Sunscreen Database curated by Dr. Julian Sass

I’ve explored hundreds of sunscreens in search of the perfect fit for my skin. To assist you, I’ve compiled a comprehensive database detailing the specifics of each product I’ve tried. Please note, this database is continually updated, so if your go-to sunscreen 
isn’t listed yet, it’s on my radar!

My skin is dark (Fitzpatrick Scale 5/6), oily, and tends to acne, hyperpigmentation, and dehydration. What suits me might differ for you, so keep that in mind!

Vocabulary check

Before you dive in, here are a few helpful tips to help you make the most of the database and understand some terms that often come up in the world of cosmetics and sun protection.

SPF (Sun Protection Factor)

SPF measures a sunscreen’s ability to protect against UVB rays (the main cause of sunburn). Higher SPF means more protection. Ideally, you want to use ¼ tsp of product for the face, or ½ tsp of product for face, ears, and neck.

man with sunscreen on back in shape of a sun

Type (Mineral, Hybrid, Chemical)

Inorganic (Mineral): Contains zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. Mostly works by absorbing UV radiation but also reflects some UV rays. Tends to be better for sensitive skin but can leave a white cast.

Organic (Chemical): Uses filters like avobenzone or octinoxate to absorb UV radiation. Tends to be lightweight and transparent but older filters may irritate some skin types.

Hybrid: Combines mineral and chemical filters for a balance of protection and cosmetic elegance.

young asian woman with sunglasses applying sunscreen

Local Ocean Regulations

Some places ban certain sunscreen ingredients to “protect coral reefs”, but there is no evidence that sunscreen harms coral reefs or ocean life.

Aruba: No Oxybenzone

Hawaii, Key West, Aruba:  No Oxybenzone, Octinoxate
‍
U.S. Virgin Islands, Palau, Hawaii, Key West, Aruba: No Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene

coral reef

UVA Protection

UVA rays cause aging and contribute to skin cancer.

Look for:"Broad Spectrum" (U.S. standard)

PA+ / PA++++ (Asian sunscreens, higher "+" = better)

UVA circle logo (EU sunscreens, indicating ≥1/3 SPF protection)

cracked earth, to represent damaged skin
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Organic (Chemical)
Natural
Singapore

love from yours

Sunny Side Up Mist

My rating:
2
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Spray
eye sting
No Oxybenzone (Aruba)
No
Broad Spectrum [Critical Wavelength]
30
Alcohol:
No
Tint:
No
Fragrance:
Yes
Cast on me:
0 (No white cast, best for light to deep skin tones)
Organic (Chemical)
Natural
England

M²

Ultra Sheer Daily UV Defence

My rating:
3
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Gel
eye sting
No
No Oxybenzone (Aruba)
No
UVA Circle (EU) / Broad Spectrum (AU) [UVA-PF/SPF ≥ ⅓ + Critical Wavelength]
50+
Alcohol:
No
Tint:
No
Fragrance:
No
Cast on me:
0 (No white cast, best for light to deep skin tones)
Inorganic (Mineral/Physical)
Matte
United States

Maelove

The Sun Protector

My rating:
1
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Lotion
eye sting
No
No Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene (U.S. Virgin Islands, Palau, Hawaii, Key West, Aruba)
No
Broad Spectrum [Critical Wavelength]
30
Alcohol:
No
Tint:
No
Fragrance:
No
Cast on me:
2 (Visible cast on me, best for light to medium skin tones)
Organic (Chemical)
Natural/Dewy
South Korea

Make P:rem

UV Defense Me Daily Sun Essence

My rating:
2
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Lotion
eye sting
No
No Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene (U.S. Virgin Islands, Palau, Hawaii, Key West, Aruba)
No
PA 4 Plus [UVA-PF (PPD) ≥ 16]
50+
Alcohol:
Yes
Tint:
No
Fragrance:
Yes
Cast on me:
1 (Very slight cast on me, best for light to medium deep skin tones)
Hybrid (Combination)
Natural
South Korea

Make P:rem

UV Defense Me Daily Sun Fluid

My rating:
1
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Lotion
eye sting
No
No Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene (U.S. Virgin Islands, Palau, Hawaii, Key West, Aruba)
No
PA 4 Plus [UVA-PF (PPD) ≥ 16]
50+
Alcohol:
Yes
Tint:
No
Fragrance:
No
Cast on me:
3 (Intense white cast on me, best for light skin tones)
Organic (Chemical)
Natural/Dewy
South Korea

Mary & May

Cica Soothing Sun Cream

My rating:
2
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Lotion
eye sting
Some
No Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene (U.S. Virgin Islands, Palau, Hawaii, Key West, Aruba)
No
PA 4 Plus [UVA-PF (PPD) ≥ 16]
50+
Alcohol:
Yes
Tint:
No
Fragrance:
Yes
Cast on me:
0 (No white cast, best for light to deep skin tones)
Hybrid (Combination)
Natural/Dewy
South Korea

Mary & May

Vegan Peptide Bakuchiol Sun Stick

My rating:
2
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Stick
eye sting
No
No Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene (U.S. Virgin Islands, Palau, Hawaii, Key West, Aruba)
No
PA 4 Plus [UVA-PF (PPD) ≥ 16]
50+
Alcohol:
No
Tint:
No
Fragrance:
Yes
Cast on me:
1 (Very slight cast on me, best for light to medium deep skin tones)
Organic (Chemical)
Natural/Matte
Australia

