Best Sunscreen for Men According to Skin Type

Do men require sunscreen? Yes, they do because UV rays can leave their skin wrinkled, burnt, and tanned. Over time, it damages elastin, making their skin saggy! The best sunscreen for men protects against this UV damage and supports their protective barrier. 

 

Unfortunately, too many people only focus on SPF while choosing a sunscreen. Your skin type needs equal attention but why? A sunscreen for oily skin can feel heavy/uncomfortable on dry skin. Likewise, sensitive skin can react to some filters or fragrances. That's why it's important to pick a sunscreen for men by skin type, too.

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin Type 

Pay attention to these 4 factors while choosing a sunscreen for yourself:

• SPF levels : SPF number informs your sunscreen’s ability to protect against UVB rays. For instance, SPF 30 blocks 97% UVB rays while SPF 50 blocks 98%. 

• Broad-spectrum protection : It protects against UVA+UVB rays because UVA goes deeper into the skin. 

• Mineral vs chemical sunscreen : Mineral sunscreens create a physical, reflective barrier on your skin’s surface. In contrast, chemical sunscreens absorb all the UV rays.

• Texture matters : If you’ve oily/acne-prone skin, a lightweight gel/fluid sunscreen is better. In contrast, hydrating lotion sunscreens are better for dry skin. Use sunscreen sticks to reapply SPF when you're on the move. 

Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreen for Men 

There is no universally "better" option when you're comparing mineral vs chemical sunscreen for men. Here's the difference between the two. 

• Texture: 

• Mineral sunscreens : They’re slightly thicker and create a protective film that leaves a white cast behind. 

• Chemical sunscreens : They have lightweight and fast-absorbing formulas.

• Active ingredients: 

• Mineral sunscreens : They contain Zinc oxide and Titanium dioxide which reflect and scatter rays away. 

• Chemical sunscreens : These contain Avobenzone, Oxybenzone, or Octinoxate which absorb UV rays and turn them into heat. 

Best Sunscreen for Men with Oily or Acne-Prone Skin 

The best sunscreen for men with oily skin balances oiliness and pore-clogging with sun protection. If you’ve oily/acne-prone skin, look for and avoid the following in your SPF:

• Texture : A non-greasy sunscreen for men with gel or water formulation is the best for you. They're lightweight and don’t add extra oil to your skin, which keeps it from breaking out. Our Gel Sunscreen has a non-greasy, matte, and a no white cast texture. It contains Phospholipids & Glycerin with UV filters to hydrate and protect the skin.

• What to avoid:

• Comedogenic ingredients: Coconut oil, Lanolin, and Olive oil are all heavy on your skin. They block pores, making acne more likely. 

• Heavy creams: Thick creams make your skin even more oilier by adding extra oils. They are uncomfortably heavy, clog pores, and make your skin shiny. 

Best Sunscreen for Men with Dry Skin 

Dry skin lacks hydration and exposure to UV rays further dries out unprotected areas, making it appear dry and flaky. Opt for a cream or lotion SPF with hydrating ingredients to lock in moisture.

 

The best sunscreen for dry skin for men, like the Fluid Brightening Sunscreen, contains hydrating Allantoin & Glycerin. Moreover, its optimal UV filters protect skin for up to 8 hours, preventing damage caused by both UVA and UVB rays. 

Best Sunscreen for Men with Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin has a lower tolerance for environmental stressors like pollution and certain chemicals. The UV rays can weaken the already sensitive barrier, irritating your skin. It is best to avoid common skin irritants like:

• Fragrances : Fragrances can cause redness or stinging sensation as a result of irritation and allergic reactions. 

• Essential oils : They’re very powerful in purified forms and increase skin’s sensitivity. You can experience irritation, and trigger allergic reactions.

• Alcohol : Alcohol dries and irritates your skin as it strips off your skin’s natural oils and compromises the barrier. 

A good sunscreen for sensitive skin in men contains gentle UV filters and barrier-supporting ingredients. Our Oat & Ceramide Gel Sunscreen with SPF50+ and PA+++ is formulated to suit sensitive and compromised skin. The Ceramides strengthen the skin's barrier and prevent moisture loss, while Ectoin protects skin from environmental stressors.

Is Mineral Sunscreen Better for Sensitive Skin? 

Yes! Mineral sunscreens are less likely to irritate your skin because they contain fewer chemicals. Moreover, they reflect rays back instead of absorbing them.

Best Sunscreen for Men with Combination Skin

Dry cheeks and oily T-zones are characteristic of combination skin. A good sunscreen for you will help control oil while hydrating dry areas. Lightweight, non-greasy sunscreens for men work best! 

 

For instance, our quick-absorbing 5% Vitamin C Gel Sunscreen. It keeps your skin fresh and moisturized but does not clog the pores. While Vitamin C helps even tone the skin, Carrot Root Extract supports skin against daily stress. 

Sunscreen for Men by Skin Type (Quick Comparison Table)

How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly (Most Men Get This Wrong)

Even a good sunscreen will fail to protect your skin if you misuse it. Here's how to use the best sunscreen for men:

• Quantity: Apply two-finger length of sunscreen on your face and neck.

• When to apply: Use your sunscreen after the moisturizer as the final step. Apply it 15-30 minutes before stepping out. Don’t skip it even if you’re indoors because UVA rays can penetrate windows to damage your skin. 

• Reapplication: Reapply every 2-3 hours when you're outdoors and every 4-6 hours if you're indoors.

Common Sunscreen Mistakes Men Make

Below are some common sunscreen mistakes men make and how to fix them:

• Skipping sunscreen on cloudy days: UVA rays can still penetrate through clouds and damage your skin. That's why sunscreen is non-negotiable on all days. 

• Using body sunscreen on the face : Body sunscreens protect the thicker skin on your arms and legs. They can feel heavier and clog facial pores. It is best to use different sunscreens for each. Our Detan Sunscreen Body Lotion boasts 4% Niacinamide +1% Kojic Acid Dipalmitate. It is formulated to prevent tanning while leaving a cooling sensation behind.

• Not reapplying: Sweat, oil, dirt, and sun break down your sunscreen, reducing its effectiveness. You can use a Sunscreen Spray to reapply and keep your skin uniformly protected. 

Final Thoughts: Finding the Best Sunscreen for Your Skin Type

Choosing the right sunscreen is not only about SPF. It needs to suit your skin type, too, for adequate protection. Explore and understand the texture and ingredients carefully to ensure the sunscreen feels comfortable on your skin and leaves no white cast or visible shine behind. 

FAQS

What SPF level is best for men's sunscreen?

Use an SPF 30+ for daily use. If you’re stepping out or visiting high-altitude places, apply SPF 50+. 

Is sunscreen necessary for men with oily or acne-prone skin?

Yes. All skin types, including oily or acne-prone, require sunscreen for UV protection. Opt for lightweight, non-greasy formulas. 

Which type of sunscreen is best for men with sensitive skin?

Gentle, barrier-supporting sunscreens, like Oat & Ceramide Gel Sunscreen, work best for men with sensitive skin. It's free of fragrances, parabens, silicon, and SLS, making it an ideal choice. 

Should men use different sunscreen for face and body?

Yes they should. Facial sunscreens are lighter and non-comedogenic, making them preferable for the face only.

How often should men reapply sunscreen during the day?

Reapply every 2–3 hours when outdoors and 4-6 hours when indoors.