Evidence-ranked sunscreen products — with filter type, finish, comedogenic risk, sensitizer flags, and honest notes on what actually matters when choosing your SPF.
How to use this database
This database is designed to cut through the noise when it comes to choosing a sunscreen. SPF is arguably the most important step in any skincare routine — not just for sun protection, but for preventing hyperpigmentation, slowing visible aging, and protecting the work every other product in your routine is doing. The problem is that choosing one is genuinely complicated. Filter types, finish, white cast, comedogenic risk, pregnancy safety, reef safety — there's a lot to navigate. This database makes that easier.
💡 Start here
Use the search bar to find a specific product or brand, or use the filters to narrow by what matters most — filter type, finish, comedogenic risk, pregnancy safety, and more. Face, body, and lip sunscreens are all included. Open any card to see the full breakdown.
SPF Rating
What the number actually means
SPF measures protection against UVB rays only — the ones that burn. SPF 30 blocks ~97% of UVB, SPF 50 blocks ~98%. The difference sounds small but matters over time. SPF says nothing about UVA protection, which is why broad spectrum labeling matters.
PA Rating
The UVA rating system
PA++++ is the highest Korean/Japanese UVA protection rating. US sunscreens use "broad spectrum" instead, which is a less specific measurement. If you're buying a Korean formula, look for PA++++.
Comedogenic Risk
Why it matters for acne-prone skin
Many sunscreens use emollients that can clog pores. A low comedogenic risk rating means the formulation has been vetted for ingredients with a comedogenic rating of 2 or below. Even low-risk products can cause issues for some skin types — patch testing is always recommended.
Sensitizer Risk
What you're actually reacting to
Sensitizer risk reflects the presence of ingredients known to cause contact sensitization — fragrance, certain chemical filters like oxybenzone, homosalate, and octocrylene, alcohol denat, and some preservatives. For reactive or compromised skin, prioritizing low sensitizer risk is as important as SPF level.
A few things worth knowing
Formula region matters. Korean formula sunscreens often have access to next-generation filters like Tinosorb S and Uvinul A Plus that aren't FDA-approved in the US. This database flags formula region where relevant.
Homosalate and oxybenzone are consistently flagged. Both are chemical filters with endocrine disruption concerns at higher concentrations. They're not banned, but the evidence is sufficient that I flag them — especially for pregnancy.
"Reef safe" is a marketing term, not a regulated certification. This database uses it to mean free from oxybenzone and octinoxate — the two filters most associated with coral reef damage.
Reapplication matters more than the SPF number. Every 2 hours in the sun, full stop. No sunscreen does its job if you apply it once in the morning and call it done.
Understanding UV filters
The UV filters in a sunscreen are what actually provide protection. Understanding what they are — and the debates around them — helps you make a more informed choice rather than relying on marketing claims.
Mineral filters
Zinc Oxide
Broad spectrum · Generally preferred
True broad spectrum UVA and UVB coverage. More photostable than most chemical filters. Preferred for sensitive skin, pregnancy, and post-procedure. Modern formulations have improved white cast significantly.
Titanium Dioxide
UVB + some UVA · Narrower spectrum
Good UVB coverage but narrower UVA protection than zinc oxide. Usually combined with zinc oxide. Well-tolerated by sensitive skin and pregnancy-safe. Can cause a more opaque white cast.
Chemical filters
Avobenzone
UVA specialist · Needs stabilizers
Strong UVA protection but unstable on its own — breaks down in UV light and needs stabilizing ingredients. Common in US formulas. Can cause contact sensitization in some people.
Homosalate
⚠️ Endocrine disruption concern
UVB filter used to boost SPF. Has systemic absorption and endocrine disruption concerns — particularly above 1.4% (the EU limit). The US allows up to 15%. Not pregnancy-safe at higher concentrations.
Oxybenzone
⚠️ High concern filter
Strong broad spectrum coverage but significant systemic absorption and endocrine disruption concerns. Banned in Hawaii due to reef damage. Not pregnancy-safe. All products containing it are flagged.
Octocrylene
Stabilizer · Sensitization risk
Primarily stabilizes avobenzone. Some UVB coverage. Can cause contact sensitization and is under review for endocrine disruption. Not reef safe. Flagged as a moderate concern.
Next-generation filters (EU/Asia)
Tinosorb S & M
Broad spectrum · Not FDA approved
Some of the most effective and photostable broad spectrum filters available. Common in Korean and European formulas. Not currently FDA-approved — why Korean formula sunscreens with PA++++ ratings are so sought after.
Uvinul A Plus & T
Excellent UVA · EU/Asia only
Strong UVA and UVB protection with good photostability. Not FDA-approved. Found in many Korean formulas alongside Tinosorb filters. Generally very well-tolerated.
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Research & References
The considerations, filter assessments, and comedogenic ratings in this database are based on peer-reviewed research, regulatory agency guidelines, and formulation analysis.
FDA sunscreen regulations and GRASE determinations for UV filters (2019 proposed rule)
Matta MK et al. Effect of sunscreen application on plasma concentration of sunscreen active ingredients. JAMA. 2020
EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) opinions on homosalate and octocrylene
Skin Deep® Cosmetics Database (EWG) for filter safety profiles
Comedogenicity ratings based on Kligman AM & Mills OH methodology and peer-reviewed ingredient analysis
Downs CA et al. Toxicopathological Effects of the Sunscreen UV Filter, Oxybenzone. Arch Environ Contam Toxicol. 2016
A note on this database
This database reflects my assessment as a licensed esthetician — it is not medical advice. Considerations reflect formulation concerns worth knowing about, not necessarily reasons to avoid a product entirely.