As a beauty expert, there are two cardinal rules to live by. One, drink more water, and two, wear SPF daily. I know all the best sunscreens for healthy skin - it is basic beauty lore - but even so, during my almost decade-long tenure as beauty director of Elle magazine, I did not always practise what I preached, and I have the freckle-shaped skin damage to show for it.
The benefits are obvious: research has proved that daily application of factor 15 or above lowers your chance of developing certain skin cancers by 50 per cent, plus, of course, it discourages premature skin ageing. But my issue was the reaction and tolerance of my sensitive skin, which, if I’m honest, felt more of an immediate priority on a day to day basis than protecting the future of my face.
And I’m not alone in this. A YouGov survey conducted by Face The Future shows only 22 per cent of the UK apply SPF daily, and just 53 per cent of British women are worried about ageing from sun damage. In my case, I hadn’t found the right product for my skin, but they’ve come on light years since the white-cast, comedogenic formulas that gave SPF a bad name.
The sun protection market has shown consistent and significant growth and in turn beauty brands have expanded their ranges to tackle specific skin concerns. But with greater choice comes greater confusion. To help you protect your skin from burning and ageing ultra violet radiation, I’ve reviewed the best SPFs below, many of which also deliver a skin-beautifying boost.
Skip to:
- Best SPFs for the body
- Best SPFs for the face
- Best children’s SPF
How I tested the best SPFs
The optimum amount of SPF for effective coverage of the face is two fingers, as seen above. I was looking for a rich texture that would make my skin feel nourished and protected, but which felt non-greasy and shine-free and disappeared into my skin straight away.
Where different tints were available, I tested both warm and cool tones on my cheek in natural light to work out what tint suited me best.
For spray sunscreens, which are ideal for children, I was looking for a fine mist that I could spray straight after swimming or top up quickly with no rubbing.
Best sunscreens for the face
La Roche Posay Anthelios UV MUNE 400 Invisible Fluid
£16, Boots
Best sunscreen for sensitive skin, 9/10
We like: the high level of water resistance
- Application type: fluid
- Sizes available: 50ml only
This is another multi-tasking must-have. La Roche Posay is a trusted skincare brand with ranges for the whole family, and this, whilst brilliant for all skin types, has been specifically formulated for sensitive and reactive skin. With a lightweight, almost watery formula, the SPF is immediately absorbed, and totally invisible, plus it is ultra water, sand and sweat resistant.
With additional skincare benefits, it gives unique extra protection against the deeper penetrating UVA rays that are responsible for premature ageing. A multi-beneficial all rounder.
Ultra Violette Lean Screen Mineral Mattifying Skinscreen SPF 50+
£34, Space NK
Best sunscreen for oily skin, 9/10
We like: the skin-mattifying effect
- Application type: pump
- Sizes available: 50ml only
This is a covetable cult favourite for very good reason. The whole range of SPF-specific skincare is brilliant, but this is a mineral-only sunscreen that has a subtly matte finish which will feel super comfortable to wear, but also give a confidence boost to those conscious of adding extra shine to their already oily skin.
The gently tinted formula also has Vitamin C for antioxidant protection as well as extra, non-comedogenic moisturising ingredients meaning it won’t clog your pores. This product is a rare find in the SPF world, giving optimum, sheen-free protection whilst still allowing your skin to breathe.
Obagi Tint Sun Shield in Cool or Warm
£63.45, Skinstation
Best tinted SPF, 9/10
We like: the perfect hint of colour
- Application type: tube
- Sizes available: 85g only
This is a personal favourite broad spectrum SPF 50 find that helps to even out skin tone whilst giving it a real glow-boost. The option to choose a warm or cool toned tint is brilliant for the most complimentary and complexion-enhancing finish possible, and something I switch up between seasons.
The creamy, almost pearlescent finish absorbs into the skin beautifully to give a gorgeous but subtle natural sheen. Skin feels enriched and protected, with a formula that is non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, and dermatologist-tested.
All the professional benefits you’d expect from any Obagi Medical skincare product, but with a cosmetic advantage too. It’s expensive, but for a good and valid reason.
Institut Esthederm Into Repair SPF 50+
£66, Space NK
Best sunscreen for anti-ageing, 9/10
We like: actively repairs skin instead of just protecting
- Application type: tube
- Sizes available: 50ml only
This is a more expensive option but the long list of additional skincare benefits actually make it a high value one. There is full spectrum protection to start with, but the formula is designed for skin that is hypersensitive, or intolerant to other SPF or general skincare products.
