The best sunscreen for ever skin type, tried and tested by our editors

Sunscreen protects your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. There are two types of UV rays that can damage your skin: UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skin, causing premature ageing and wrinkles, while UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and can contribute to skin cancer. As such, it's crucial to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays for comprehensive sun protection. Additionally, consider wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses to further shield your skin from harmful UV rays.

Not only does sunscreen help protect against burns and deadly disease, consistent use of sunscreen supports overall skin health by preventing damage that can compromise the skin’s barrier function. "Scientists have discovered that the skin has a sun memory, meaning it stores all the damage caused during childhood and adolescence," says Eva A. Syversen, sales and marketing director of Norway's Dermalys (the wholesaler responsible for bringing cult brands such as Germaine de Capuccini to the Nordics).

According to Syversen, research shows that 75 per cent of the signs of skin ageing are caused by solar radiation. Ultraviolet (UVA/UVB) and infrared (IR-A) rays penetrate deeply into the core of the cell, altering its genetic code. "This irreparable damage accumulates year after year, becoming visible over time," she explains. "This damage shows up on the skin as wrinkles, dark spots, sagging or sensitivity later in life."

Incorporating sunscreen into your daily skincare routine is a simple yet highly effective way to protect your skin from a range of harmful effects caused by sun exposure. Whether it’s preventing sunburn, reducing the risk of skin cancer, or keeping your skin looking youthful and healthy, sunscreen is an essential tool for skin care.

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It measures the level of protection a sunscreen provides against UVB rays, which are the primary cause of sunburn and contribute to skin cancer. The SPF number indicates how long you can stay in the sun without getting burned compared to not using any sunscreen. For example, if you use SPF 30, it theoretically allows you to stay in the sun 30 times longer than without protection.

In terms of closing the right SPF for you, it all depends on your skin type, the amount of sun exposure, and your activity level. SPF 15 blocks about 93 per cent of UVB rays and is suitable for everyday activities with minimal sun exposure. SPF 30, which blocks about 97 per cent of UVB rays, is recommended for moderate sun exposure, such as spending a few hours outdoors. For prolonged outdoor activities or for fair-skinned individuals who burn easily, SPF 50, which blocks about 98 per cent of UVB rays, is ideal. SPF 100 offers the highest protection, blocking 99 per cent of UVB rays, though it provides only slightly more protection than SPF 50.

Related: Are you using the right sunscreen for your skin type?

When choosing sunscreen, consider your skin type, as fair skin burns more easily and requires higher SPF. Activities such as swimming, sweating, or towel drying can reduce the effectiveness of sunscreen, so water-resistant options are advisable. It is also important to consider time of day, as UVB rays are strongest between 10 in the morning and 4 in the afternoon. Not to mention location, as higher altitudes or destinations closer to the equator have stronger UV radiation. To stay on the safe side, it is best to opt for at least SPF30.

Wearing sunscreen correctly is essential to ensure you get the maximum protection from harmful UV rays, and the biggest mistake people make when it comes to applying sunscreen is that they don't use the correct amount. First and foremost, timing is key. Always apply 15 minutes before sun exposure. This allows the sunscreen to have enough time to provide the maximum benefit.

For your face, you will want about one quarter of a tea spoon. Here, practical techniques like the two-finger rule comes in handy: squeeze a line of sunscreen along the length of your index and middle fingers. This should amount to the right amount of sunscreen to cover your entire face and neck adequately. Dot the sunscreen on key areas – forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin … then spread it evenly to avoid missing spots.

Related: The 10 best non-greasy sunscreens for your face

To effectively protect your body from the sun, you need roughly the amount of sunscreen that fits into a shot glass. Start by applying generous dollops to different parts of your body, including your arms, legs, back, chest, and stomach, and don't forget often-missed areas like the back of your neck, ears, tops of your feet, and the back of your knees. Rub the sunscreen in thoroughly to ensure even coverage, making sure your skin feels slightly tacky but not greasy after application. If you’re unsure, it’s better to apply a bit more rather than too little to ensure full protection.

Pesky pilling is the thing of skincare nightmares, and most of the time our sunscreens are the culprit. Often caused by the way different skincare products interact on your skin, it occurs when the product doesn’t absorb properly, making it to roll up into tiny flakes or balls. This can happen for several reasons, including layering incompatible products, overloading your skin with too many products, not allowing sufficient drying time between layers, and using silicone-based formulas that don't mix well with other ingredients.

