9 of the best face sunscreens to wear this summer
There was a time when finding the best SPFs was akin to a game of Russian roulette; would it be greasy and thick? Would it be uncomfortable to wear? Would it deposit an unsightly white cast, leaving you looking like an extra from a B-movie horror film set?
Yes was often the answer to all of the above. But thankfully, that isn’t the case anymore. There really are excellent suit-all options available. So, what should we know before we buy? Firstly, decide what kind of SPF you want. Mineral or physical sunscreens act as a literal sunblock, using zinc or titanium dioxide to reflect UV rays before they penetrate the skin. Some with sensitive skin might prefer them. Meanwhile, chemical sunscreens tend to be more lightweight and work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into non-damaging heat.
Every product in this edit of the best facial sunscreens is formulated with broad-spectrum protection to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. They’re all SPF 30 (which guards against 97 per cent of UVB rays) or SPF 50 (which protects around 98 per cent.) When the SPF drops below this, there is a definite decrease in protection – SPF 15 is around 93 per cent, for example, which is why most dermatologists recommend you always opt for 30 and above. You’ll need to reapply your sunscreen every few hours to keep the efficacy at this level – and a small reminder, unprotected sun exposure can result in sun spots and accelerated ageing, sure. But at the more dangerous end. there can be an increased risk of skin cancer.
If you’re yet to find the SPF of your dreams, just keep reading…
Murad Correct and Protect Broad Spectrum SPF45
Best for: mineral SPF
Despite its silky formula and lack of white cast (it’s been tested on each of the six Fitzpatrick skin types), this incredible formula is astoundingly 100 per cent mineral sunscreen. It uses carotenoid technology to help reflect UV light and is a potent antioxidant to help protect the skin from discolouration. It also makes a brilliant base for make up and is a total game changer in the mineral SPF category.
Avène Intense Protect 50+ Sun Cream for Very Sensitive Skin
Best for: sensitive skin
They’re a staple in the sensitive skincare category, so it’s no surprise that Avene make one of the best sensitive skin facial SPFs too. It was designed to cater to the needs of babies (from 6 months), children, those with very fair skin, people with tattoos and skin sensitivities, and it has been tested under intense weather conditions, from high altitudes to tropical weather. It’s sweat and water-resistant, fragrance-free and though it initially seems a little heavy, it really does the job – when I had severe eczema on my face, this was my lifeline.
Eucerin Actinic Control SPF100
Best for: ultra high protection
This SPF 100 blocks 99 per cent of UVB rays and offers the ultimate protection. It was designed to help prevent actinic keratosis, which are scaly patches of skin damaged by the sun that need extra protection to avoid further damage (and potential risk of skin cancer.) Despite the high SPF protection, this light fluid works well for everyday use and under makeup. And it’s an ideal choice for those with very fair skin that burn easily and also works well on dark skin, too.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Mune 400 Oil Control Fluid
Best for: oily skin
Known as one of the leaders in sun protection and highly rated by dermatologists, this SPF range contains Mexoryl 400 – a UV filter that protects against ultra-long UVA rays. The invisible and ultra-light formula makes it ideal for oily skin types and those with acne-prone skin. It has a mattifying effect without looking flat, and helps to absorb sebum too. On top of all of this, it’s also sweat resistant – talk about overachieving.
Loreal Revitalift Clinical SF50+ Invisible Fluid
Best for: dark skin
There’s a lot to like about this SPF. It’s high protection, and there is added vitamin C to help nix free radical damage (which can cause dark spots and accelerated ageing,) plus hydration-boosting hyaluronic acid and moisturising glycerin. But the winning quality for me is the very gentle pearlised glow it gives you, and its silky, almost invisible formula. Any of the SPFs mentioned here will work for dark skins, but this one goes that step further.
The Body Shop Skin Defence Multi-Protection Light Essence
Best for: combination-dry skin
One of the best all-rounders for all skin types, this SPF protects your skin with broad spectrum SPF50 protection and gentle moisturising effect. It‘s ultra-lightweight, sits well over an additional moisturiser, and is one of the fastest-absorbing SPFs I’ve tried. As an added boost, it has indoor and outdoor pollution protection, and is great for sensitive skin. It’s a real cult classic, for very good reason.
Shiseido Clear Suncare Stick SPF50+
Ultrasun SPF50 UV Face & Scalp Mist
Best for: spraying over make up
There’s now a huge amount of spray SPFs designed to be used over your makeup or just as a quick way to touch up your sun protection. But one of the best is by suncare experts Ultrasun, known for their long-wearing formulas. This spray mists the skin with a non-greasy and clear formula, it dries quickly and is perfect for topping up during the day, leaving your makeup intact and your skin protected. It’s a summer essential.
Ultra Violette Sheen Screen Hydrating Lip Balm SPF50 in Rose
Best for: protecting your lips
Lips often get neglected when it comes to sun protection, but this clever lip balm offers a veil of SPF protection, a dose of hydration and a hit of colour all in one swipe. Aussie brand Ultra Violette makes some of the best SPFs out there, so not only are they trustworthy, but you’ll also want to wear this pretty pink shade all year round (and I definitely do.)