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.
Ultra Violette Supreme Screen SPF 50+ Hydrating Facial Sunscreen
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, $45 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, $29.95 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, $40 at MECCA.
Dermalogica Super Sensitive Shield SPF 30
If you've got sensitive skin, this one is for you. Specifically designed for sensitised, reactive or recently resurfaced skin, the artificial fragrance-free formula contains oat and botanical actives to soothe the skin and minimise discomfort, burning and itching while providing SPF 30+ protection.
'Super Sensitive Shield SPF30' by Dermalogica, $72 at Adore Beauty.
Alpha H Daily Essential Moisturiser SPF50+ 50ml
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, $42.95 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 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, $16.99 at Priceline.
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, $49 at Adore Beauty.
Avène Sunscreen Emulsion Face SPF50+ 50ml
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, $26.95 at Adore Beauty.
Go-To Skincare Zincredible Sunscreen
This moisturiser is perfect for every day incidental UV exposure. It's invisible zinc oxide provides a physical UV barrier whilst essential fatty acids, replenishing botanical oils and potent antioxidants, including vitamin E, to ensure the skin is protected, hydrated and nourished throughout wear. This product doubles as primer, leaving the skin with a healthy glow perfect for make up application.
'Zincredible SPF15' by Go-To Skincare, $45 at MECCA.
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.
