With so many of the big brands launching SPFs and the textures dramatically improving, the level of skincare ingredients being added—not to mention the added technology—is so exciting as we enter a new era of serum sunscreens that feel like skincare, act like your favourite serum, but give the best protection. As well as texture, more and more brands are providing long UVA ray protection in their formulas. These are rays that penetrate the skin deeper and are known for causing dark spots, hyperpigmentation, sun sensitivity, and premature ageing. I have highlighted which of these SPFs include long UVA protection, as we are exposed to long UVA rays all year round, and they make up 75% of UV radiation. The saying is true: the best SPF is the one you enjoy applying, and in my opinion as a skincare expert, these are the best SPFs you will find. All of these SPFs don’t include Octocrylene—the filter that is known to sting the eyes.
La Roche Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 SPF50+ Invisible Fluid
This formula combines the latest technology and innovation in an ultra-lightweight texture. With sweat and sand resistance, this sunscreen also delivers high protection and doesn’t sting the eyes. Mexoryl 400 is a new exclusive filter that protects against long UVA. All Anthelios sunscreens have a high PPD (Persistent Pigment Darkening) factor, so if you struggle with pigmentation, this SPF is key.
UVA, Long UVA, UVB, SPF50+, fragrance-free, suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin and suitable for holidays and prolonged periods of sun exposure, including time on the beach.
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Ultrasun Photo Age Control Fluid Anti Pigmentation SPF50+
If you’re truly invested in protecting your collagen and tackling and preventing hyperpigmentation, Ultrasun Photo Age Control Fluid Anti-Pigmentation SPF50+ is a formula that goes beyond basic sun protection.
The texture is a stunning incredibly lightweight, fluid sunscreen that feels almost imperceptible on the skin. It absorbs quickly, layers seamlessly under makeup, and doesn’t pill or leave behind any heaviness, making it easy to wear every single day.
With extremely stable UV filters and a 95% UVA absorbance, which is significantly higher than many standard sunscreens. This is particularly important because UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and are largely responsible for collagen breakdown, premature ageing, and the persistence and worsening of pigmentation.
Alongside this high level of UV defence, the formula incorporates hexylresorcinol which works by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production and helping to reduce the appearance of pigmentation over time. Ectoin plays a key role in strengthening the skin barrier while delivering hydration and calming benefits, and it also helps protect the skin from environmental stressors such as pollution and UV-induced damage. Vitamin C adds an antioxidant layer of protection, neutralising free radicals while supporting a brighter, more even-looking complexion.
If you’re dealing with hyperpigmentation, melasma, or post-inflammatory marks and want to properly protect your progress, this is one that’s genuinely worth considering. My top tip is to try it first with just your essences and serums. I found I didn't need a moisturiser with this.
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Ultra Violette SPF50+ Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial Sunscreen
This is the most beautiful hydrating and moisturising sunscreen. Its soft, creamy texture makes it a joy to use as a daily SPF. Depending on how dry and thirsty your skin is, you could, in the summer, just wear this alone as it provides enough moisture and antioxidants, thanks to the squalane, vitamin C-rich Kakadu plum extract, and pentavitin. It absorbs rapidly and leaves a satin finish with a delicate tint that suits all skin tones and no white cast.
UVA + UVB Broad Spectrum, includes fragrance, suitable for holidays and prolonged periods of sun exposure, including time on the beach.
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NEUTROGENA® Hydro Boost Hydrating Fluid SPF 50
This is incredible - it was love at first sweep! It's lightweight, doesn’t sting the eyes, and provides the perfect amount of moisture. It absorbs instantly and leaves the skin feeling somewhere between moisturised and matte, with the most beautiful texture. It's just as lightweight as the others, but its ability to leave a veil of hydration with no greasy residue makes it a stand out. The texture is most similar to Vichy Mineral 89 and absorbs beautifully into the skin. The combination of hyaluronic acid, panthenol (pro-vitamin B5), and niacinamide is a dream trio for hydration and supporting the skin barrier.
