9 of the best daily SPFs & sunscreens for the face
Emma-Jade Stoddart
Beauty & skincare
Reading time 6 minutes
Plus, dermatologists break down everything you need to know about SPF
Ask any dermatologist and they’ll tell you that a broad spectrum sunscreen (one that protects against UV rays) is the most important step in any skincare routine. “It is essential to wear sun protection every day, even when it’s cloudy,” says Dr Catharine Denning, advanced aesthetic doctor. “This healthy habit reduces the probability of damage to the skin.”
Despite this fact, many of us don’t apply a facial SPF every day (especially in winter). Here, the experts break down everything you need to know about SPF – including the different types and how you can include sun protection in your daily routine – and answer some of your most-searched questions.
Plus, we round up some of our favourite facial sunscreens that play well with make-up and feel ultra-comfortable on the skin, to help you find a formula and consistency that’s right for you.
What are UVA & UVB rays?
Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB) are the two kinds of UV rays that can damage the skin. “UVB is a short wavelength that damages the skin’s outer layers, contributing to sunburn,” explains Dr Anjali Mahto, consultant dermatologist. UVB is strongest in the summer but can still damage the skin all year round.
UVA, on the other hand, “penetrates window glass and is relatively unchanged by time of day, season and altitude,” continues Dr Mahto. “UVA rays penetrate the skin deeper than UVB and are traditionally associated with the ageing of the skin.” So, think UVB for burning and UVA for ageing.
Do you really need SPF every day – even when it’s cloudy?
“Even on overcast days, I’d still recommend applying sunscreen to exposed areas, such as the face, as UV rays can pass through clouds and reach the earth’s surface, causing damage to our skin," says Dr Justine Kluk, consultant dermatologist.
“UVB levels are lower in winter, so the risk of sunburn, tanning and skin cancer [from UVBs] is lower, while UVA rays – which contribute to skin ageing, dark spots and also skin cancer – are relatively constant throughout the year.”
“Each case of sunburn has the potential to increase our risk of skin cancer, and it’s important to understand that it’s not only big days out by the sea that can cause damage,” says Dr Denning. “Risk builds incrementally with each exposure to UV rays, so it’s necessary to be sun savvy in daily life – when travelling to work, walking the dog – whenever you’re outside.”
No SPF offers 100% protection, but the higher the factor, the better
Is there a minimum SPF level that people should wear?
“No SPF offers 100% protection, but the higher the factor, the better. I’d always advise adults to use SPF30 as a minimum,” Dr Kluk tells us.
It’s worth noting here that SPF is an internationally standardised measure of a sunscreen’s ability to filter UVB radiation. “It’s not a measure of protection against UVA light,” says Dr Mahto. For UVA protection, look for ‘broad spectrum’ products – this means they protect skin against UVA and UVB rays. Good UVA protection can also be indicated by at least a 4-star rating or with the letters ‘UVA’ circled, which shows it meets the EU standard.
How much sunscreen should we apply – and how often?
The experts agree that sunscreen should be the final step in our skincare routine before make-up application. As a general rule to work by, the HSE recommends that adults apply around six to eight teaspoons of sunscreen for the entire body, so be generous with how much you use on your face, making sure to cover all exposed skin including the face, neck, and ears.
Watch our tutorial on how to layer your skincare for our tips and tricks for getting the most out of each of your steps.
Then, apply your make-up as normal. The NHS also recommends reapplying sunscreen throughout the day (around every two hours, if applicable). To do this, Dr Denning suggests using a spray applicator, “they can be useful for reapplying sunscreen over make-up.” And if you’ve been swimming or done any exercise that has caused excessive sweating, it’s best to re-apply sunscreen straight after, even if you’ve used a formula that says that it’s water-resistant.
Should we use SPF30 or SPF50 daily?
The HSE recommends looking for a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, but if you’re concerned that you might not be applying enough, a sunscreen with a higher SPF may provide greater peace of mind.
What's the difference between mineral & chemical sunscreens?
“Sunscreens can be of two kinds – mineral and chemical,” says Dr Mahto. Mineral sunscreen, also known as physical sunscreen, forms a physical barrier that reflects UV radiation away from the skin. They contain mineral-based filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
Chemical sunscreens contain active sun filters that absorb UV light to prevent sun damage. Sunscreen formulas usually contain one or the other, or a mixture of both.
Using a separate dedicated sunscreen is better for longer, more deliberate UV exposure, such as spending your lunch hour outside
Is there enough protection provided by having SPF in your daily face moisturiser?
