Whatever the season, there’s always one product that’s at the top of our beauty essentials list – and that’s sunscreen.
A great broad-spectrum formula should be a non-negotiable in anyone’s skin care regimen—every single day – no matter the UV index or weather forecast.
Plus, it’s time we stopped normalising a suntan when we know that two in three Australians will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.
It’s because of this statistic that Cancer Council and the Australian Government are encouraging Australians to follow the sun safe guidelines anytime the UV is three or above, and prioritising sunscreen as an essential daily step in your skincare routine is the best way to ensure you’re sticking to your protection goals.
But, finding the right sunscreen for you is no easy task. Besides needing to fulfil the obvious purpose of defending against harmful UVA and UVB rays, the best sunscreens will also be easy to apply, non-greasy, and sit nicely under your makeup, without leaving a white cast.
If that sounds like a tall order, that’s because it is. But, we deserve to have it all – protection from the harsh Australian sun included.
To save you the hassle, we’ve done all the legwork for you (you’re welcome!) and have rounded up the best facial sunscreens that tick all the boxes.
The Best Facial Sunscreens To Invest In Now
Nivea Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Extra Firming Day Cream SPF30
Nivea’s Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Extra Firming Day Cream SPF30 is the kind of skincare product that can truly do it all. Formulated with co-enzyme Q10, Creatine and Hyaluronic Acid, it hydrates, visibly firms and helps soften fine lines, while SPF30 protects against premature ageing caused by daily UV exposure.
Lightweight yet nourishing, it layers seamlessly beneath makeup and works just as well on sensitive skin.
*Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Sunscreens are only one part of sun protection. Avoid prolonged high-risk sun exposure. Reapply frequently.
‘Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Extra Firming Day Cream SPF30’ by Nivea, $16.69, at Chemist Warehouse
Olay Super SPF50
This ultralight SPF50 is the kind of morning shortcut that earns its place on your bathroom shelf.
Part moisturiser, part sunscreen, part makeup primer, it firms, brightens and hydrates in one seamless step. The invisible, non-greasy finish layers beautifully under makeup, making everyday sun protection feel effortless rather than obligatory.
‘Super SPF50 Fluid Moisturiser’ by Olay, $41.99 at Chemist Warehouse
Ultra Violette Mini Mates
When it comes to the list of best facial sunscreens, cool-girl skincare brand Ultra Violette has made waves with their clever formulas — and their latest launch is their most grab-and-go yet. Meet Mini Mates: pocket-ready, 20ml editions of the brand’s cult-favourite Skinscreens™, designed to slip into your day just as easily as they slide into your favourite denim or gym bag side zip.
The Mini Mates collection includes three of Ultra Violette’s hero formulas — Supreme Screen SPF 50+, Future Fluid SPF 50+ and Vibrant Screen SPF 50 —so, no matter your skin type, there’s no excuse to skip your essential midday SPF top up.
‘Mini Mates Collection’ by Ultra Violette, $20 at Ultra Violette
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+
For a lightweight, invisible sunscreen, look no further. This fragrance-free option delivers broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection in a totally weightless formula that will sink straight into your skin without leaving any signs of greasiness or residue on the face.
It’s a cult French (and now Australian) pharmacy must-buy.
‘Anthelios Invisible Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+’ by La Roche-Posay, $35.95 at La Roche-Posay
Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face Superscreen SPF50+
This sunscreen has built up somewhat of a cult-following thanks to its clever non-greasy formula that contains hydrating hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to nourish the skin while offering 50+ UVA and UVB protection.
‘To Save Face Superscreen SPF50+’ by Mecca Cosmetica, $44 at MECCA.
Hamilton SPF 50+ Everyday Face
If you’re looking for a high protection, everyday sunscreen that won’t break the bank, this is the one. Suitable for all skin types and free from fragrance, PABA and Lanolin — you can apply it with the knowledge that it won’t cause irritation. It’s also highly moisturising and contains a sheer tint for a lovely, yet subtle glow.
‘SPF50+ Everyday Face’ by Hamilton, $14.99 at Chemist Warehouse
Alpha H Daily Essential Moisturiser SPF50+
Protect your skin from sun damage whilst boosting hydration with Alpha-H Daily Essential Moisturiser SPF 50+. The emollient face cream provides broad-spectrum sunscreen protection to future-proof skin against signs of premature ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation.
‘Daily Essential Moisturiser SPF50+ 50ml’ by Alpha H, $64.95 at Adore Beauty.
Bondi Sands SPF50+ Face Sunscreen Lotion
If you’d rather not splash out a fortune on sunscreen, this one’s for you. Although this one retails for less than $15, it delivers all the benefits you’d expect from a luxe formula. The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula provides SPF50+ and contains aloevera and vitamin E to deeply hydrate your skin.
‘SPF50+ Face Sunscreen Lotion’ by Bondi Sands, $16.95 at Chemist Warehouse
Skinstitut Age Defence SPF 50+
This multitasking SPF 50+ product provides both chemical and physical sunscreen protection. It also features vitamin B3 to help improve the appearance of pores and uneven skin texture.
‘Age Defence SPF50+’ by Skinstitut, $56 at Adore Beauty.
ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. Apply 20 minutes before sun exposure. Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection so wear protective clothing and seek shade. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming, towelling and perspiring in accordance with directions.
