18 Of The Best SPFs For Face In 2026, Tested By British Vogue Editors
Finding the best SPF for your face is key to creating and maintaining healthy skin, while fending off the signs of premature ageing. As any dermatologist will tell you, SPF helps block the harmful effects of the sun’s UVA and UVB rays, which wreak havoc on the health of our skin and its cells. In fact, we can prevent 80 per cent of skin ageing just by using sun protection for the face daily. Not using a good sunscreen every day can result in decreased collagen and elasticity, pigmentation, fine lines and laxity, not to mention an increased risk of skin cancer.
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In the old days, the formulas of sun protection for the face weren’t always the easiest to use. Many felt heavy, sticky or clogged pores, while others left a white or ashy cast on darker skin tones. However, with the SPF market booming – the (growing) global sun protection market is valued at a cool $12.2 billion this year – we are now privy to a wealth of different options, most of which sit well under make-up, feel like skincare and contain nourishing skincare ingredients to improve the skin each day. Far from feeling like a chore, applying an SPF now is a pleasure, so – rain or shine – there are few reasons not to wear it.
What to look for in a good SPF? Look for formulas that have both UVA and UVB protection (find out more about sun protection here), a minimum of SPF 30, and added ingredients that suit your skin’s specific needs.
To help you on your quest, below we’ve curated an edit of some of the best sun protection for face, along with your most frequently asked questions, which we put to the experts.
- Jump to the product reviews
- How we tested the best SPFs
- What’s the difference between a chemical and mineral SPF?
- What’s a common SPF myth?
- Does everyone need to wear SPF?
- Is SPF50 better than 30 for the face?
- Can you still get sun damage on your face even if you're wearing SPF?
- What is the healthiest SPF for your face?
As part of our mission to bring you the SPFs that you’ll actually want to wear this summer, we tested an array of different formulas. We all have different skin types and tones, so the list you see here is comprehensive and features sunscreens that feel good, are enjoyable to use, and that, crucially, work.
Whatever your skin type, every SPF here has been vetted to give you comfortable sun protection – take your pick below.
Medik8
Advanced Day Ultimate Protect SPF 50+
- Type: light cream
- Texture: Mid-weight moisturiser
- Sun Protection Factor: 50+
- Mineral/chemical: chemical
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, squalane, blueberry seed oil, carnosine
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: Consider this your ultimate all-bases-covered SPF formula. A standout SPF for all skin types, Medik8’s offering is brilliant for those with mature skin because it’s incredibly nourishing. Offering the highest levels of protection against UVA and UVB rays, it also fends off blue light, infrared radiation, air pollution and glycation, all of which can compromise our all-important collagen and elastin stores. Invisible and hydrating, it also boasts a light-activated DNA repair enzyme known as photolyase that supports the skin’s natural repair mechanisms to restore and revitalise skin after UV exposure. A brilliant addition to any skincare routine.
- “This is a great, reliable and effective sunscreen for all skin types. As with all Medik8 formulas, you know there’s science behind it you can trust, and I love the protective and reparative nature of this product with the addition of phytolyase. The formula itself is lightweight and non-greasy, so it’s easy and effortless to apply every day under my make-up, which is what I look for in the best face SPFs,” – Jess Diner, Vogue global wellness and beauty director
- Non-greasy formula which nourishes skin with squalane and hyaluronic acid
- Actively aids recovery from sunburn with DNA-repair enzymes
- Has anti-ageing properties
- Provides additional protection from blue light and pollution
- Expensive, but you get what you pay for
Beauty Of Joseon
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun
- Type: Lotion
- Sun Protection Factor: 50
- Mineral/chemical: chemical
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: This Beauty of Joseon formula recently went viral – and quite rightly. This K Beauty product is an airy emulsion of rice water and calming extracts that you can apply over the eyes, with zero stinging or white cast – the perfect sun protection for sensitive skin types. Light and hydrating, it absorbs quickly and dries down to a glowy satin finish, so it is also essential for anyone on the quest for glass skin.
