The best face sunscreens 2018

the best sunscreens for face

The skin on our face is a lot more delicate than that on the rest of our bodies, and so it is imperative we take extra care when out in the sun. Whether it’s hot and sunny outside or not, SPF should be incorporated into your daily skincare routine, so that you are always protected from harmful rays, even on cloudy days.  

When it comes to SPF for the face, you don’t want to go any lower than factor 30, and ideally be opting for factor 50, especially if you're wearing no makeup and you’re out in the sun. Regular sunscreen can often be a little greasy, which isn’t ideal for the face. If you want to stay looking matte, then we recommend opting for the La Roche-Posay Anthelios AC Matte Fluid which is specifically designed for oily skin. 

If you have more mature skin and want double action, then you can try a sunscreen for face with anti-wrinkle properties such as Clarins Sun Wrinkle Control Face Cream or Nivea Sun Anti-Age Face Sun Cream. For our full list of sunscreen for face that suits all skin types, read on below.  

The best sunscreen for face

1. Sisley Super Soin Solaire Facial Sun Care

A moisturising, non-sticky formula for all skin types

Reasons to buy

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SPF 30
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Blended with Vitamin E

Most sunscreen tends to be thick, white and greasy – not something any of us want our faces to look like. However, this sunscreen for face by Sisley is a luxurious, lightweight formula that feels just like a regular face cream. It doesn’t clog pores, won’t make you look pasty white, and is non-greasy so you can wear this on its own or apply makeup over the top. It’s suitable for all skin types, is naturally scented with sage and marjoram, and has an SPF of 30, so you can expect good protection from both UVA and UVB rays.  

La Roche-Posay Anthelios AC Matte Fluid

2. La Roche-Posay Anthelios AC Matte Fluid

Keep skin looking flawless and protected with this barely-there sunscreen

Reasons to buy

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Non-perfumed 
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SPF 30

If you are prone to blemishes or have oily skin, then regular sunscreen can really aggravate it. This Matte Fluid from La Roche-Posay is designed for those with oily skin and has a non-greasy, almost invisible texture that won’t affect your skin. It’s water-resistant with an SPF of 30, and both men and women have found this sunscreen for face to be kind to the skin, and also help to prevent the appearance of sun-induced dark spots on the face.  

Clarins Sun Wrinkle Control Face Cream

3. Clarins Sun Wrinkle Control Face Cream

Get SPF protection and anti-ageing in one

Reasons to buy

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Prevents premature skin ageing  

The sun is one of the main causes of ageing skin, but with this special formula designed to protect against the sun and also prevent signs of ageing, you can stay looking younger for longer. It is said to be designed for those with sensitive skin, and is so lightweight it can easily be worn under makeup for subtle protection. With an SPF of 30 and anti-ageing properties, this sunscreen delivers a high level of protection for everyday wear. 

Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense

4. Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense

A high SPF that can be used as part of your skincare routine

Reasons to buy

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SPF 50 
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Oil-free

For those with particularly fair skin, a high SPF should be a part of your daily routine, and this Daily UV Defense cream from Kiehl’s is a lightweight cream that can be applied every morning to give you long-lasting protection. It’s non-oily but super hydrating to keep your skin soft and supple, as well as protected from the harmful UV rays. Those with sensitive skin say this sunscreen for face is ideal as it doesn’t cause breakouts or irritation.  

Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for Face

5. Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for Face

A good all-round sunscreen for face that’s delicate on the eyes

Reasons to buy

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 Gentle enough for use on eyes 

Clinique Mineral Sunscreen is a lightweight fluid that sits nicely on the skin without clogging pores, and is suitable for all skin types. It’s oil-free, and is also delicate enough to use around the eye area, making it especially good for those going bare-faced on holiday. SPF 30 means you can expect high protection even on those very sunny days. 

Dr. Barbara Sturm Sun Drops

6. Dr. Barbara Sturm Sun Drops

An anti-ageing remedy with a high SPF for very sensitive skin

Reasons to buy

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Promotes cell regeneration 

Sun Drops is a serum that can be applied to the face after your regular skincare routine to not only provide you with SPF 50 on the face, but to fight signs of ageing and promote healthy skin cells. Simply apply a few drops to the face in the morning, and you can then go about your beauty or makeup regime as you normally would, knowing you’ve got added protection.  

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Face Mist

7. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Face Mist

A thin layer of mist for when you need to top up your SPF

Reasons to buy

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Invisible finish 

This spray mist is the ideal way to keep your face protected without having to rub in a thick, greasy sunscreen to your face. It is quickly absorbed into the skin with a dry finish and is water-resistant, but you should reapply every few hours for maximum protection. This quick and easy application is ideal for anyone who really hates putting creams on their face, plus it’s hypoallergenic so is suitable for even the most sensitive skin.  

Nivea Sun Anti-Age Face Sun Cream

8. Nivea Sun Anti-Age Face Sun Cream

Anti-ageing and sun protection on a budget

Reasons to buy

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 Immediate UVA/UVB protection  

Nivea are a trusted brand of sun cream, and this sunscreen for face is designed to give you immediate protection from UV rays as well as anti-ageing protection to prevent the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s non-greasy and kind to skin but it does still have the sun cream smell, which some like and some don’t. You can apply this to a bare face or use as a base for your foundation, just make sure you reapply if you go in the water.  

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