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My nightly ritual consists of wearing my CurrentBody Skin LED face mask, watching Vanderpump Rules for the first time, and scrolling through TikTok. That’s how I first learned about the viral Tower 28 SunnyDays Sunscreen two years ago. I’ve been using the broad-spectrum SPF 30 on and off since 2024 and can confirm it actually lives up to the hype. SunnyDays has become one of my go-to complexion products, whether I'm on vacation and need to streamline my makeup bag, rushing through a busy morning, or simply want to look like the best version of myself.
What I Like
Ample Sun Protection
The FDA recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. However, dermatologists I regularly chat with prefer the American Academy of Dermatology’s recommendation to use SPF 30 or higher. SunnyDays sits at the AAD’s sweet spot. Another reason I enjoy using Sunny Days: It relies on zinc oxide, a mineral that sits on my face and reflects harmful ultraviolet A and B rays that cause wrinkles and burns away from my skin. Research shows that mineral sunscreen is especially helpful for treating signs of aging and redness.
Plenty of Skin-Nourishing Ingredients
Dermatologists have previously told me that mineral SPFs, sometimes called physical sunscreens, are a great option for sensitive and acne-prone skin like mine. SunnyDays is a standout mineral SPF that blends hydrating and soothing ingredients, making it essential to my routine.
For example, prickly pear extract (listed as opuntia tuna fruit on the label) helps hydrate while providing antioxidant support. It also contains aloe vera leaf water, which helps soothe and moisturize my sensitive skin. A mix of centella asiatica extract (often called tiger grass) helps calm temperamental skin and support its barrier, while glycerin and jojoba esters hydrate, soften, and smooth.
Lightweight Texture and Easy Application
SunnyDays has a medium weight that falls somewhere between a sunscreen and a skin tint. The formulation is thick enough so the liquid doesn’t quickly drip down my face if I accidentally apply too much product in one spot.
One thing to know: SunnyDays is dewy AF—at least on my oilier complexion. Although I’d normally avoid products with finishes that aren’t soft-matte or velvet, Tower28 looks good and feels like my skin, so I continue to use it. My forehead looks oily within the hour, but I have some tips ahead on how to make Tower28 work with my skin, because it’s an enjoyable product to use.
I usually apply complexion products with a dense makeup brush since it keeps my hands clean. Thanks to SunnyDays’ light and easy-to-spread formulation, I can get away with just using my fingers in a pinch. It takes a little longer, but I’ll happily do it if it means I can skip cleansing my brushes.
Available in 17 Flexible Shades
Shade inclusivity is super important to me with any cosmetic product. I know first hand how difficult it can be to find a similar color match in SPF makeup. I was fine with EltaMD having only three colors, and impressed when Beauty of Joseon released 15 shades. However, Tower 28 created 17 flexible shades to choose from, which is always appreciated.
The range is divided into four categories: six Light, four Medium, three Tan, and four Deep shades. Each one has various undertones, including pink, yellow, peach, golden, and even olive. I use the shade 40 Runyon for tan complexions with an olive undertone. As an olive girly, I appreciate that the brand offers an option for me since it can feel like a never-ending battle of finding the right foundation and tinted SPF color matches.
That said, it would still be nice for the Medium, Tan, and Deep categories to at least have six options just like the Light hues. Still, the current lineup is a step in the right direction.
How I Make Tower 28 SunnyDays Work for My Skin
After using SunnyDays on and off for two years, I’ve learned to tweak my routine based on my skin’s needs and the season. Here are my tips for getting the best results with this tinted sunscreen.
For Combination to Oily Skin Types
In the summer my face looks greasy with just a lightweight moisturizer. To help extend the wear of this dewy tinted sunscreen, I’ll work in thin layers and use my trusty Charlotte Tilbury Setting Spray which helps the pigment last for several hours.
After letting the mist dry, I’ll apply a second layer of SPF, do the rest of my makeup, then spritz another light layer of setting spray and dust on powder. I rotate between two: The Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finishing Powder in Medium which quite literally blurs my pores and creates an almost filter-like effect IRL or my Brush on Block Powder SPF for added sun protection.
Stick with just the Charlotte if you have combination skin, don’t need major oil control, or want to shrink the look of large pores. Reach for Brush on Block if you prefer a matte finish and extra sun protection throughout the day.
For Dry Skin
You’re in luck—dry skin and Tower 28 Sunny Days are super compatible. Thanks to blustery winds and my super’s cranked-up heat, even my oily skin is completely parched every winter.
If you’re dealing with any rough patches or flakes be sure to gently exfoliate the night before using my new face wash power combo: SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Face Wash followed up with the brand’s HA5 Hydra Collagen Hydrating Foaming Cleanserfor extra TLC. After, slather on a rich face cream concentrating on dry spots like the cheeks. Lately, I’ve been loving SkinMedica’s HA5 Hydra Collagen Moisturizer and Dr. Few Moisture Complete.
Once your skin is properly prepped you’ll notice that the SPF should apply without tugging and dry skin and patchiness will soon disappear in the near-distant future.
For Dark Spots
My skin can be quite temperamental because I’m pretty much always testing new products for work. After applying my first base layer, I’ll concentrate on any areas I’d like to conceal and use a makeup brush for the most seamless blend. The key is to stipple the tinted SPF in the spots you want to camouflage rather than spread it around which sheers out the coverage.
For Large Pores
If you’re also dealing with large pores like me, consider applying a light makeup primer underneath to help them appear smaller. The Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer and Charlotte Tilbury Invisible UV Flawless Primer are my favorites and they pair nicely with SunnyDays.
Don't Retire Your Summer Shade Too Soon
Investing in a fresh tube of Tower 28 SunnyDays is a smart move right now because I still use my summer color in the fall and even winter. As our New York-based beauty editor, I’ve found that extending my wear into cooler months is surprisingly seamless.
By winter, I still wear the same shade 40 Runyon all over because the flexible pigments adapt nicely to my complexion.
Plus, I’m usually bundled up in wearing sweaters and turtlenecks, so I don’t mind if my face is slightly warmer than the rest of my body since no one will know see the difference. I really like the healthy, warmth it brings to my face. To enhance that look, I’ll dust on bronzer across areas where the sun naturally hits like along my forehead and cheeks, then sweep some on as eyeshadow for a cohesive, dimensional look.
More Tinted Sunscreens I Trust
My other big three tinted sunscreens range in formulation, color payoff, and skin benefits. However, they’re all effective and I’ve repurchased several tubes of EltaMD and Isdin since incorporating them into my routine. Meanwhile, the new Beauty of Joseon drop has been a pleasant surprise to use if you prefer a tinted SPF that quite literally looks like a full-coverage foundation.
