La Roche-Posay Anthelios and Neutrogena are two of the most popular sunscreen brands in American drugstores. Neutrogena is cheaper and easier to find. Anthelios costs more, but it has a loyal following, especially among people with sensitive skin.
Both brands make chemical and mineral sunscreens, with SPF ranging from 30 to 100+. Here’s how they compare.
Quick comparison
| La Roche-Posay Anthelios | Neutrogena | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Higher | Lower |
| Popular face options | Anthelios Mineral Ultra-Light Fluid, Anthelios Melt-in Milk | Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch, Clear Face, Sheer Zinc, Hydro Boost SPF |
| Texture | Elegant, lightweight fluids | Ranges from light to thicker lotions |
| Sensitive skin | Strong focus, many fragrance-free options | Mixed, some versions contain fragrance |
| Availability | Drugstores, Amazon, Target | Almost everywhere |
La Roche-Posay Anthelios: the strengths
La Roche-Posay is a French brand that specializes in sensitive skin. Its Anthelios line is known for very lightweight textures, especially the mineral fluids, which spread easily without the thick, pasty feel common in cheaper mineral sunscreens.
Most Anthelios face sunscreens are fragrance-free, and the brand tests on sensitive skin. If your skin stings with most sunscreens, Anthelios is worth trying.
Neutrogena: the strengths
Neutrogena’s biggest advantage is price and availability. Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch is a long-time favorite for beach days and sports, and Clear Face is designed for breakout-prone skin. Sheer Zinc is a solid, affordable mineral option.
If you go through a lot of sunscreen, which you should, Neutrogena makes it easier to apply generously without worrying about the cost.
Which should you buy?
- Sensitive or rosacea-prone face: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral.
- Oily, acne-prone face: Neutrogena Clear Face or Anthelios Clear Skin.
- Body, beach and sports: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer or Anthelios Melt-in Milk; Neutrogena wins on value.
- Tight budget: Neutrogena, because the best sunscreen is the one you’ll use generously every day.
For more options, see our best sunscreens for sensitive skin and best tinted sunscreens.
FAQ
Is a higher SPF always better?
Not by much. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays and SPF 50 about 98%. Applying enough and reapplying matters more than a very high number.
Why are European sunscreens considered better?
Europe approves some UV filters that the US hasn’t yet. US versions of Anthelios use US-approved filters, so they differ from the European versions.
The bottom line
If you have sensitive skin and want a sunscreen that feels nice on your face, La Roche-Posay Anthelios is worth the extra money. For body use, sports and tight budgets, Neutrogena gives you excellent protection for less.
This article is for general information and isn’t medical advice. If you have a persistent skin condition, a reaction that doesn’t settle, or you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, check with a dermatologist or pharmacist before trying new actives.