Most men don’t give as much attention to their skin as they should when it comes to sun protection, and they can find themselves getting wrinkled, sunburnt, and suffering from long-term skin damage. There are a lot of formulas, SPF levels and finishes available, so choosing the best sunscreen for men can be daunting.
This article explains what you should look for, offers a comparison of the best sunscreens for each skin type, and addresses the most frequently asked questions, so you can select a sun that fits your daily routine and skin type.
Why Men Need a Dedicated Sunscreen
Men’s skin is not the same as women’s and it’s important to take this into account when selecting sun protection products. A sunscreen’s texture and protection will vary throughout the day when applied to male skin, due to the thicker skin and increased oil production. Every day, shaving produces micro-irritations that sensitize the skin to fragrances, alcohol and all the rough ingredients that are usually present in common formulas.
Many men don’t use sunscreen at all, thinking that it’s not necessary unless they’re at the beach. This is a mistake. Overexposure occurs over time from normal activities like driving, walking or sitting close to a window. This can lead to premature aging, dark spots and greatly increase the risk of skin cancer. One of the easiest things you can do to keep your skin healthy and looking its best is to develop a routine for using sunscreen.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing
Sunscreens are not all the same and selecting the right sunscreen will depend on a few factors:
- SPF Level: SPF 30 filters approximately 97% of the UVB rays and is the lowest SPF that should be used for everyday use. For longer periods of time outdoors, use SPF 50.
- Broad Spectrum Protection: Be sure to read the label for “broad-spectrum” protection; it will protect against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. Lightweight lotions or gels are good for oily skin, creams are better for dry skin. For touch-ups, use sticks and sprays.
- Water and Sweat Resistance: Must have for all people who are active outside, whether running, playing sports or swimming.
- Skin Type Compatibility: Oily, dry, sensitive and acne-prone skin react differently to some ingredients.
- Fragrance-Free Options: Men with sensitive or freshly shaved skin may prefer to use fragrance-free, alcohol-free products.
Considering these elements will help you quickly eliminate products you want to try and those that won’t work for you.
Comparison Table: Top Sunscreens for Different Needs
Here are some quick guidelines to help you match your skin type and lifestyle with the correct type of sunscreen.
| Skin Type | SPF | Formula | Best For |
| Oily/Acne-Prone | 30–50 | Gel, matte finish | Daily wear, no shine |
| Dry Skin | 30+ | Cream/lotion | Extra hydration |
| Sensitive Skin | 30+ | Mineral (zinc oxide) | Irritation-prone skin |
| Active/Outdoor Use | 50+ | Spray or stick | Sweat/water resistance |
| Everyday/Office | 30 | Lightweight lotion | Quick absorption, no residue |
This is a good starting point for you to follow, then look for ingredients in the ingredient lists which may cause sensitivity, particularly if you have reactive or shave-irritated skin.
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Top Picks by Category
Best For Oily Skin
Gel-based, oil free suncreams are among the best sunscreens for men with oily skin. They penetrate rapidly, do not cause shine and are not likely to clog pores, which is great for anyone who suffers from shine in the middle of the day.
Perfect For Sensitive Skin
The mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide will not irritate sensitive or shaved skin as much. They are located on the surface of the skin and not absorbed, which decreases the risk of stinging or breakouts.
Best For Outdoor/Sports
A sweat and water resistant spray or stick will provide the best protection for hiking, running or beach days. Also, sticks are easy to reapply, without rubbing in a new layer of lotion.
Best Budget Option
Lightweight, drugstore SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 30 lotions provide good daily protection without the high cost. They’re a good choice when wearing them for everyday use and you don’t expect to spend many hours in the sun.
Best Premium Option
If you are looking for sun protection and skin care all in one, then higher-end formulas might include skin care ingredients such as antioxidants, hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, and these are more expensive, but they are well worth it.
How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly
Even the best of sunscreens will not be effective if they are applied improperly. Apply about 2 finger lengths of product to cover your face and neck, most people use less than they would need to. Be sure to include areas that are often overlooked such as hands, hairline, back of neck and ears.
As much as the first application, reapplication is important. Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours and after swimming, excessive sweating or towel drying. Protection is only achieved with one application in the morning and will last only for the day.
Sunscreen and Shaving: Tips for Men
Proper order of shaving and sunscreen application is important to prevent possible irritation. Suntan after shaving, not before; freshly shaven skin is more susceptible to stinging from active ingredients in the sun. Seek out ingredients such as aloe vera or niacinamide that offer a soothing effect on the skin while providing sun protection.
Don’t use sunscreens with a high alcohol content on freshly shaved skin as they can be drying, reddening or even burn the skin. Generally, mineral-based and fragrance-free shave products are most likely to be safe right after the shave.
Final Word
The best sunscreen for men depends on your skin type, your lifestyle and the amount of time you spend outdoors. There is a right gel for every skin type, from oily skin to sensitive and from workouts to sweat-resistant gels, for every price range. Ditch the summer sun routine, and apply sunscreen all year round and your skin will thank you for it in the future.
FAQs
1.What’s the highest SPF for men to use everyday?
SPF 30 is the minimum recommended for everyday use and SPF 50 will provide additional protection for outdoor activities or for people with fair skin.
2.Should men use a different sunscreen than women?
Not always, but many men like to use a product that is light, doesn’t contain fragrance and is matte in finish because their skin is oily and they shave.
3.Does sunscreen break out?
Yes, heavy or comedogenic formulas can clog pores. For acne-prone skin, gel-based, oil-free, and won’t clog pores are the best types of sunscreens to use for men.
4.How many times a day should sun cream be re-apply?
Every 2 hours or after heavy sweating, after swimming or after towel drying. A single morning application is not sufficient to afford all day protection.
5.Which is better for men, mineral or chemical sunscreen?
Chemical sunscreens are absorbed quickly and are lighter to use, while mineral sunscreens are good for sensitive or shaving-irritated skin. Both will work well when used properly and frequently.
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