It also targets the skin laxity that we all experience with age, utilising regenerative active ingredients to help firm the skin, smooth fine lines, and stimulate collagen and elastin production. It’s also an excellent choice for very fair skin that needs optimum sun protection, those with sensitised skin due to damage or for skin that might be recovering post-treatment, when SPF is of even greater importance.
Dr Sam Bunting Flawless Daily Sunscreen SPF 50
£31, Dr Sam Bunting
Best sunscreen for acne-prone skin, 8/10
We like: doubles as a make-up primer
- Application type: Pump
- Sizes available: 50ml only
Dr Bunting is a renowned medical dermatologist and skin concern expert, with a range of products to help educate and master your own skin. She explains, “SPF is super-important for blemish prone skin as it protects against post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, those pesky dark marks that spots leave behind.” This actively calms reactive skin with a soft focus finish so it works as an excellent base for concealer.
The efficacy of this SPF is largely down to the 5 per cent Niacinamide, a wonder ingredient that helps to brighten and boost skin whilst keeping pores clear and skin calm. With broad spectrum sun protection that won’t exacerbate any current skin concerns. It’s a great skin safety net.
7. Sun Bum Moisturising SPF 30 Lip Balm
£4.79, Boots
Best lip SPF, 8/10
We like: the addictive coconut scent
- Application type: Bullet Balm
- Sizes available: 4.25g only
Don’t skip your lips! The skin is thinner and therefore more prone to sun damage. While many SPF lip balms can feel quite drying or like they’re sitting on the skin rather than sinking in, this coconut-scented balm has a lovely creamy formula that effectively protects and nourishes your lips.
Excellent as a daily lip balm, the formula has extra skincare benefits, with aloe and vitamin E for superior hydration. It offers broad spectrum, factor 30 protection against sun damage. I found I had to keep reapplying because the scent is so tempting, I struggled not to lick it off.
Cerave Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF 50
£13.20, Boots
Best sunscreen for dry skin, 7/10
We like: contains ceramides to strengthen your skin barrier
- Application type: pump
- Sizes available: 52ml only
This is an excellent every day product (as all SPFs should be) but integrating high protection with your daily moisturiser means you’re less likely to skip this essential step. The moisturising element is what Cerave is renowned for, delivering a full 24 hours of hydration, plus it’s light and easily absorbed.
The additional skincare benefits include ceramides and hyaluronic acid to boost and strengthen the skin barrier. The only downside is you might be less inclined to reapply as necessary throughout the day as you would with a ‘pure’ SPF. In which case, supplement with another pick from this list.
Supergoop Glow Stick
£22, Boots
Best sunscreen for luminous skin, 9/10
We like: the clean application
- Application type: twist-up stick
- Sizes available: 20ml only
This SPF super-brand is a Beauty Editors favourite. Otherwise known as the Unseen Sunscreen, the range is quite extensive, but this is a real hero for very easy application and a truly radiant skin finish. It’s like a makeup-sunscreen hybrid, offering high protection in a dry-oil formula that is perfect for on-the-go application.
It’s sweat resistant too, but the real high point is the natural glow it gives to the face, but I love it across the collarbones and chest area too. A great all-over product, but it’s small so best for highlighting if you want it to last!
Best sunscreens for the body
Lancaster Sun Sport Cooling Invisible Mist
£25.60, Look Fantastic
Best sunscreen overall, 10/10
We like: the cooling effect of the mist application
- Application type: mist
- Sizes available: 200ml only
This is the ultimate multi-tasking sunscreen. Excellent for outdoor activities, it has an invisible, super-fine mist that is resistant to both water and sweat. The mist application means it covers large areas without the need for rubbing into the skin so there is no risk of sand-abrasion, and it can even spray straight onto wet skin fresh out of water.
In addition, the skin cooling formula is pleasantly refreshing on a hot day or during particularly active play, making it a brilliant choice for the gym bag too. The broad spectrum SPF means you can feel safely protected, your skin nourished and cooled and reaping the benefits of a comforting all-rounder with serious staying power and true ease of use.
Altruist Family Sun Spray
£12.25, Amazon
Best value sunscreen, 10/10
We like: it’s friendly to sensitive skin
- Application type: trigger spray
- Sizes available: multiple
Created by a dermatologist and skin cancer surgeon, this hard-working SPF50 spray is suitable for the whole family, including babies from six months old. This makes it brilliant value, since you only need one bottle for the beach (although it’s worth stocking up on more because you’ll want to use it all year round too).