- Gentle enough to be used around the eyes
- Moisturising without feeling heavy
- Offers broad spectrum protection
- Relatively affordable
- None, this sunscreen is worth the hype
La Roche-Posay
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVAir Daily Invisible Fluid SPF50+
- Type: light fluid/serum
- Sun Protection Factor: 50
- Mineral/chemical: chemical
- Texture: Ultra-light lotion
- Key ingredients: Glycerin, vitamin E, thermal spring water, silica
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: Hate wearing SPF but know it’s a must? La Roche-Posay’s new Anthelios UVAir is the formula for you. You can’t go wrong with any of La Roche-Posay’s cult line of ultra-efficacious SPFs – and this is the latest launch from the brand. Incredibly lightweight, it contains UVAir technology and a next-gen UV filter that targets the ultra-long UVA rays that are responsible for deep skin ageing, which helps fend off oiliness (for up to 16 hours) and hydrates, thanks to hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. “My new favourite SPF (and my husband’s too), this formula couldn’t be more comfortable to use – make-up sits well over the top of it, and while it’s not the cheapest on the market, it without a doubt offers the best technology for the affordable price,” says contributing beauty editor, Hannah Coates. “There’s a reason why dermatologists all recommend this brand.” Sweat-resistant and easy to apply, it’s also fragrance-free and suits even the most sensitive of skin types.
- Feels lightweight and comfortable on the face
- Non-comedogenic
- Gives invisible protection
- Relatively affordable option
- There aren’t any
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: A formula with both mineral and chemical filters delivers a happy medium, avoiding both the white cast caused by the former, as well as the potential irritation caused by the latter. That’s indeed the case with this weightless lotion, which appears transparent on skin and lends a dewy gleam. Worth noting: It does have a light scent, but that dissipates quickly.
- SPF level: 50
- Texture: Lightweight lotion
- Chemical or physical: Chemical (Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate 6.80 per cent, homosalate 6 per cent, ethylhexyl salicylate 4.50 per cent, octocrylene 2.5 per cent, titanium dioxide 1.40 per cent)
- Chemical or physical: Physical (non-nano zinc oxide 21.7%)
- Key ingredients: Ceramides, peptides, allantoin, hyaluronic acid
- SPF level: 30
- Texture: Fluid
- Size: 40ml
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: Ideal as a make-up base, Kosas’s hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested formula can also be worn on its own to revive the skin with a hint of dewy tint. “Mineral-filter based, this formula is still easy to apply and reapply quickly and evenly, thanks to a peachy-pink tint that helps neutralise the typical bluish-white cast of zinc oxide,” Aparovich says. (In addition to the pinkish original hue, the formula comes in the warm, golden Sunlit shade.) “While protecting your skin from sun damage, the smart formula also blends skincare ingredients like ceramides, peptides, galactoarabinan, bioflavonoids, allantoin, and glycoproteins,” Aparovich continues. “These moisturise and comfort the skin and support its protective barrier throughout UV exposure.” She adds that the SPF works for dry and normal skin types and is also suitable for sensitive skin. Pro tip: If using it as a makeup base, let the product dry for three to five minutes before layering it with other products.
- Type: mist
- Sun Protection Factor: 50+
- Mineral/chemical: chemical
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: How to top up your sun protection without disturbing a pristine beat is the dilemma facing those of us who favour a full face of glam. Happily, Naked Sundays has made things simple with a fast-drying mist that hydrates and protects the complexion without greasing up your make-up. “This super fine and even mist has become my go-to formula for all-day sun protection,” says Tracy Achonwa, Vogue beauty writer. “Not only does it save you from slathering on SPF throughout the day, but it works much like a setting spray: it protects make-up with a seamless finish, eliminates dry patches and removes the cakey look that comes from too much powder. To top it all off, it has a lingering scent that draws compliments every time I’ve applied it – think creamy coconut with light marine notes that conjure being under the breeze of a palm tree. I won’t go anywhere without it in my handbag.”
- Applies easily over make-up or bare skin
- Leaves a radiant, glass-skin sheen
- Infused with free radical-fighting antioxidants and hyaluronic acid to hydrate
- Broad spectrum protection
- Has a gorgeous scent, but may not be suitable for the fragrance-averse
- Type: broad-spectrum tinted cream
- Sun Protection Factor: 30+++
- Mineral/chemical: chemical
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: If you know your sunscreens, you’ll know Supergoop’s Glowscreen has racked up many awards and rave reviews – all with good reason. A lightly tinted, weightless blend of UV filters and skincare actives, consider it an instant cheat for protected, glowing skin. Packed full of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and vitamin B5, it’s super hydrating and doesn’t leave my skin feeling sticky like some SPFs do. “The first time I wore it, my editor literally stopped mid-sentence to ask me what I was wearing on my skin,” says Vogue commerce editor Joy Montgomery, who is a fan of its non-sticky formula and shimmer-free sheen. “It’s like your skin, but better.” Totally weightless, it’s the perfect partner to stifling heat, with a shade range that works for every skin tone.
- Contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to target dry and dull skin over time
- Doubles as a primer
- Fine pearlescent formula gives the complexion an instant shine
- The pearl tinted finish needs working in to avoid a cast on darker skin tones, but Supergoop does stock a Golden Hour shade that caters well to deep skin
- Type: stick sunscreen
- Sun Protection Factor: 30
- Mineral/chemical: Chemical
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: This new formula from Dr Jart+ doesn’t just defend against UVA and UVB, but it’s also packed with skincare benefits too. Hyaluronic acid in the formula delivers all-day hydration, plus it also helps blur pores and primes the skin for ensuing make-up. “My favourite bit about this formula is that you can roll it on, wherever you are,” says contributing beauty editor, Hannah Coates. “It’s great for touch-ups throughout the day, plus I also like to use it on my lips and ears – it’s less messy than most.”
- Feels lightweight
- Easy to apply
- Hydrating benefits
- Travel friendly
- Some prefer to use factor 50
- Type: lightweight cream
- Sun Protection Factor: 50
- Mineral/chemical: mineral
- Why it’s Vogue approved:
Not only is this new SPF housed in excellent packaging, but it’s also a great everyday SPF that works on all skin tones, despite being mineral. With vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and chamomile in the formula, it is great for hydration, soothing and brightening, plus it’s reef safe and fragrance free.
- No white cast
- Packed with skincare ingredients
- Reef safe
- Fragrance free
- Great for all skin types
- Not the most affordable
- Type: Lotion
- Sun Protection Factor: 50
- Mineral/chemical: Both
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: A hybrid sunscreen formula, this dermatologist-backed powerhouse from CeraVe contains both chemical and mineral sun filters to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful effects. Added ceramides keep the skin moisturised while niacinamide and vitamin E work to restore the skin barrier and balance complexion.
- Type: tinted serum
- Sun Protection Factor: 50
- Mineral/chemical: mineral
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: This clever formula actively combats pigmentation, thanks to alpha-arbutin and niacinamide in the formula. It’s the gold standard for those who want their SPF to go the extra mile and help with other issues beyond just sun protection. Clinically proven to fade dark spots in 28 days, add this to your routine if you’re suffering from any form of uneven tone. It is also tinted, so it doubles up as a brilliant base for make-up.
- Broad-spectrum protection
- Clinically proven
- Doubles as a lightweight make-up base
- Water resistant and hypoallergenic
- Paraben free
- Premium price point
- Mineral formula may leave a slight white cast on deeper skin tones
- Type: Stick
- Sun Protection Factor: 50
- Mineral/chemical: Chemical
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: Swoosh this incredibly handy sun care stick over your skin for excellent UV protection and an array of nourishing skin ingredients, including organic cocoa extract, argan oil and aloe vera, to soothe and moisturise. A great formula to have on hand in your beach bag, it couldn’t be easier to use, plus bonus points for the chic packaging.
- Great for sun-sensitive skin
- Travel-friendly
- Smells great
- Packed with nourishing skincare ingredients
- Some will prefer a cream
- Type: cream
- Sun Protection Factor: 50
- Mineral/chemical: chemical
- Why it’s Vogue-approved:
Avid Bader fans will have eagerly awaited this SPF and can rejoice that it’s as good as expected. The formula itself is loaded with UVA and UVB protection, and it also contains the brand’s signature TFC8 complex, a blend of natural amino acids, vitamins and peptides, which repairs and protects skin and encourages swifter cell renewal, especially post sun exposure. In addition to a potent formula, the featherlight cream melts into skin, leaving it with a subtle dewy sheen that makes make-up application a doddle.
- Lightweight texture sinks in straight away
- Helps reduce redness
- Sits well under make-up
- Improves hyperpigmentation
- It’s pricey
- Type: lip balm
- Sun Protection Factor: 50
- Mineral/chemical: chemical
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: A lot of people neglect their mouth when it comes to applying SPF, but with this formula, you won’t want to. As if cosseting lips in a blend of cocoa butter, SPF50 and moisture-sealing oils wasn’t enough, Ultra Violette’s balm imparts a rosy pink, glossy finish. Protecting your pout from sunburn and premature ageing as you top up your tan is a simple swipe-on job, and looking good while doing it? Even easier. An SPF we can get behind.
- Nourishing balm with non-sticky shine
- Smooths fine lines on the lips
- Comes in six flattering shades to suit all skin tones
- Only protects the lips
- Type: milk-like lotion
- Sun Protection Factor: 30
- Mineral/chemical: mineral
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: This lightweight mineral sunscreen glides over skin like a serum, delivering SPF protection and other skincare benefits. Enriched with vitamins, antioxidants and soothing chamomile, the reef-friendly formula helps shield skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays. It also blends in beautifully with all skin tones for a natural-looking finish. “I love that this sunscreen feels like a part of my make-up routine; it delivers a gorgeous, silky texture that’s a bit like a primer, and glides on to the skin. The tint is subtle but welcome, meaning my skin still looks fresh and presentable even if I don’t follow with make-up afterwards,” Georgia Day, contributing beauty editor.
