There may be nothing new under the sun, but the same can’t be said of the best sunscreens for mature skin. Dermatologists often quip that the best SPF is the one you’ll actually use, and these days, I have several formulas that feel like a treat, rather than a chalky chore, to apply. For instance, La Mer’s SPF 50 UV Protecting Fluid is my TSA-friendly standby for travel; or, on days that I crave a little tint, I dab on Dr. Few’s Tinted Mineral Sunscreen. As my SPF collection grows, so has my skin’s resilience and overall glow—yes, even at 45.
Vogue’s Favorite Sunscreens for Mature Skin:
“SPF for mature skin has evolved over the last several years, shifting from purely ‘protective’ formulas to multifunctional products that serve as skincare,” Sandra Oska, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, explains. Instead of merely offering sun protection, Oska says that modern formulas target common signs of aging—including dryness, uneven tone, and dullness—with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, squalane, and peptides.
The best sunscreens for mature skin also wear better than formulas of the past, particularly in the mineral category. “It’s out with the old chalkiness of mineral sunscreens, and in with the new, with much more elegant formulations,” Oska notes. Oska has also noticed a rise in the popularity of tinted sunscreen—particularly relevant for those dealing with melasma and hyperpigmentation—and ripples of K-beauty influence throughout the SPF category.
According to Oska, Korean sunscreens have reshaped consumer expectations for sunscreen textures, and lightweight, layerable, and hydrating formulas like Round Lab’s Birch Juice Moisturizing UV Lock Sunscreen consistently top shoppers’ wish lists. (It certainly tops mine, particularly on days when I want to layer on makeup.)
With mature shoppers spoiled for choice, which formulas truly deserve a spot in your cart (not to mention, your beach bag)? Ahead, Vogue editors and dermatologists share the sunscreens they most recommend for aging skin. Sun safely!
In This Story:
Best Chemical: La Mer The Broad Spectrum SPF 50 UV Protecting Fluid
La Mer
The Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF 50 Lightweight Lotion
- Why We Love It: La Mer’s mineral sunscreen is infused with Miracle Broth, the brand’s signature blend of sea kelp, vitamins, and minerals designed to support skin-cell renewal. “This is a great option for mature skin because it has a lightweight, skincare-forward texture,” Oska says. “One of the main concerns I hear from patients with mature skin is that sunscreen can emphasize fine lines, and this formula helps avoid that with its hydrating and smoothing finish.” She adds that the inclusion of antioxidant-rich ingredients—including kukui seed oil—helps defend the skin against environmental stressors that contribute to visible aging. Rayva Khanna, MD, a dermatology resident at Georgetown University Medical Center, says: “This is particularly well suited for mature skin types that need both sun protection and lasting hydration. The chemical sunscreen formula pairs broad-spectrum UV protection with humectants like sodium hyaluronate and other nourishing emollients that help counteract the dryness and dullness often associated with aging skin.”
- Editor’s Experience: “I’d categorize this as a pure sensorial delight. It has a light, fresh scent and a milky, silky texture. And though it comes out of the tube in the palest shade of mint green, it vanishes into my skin in less than a second. It feels velvety and hydrating while it’s on, and forms a smooth base for makeup. Even better, it gives my skin a subtle glow that makes me feel confident going makeup-free.” —Jenny Berg, contributor
- Chemical or Physical: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 5%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 2.7%, oxybenzone 3%)
- Key Ingredients: Miracle Broth, kukui seed oil, sodium hyaluronate
- SPF Level: 50
- Texture: Ultralight, milky fluid
- Size: 1.7 fl oz
