More than 80% of visible skin aging comes from sun exposure which make sunscreen one of the most impoertant skincare products in any routine. But with so many manufacturers claiming to be the best, how do you choose the right one for your business?

As a Cosmetic Chemist, I’ve developed sunscreen formulations and worked closely with manufacturers, so I understand what it takes to make a product that satisfies industry requirements while also protecting skin.

To help you find the best sunscreen manufacturing partners, I reviewed 7 leading companies.

Among them, Ridgepole stood out as the best for businesses looking for outstanding sunscreen with reliable formulation expertise.

In this review, you’ll discover the 7 best sunscreen manufacturers, what makes them stand out, and how they can support your business. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to choosing a manufacturer that aligns with your goals.

Let’s start!

1. Industry Zone Overview

China’s cosmetics industry thrives within four key industrial zones, each specializing in different aspects of skincare and beauty product manufacturing. These regions drive innovation, production, and market expansion for domestic and international brands.

• Guangzhou: Over 370 OEM factories, the highest concentration in China.
• Shenzhen: Home to numerous skincare and makeup enterprises, focused on R&D.
• Shanghai: Hosts global giants like Unilever, L’Oréal, and Estée Lauder.
• Zhejiang: Leads with five large-scale cosmetics industrial parks.
• Jinan: Dominates hyaluronic acid production with major players like Bloomage.
• Chengdu: Specializes in herbal skincare and emerging beauty technologies.

2. Quick Comparison

Before we dive into the details, here’s a quick comparison of the top 7 sunscreen manufacturers to give you a quick overview of their specialties, key products, and what kind of businesses they’re best suited for:

3. Johnson & Johnson Services Inc. – Best for High-End Brands

City & Country: New Brunswick, NJ, USA

Established Date: 1886

Johnson & Johnson is a global leader in healthcare, dedicated to improving health and wellness for over a century. Their commitment to research, innovation, and quality has positioned them as a trusted name in the skincare industry. With a strong focus on accessibility and affordability, they continue to develop products that meet consumer needs while adhering to high safety standards.

Key Products: Their main products include Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion SPF 50 and Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 100+. The Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion offers a lightweight, hydrating formula that absorbs quickly. The Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen delivers high SPF protection with a non-greasy, matte finish.

Takeaway Note:

Johnson & Johnson is ideal for businesses aiming to offer premium, high-SPF sunscreen backed by extensive dermatological research. However, their large-scale operations and regulatory scrutiny may lead to longer approval times for custom formulations.

4. L’Oréal – Best for Innovation

City & Country: Paris, France

Established Date: 1909

L’Oréal has been at the forefront of beauty and skincare innovation for over a century. With 36 international brands under their umbrella, they continuously push the boundaries of product development. Their investment in beauty technology and dermatological research has allowed them to create advanced sunscreen formulations that combine sun protection with skincare benefits.

Key Products: Their main products include Bright Reveal Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Daily UV Lotion and Age Perfect Cell Renewal Anti-Aging Day Moisturizer SPF 25. The Bright Reveal UV Lotion provides high SPF protection while helping to brighten skin tone. The Age Perfect Cell Renewal Moisturizer offers sun protection alongside anti-aging benefits.

Takeaway Note:

L’Oréal is ideal for businesses looking for sunscreen solutions that combine skincare benefits with UV protection. However, due to their global presence and brand portfolio, working with them may require navigating complex partnership processes.

5. Ridgepole – Best Overall

City & Country: Guangzhou, China

Established Date: 1998

Ridgepole is a high-tech enterprise specializing in research, development, production, and sales of cosmetics. With a 30,000-square-meter technology park and approximately 100 R&D engineers, they focus on natural plant-based cosmetics, essential oils, and innovative skincare solutions. Their dedication to quality is evident through certifications like French ECOCERT and national CNAS accreditation.

Key Products: Their main products include Natural Plant-Based Sunscreen SPF 30 and Essential Oil Infused Sunblock SPF 50. The Plant-Based Sunscreen offers eco-friendly sun protection using natural ingredients. The Essential Oil Infused Sunblock provides high SPF protection while nourishing the skin with beneficial essential oils.

Takeaway Note: Ridgepole is an excellent choice for businesses seeking a reliable partner with a strong focus on natural and innovative sunscreen products. Their extensive R&D capabilities and commitment to quality make them a standout option in the industry.

6. Shiseido – Best for Luxury Skincare

City & Country: Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan

Established Date: 1872

Shiseido is a globally recognized beauty company with a legacy spanning over 150 years. With a diverse portfolio of international brands, they have continuously set trends in skincare and sun care innovation. Their mission, “Beauty Innovations for a Better World,” drives them to develop high-performance products that cater to premium skincare needs.

Key Products: Their main products include Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk SPF 50+ and Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion SPF 50+. The Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare provides strong UV protection while incorporating skincare benefits. The Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion uses advanced technology to create water-resistant and highly effective sunscreen.

