15 best sunscreens for face 2025, reviewed by derms & editors
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Sunscreens for the face are a year-round essential – but with the summer months finally upon us, now feels like the perfect time to, once again, edit our list of the facial sunscreen formulations our editors have been putting to the test lately – just in time for longer days, warmer weather and sun-soaked plans.
Any dermatology or skincare expert will tell you that applying sunscreen is one of the most important things you can do for your skin’s long term health, regardless of your age or skin type. In fact, Dr Christine Hall, a GMC-registered general practitioner in medical aesthetics, told me that 90% of visible skin ageing comes from the sun and its UV rays. “The best skincare advice I can give to anyone is to use SPF every single day, all year around," she shares. "It needs to be a dedicated SPF that is broad spectrum, and have a minimum sun protection factor of SPF 30 or SPF 50.”
So, without further ado, here is your definitive guide to the very best sunscreens for face – including broad-spectrum chemical sunscreens, sunscreens for sensitive skin, tinted sunscreens and mineral SPFs – that all come recommended by the GLAMOUR editors who swear by them on the daily.
Your sunscreen for face FAQs, answered:
- How we tested sunscreens
- Do I need a separate sunscreen for my body and face?
- Do I need to wear a face SPF every day?
- Does sunscreen prevent tanning?
- Does sunscreen expire?
- Is SPF 30 or SPF 50 better?
- How do I choose the right sunscreen for my face?
- Are there any key ingredients to look out for?
- Our full reviews.
Meet our expert:
- Dr Christine Hall, a general practitioner in medical aesthetics.
How we test the best face sunscreens
To test the latest face sunscreen launches, our editors and writers introduced new products into their routine for at least a few days at a time. Everyone who tested the sunscreens listed is very experienced – Fiona Embleton, for example, has been testing beauty products for over a decade.
After looking at the formulations, we scored based on their protection grade, consistency, how greasy they are, whether they leave white-cast, and how well they sit under make-up. After a few days, it was easier to assess whether they clog pores, and how often reapplication is needed. Oh, and rest assured: each sunscreen for the face has been tested on a variety of skin tones, textures and types to put every claim through its paces.
Of course, no product was perfect, so we’ve ensured we listed the things we didn’t like about sunscreens as well as what we did. Find out more about how we test here.
Ahead, GLAMOUR's full edit of the best sunscreens for face for every skin type.
Medik8 Advanced Day Ultimate Protect Age-Defying Moisturiser with SPF 50+
- Best for: Repairing, and lessening the look of fine lines and hyperpigmentation.
- SPF Level: SPF 50+.
- Size: 50ml.
- Mineral or chemical? Chemical.
- Key ingredients: The DNA repair enzyme photolyase, multi-weight hyaluronic acid, squalane.
- Consistency: Lightweight moisturiser.
- Tester: Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Commerce Writer.
GLAMOUR's review: "Advanced Day Ultimate is Medik8's highest protection sunscreen, formulated with next-generation DNA repair enzymes and their most advanced 360° environmental shield to date. But not only does this broad-spectrum sunscreen shield your skin from the sun to prevent sun-induced signs of ageing, but it's also infused with nourishing squalane and hydrating multi-weight hyaluronic acid to deliver daily moisture to the complexion.
"The texture is lightweight and silky, makeup applies atop it like a dream and your complexion is left glowing. Apply it in the morning after cleansing, and after application of a vitamin C serum and your moisturiser.
“Topline? I've used this SPF for a whole year now and it's genuinely one of the most convenient, effective and hydrating formulas around. The consistency is non-greasy, it doesn't leave a white cast and it works very well underneath makeup – a win.”
After more from Medik8? Read our full Medik8 review.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid Non-Perfumed Suncream SPF50+
- Best for: Smooth, non-greasy wear.
- SPF Level: SPF 50.
- Size: 50ml.
- Mineral or chemical? Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Mexoryl 400, an exclusive UV filter that protects against ultra long UVA.
- Consistency: Lightweight fluid.
- Tester: Fiona Embleton, GLAMOUR's Associate Beauty Director, and Georgia Trodd (pictured).
Why we love it: "If you suffer from breakouts and find that wearing face SPFs tends to make matters worse, make a beeline for this bestseller product from La Roche-Posay. This 'invisible fluid' has been specially formulated for those with oily and acne-prone skin and mops up excess sebum for a mattifying effect, all while offering a super light feel and SPF50+ protection against the sun's rays.
“I've used this sunscreen daily ever since it launched for two key reasons. The science behind the formula is seriously impressive as it protects against damage from the longest UVA rays, and at a purse-friendly price, too. The invisible, non-greasy finish is also really pleasing and means you'll actually enjoy reapplying it.”