- Lightweight serum texture that layers well with other products
- Uses reef-safe sunscreens
- Sinks in quickly for undetectable coverage
- You need to apply a generous amount to get the most sun protection
- Type: lightweight cream
- Sun Protection Factor: 30
- Mineral/chemical: mineral
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: For all their virtues, mineral sunscreens have long made ghostly masks of the faces of those with deeper skin tones. In typical Fenty fashion, Rihanna’s managed to make things inclusive for people of every shade: her UVA/UVB sunscreen is powered by a zinc oxide formula that’s non-chalky, non-shiny and sheer. Plus, it also features a skin-refining blend of ingredients for a brightened visage over time, with niacinamide, aloe vera and nourishing Kalahari melon to soothe and hydrate with a gorgeous tropical scent.
- Fast absorbing
- Plumps skin with a hydrating formula
- Offers mineral sunscreen protection with no white cast
- Rich in antioxidant superfruits
- Refillable packaging
- Those in hotter climates may want to invest in a higher SPF factor
- Type: lotion
- Sun Protection Factor: 50
- Mineral/chemical: chemical
- Why it’s Vogue approved:
Packed with La Mer’s signature Miracle Broth complex, this SPF50 UV Protecting Fluid offers high levels of protection while allowing for quick absorption and no discolouration. Helping to defend your skin from everyday exposure to UV rays, its lightweight formula wards against future sun damage and hyperpigmentation.
- Luxurious lightweight feel
- Contains La Mer’s skin rejuvenating Miracle Broth with soothing sea kelp and anti ageing vitamins and minerals
- Leaves no white cast
- Best for those with normal to oily skin types
- Type: Hair mist
- Sun Protection Factor: N/A – heat protection up to 230C
- Mineral/chemical: Chemical
Why it’s Vogue approved:
Because hair gets damaged by the sun too, this Darling Milky Hair Screen is a great everyday essential. Shielding strands from UV rays while nourishing with vitamin E and rice proteins, it smells great and offers a veil of protection against dryness, breakage and colour fade in one chic bottle.
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Prevents colour fade and dryness
- Smells like summer
- Won’t protect against all UV
- May not suit those who don’t get on with fragrance
FAQs
What’s the difference between a chemical and mineral SPF?
Chemical and mineral SPFs defend the skin in distinct ways. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays, converting them into heat, and then dispersing it from the skin. Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, form a physical barrier on the surface, reflecting UV rays away like tiny mirrors.
Both are highly effective, says consultant dermatologist Dr Alexis Granite: “Mineral formulas use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, while chemical sunscreens rely on filters such as oxybenzone, avobenzone and octinoxate.” Many modern SPFs now combine both types for broader protection.
Historically, mineral sunscreens have had a reputation for leaving a chalky, greasy residue. But thanks to advances in formulation — like nanosized mineral particles —they’re now far more wearable, with elegant textures that blend seamlessly into the skin.
What’s the most common SPF myth?
One of the most common myths about SPF is that when it’s cloudy or when indoors, you don’t need to wear sunscreen. “I encourage my patients to wear their sunscreen every day, regardless of how bright and sunny it appears outside,” says consultant dermatologist Dr Hiva Fassihi. “It is important to remember that UVA, the main cause of skin ageing, is present all year round, even on dull days. With the broad range of textures and formulations now available, it has never been easier to incorporate a sunscreen into your daily skincare routine.
“I am always surprised when patients come to see me about skin ageing, and they have bought many over-the-counter creams, often at great expense, but they are not using a sunscreen as part of their daily routine. Sunscreens are so important for skin health and are the ‘best anti-ageing’ product you’ll use.”
Does everyone need to wear an SPF?
Absolutely. “Sun damage doesn’t discriminate — every skin type is vulnerable,” explains Dr Granite. “It can manifest in many forms, from pigmentation like freckles and sun spots to dryness, rough texture and loss of elasticity, which may appear as enlarged pores or sagging. Fine lines and wrinkles are also common signs. In its most severe form, sun damage can lead to skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.”
You can’t always see the damage that’s occurred on the skin, either. “UV exposure causes damage to skin cell DNA and accelerates the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibres within the skin. You can improve the signs of visible ageing and treat precancerous and cancerous skin lesions that arise from this DNA damage with treatments such as topical retinoids and photodynamic therapy. But it is unlikely that all of the deep cellular damage associated with long-term sun exposure can be entirely reversed. As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” says Dr Granite.