Takeaway Note:

Shiseido is ideal for luxury brands looking for high-end sunscreen solutions backed by innovative skincare science. However, their premium pricing and high-end positioning may not be suitable for budget-conscious businesses.

7. Solésence – Best for Clean & Mineral-Based Sunscreens

City & Country: Romeoville, Illinois, USA

Established Date: Not publicly listed

Solésence offers innovative skincare solutions focused on clean beauty. They specialize in proprietary Active Stress Defense™ technology, creating patent-protected formulations that provide enhanced environmental protection. Their dedication to safety, transparency, and regulatory compliance has earned them multiple industry awards, making them a preferred partner for brands seeking clean, effective sun care products.

Key Products: Their main products include Kleair™ Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 and Bloom™ Tinted Mineral Sun Shield SPF 45. The Kleair™ Mineral Sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection while enhancing skin clarity and radiance. The Bloom™ Tinted Mineral Sun Shield offers lightweight coverage with a natural finish, catering to customers looking for a sunscreen that blends seamlessly with their skin tone.

Takeaway Note:

Solésence is the best choice for brands prioritizing clean beauty and mineral-based sun protection with innovative skincare benefits. However, their specialized formulations and proprietary technologies may limit customization options for brands looking for fully custom sunscreen solutions.

8. Topix Pharmaceuticals – Best for Dermatologist-Recommended Sunscreens

City & Country: West Babylon, NY, USA

Established Date: 1981

Topix Pharmaceuticals has been formulating dermatologist-trusted skincare solutions for over three decades. Their expertise lies in creating clinical-grade products that address various skin concerns while ensuring optimal sun protection. With a strong foundation in antioxidant-rich formulations, their sunscreens are designed to protect, repair, and enhance skin health.

Key Products: Their main products include Replenix Antioxidant Sunscreen SPF 50+ and Citrix Vitamin C Sunscreen SPF 40. The Replenix Antioxidant Sunscreen is enriched with green tea polyphenols that provide antioxidant protection against environmental damage. The Citrix Vitamin C Sunscreen combines sun protection with vitamin C to brighten skin while shielding it from harmful UV rays.

Takeaway Note:

Topix Pharmaceuticals is ideal for businesses targeting the professional skincare market, particularly dermatologists and medical spas. However, their clinical-grade positioning may not align with brands focused on mainstream consumer sun care.

9. Dynamic Blending – Best for Small Batch & Custom Sunscreen Production

City & Country: Vineyard, Utah, USA

Established Date: 2015

Dynamic Blending is a full-service contract manufacturer specializing in skincare, cosmetics, and personal care products. Their flexible production model and low minimum order quantities make them a preferred partner for startups and smaller brands. With an in-house R&D team and extensive formulation expertise, they provide end-to-end manufacturing solutions, from concept development to final product distribution.

Key Products: Their main products include Custom Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 and Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50. The Custom Mineral Sunscreen offers personalized formulations tailored to specific brand needs. The Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen provides high SPF protection with a lightweight feel.

Takeaway Note:

Dynamic Blending is an excellent choice for businesses looking for small-batch, customizable sunscreen solutions with low order requirements. However, their focus on flexibility and smaller production runs may not be ideal for brands requiring large-scale manufacturing capabilities.

4 Tips to Consider When Choosing a Sunscreen Manufacturer

Finding the right sunscreen manufacturer isn’t just about SPF ratings and fancy packaging. It’s about working with a company that knows the science, follows strict regulations, and can deliver a product that meets your brand’s standards. Below are the key things to look for before making a decision:

• Stability Testing for Long-Term Performance: Sunscreens must maintain their SPF level and texture over time. A reliable manufacturer conducts rigorous stability tests to check how the formula holds up under heat, humidity, and light exposure. Without proper testing, a sunscreen can separate or lose effectiveness before it even hits store shelves.

• Reef-Safe and Skin-Safe Formulations: More consumers want sunscreens that are free from harmful chemicals. A good manufacturer can create formulas that protect skin while being safe for the environment. For example, they should know how to replace oxybenzone and octinoxate with mineral-based alternatives that still provide broad-spectrum protection.
• R&D Capabilities for Innovation: Sunscreen trends change fast, from tinted options to hybrid skincare formulas. A strong manufacturer invests in research and development to create new and exciting formulas.
• Film-Forming Agents for Long-Lasting Protection: A well-made sunscreen evenly spreads and stays on the skin without clumping or rubbing off. A skilled manufacturer will incorporate film-forming polymers such as Acrylates Copolymer or VP/Eicosene Copolymer to create a uniform layer that improves durability.

Conclusion

Selecting a sunscreen manufacturer requires careful consideration. This list covers some of the best in the industry, giving businesses a solid starting point in their search for the right partner.

A major concern for many brands is whether their sunscreen formulations are truly safe for customers and the planet. Harsh ingredients can lead to skin irritation and environmental harm. At Ridgepole, we solve this by using skin-friendly, sustainable ingredients while following strict international standards. If you’re looking for a manufacturing partner that creates high-quality, safe skincare products, contact us today!