*Tested on hot, humid days and daily, even indoors

** Spoiler! La Roche-Posay and Brush On Block came out on top!

After a melanoma scare in my family, sunscreen became non-negotiable, 365 days a year, whether I’m indoors, outdoors, wearing makeup or not. I live where winters are cold and dry, and summers are hot and humid. My skin is sensitive, medium olive-toned, and combination (T-zone gets oily in warmer weather). These are the four I've rotated through in the past year!

1. Summer Fridays ShadeDrops SPF 30 - $36 - 6/10

Picked this up on a whim at Sephora. It’s broad-spectrum, light, hydrating, and seemed great for sensitive skin. Sadly, even with a patch test, it triggered a red, itchy reaction. I later found I wasn’t the only one. A bummer, especially at this price point. Gentle formulas really aren't always that gentle.

2. First Aid Beauty Mineral SPF 30 - $28 - 6.5/10

Loved the idea of avocado oil, vitamin E but the texture let me down. It felt thick, pilled under makeup, and left a noticeable cast. That said, it’s now my go-to for beach days when I don’t care as much about shine or cast. Not ideal for daily wear, but not a total loss either.

3. Supergoop Everyday Lotion SPF 50 - $24 - 7.5/10

Honestly? Overhyped. Stung my eyes badly, even with powder trick hacks. Super oily finish and never really “set” on my skin. I could see this working better for bare-skin beach days, but not under makeup or for everyday city wear. Also, the scent was not it for me.

4. La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF 50+ - $36.99 - 8/10

A crowd fave for a reason. Liquidy texture, spread easily, and gave solid protection. Slight white cast and greasy finish, but it worked well under makeup and didn't irritate my skin. Downside? It contains oxybenzone, which I now try to avoid. Still, great for dry skin or cooler months.

5. Brush On Block Sheer Genius SPF 50 - $36 - 9/10

This one surprised me in the best way. No stinging (even during workouts!), light texture, and though it applied white at first, it dried clear. No white cast, no scent, and it layered beautifully with makeup. It’s got squalane, so I skipped moisturizer and primer. My skin stayed comfy and protected all day. I keep reaching for it, and that says everything.

Sooooo,

If you’ve got sensitive combo skin and need something reliable for daily wear, Brush On Block is my winner. La Roche-Posay is a close second but better suited for cooler, drier months. The others had potential but just didn’t deliver consistently.