To prevent sunscreen from pilling, it’s important to simplify your skincare routine. Choosing lightweight, fast-absorbing sunscreens and skincare products can also help. Gel-based or serum formulations are less likely to pill compared to thicker creams. It Is also helpful to simplify your skincare routine, opting for formulations that work well together, such as sticking to either all water-based or all oil-based products. Lastly, giving each product enough time to fully absorb (typically waiting a few minutes in between each product) into your skin before applying the next layer is crucial.

Related: Our favourite 10 facial sunscreens to wear daily – with or without makeup

Reapplying sunscreen may feel like a chore, but it is essential. Make it a habit to reapply your sunscreen every two hours when you're outdoors, no matter the SPF and if you're splashing in the water, breaking a sweat, or towelling off, give your skin a fresh layer immediately, even with water-resistant formulas. Engaging in outdoor adventures like hiking or sports? Reapply more often, especially if you're glistening with sweat. Finally, for those everyday moments with minimal exposure, start your day with a generous application but always top up every two hours if you're outside. Our editors always keep a SPF powder or spray on hand for a quick fix.

It may not feel natural to reach for your favourite sunscreen in the midst of December, but SPF should be a daily affair, all year round. Even during the winter months in the Nordics, it's essential to be mindful of sun protection. "While the sun may not feel as intense as during the summer, harmful UV radiation is still present," notes Syversen. "Snow can act as a powerful reflector of sunlight, intensifying UV exposure to your skin. This reflection increases the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage."

Even on overcast days or when sleet sets in, UV radiation can penetrate your skin, leading to various skin issues. To counteract this, it's crucial to use sun protection in winter, including products with high SPF and UVA/UVB protection.

We're all guilty of picking up a tube of sunscreen come summer, getting a couple of weeks worth out of it, and then leaving it to gather dust for the rest of the year. But beware: sunscreen (like any beauty product) has an expiration date. Often found printed on the packaging, it the best-by date has passed it is best to discard the product. After all, using expired sunscreen can result in reduced effectiveness, leaving your skin unprotected from harmful UV rays.

Proper storage is crucial; keep sunscreen in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat to prevent degradation. Signs of expired sunscreen include changes in texture (clumpy, watery, or separated), colour (darker or yellowish), and smell (rancid or off). Additionally, if you find you're burning more quickly despite regular application, it might indicate reduced effectiveness.

If you’re allergic to sunscreen or have skin sensitivities that make it difficult to wear, there are several effective alternative methods to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. One of the best ways to shield your skin is by wearing protective clothing. Look for items – long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats – specifically designed to block UV rays, labeled with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. Seeking shade is another smart and simple strategy. Make it a habit to find refuge under umbrellas, canopies, or the natural shade of trees, especially during peak sun hours between 10 and four.

If you're allergic to chemical sunscreens, consider switching to mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients are generally well-tolerated by sensitive skin and less likely to cause allergic reactions because they sit on top of the skin and physically block UV rays rather than being absorbed. Additionally, it’s crucial to identify the specific ingredients causing your allergic reactions. A visit to the dermatologist and patch testing can help pinpoint the culprits. With this knowledge, you can find sunscreens free of those irritants, ensuring you get the protection you need without any adverse effects.

K-Beauty is experiencing a revival that is undeniably sunscreen focused. Known for fabulous formulations that fit a myriad of skin types, Beauty of Joseon climbs to the top as our all-around SPF star. Not only does this potion protect against pesky rays with its impressive protection grade of UVA and SPF50, it also features rice – a K-Beauty favourite in terms of ingredients.

" It doesn't feel like a sunscreen to me," says one tester. "It's more like a lightweight moisturiser. Perfect for everyday use."

One important decision to make when choosing your sunscreen is to pick between a physical and chemical formulation. Mineral, or physical sunscreens, work by creating a barrier on the skin that shields it from the sun's rays – usually using ingredients such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

While it may sometimes leave a white film – due to these minerals settling on the skin – Heliocare’s 360° Mineral Tolerance Fluid with SPF50 keeps the skin safe without any hint of a chalky cast. “I love that Heliocare’s sunscreen doesn’t only have great UVA and UVB protection, but also works with HEV protection against blue light – the kind you get from you computer screen,” says one tester. “This has all this plus lots more. For example, it helps repair sun damage, it's great under makeup, fragrance free”

Chemical sunscreens are an excellent choice for those who need effective, broad-spectrum protection and prefer a lightweight, invisible finish. They are particularly suitable for active individuals, those who integrate sunscreen with their daily skincare and makeup routines, and people with normal to oily skin. And among these suncare-heroes, there’s no better option than SKIN1004’s unique Hyalu-Cica formula – a sunscreen with serum-like texture and SPF50 that provides a breathable and dewy finish.

