Sunscreen SPF List
Last updated September 13, 2026
Scientific data on UV protection from natural oils, mineral sunscreens, and conventional sunscreens compiled from peer-reviewed research
We compile SPF ratings verified by lab tests from studies published in peer-reviewed scientific journals, which may be more reliable than manufacturer-reported values or other biased sources.
We originally investigated only natural oils, then expanded to include mineral sunscreens. We have also collected research on conventional sunscreens.
SPF at a Glance
Oil bars show laboratory-measured SPF from the peer-reviewed studies cited on each page; mineral and conventional product bars show labeled SPF. Even the strongest natural oil measures well below the SPF 30+ that health organizations recommend.
Independent SPF Tests
What test bodies and regulators measured when they bought sunscreens off the shelf and tested them against the SPF on the label. We tested none of these — every figure is the named body's, quoted and linked on its page.
| Label | Measured | Product | Published by |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50+ | 4 | Ultra Violette Lean Screen | CHOICE (AU) |
| 30 | 4 | Australian Gold Botanical Mineral Lotion | Consumer Reports (US) |
| 30 | 8 | JLo Beauty That Big Screen | Consumer Reports (US) |
| 50 | 13 | Coppertone Kids Tear Free Lotion | Consumer Reports (US) |
| 50+ | 72 | La Roche-Posay Anthelios Wet Skin | CHOICE (AU) |
All 30 products with a published measurement, and which bodies publish a number at all.
Explore Sunscreen Categories
Natural Oils
Plant-derived oils with inherent SPF values, testing methodologies, detailed test results, synergistic effects, and recommendations
Mineral Sunscreens
Physical blockers using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, their protection characteristics and mechanisms, and detailed findings for combinations and formulas
Conventional Sunscreens
Synthetic UV filters that absorb radiation and a comprehensive breakdown of the chemicals used and their risks
Products
One page per sunscreen an independent test body or a regulator has measured against its label claim, quoted and linked to the original publication
Guides
Question-led guides to single decisions — which SPF number is worth paying for, what a tint actually protects against, and where the evidence runs out