UVA, Long UVA, UVB, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free
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Lancôme UV Expert Supra Screen Invisible UV Serum SPF50+
This layers beautifully, absorbs effortlessly and leaves the skin really moisturised. If you have dry skin, you will love this over your moisturiser, and if you have oily/combination skin, layer this over your serum and skip the moisturiser stage. It has a gorgeous, lightweight texture with an invisible finish that leaves the skin glowing and protected. Skincare ingredients include niacinamide, vitamin E, and green tech dandelion, giving the skin an extra level of protection from pollution and harmful aggressors. It’s also worth mentioning that this Lancôme sunscreen contains the most water-loving filters, which is likely why it absorbs so quickly and doesn’t leave that oily, greasy finish like many UV filters do.
UVA, Long UVA, UVB, SPF50+, PA++++, includes fragrance
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Isntree Hyaluronic acid Watery Sun Gel SPF50+
I thought I couldn’t love sunscreen any more than I do—until I found Isntree! If you haven’t heard of Isntree before, they are a Korean skincare brand that has created the most incredible sunscreen, leaving no white cast. First, the texture—it feels like your favourite lightweight moisturiser, leaving the skin feeling silky and incredibly hydrated, thanks to the eight different weights of hyaluronic acid. I would say this is the lightest of them all, even slightly lighter than Lancôme UV Expert mentioned above (if that’s possible!). If you have oily/combination skin and love a barely-there texture, this will be perfect for you.
SPF50+, PA++++, Fragrance-free, UVA, UVB, vegan-friendly, cruelty-free, and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, thanks to the inclusion of Centella Asiatica (aka Cica), known for its soothing properties.
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Vichy Mineral 89 72H Hyaluronic Acid Daily Fluid SPF50+
A stunning SPF that is moisturising in a lightweight formula. In terms of texture, this is on par with Lancôme but not as light as Isntree. Created after the huge success of Mineral 89 Daily Booster Hydrating Serum, this SPF is packed with hyaluronic acid and the famous Vichy Volcanic Mineral Water, found in all Vichy products. It’s clear to see how they claim to boost hydration levels for up to 72 hours. The texture of this formula is stunning, with vitamin B3 (niacinamide), vitamin E, and squalane delivering moisture and ensuring hydration is retained while supporting the skin barrier.
Fragrance-free, SPF50+, UVA, UVB, non-comedogenic
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Altruist Primer SPF50
A gorgeous, moisturising sunscreen created by two gentlemen, one of whom is a Consultant Dermatologist. Their passion and drive were to make great sunscreens at an affordable price. This is a moisturising SPF with a lightweight texture. In terms of texture, it's on par with Lancôme and Vichy; however, I would say this is more moisturising, making it perfect for drier skin. This sunscreen is also water-resistant, making it a great option for holidays. The texture, the price, and how well it layers with the rest of your skincare are perfect.
Fragrance-free, SPF50, UVA, UVB, non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: SPF50+ PA++++ Rice + Probiotics
One of my favourites, simply due to the texture and the gorgeous amount of moisture it provides. It’s perfect for summer—wear it over your serum, and it delivers the ideal level of hydration. In autumn and winter, it layers beautifully when you want to increase moisture. It is lightweight, sits wonderfully under makeup, and the rice extract is rich in vitamins B, C, and E, amino acids, and minerals, leaving the skin protected and glowing.
Fragrance-free, SPF50+, UVA, UVB, PA++++
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Haruharu Wonder Moisture Airyfit Daily Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
A brilliant city SPF which leaves a beautiful, healthy glow while maintaining an invisible, lightweight finish with no white cast. The texture is semi-matte with a soft dewiness, sitting effortlessly under makeup and very reminiscent of Charlotte Tilbury SPF50 PA++++. Enriched with black rice extract, niacinamide, adenosine, and ceramides, it supports and strengthens the skin barrier while offering antioxidant benefits and collagen and elastin boosting properties. Fragrance-free and comfortable for daily wear, it’s ideal for everyday wear under makeup, though not suitable for water or sweat-heavy days is on the height of summer this wont be my go to. A well-formulated, affordable sunscreen that’s definitely worth trying.