The spray application is great, with the formula rubbing into the skin with ease, leaving no residue whatsoever. The formula is Paraben free, and gentle enough for the most sensitive skin, but the protection packs a punch, with full dermatologist specification broad spectrum. You will love the sheen it leaves on the skin for a subtle but healthy glow.
Garnier Ambre Solaire Super UV with Vitamin C
£9.33, Amazon
Best budget sunscreen, 8/10
We like: it gradually evens your skin tone after prolonged use
- Application type: fluid
- Sizes available: 40ml only
This is a relative newcomer to the Ambre Solaire range, and a very popular choice this summer. The formula is ultra lightweight, and at less than £10, is serious value for money. It has a light, invisible, non greasy finish, with a high SPF 50, but is also the perfect addition to your facial skincare routine.
With active ingredients vitamin Cg, glycerin and vitamin E, your skin will look noticeably more even-toned with daily use. It’s effective in the reduction of dark spots and pigmentation, whilst promoting skin-radiance too. Don’t forget to top up your SPF throughout the day to further protect your face and neck.
Vichy Soleil Tan Illuminating Sun Protection Water Spray SPF 50
£15.60, Boots
Best sunscreen for tan-enhancing protection, 10/10
We like: how lightweight the spray formula is
- Application type: water spray
- Sizes available: 200ml only
This high and broad spectrum sunscreen actually helps boost your natural tan while you wear it. How? The inclusion of beta-carotene, an antioxidant (also found in carrots and spinach FYI) that helps boost your production of melanin which will improve your ability to tan, safely.
The formula is better described as water enhanced, which makes it really lightweight and very comfortable to wear. I don’t tan very easily but I enjoyed the fact that this helped warm me up after a few days of use - particularly noticeable on my shoulders and nose. Also, important to note it is stain-free, so nothing else will colour, apart from you. It’s a win-win!
Sol De Janeiro Rio Radiance Body Lotion SPF 50
£32, Cult Beauty
Best sunscreen for great smelling skin, 8/10
We like: the glow it gives your skin
- Application type: lotion
- Sizes available: 200ml only
From the creators of infamous Brazilian Bum Bum Cream (which became a cult classic because of the iconic scent) comes Rio Radiance, which does what it says; gives your whole body a rich, healthy glow. The formula includes niacinimide to even out your skin tone, but it’s the hero cupuaçu butter that gives it the hydration boost and glow.
And scent-wise? Tuberose and vanilla make it the ultimate transportative all-over-lotion that you’ll want to apply as a regular post-shower body lotion whether you’re heading out into the sun or not.
Best sunscreens for children
UltraSun Very High SPF 50 Sports Spray Formula
£22.40, Look Fantastic
Best waterproof sunscreen, 7/10
We like: the easy spray application
- Application type: spray
- Sizes available: 150ml only
This is a must-have addition to your beach or holiday bag. The spray formula is transparent with a very speedy absorption and non-greasy formula. It has the most serious staying power - marketed as ‘one application’ product for day long protection.
There is no doubt this protection is broad and long-lasting, (also friction-resistant), but whilst it is tempting to skip the top-ups, it is always advised to do so, especially after swimming or excessively sweating.
The easy-application means you won’t mind repeated application, and with a hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and antioxidant Vitamin E-rich formula, your skin will be nourished and protected for the long term.
Childs Farm Water Resistant Suncream SPF 50+
£12, Childs Farm
Best sunscreen for eczema prone skin, 8/10
We like: gentle even on eczema prone skin
- Application type: Cream
- Sizes available: 100ml or 200ml
An excellent option for family members with sensitive, dry skin or those prone to eczema. This thick cream doesn’t irritate their skin as some SPF’s can. It has a raft of natural ingredients, no parabens or artificial colours, and it nicely moisturising too.
This broad spectrum SPF has only been marked down because of the thicker texture of the cream which takes a little longer to rub in, but certainly feels more protective because of it. I would recommend reapplying regularly as with any sun protection for kids, but their skin will feel nourished and protected at the same time.
Nivea Sun Babies + Kids Sensitive Protect SPF 50+
£8.50, Ocado
Best sunscreen for delicate or sensitive skin, 9/10
We like: the lotion absorbs quickly
- Application type: spray lotion
- Sizes available: 200ml
The most soothing kids sunscreen due to the addition of organic chamomile that calms and eases sensitive or sun-exposed skin. But it’s lovely in general, with an easy-to-apply fragrance-free formula.