Mecca Cosmetica

To Save Face Superscreen

My rating:
3
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Cream
eye sting
No
No Oxybenzone, Octinoxate
 (Hawaii, Key West, Aruba)
No
UVA Circle (EU) / Broad Spectrum (AU) [UVA-PF/SPF ≥ ⅓ + Critical Wavelength]
50+
Alcohol:
No
Tint:
No
Fragrance:
Yes
Cast on me:
0 (No white cast, best for light to deep skin tones)
Organic (Chemical)
Natural/Matte
England

Medik8

Advanced Day Ultimate Protect

My rating:
3
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Cream
eye sting
No
No Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene (U.S. Virgin Islands, Palau, Hawaii, Key West, Aruba)
No
PA 4 Plus [UVA-PF (PPD) ≥ 16]
50+
Alcohol:
No
Tint:
No
Fragrance:
Yes
Cast on me:
0 (No white cast, best for light to deep skin tones)
Inorganic (Mineral/Physical)
Natural/Dewy
United States

Medik8

Physical Sunscreen

My rating:
1
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Lotion
eye sting
No
No Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene (U.S. Virgin Islands, Palau, Hawaii, Key West, Aruba)
80 min
Broad Spectrum [Critical Wavelength]
50+
Alcohol:
No
Tint:
No
Fragrance:
No
Cast on me:
3 (Intense white cast on me, best for light skin tones)
Inorganic (Mineral/Physical)
Natural/Matte
United States

MelanRx

Even Tone Daily Protecting Mineral Sunscreen

My rating:
1
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Liquid
eye sting
No
No Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene (U.S. Virgin Islands, Palau, Hawaii, Key West, Aruba)
80 min
Broad Spectrum [Critical Wavelength]
50+
Alcohol:
No
Tint:
Universal
Fragrance:
No
Cast on me:
2 (Visible cast on me, best for light to medium skin tones)
Organic (Chemical)
Natural/Dewy
United States

Melé

Dew the Most

My rating:
2
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Gel
eye sting
No
No Oxybenzone (Aruba)
No
Broad Spectrum [Critical Wavelength]
30
Alcohol:
No
Tint:
No
Fragrance:
Yes
Cast on me:
0 (No white cast, best for light to deep skin tones)
Organic (Chemical)
Dewy
United States

Melé

No Shade Sunscreen Oil

My rating:
1
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Liquid
eye sting
No
No Oxybenzone (Aruba)
No
Broad Spectrum [Critical Wavelength]
30
Alcohol:
No
Tint:
No
Fragrance:
Yes
Cast on me:
0 (No white cast, best for light to deep skin tones)
Organic (Chemical)
Dewy
England

Microskin

SunSeal Spray

My rating:
2
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Spray
eye sting
Not Compliant
240 min [4 hrs]
UVA Circle (EU) / Broad Spectrum (AU) [UVA-PF/SPF ≥ ⅓ + Critical Wavelength]
50+
Alcohol:
Yes
Tint:
No
Fragrance:
No
Cast on me:
0 (No white cast, best for light to deep skin tones)
Organic (Chemical)
Natural/Dewy
South Korea

Missha

All Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk

My rating:
2
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Liquid
eye sting
Some
No Oxybenzone (Aruba)
No
PA 3 Plus [UVA-PF (PPD) = 8 – 16]
50+
Alcohol:
Yes
Tint:
No
Fragrance:
Yes
Cast on me:
0 (No white cast, best for light to deep skin tones)
Organic (Chemical)
Natural
South Korea

Missha

All around Safe Block Waterproof Sun Milk

My rating:
1
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Liquid
eye sting
No
No Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene (U.S. Virgin Islands, Palau, Hawaii, Key West, Aruba)
40 min
PA 4 Plus [UVA-PF (PPD) ≥ 16]
50+
Alcohol:
Yes
Tint:
No
Fragrance:
Yes
Cast on me:
2 (Visible cast on me, best for light to medium skin tones)
Organic (Chemical)
Natural/Matte
South Korea

Missha

Aqua Sun Gel

My rating:
2
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Gel
eye sting
No
No Oxybenzone, Octinoxate
 (Hawaii, Key West, Aruba)
No
PA 4 Plus [UVA-PF (PPD) ≥ 16]
50+
Alcohol:
Yes
Tint:
No
Fragrance:
No
Cast on me:
0 (No white cast, best for light to deep skin tones)
Inorganic (Mineral/Physical)
Natural
Thailand

MizuMi

UV Water Serum

My rating:
2
/3
Purchase Link (May Contain Affiliates)
Vehicle:
Lotion
eye sting
No
No Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene (U.S. Virgin Islands, Palau, Hawaii, Key West, Aruba)
PA 4 Plus [UVA-PF (PPD) ≥ 16]
Broad Spectrum [Critical Wavelength]
50+
Alcohol:
No
Tint:
No
Fragrance:
No
Cast on me:
1 (Very slight cast on me, best for light to medium deep skin tones)
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