and consistency in my personal and professional life. My commitment to a well-maintained beard reflects my broader attention to detail. Whether in my studies or my appearance, I strive for precision and quality.

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Published Date: Mar 29, 2024

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