The spray lotion is absorbed really fast and gives immediate protection against both UVA and UVB rays so is a great option for topping up the kids on beach days. The sun protection factor of 50+ is highly effective so you can feel safe in the knowledge your whole family (including babies from six months old) are excellently protected.
Soltan Kids Protect & Moisturise Suncare Roll On SPF 50
£3.20, Boots
Best sunscreen for on the go protection, 7/10
We like: decent level of water resistance
- Application type: roll on lotion
- Sizes available: 50ml only
The roll on liquid formula is fantastic for super-quick top ups and the kids will enjoy applying it themselves (although make sure you can see full coverage, and then rub the lotion in for optimum protection). It’s suitable to apply all over the body and the broad spectrum protection is very high.
This SPF needs to be applied a good fifteen minutes before sun exposure and topped up regularly throughout the day, but is extra water resistant so once it’s on and absorbed, it’s perfect for ad-hoc top ups wherever and whenever needed.
Evy Technology Sunscreen Mousse SPF 50
£30, Cult Beauty
Best kid’s sunscreen for easy application, 9/10
We like: the fun packaging
- Application type: mousse
- Sizes available: 150ml only
OK this isn’t the most budget-friendly option for a kids sunscreen, but the mousse formula mean a little goes a long way with zero wastage that sprays and mists can create. It is also extremely effective and a joy to apply, something that your family will also enjoy!
It is highly water and sweat resistant too and totally effective immediately after application. A real bonus is the additional protection against other skin irritants like dehydration, wind, and heat so brilliant for a heatwave or a holiday. A brilliant fuss-free option (and the kids will love the packaging too).
Sunscreen and SPF FAQ
What to look for in an SPF
Your key non-negotiables are broad spectrum (protection against both UVA & UVB rays), and a minimum SPF of 30 (but ideally 50). To protect against all harmful rays - blue light, visible light, and infra-red too - a full spectrum SPF is even better.
Dr David Jack is an aesthetic doctor and skincare expert with a skin clinic on Harley Street. He tells me, “It is paramount to not only consider SPF as a way of preventing sunburn, but as the critical element in a comprehensive, anti-ageing skincare strategy.”
But not all SPFs are created equal, so what is the significance of the Sun Protection Factor? “A minimum of SPF 30 will block approximately 97 per cent of UVB rays, with higher SPFs offering greater protection. The level of UVA protection (the deeper penetrating UV rays) is less than this,” he says.
Should you use mineral or chemical sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreens tend to be better. If, like me, you have skincare concerns and might be SPF-avoidant, it is best to opt for a non-comedogenic sunscreen. This simply means non pore-blocking and therefore the difference between a good and a bad skin day. Most mineral sunscreens are non-comedogenic, but lots of modern chemical formulas have progressed to make sure they aren’t causing skin irritation.
Mineral sunscreens include natural ingredients, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which sit on the skin to physically block the sun’s rays, whilst chemical formulas use effective ingredients such as oxybenzone which is absorbed into the skin in order to convert UV rays into heat, which can then be passed back out of the body.
Aesthetic doctor Dr David Jack believes the distinction between the two is largely irrelevant when it comes to efficacy. “It is the level of protection that matters. The use of daily SPF is important year round (not just summer time) as UVA levels tend to be at similar levels throughout the year and can even penetrate through glass.”
How to apply sunscreen
Apply your SPF 20-30 minutes before going outside, with reapplication of sunscreen every two to three hours, recommends Dr Hiva Fassihi, consultant dermatologist at skincare company La Roche-Posay. Dependent on your level of activity, the amount of sun exposure and the type of product, you might need to reapply even more often that that.
Dr Fassihi explains, “The amount of UVA and UVB protection a sunscreen provides is related to how thickly it is applied onto the skin, so be generous with your sunscreen application.” For the average adult, use 30-50ml of SPF – about the size of a shot glass – to cover the whole body. For the face, remember the two-finger rule; dispense two strips of sunscreen along your index and middle finger and apply for full facial coverage.
And keep topping it up. Dr Fassihi warns us to “ignore ‘once daily’ or ‘water resistant’ branding and always reapply your sunscreen every two to three hours, and straight after swimming or towelling, in order to maintain protection”.
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