But, finding a decent sunscreen 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, non-whitening and sit nicely under your makeup.
If that sounds like a tall order, that’s because it is. But, we deserve to have it all! 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.
In no particular order, here are some of the best facial sunscreens available now.
Olay Regenerist Whip UV SPF 30 Moisturiser
Ever wondered how you can get that lit-from-within radiance? This lightweight moisturiser is your answer. Olay's Regenerist Whip SPF moisturiser works as a moisturiser and facial sunscreen to hydrate the skin while muting the signs of fine lines and wrinkles.
The whip transforms from cream to liquid on your skin thanks to Active Rush Technology for an ultra-lightweight finish. Affordable luxury has never looked or felt better.
Regenerist Whip UV SPF 30 Moisturiser by Olay, $48.99 at Priceline
Ultra Violette Supreme Screen SPF 50+
Cool-girl sunscreen brand Ultra Violette is a newcomer on the scene but is already making waves for their clever formulas.
Our favourite? Ultra Violette's Supreme Screen SPF 50+ Hydrating Facial Sunscreen which works as a sunscreen and a hydrating primer in one so it's perfect for dry skin.
'Supreme Screen SPF 50+ Hydrating Facial Sunscreen' by Ultra Violette, $49 at Adore Beauty
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.
'Anthelios Invisible Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+' by La Roche-Posay, $31.95 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, $42 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.
Always read the label. Follow the directions for use. Reapply frequently. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun.
'SPF50+ Everyday Face' by Hamilton, $11.49 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, $53.96 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 SPRF50+ and contains aloe vera and vitamin E to deeply hydrate your skin.
'SPF50+ Face Sunscreen Lotion' by Bondi Sands, $14.95 at Bondi Sands.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face & Body Lotion
Another savvy, budget-friendly buy, this oil-free, ultra-lightweight sunscreen delivers SPF50+ protection, has a shine-free, dry-touch finish. It's also non-comedogenic (so it's suitable for acne-prone skin) and water-resistant for two hours so you can be sure you're covering all your bases here.
'Ultra Sheer Face and Body Lotion' by Neutrogena, $9.99 at from 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, $34.30 at Adore Beauty.
Avène Sunscreen Emulsion Face SPF50+
Avène Sunscreen Emulsion Face SPF50+ provides the perfect sun protection for sensitive skin. This gentle sunscreen is rich in Avène's popular Thermal Spring Water, ensuring skin is hydrated as well as protected.
'Sunscreen Emulsion Face SPF50+ 50ml' by Avène, $28.99 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.