Is SPF50 better than 30?
The age-old question: SPF 30 or 50? “I am profoundly for SPF50. UV light is a known entity that doesn’t just cause premature ageing but cancer too, and they are both proven without a shadow of a doubt. Both of those things are highly preventable,” dermatologist Dr Sam Bunting says. Not only does SPF50 offer 95 per cent protection from UV as opposed to SPF30’s 93 per cent (a two per cent difference which, over time, stacks up), but Dr Bunting also points out that none of us are perfect and often under-apply our SPF. “I’d much rather people were under-applying an SPF50 than a 30.”
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Can you still get sun damage on your face even if you’re wearing SPF?
“Yes, it’s possible to experience sun damage even when wearing SPF,” says consultant dermatologist Dr Magnus Lynch. “Most SPFs will not block visible light, which can cause pigmentation, and none will completely prevent UV radiation from affecting the skin. Other factors include inadequate application, missing spots, or not reapplying sunscreen after sweating or swimming.”
What is the healthiest SPF for your face?
To protect skin against both UVA and UVB light – both of which cause damage to the skin – broad-spectrum SPF is a must. “What’s really crucial when we’re talking about a good skincare routine is blocking the daily UVA rays which are present all year round,” explains Dr Bunting. “They can come through glass and actually form the bulk (95 per cent) of UV light that reaches the earth.”
While UVB is the UV light responsible for the (more visible) burn – and tends to be the one we focus on more because the damage is seen quickly – it’s really important to ensure your SPF protects against UVA too. UVA damage leads to fine lines, pigmentation, uneven skin texture, big pores, coarsening of the skin and loss of collagen – all the bad stuff. “Beach holidays aren’t so much the problem. It’s the everyday, half an hour out walking at lunchtime that builds up over the years.” A broad-spectrum SPF offers a significant level of protection against both UVA and UVB rays, and should be worn by all skin tones.
Another factor to consider in your sunscreen selection is its effect on the environment. While the science around exactly how damaging sunscreen is to our oceans is inconclusive, what ingredients should we be looking out for to make the best choice possible? We speak to marine biologist Professor Cinzia Corinaldesi from the Università Politecnica delle Marche and Dr Anjali Mahto, consultant dermatologist at Skin55, for a five-step guide.
The main chemicals to watch out for are oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are commonly used in sunscreen to absorb UV light. “We [have] demonstrated that oxybenzone, octinoxate and enzacamene caused complete coral bleaching even at very low concentrations,” says Professor Corinaldesi. Octocrylene is another chemical that’s potentially harmful to marine life, with the Haereticus Environmental Laboratory compiling a handy list of the ingredients we should try to avoid.
“Certain organic filters have been identified in water sources worldwide, and there seems to be a suggestion that they are not easily removed by common wastewater techniques,” adds Dr Mahto. “Many of the filters have also been found in various species of fish worldwide – the impact of this is uncertain on the food chain.”
Mineral sunscreens, which typically contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are thought to be less harmful to coral reefs in comparison to their chemical counterparts. “Mineral sunscreens rely on inorganic filters, which form a physical barrier on the skin surface,” explains Dr Mahto. It’s worth remembering, though, that some research suggests zinc oxide can also pose a danger to marine life. “Our studies indicate that zinc oxide nanoparticles are very harmful to marine organisms,” says Professor Corinaldesi, but adds that titanium dioxide with surface coatings – as found in Green People’s scent-free SPF 30 – “has a much lower impact on coral reefs”.
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Particle size matters, too. While nanoparticles can be absorbed by coral reefs, research suggests that larger non-nanoparticles (a label you’ll see on lotions) are better for the environment. “Consumers should look out for sunscreens that use non-nanoparticles because nanoparticles of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are expected to be more harmful to marine organisms than non-nanoparticles,” explains Professor Corinaldesi.
The increase in demand for eco-friendly sunscreens means that a lot of brands are now marketing their products as “reef-safe” or “ocean-safe”. This usually means they don’t contain oxybenzone and octinoxate – the two chemicals banned in sunscreen by countries such as Hawaii – but they could still contain other chemicals on the Haereticus Environmental Laboratory list that are potentially harmful to the environment. “Consumers should check the ingredients on the label of the products,” Professor Corinaldesi comments.
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Beyond the ingredients in sunscreen, it’s important to consider the packaging, with discarded sunscreen bottles contributing, in part, to the eight million tonnes of plastic that end up in our oceans every year. Brands such as Green People are using recyclable plant-based packaging made from sugar cane, a much more eco-friendly option compared to traditional plastic containers.