We've got Sephora discount codes to use before you buy the best face SPFs.
AUGUSTINUS BADER The Sunscreen SPF50 30ml
- Best for: Moisturising, repairing, and protecting.
- SPF Level: SPF 50.
- Size: 30ml.
- Mineral or chemical? Chemical.
- Key ingredients: TFC8®, also known as Trigger Factor Complex TFC™, which shields the skin from both UVA and UVB rays while supporting skin renewal.
- Consistency: Cream.
- Tester: Denise Primbet, Freelancer.
Why we love it: "Powered by TFC8® technology, this rich-but-lightweight formula helps calm redness, soothe irritation, and support skin repair from daily environmental stressors – all without feeling heavy on the skin. It’s packed with restorative botanicals: cotton seed and microalgae extracts help strengthen and balance, while a potent antioxidant blend – featuring pomegranate flower, perilla leaf, and Kakadu plum – works to protect your skin.”
MURAD Multi-Vitamin Clear Coat SPF50 50ml
- Best for: Preventing dark spots.
- SPF Level: SPF 50.
- Size: 50ml.
- Mineral or chemical? Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Vitamin C and chia seed oil.
- Consistency: Clear moisturiser.
- Tester: Elle Turner, Senior Beauty Editor.
Why we love it: “This isn’t just SPF – it’s an SPF treatment. Murad’s Vitamin Clear Coat formula delivers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection while boosting ceramide production to strengthen your skin barrier. The moisturising formula plays nicely with almost anything you wear on top. It's completely clear so it doesn't leave a cast behind, and it's packed with vitamins C, D, E, and F, bio-fermented clary sage, and omega-rich chia seed oil, which soothes and nourishes skin beautifully.”
KATE SOMERVILLE HydraKate Illuminating SPF 50+ Drops 50ml
- Best for: High protection without any white cast.
- SPF Level: SPF 50.
- Size: 50ml.
- Mineral or chemical? Mineral.
- Key ingredients: 24.5% Non-Nano Zinc Oxide provides strong protection with no white cast, enhanced by sheer mineral pigments.
- Consistency: Lightweight fluid.
- Tester: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: "This illuminating SPF is infused with sheer mineral pigments that blend into the skin like a dream, leaving you with a sheer glow, all while delivering high protection so you can rest assured that your skin will be protected. It’s a staple in my beauty bag and I never leave the house without it."
SUPERGOOP! Protec(tint) Daily SPF Tint SPF50
- Best for: A lightweight skin tint.
- SPF Level: SPF 50.
- Size: 35ml.
- Mineral or chemical? Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Ectoin, hyaluronic acid-infused clay.
- Consistency: Lightweight fluid.
- Tester: Sophie Donovan, Senior Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: “If you have dry skin like me, you might hesitate to try an SPF tint – but this lightweight number might just change your mind. It has become my go-to, replacing foundation most days. It offers light to medium coverage and SPF 50 protection, so I feel covered in more ways than one. Plus, the shade range is pretty solid.”
Ultra Violette Super Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial Skinscreen SPF50+
- Best for: Being a hydrating moisturiser, primer and SPF in one.
- SPF Level: SPF 50+.
- Size: 125ml.
- Mineral or chemical? Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Kakadu plum, antioxidant-rich dragosine.
- Consistency: Lightweight cream.
- Tester: Shani Cohen, Beauty Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: "It's hardly a coincidence that this Aussie brand is behind some of the best sun protection products on the market. This sunscreen in particular is one of their most popular sun creams, in part thanks to its great coverage and hydrating formula. Designed to combine the benefits of a moisturiser, primer and sunscreen all in one product, this face SPF is best suited for dry and combination skin. Plus, it's completely non-comedogenic.
“I was happily surprised with this sunscreen. It didn't feel greasy, and felt very hydrating on the skin. It also didn't leave a white cast, which is a common problem I often encounter with SPFs."
Tatcha The Silk Sunscreen SPF 50
- Best for: Hydrating, strengthening, balancing.
- SPF Level: SPF 50.
- Size: 50ml.
- Mineral or chemical? Mineral.
- Key ingredients: Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, silk extract.
- Consistency: Lightweight cream.
- Tester: Denise Primbet, Freelancer.
Why we love it: “Silk is a cornerstone of Tatcha formulas, as it comes with a wealth of benefits, including helping to support the skin’s barrier function, hydration, and protection against pollutants. It's also primer-like in that it assists in your makeup lasting longer. In addition to silk extract, this reef-safe SPF also features niacinamide to even skin tone and texture, and hyaluronic acid to retain moisture.”
Elf Suntouchable Invisistick SPF50
- Best for: Easy application on-the-go.