Fragrance-free, SPF50+, UVA, UVB, PA++++
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L’Oreal Revitalift Clinical Anti–UV Fluid SPF50+
This is a beautifully moisturising formula that feels lightweight yet has the power to hydrate and nourish the skin. It was probably my most purchased SPF of 2024—until I discovered La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 SPF50+ Invisible Fluid—due to its texture and the way it layers beautifully.
In terms of texture, it has a slightly richer consistency than Lancôme UV Expert Supra Screen. It combines advanced high protection with peptides, niacinamide, and vitamin E, along with patented Netlock technology, which makes the filters highly resistant to sweat and high humidity. Created to provide high protection from UV radiation and pollution, it also helps protect the skin from UV-induced wrinkles and dark spots. It feels like a lightweight veil of moisture enveloping the skin with no white cast.
Fragrance-free, SPF50+, UVA, UVB, dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic
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Eucerin Sun Protection SPF50+ Oil Control Sun Gel-Cream
A tried-and-true favourite, and for good reason. This SPF delivers more than just high protection; it’s a brilliant formula for anyone dealing with excess oil or shine and breakout-prone skin. On application, it feels hydrating, but within minutes, it dries down to a completely matte finish without any residue. Skin feels balanced, fresh, and noticeably less oily throughout the day.
Despite its light texture, this sunscreen doesn’t compromise on technology. It offers advanced broad-spectrum protection, including defence against high-energy visible light (HEV). What really sets it apart is the inclusion of DNA repair enzymes, which help support the skin’s ability to recover from UV-induced damage, a feature I consider essential for long-term skin health. Combined with 8-hour anti-shine technology, this SPF keeps skin protected, clear, and comfortably matte all day without clogging pores.
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For the best minerals sunscreens click here The Top Mineral Sunscreens From An Expert — Fiona Brackenbury. Or, for the best sunscreens for breakout prone skin, discover HERE.
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Why These Didn’t Make My Final Edit
Laneige Hydro UV Defense EX SPF50
I love this brand, and on paper this sunscreen has all the makings of a great daily SPF.
The formula felt noticeably greasy on my skin and never fully settled, or absorbed into the skin. I also experienced some eye stinging, which I suspect was due to the product moving around and migrating into my eyes because it didn’t properly absorb.
If you enjoy a more dewy, emollient finish, this might work for you — but for my preferences, it felt a little too heavy and didn’t wear as comfortably as I’d like.
Dr Sam’s Flawless Daily Sunscreen SPF50
I really wanted to love this one, as i love so many of the Dr Sam’s Skincare range. However, on my skin tone (and I’m fair), this left a noticeable white cast with a slightly bluish undertone that didn’t blend out as seamlessly as I’d like.
I also found it difficult to apply the full recommended amount (a quarter teaspoon) without it becoming too heavy on the skin, which is a key factor for me when it comes to daily SPF wear.
The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum
Unfortunately, this one wasn’t for me. While the concept of a lightweight SPF serum is appealing, the texture feels noticeably greasy on the skin. It uses older-generation UV filters, including octocrylene, which may not suit those with sensitive or reactive skin. I found it difficult to layer with other products, particularly makeup, as it left a heavier finish than expected and stung my eyes.
All Day Long Daily Defence SPF50+ Dr David Jack
While this SPF is packed with innovative ingredients, it didn’t make the final cut. At just under £100 for around a month’s use, it feels overpriced for what it delivers. The inclusion of octocrylene, a cheaper UV filter known to cause eye stinging, is particularly disappointing at this price point. Despite the added skincare benefits, the overall experience doesn’t quite justify the cost.
Thank You For Reading
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Happy shopping, and thank you again for being here!
Fiona x
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