“SPF in moisturisers are tested in the same way as SPF in sunscreen, so an SPF30 moisturiser should provide an SPF of 30,” says Dr Kluk. “The main issue is that these formulas are less likely to be rub-resistant and water-resistant, so they may not offer the same level of protection. Using a separate dedicated sunscreen is better for longer, more deliberate UV exposure, such as spending your lunch hour outside.”
9 of the best facial sunscreens to try now
Whatever your skin type or budget, we’ve got those daily sun care needs covered. Here are 9 everyday sun shields that you’ll look forward to applying.
Best for value
Try: Boots SPF+ Vitamin C Moisturising Lotion SPF50
• Size: 50ml
• Broad spectrum protection
• SPF50
• Fragrance-free
• Vegan-friendly
This ultra-lightweight SPF is laced with vitamin C and vitamin E to bolster glow and soothe skin while protecting it from UVA and UVB rays. It’s also vegan-friendly and has an invisible finish that sits really well under make-up.
Best for dry skin
Try: Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Broad Spectrum Mineral SPF30 Sunscreen Moisturizer with Niacinamide + Kalahari Melon
• Size: 50ml
• Broad spectrum protection
• SPF30
• Mineral sunscreen
• Non-comedogenic
• Refillable
• Vegan-friendly
Forgo moisturiser and go straight for this Mineral SPF30 that’s laced with hydrating hyaluronic acid, calming niacinamide, vitamin-rich Kalahari melon and soothing aloe, to plump and nourish skin. Completely transparent, this SPF sinks into the skin quickly, without leaving a chalky residue behind.
Best for glow
Try: Olay Niacinamide + SPF30 Day Moisturiser
• Size: 50ml
• Broad spectrum protection
• SPF30
• Non-greasy
This everyday essential helps protect skin from UV rays while also addressing dryness, fine lines and uneven texture, thanks to its niacinamide and vitamin E content. After cleansing, apply a generous layer before starting on your make-up.
Best for holidays
Try: Caudalie Vinosun High Protection Cream SPF50
• Size: 50ml
• Broad spectrum protection
• SPF50
• Vegan-friendly
Off on holiday? This is the SPF for you. Caudalie’s High Protection Cream has a lightweight, fast-absorbing, non-greasy texture that blends in effortlessly to moisturise and protect skin – without leaving behind a white cast. Plus, it’s ocean-friendly, thanks to its oxybenzone and octinoxate-free formula.
Best for brightening
Try: L'Oréal Revitalift Clinical SPF50+ Invisible Fluid
• Size: 50ml
• Broad spectrum protection
• SPF50
• Contains vitamin C
• Super lightweight
If you’re not a fan of heavy, thick sunscreens then turn your attention to this Invisible Fluid from L'Oréal. Seriously silky, this SPF50 has a milky lightweight texture that melts into the skin like a dream. The formula is also loaded with do-good ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, vitamin C, glycerin and retinol.
Best for high protection
Try: Soltan Once Age Defence Advanced 8hr Protect Facial Suncare Cream SPF50
• Size: 50ml
• Broad spectrum protection
• SPF50
• Water-resistant
• Vegan-friendly
If you’re after a no-nonsense formula that provides SPF50 (as well as the highest UVA star rating), then give this affordable sunscreen a whirl. It’s lightweight, long-wearing and resistant to water. Plus, it contains hydrating hyaluronic acid for an extra skin boost.
Best for an all-rounder
Try: La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50
• Size: 50ml
• Broad spectrum protection
• SPF50
• Water, sweat and sand-resistant
• 2022 Boots Beauty Award winner
A great choice for a range of skin types and skin tones, this milky-textured sunscreen’s an extremely popular pick among Boots customers for a reason. It provides high factor protection, feels light on skin and doesn’t leave white marks behind. We’re big fans.
Best for oily skin
Try: Sun Bum Original Broad Spectrum Moisturizing Facial Sun Cream SPF50
• Size: 88ml
• SPF50
• Broad spectrum protection
• Oil-free
• Matte finish
• Fragrance-free
• Water-resistant
• Vegan-friendly
• Cruelty-free
This lightweight daily moisturiser, which is formulated with SPF50, is one of the brand’s bestsellers – and it’s easy to see why. Super comfortable, the featherweight cream sinks in speedily for an invisible, matte finish that takes down shine. It’s also an excellent primer for make-up.
Best for combination skin types
Try: Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF50 PA++++
• Size: 30ml
• Broad spectrum protection
• SPF50
• Non-comedogenic
SPF needn’t be a chore to apply. Invest in this silky formula from Kiehl’s and you’ll actually enjoy this skincare step. Super lightweight and moisturising, this hard-working sunscreen not only protects skin from UVA and UVB rays, it also lends skin a healthy-looking luminosity. We’re hooked.