- SPF Level: SPF 50.
- Size: 18g.
- Mineral or chemical? Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Moisturising sunflower seed oil and soothing bisabolol.
- Consistency: Non-greasy balm.
- Tester: Robyn Eugene, Social Media Manager.
Why we love it: “This is a great portable option to swipe across skin if you hate getting goopy sunscreen all over your hands. The stick-to-balm formula blends easily into skin without feeling greasy, looks invisible on skin and is water-resistant.”
Daily Water Gel SPF50+ Sunscreen
- Best for: A gentle, non greasy formula.
- SPF Level: SPF 50.
- Size: 60ml.
- Mineral or chemical? Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, aloe vera and antioxidant vitamin E.
- Consistency: Gel.
- Tester: Sophie Cockett, Senior European Commerce Editor.
Why we love it: “Packed with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and antioxidant-rich vitamin E, this lightweight gel delivers hydration and protection in one effortless step. As someone who loves a dewy, fresh-faced look, I’m all about products that enhance that glow – and Coco & Eve’s Water Gel nails the brief. It leaves my skin plump, radiant, and subtly luminous. Bonus: it packs SPF 50 protection, so it’s doing double duty.”
Reine des Prés UV Shield SPF50
- Best for: Protection and even-toned skin.
- SPF Level: SPF 50.
- Size: 30ml.
- Mineral or chemical? Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Meadowsweet flowers extract, scutellaria extract and glycerin.
- Consistency: Cream.
- Tester: Denise Primbet, Freelancer.
Why we love it: “I've been using this formula daily, and it's quickly become a staple in my routine. It's packed with botanical extracts, and it leaves my skin feeling incredibly smooth, hydrated, and comfortable from the moment I apply it. It leaves behind a natural finish that isn't too greasy or shiny, even for those with oily skin. I love that it gives me high-level SPF 50 protection while also improving the clarity of my skin over time.”
The INKEY List Polyglutamic Acid Dewy Sunscreen SPF30
- Best for: Plumping and retaining moisture.
- SPF Level: SPF 30.
- Size: 50ml.
- Mineral or chemical? Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Polyglutamic acid, glycerin, squalane.
- Consistency: Lightweight cream.
- Tester: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: “This lightweight, non-pilling sunscreen gives you a protected, primed, and dewy base, ideal for whether you're planning to wear makeup or not. With broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, it features 8% pure hydration in the form of glycerin and squalane, which work to maintain moisture levels. The addition of plumping polyglutamic acid stimulates the skin's natural collagen production processes, attracts water to the skin, and reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles.”
SkinCeuticals Advanced Brightening UV Defense SPF 50
- Best for: Reducing the appearance of discolouration and age spots.
- SPF Level: SPF 50.
- Size: 40ml.
- Mineral or chemical? Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Tranexamic acid and niacinamide.
- Consistency: Lotion.
- Tester: Denise Primbet, Freelancer.
Why we love it: “Providing broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection, this lightweight lotion uses 1% tranexamic acid, which inhibits pigment production to prevent hyperpigmentation from forming, and also simultaenously brightens existing dark spots. 2% niacinamide works to even and balance skin tone and reduce transepidermal water loss, while chemical UV filters help to shield your skin from the sun. The result? A radiant, clear and even complexion.”
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Ultrasun Face Tinted High SPF 30
- Best for: Smoothing and delivering a subtle tint.
- SPF Level: SPF 30.
- Size: 50ml.
- Mineral or chemical? Both.
- Key ingredients: Ectoin and a blend of antioxidants.
- Consistency: Cream.
- Tester: Denise Primbet, Freelancer.
Why we love it: “This water-resistant tinted face SPF stars an ultra light formula that's supported by a roster of powerful antioxidants to keep your complexion in tip-top shape. Plus, it uses both chemical and mineral SPF filters, adds just a hint of long-lasting colour, and was created with sensitive skin in mind, being free of oil, emulsifiers and fragrance.”
Save when you shop for the best face SPF when you use these Sephora discount codes.
Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF 50
- Best for: Hydrating, soothing, calming.
- SPF Level: SPF 50.
- Size: 30ml.
- Mineral or chemical? Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Vitamin E, baicalin.
- Consistency: Lightweight cream.
- Tester: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: “This lotion SPF doubles up as both an excellent daily moisturiser and a hard-working sun protector. Featuring baicalin, a plant-derived flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, alongside calming vitamin E, it's a brilliant choice if you're prone to redness or dryness. Plus, if it doesn't leave any dreaded chalky residue, just a glowing, invisible finish.”
Your face SPF questions, answered:
Do I need a separate sunscreen for my body and face?
