Sunscreens

What's behind our sunscreen Ratings?

Experts at our National Testing and Research Center tested 22 models in sunscreens to see which ones perform best.

We look for:

Overall score
This is based on a combination of scores for UVA, UVB, UVB protection after water immersion, and staining.
UVA
The level of protection against UVA radiation.
UVB
How well the product met its SPF claim before water immersion.
UVB after water immersion
How well the product met its SPF claim after water immersion for a time period based on the product’s specific water resistance claim (40 or 80 minutes) where applicable.
Staining
Whether the product stained various fabrics.
Type
Whether the product is dispensed as a spray, pump or lotion.
Cost per oz. ($)
Average retail price divided by the number of ounces of product in the container.

Community

Forums

Discuss products and safety with subscribers and fans.

Recommended sunscreens

Recommended sunscreens are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices, weigh features, price, and attributes that matter to you.

Recommended sunscreens

Sunscreen buying guide

To find the sunscreen that is right for you, read our expert advice on which features to consider and how to find the best value.

Get started

Buy sunscreens

Why shop here?

In addition to finding Ratings for the latest models, you can now shop online using an ad-free interface where you can buy sunscreens in a safe-shopping environment.

Learn more about our Price & Shop program

In tests of 22 sunscreen sprays, creams, and lotions, we found nine that provided excellent protection against UVB radiation (which causes sunburn) even after immersion in water, along with very good protection against UVA radiation (which penetrates deeper than UVB, tanning and aging skin). If you're looking for information about sunscreens, Consumer Reports is your best resource. Consumer Reports’ sunscreen reviews will give you honest buying advice that you can trust. Use our sunscreen buying guide to discover which features are most important to consider. We also provide unbiased Ratings and sunscreen reviews to help you choose the best sunscreen for your needs.

Ratings & recommended sunscreens

Sunscreens (22)

Recommended models are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices among models, weigh performance, features, price, and attributes that matter to you, such as color, size, or style.

Sunscreen buying guide

No one type--spray, cream, or lotion--protected best. Although most products were excellent against UVB rays before water immersion, three were just OK, and some lost effectiveness after dunking. Most were very good against UVA rays, but one was merely fair. (It's a sunscreen and bug spray in one, not the best idea: In reapplying it for sun protection, you might overdo bug protection.)

Some sprays took more than 30 seconds to dry, but one top pick dried especially fast. Many products had the familiar scent associated with summer, but ... Read more

Getting started