Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of brands Save Story Save this story Save Story Save this story The best chemical sunscreens have come a long way from the greasy, sting-your-eyes formulas many of us grew up with. Today's versions are airy, elegant, and often so comfortable to wear that you'll forget you even have SPF on—a major win, considering sunscreen is one of the most important steps in any skin-care routine. “Unlike mineral sunscreens, which sit on top of the skin, chemical sunscreens use organic UV filters that absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin,” says Pearl Rimtepathip , MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Atlanta. “These formulas tend to feel especially lightweight and are well-suited for everyday wear.”
Another perk? Because chemical filters are absorbed into the skin, they “generally blend in seamlessly without leaving behind a white cast,” she says. Whether you prefer a featherlight fluid, a hydrating serum , or a makeup-gripping primer , there's a chemical sunscreen for nearly every skin type, concern, and personal preference. Because at the end of the day—and whether you choose a chemical or mineral formula—“the best kind of sunscreen is the one you will use and apply the most,” says Dr. Rimtepathip.
What is a chemical sunscreen? What's the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreen? Are chemical sunscreens safe? Are chemical sunscreens "bad" for sensitive skin? Meet the experts How we test and review products Our staff and testers Best Overall: Peach & Lily Beam Blocker Invisible Sunscreen SPF 30 Save to wishlist Save to wishlist Peach & Lily
Allure senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor applying the Peach & Lily Beam Blocker Invisible Sunscreen
Why it's worth it: Our testers dutifully submitted before-and-after photos for Peach & Lily’s Beam Blocker Invisible Sunscreen SPF 30—but you’d be hard-pressed to spot any difference, because this formula is truly invisible. The lightweight lotion melts into skin without a hint of white cast and feels more like a silky moisturizer than a sunscreen. In addition to broad-spectrum protection, it's packed with soothing ingredients like ectoin , Centella asiatica , and bisabolol to keep redness and irritation at bay, while antioxidants like green tea and ferulic acid defend against environmental stressors. Niacinamide brightens, ceramides and panthenol support the skin barrier, and the fast-absorbing texture creates a perfect canvas under makeup , so foundation glides on smoothly without pilling or patchiness.
Calaor after applying the Peach & Lily Beam Blocker Invisible Sunscreen
Allure beauty director Kinonen after applying the Peach & Lily Beam Blocker Invisible Sunscreen
Tester feedback from senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor
“My skin is dehydrated year-round, so all of my face products need to be hydrating. This one delivers, creating that satisfying "squish" as I massage it in. It feels like a moisturizer and absorbs within seconds of application. It acts as a fantastic base for makeup—smoothing dry patches and never pilling under my skin tints or liquid foundations. I use it every day on my face, neck, and on and behind my ears. I even gave it to my dad to try, and he said the formula feels like a regular facial moisturizer, which is a big plus for someone hesitant to use sunscreen daily.” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior beauty editor
Tester feedback from be…