Yep, you really shouldn't substitute an SPF that's been expertly formulated for your face with your go-to body sun cream (however tempting that may be). According to most dermatologists, it's almost as big of a skincare sin as using body moisturiser instead of a face moisturiser.
First of all, body sun creams generally tend to have a much thicker consistency compared to face sunscreens and face SPFs, so applying them to your face can block your pores and even potentially lead to unwanted breakouts.
“The skin in the face is much thinner and more delicate than the skin on other parts of the body. Products formulated for the body tend to be stronger and thicker than those that are formulated for the face," shares Dr Christine.
"The face is also an oilier area, meaning that the skin on our bodies tend to be drier - hence body products will be heavier in terms of ingredients like oils and butters which would be too much for the face. So whilst it is OK to use face products on the body, you run the risk of inflamed and greasy skin if by using body products on the face.”
Do I need to wear a face sunscreen everyday?
You certainly do! UVB and UVA rays are known culprits behind sunburn, pigmentation, wrinkle formation and premature ageing of your skin cells. Not to mention, prolonged, consistent and unprotected exposure to harmful UV rays doesn't come without an increased risk of skin cancer.
Plus, some face SPFs have been expertly formulated to counteract other stressors, including pollution and the blue light emitted from screens on electronic devices. And much like other skincare products, the main difference lies with the added ingredients, which can vary depending on your skin's needs and personal preferences.
So not only do face SPFs prevent long-term damage, but they also help our skin maintain its ability to produce collagen and elastin, both of which are essential when it comes to keeping you looking radiant and youthful.
Does sunscreen prevent tanning?
In short — no. No SPF is able to protect your skin entirely from UV rays. Some rays will still penetrate your skin — especially if you're exposed to the sun for a prolonged period of time.
But it's important to remember that there's no such thing as a “safe tan” — so if you want to look bronzed, forgo lying out in the sun in favour of picking up a bottle of trusty fake tan.
Does sunscreen expire?
Yes! Most sunscreens will have a printed expiration date somewhere on the bottle. Also, once you've opened a bottle of sunscreen, its efficacy will begin to deplete over time — so you'll likely need to replace an open bottle after around six months.
Is SPF 30 or SPF 50 better?
According to both the EWG and the Skin Cancer Foundation, SPF 30 blocks nearly 97% of UVB radiation while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. So technically speaking, SPF 50 is the best facial SPF... but only marginally.
How do I choose the right sunscreen for my face?
Okay, so we know it's best to choose a SPF 50 (although don't fret if your favourite formula is a SPF 30).
We then need to check that your SPF is broad-spectrum, meaning that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays - and don't worry, you don't need to study the INCI list - brands tend to advertise this on their packaging if it's broad-spectrum.
Next, consider your skin type. Dry skin will benefit from formulas with hyaluronic acid and humectants (like glycerin) and emollients (like squalane). If you're on the oily side or blemish-prone, there's plenty of oil-free formulas on the market, like the Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free Suncare Emulsion SPF 30. Feeling sensitive? Always, but if your skin needs a little TLC, choose an SPF with a simple formula with fewer ingredients, and no fragrance.
Are there any key ingredients to look out for?
You may often spot components like avobenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, oxybenzone and homosalate, which are popular in chemical sunscreens. Mineral sunscreens tend to include titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which help create a protective barrier on your skin that will reflect harmful UV rays.
Keep a beady eye on kind-to-skin ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, squalane, green tea extract, and aloe vera, too (which is also often seen in after sun products).
What is the best face SPF?
We've tried and tested all the best sunscreens for face in a range of textures and protection levels – from SPF 15 to SPF 40 and above – all coming from some of the best brands in the biz, including La Roche Posay, Ultra Violette, Medik8 and Tatcha.
As used by Rihanna herself (unsurprisingly – it's part of her own brand) is the Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30. Available for £34 from Boots, it's a lightweight oil-free SPF/moisturiser-hybrid that provides a balancing dose of hydration with broad-spectrum protection. It brightens skin, reduces discolouration and dark spots and comes pink-tinted to ensure it applies invisibly on all skin tones. We’re talking zero chalkiness.
There’s also Dermalogica’s Pure Light SPF50 which provides hydration and a shield of SPF50 while also exfoliating your surface skin cells to diminish dark spots and brighten the skin. Or Soleil Toujours golden 100% Mineral Sunscreen Glow SPF 30 formula, which alongside eco-friendly broad spectrum mineral protection, adds a beautiful dose of glow to all skin tones.
After more skincare content? Shop the best SPF lip balms, and a dermatologist’s guide to rosacea. For more shoppable beauty content from Glamour UK freelance contributor, follow her on Twitter @deniseprimbet and Instagram @deniseprimbet.
