Ingredient guide

Sunscreen (SPF): what it does and how to use it

Updated November 2026

Safety first: general cosmetic information, not medical advice. Patch-test new products and follow label directions. Pregnant, breastfeeding, using prescription skin treatment or managing a skin condition? Ask your doctor before trying new actives. Medical disclaimer
In short: UV filters that protect against sunburn, dark spots and photoaging. Best used in the morning. Top benefit: prevents dark spots from coming back.

UV filters that protect against sunburn, dark spots and photoaging. It is one of the most important steps for long-term skin health.

Best timeMorning
StrengthGentle
Good forPrevents dark spots from coming back

Benefits

Who it's for

Everyone, every day, including on cloudy days and indoors near windows.

How to use it

Apply as the last morning step: about two finger-lengths for face and neck. Reapply every 2 hours outdoors.

Watch out for

Most people apply too little. If your SPF pills under makeup, let it set for 5 minutes first.

Best sunscreen products

Sunscreen$
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF 50+

Cult K-beauty sunscreen: lightweight, with no white cast.

Sunscreen
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Sunscreen$
Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen SPF 50

Oil-free and non-comedogenic for breakout-prone skin.

Sunscreen
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Sunscreen$
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

Mineral filters and ceramides, gentle on sensitive skin.

SunscreenCeramidesNiacinamide
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Sunscreen$$
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk SPF 60

High protection to help stop dark spots and photoaging.

Sunscreen
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Sunscreen$$
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted SPF 50

Tinted mineral SPF that softens the look of redness.

Sunscreen
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Sunscreen$$$
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46

Lightweight, oil-free SPF that suits acne-prone and easily irritated skin.

SunscreenNiacinamide
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Sunscreen$$$
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

Invisible, primer-like finish under makeup.

Sunscreen
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Can you mix sunscreen with…

✅RetinolEssential✅Vitamin CA power couple✅NiacinamideYes, generally fine together✅AHAsEssential✅Salicylic acidEssential✅Benzoyl peroxideYes, generally fine together✅Hyaluronic acidYes, generally fine together✅Azelaic acidYes, generally fine together✅PeptidesYes, generally fine together✅CeramidesYes, generally fine together✅Tranexamic acidYes, generally fine together✅BakuchiolYes, generally fine together✅Centella (cica)Yes, generally fine together✅SqualaneYes, generally fine together

Routines that use sunscreen

Oily Skin with Dark SpotsDry Skin with Dark SpotsCombination Skin with Dark SpotsNormal Skin with Dark SpotsOily Skin: Anti-AgingDry Skin: Anti-AgingCombination Skin: Anti-AgingNormal Skin: Anti-Aging

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FAQ

What does sunscreen do for skin?

UV filters that protect against sunburn, dark spots and photoaging. It is one of the most important steps for long-term skin health.

When should I use sunscreen, morning or night?

Apply as the last morning step: about two finger-lengths for face and neck. Reapply every 2 hours outdoors.

Who should use sunscreen?

Everyone, every day, including on cloudy days and indoors near windows.

This page is general cosmetic information for educational purposes. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and it doesn't replace a dermatologist or other qualified professional. Product formulas change, so always read the label. Full medical disclaimer.