The Truth About the Best Sunscreens (I Tried 100+ SPFs)

If you’ve ever searched high and low for the best sunscreen, only to be left greasy, ghostly, or downright annoyed—you’re not alone.

I’ve tested over 100 sunscreens, from cult-favorite Korean formulas to drugstore sticks, moisturizers with SPF, and even lip products with sun protection.

This post isn’t a product roundup or a ranked list.

It’s what I actually learned after spending years, and one month fully immersed in sunscreen testing: what works, what has a white cast, and what no one tells you before adding that SPF to your cart.

Finish Matters More Than the Hype

It turns out, finding the best sunscreen isn’t about just picking one that says “matte” or “glowy.” What actually matters is how it layers with your skincare and makeup, how it feels throughout the day, and whether or not it stays consistent.

Some of my favorite formulas had:

• A lightweight texture that didn’t clog my pores
• A finish that didn’t shift from “natural glow” to “oil spill” by 2 p.m.
• No pilling when used with serums or makeup primers

Even SPFs with a radiant finish worked well—as long as they didn’t break down my makeup or feel heavy.  Some La Roche-Posay sunscreens and Beauty of Joseon sunscreens are hyped for a reason, but it’s their finish and wear that truly matter.

Skin Type Isn’t Everything, But It Still Counts

While finish often outweighs labels, your skin type still plays a role in how a product performs. I learned that:

• Sunscreens for oily skin should have a gel or fluid base and ingredients that help reduce shine
• Sunscreens for dry skin typically benefit from a creamy or lotion-based formula that adds hydration
• Sunscreen for combination skin may need a hybrid strategy—like 2-in-1 sunscreen moisturizers to provide balance

It’s not just about what the brand says the finish is—read the ingredient list.

The first 3–5 ingredients will tell you whether it’s lightweight or packed with oils. Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way.

Reapplying SPF Is a Whole Situation

No matter how good your SPF is, if you’re not reapplying it, your protection drops.

I experimented with different textures and formats to find what actually made mid-day touch-ups easier (and less annoying).

My top picks for reapplying include:

• A sunscreen stick—easy, portable, and mess-free
• A loose powder SPF—great for setting makeup and keeping oil in check
• A spray SPF—ideal for quick touch-ups, but often dewier in finish

Sticks and powders ended up being my favorites. If you’ve got oily or combo skin, they’re game-changers.

I posted a video on how I reapply SPF without ruining my base on social media that’s linked in this post.

📲 Follow @nubelease on Instagram, TikTok, Youtube and Pinterest to see swatches, demos, and sunscreen reviews by finish and skin type.

Tinted SPFs Can Be Tricky

Tinted sunscreen feels like a win: sun protection with a bit of coverage. But in reality? Not all tints are equal—especially if you have a deeper skin tone or oily skin.

Here’s what I learned:

• Most tints skew warm or peachy and can oxidize strangely
• Brands that offer multiple undertones (rather than just “light,” “medium,” and “deep”) work better
• Few brands make matte tinted sunscreens—most have a dewy or radiant finish

If you’re considering one, go with a brand that acknowledges undertones and finish options.

I reviewed several this month, including Live Tinted and others, and let’s just say… the range matters.

Body Sunscreens Deserve More Attention

Let’s not forget body sunscreen—because it can make or break your beach day. I used to grab whatever was on sale, but now I look for formulas that dry quickly, don’t have that odd sunscreen smell and don’t make me feel like a glazed donut. I just want to LOOK like a glazed donut. IYKYK.

My go-to body sunscreen formats:

• Sprays: Fast, easy, often give a glowy finish
• Lotions: Hydrating and ideal for dry or sensitive skin
• Sticks: Great for on-the-go

I also tested body SPFs for reapplication and durability in hot weather—some flopped, but I found a few that gave me a hydrated, non-greasy finish and held up to the sun.

K-Beauty Sunscreens Are Superior (Mostly)

I was already a fan of Korean sunscreen, but this month confirmed it: the formulas are often better than their U.S. counterparts.

Why they’re winning:

• Thinner, more elegant textures that feel like skincare
• Zero white cast—even in the popular Skin1004 sunscreen or hydration-heavy formulas
• Smart, functional ingredients like Centella for soothing skin or hyaluronic acid for hydration

The Beauty of Joseon Matte Sunscreen Stick is a favorite for a reason—but I also found hidden gems that work even better for certain skin types. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, many Centella sunscreen formulas are worth a look.

Expensive Doesn’t Mean Effective

One major takeaway from testing all these SPFs? Price doesn’t guarantee performance.  I found some incredible formulas at the drugstore—and some luxury SPFs that disappointed me completely.

Here’s how I break it down:

• Drugstore: Great for daily-use and SPF moisturizers
• Prestige: Often better for makeup layering and lighter textures
• Luxury: You’re paying for extras—like extra ingredient benefits, a better fragrance, packaging, and branding

For complexion products, especially products like tinted sunscreen or foundation with SPF, you’ll probably need to venture into prestige/luxury territory if you want deeper shades or better undertone options.

The Best Sunscreen Is the One You’ll Actually Use

After a full month of testing, reviewing, filming, and reapplying, here’s the truth: the best sunscreen isn’t the one with the prettiest bottle or the trendiest ingredient—it’s the one that fits into your daily life.

Here’s what I now look for:

• A lightweight texture that doesn’t fight my skincare
• A finish that doesn’t change throughout the day
• A formula I don’t dread reapplying
• Something I’ll actually use generously and consistently

And yes—you probably aren’t using enough. I wasn’t either. Go with a formula you can commit to using a full ¼ to ½ teaspoon of, and reapply as needed. (Source:)

Want More Sunscreen Reviews?

I’ve reviewed dozens of SPFs this month—including fan favorites from Beauty of Joseon, Skin1004, La Roche-Posay, Live Tinted, and more.

📲 Follow @nubelease on Instagram, TikTok, Youtube and Pinterest to see swatches, demos, and sunscreen reviews by finish and skin type.