“From the first use I felt that this was the sunscreen for me,” our tester said. “It doesn’t feel heavy on the skin at all, is easy to apply, and moisturises. In truth, I feel like my skin has become softer using this than it was before.”

When looking for a daily sunscreen, you’ll want something easily-absorbed and moisturising without compromising your UVA/UVB protection. If you’ve already joined the cult of Vichy’s hydration hero ‘Mineral 89’, no doubt the brand’s moisture-boosting UV fluid for daily use (with SPF50+) is bound to be your new favourite a sun saviour.

“It has everything I love about the serum, just in the form of a sunscreen – the hyaluronic acid, squalane, and vitamins,” says one tester. “And then it’s also a high-protection sunscreen? Such a lifehack when streamlining my beauty routine for summer. I’ll probably just use this as my moisturiser.

When looking for a sunscreen that meshes effortlessly with makeup, you’ll want a multi-tasker that won’t mess with your other products. With a satin-like finish, Ultra Violette's Supreme Screen Hydrating Skinscreen SPF50+ helps streamline your skin care routine, being a moisturiser, primer and sunscreen in one.

“I’ll be repurchasing this until the end of time,” said one brand-new fan of the product. Another tester shared that it “glides on effortlessly, feels great on bare skin and is beautiful underneath makeup as a protective base.”

Yes, opting for high SPF is crucial for those fair-skinned among us. That said, it is even more important to reapply your sunscreen every two hours. A tedious task that we tend to skip, especially having applied makeup in the morning.

This is where Garnier’s sunscreen mist comes into question. Even when spritzing on the regular, your flawless base won’t budge. “I really enjoy how fine the mist is,” one tester said. “It is light enough that I don’t feel the need to pat it in.”

A white cast can easily deter daily use of sunscreen, evenmthough it’s essential to keep your skin safe. First and foremost, some general guidelines such as opting for an invisible finish and chemical formulations can help find the right UV protection. You’ll want to avoid mineral sunscreen, as these block sun-rays with a physical layer often creating the dreaded chalky film.

Better yet, why not opt for a sunscreen developed by black women for black women? Black Girl Sunscreen dries completely clear, making it perfect for deeper skin tones. “The formula feels really rich and hydrating,” our tester said. “That said, if you have oily skin I’d opt for their matte version as this couple becomes too heavy.”

One of the easiest ways to streamline your skincare routine is to make your sunscreen work double-duty as both sun protectant and base product. Especially appealing in the summer, when foundation can feel too heavy, the one tedious task when looking for a tinted sunscreen is to find the right shade. Luckily for us, Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint with SPF30 comes in a range of 30

“I usually opt for light coverage foundations, so this really worked for me while it may be too sheer for others.” said one tester. “But if you’re after more coverage, I found that my concealer layers beautifully on top of this.”

Who doesn’t want the extent of their sunscreen routine to be spritz-and-go? Sensai’s handy Silky bronze cooling spray with SPF 50+ may be pricy but it is worth every penny considering how convenient it is to use. The best part, its lightweight mist leaves an oil-like sensation that sinks in almost instantly.

“When getting ready during summer, I tend to shrug and skip body sunscreen because I reckon I’ll mostly be in the shade. And then I always end up sitting in the sun, burning my arms or legs,” regales one tester. “But with how quickly this dries up, I never skip this step anymore.”

While we adore the refreshing spritz of a mist when it comes to reapplying our sunscreen, for those among us with oily skin it may not be the best bet. As luck would have it, powder sunscreens offer a good alternative. Not only is it travel-friendly, not taking up any space in that precious plastic bag, it’s also translucent meaning it works no matter your skin tone.

“It works great and I have experienced no sunburn at all since using it. While I know some people have found the packaging tricky, I thought it was easy to apply with a quick brush over my face,” says our tester. “It also helps my makeup stay fresh and prevents it from melting off of my face in the heat.”

In the world of K-Beauty, a gel sunscreen has a lighter water-like consistency compared to denser and heavier creams. As such, it is the perfect formulation to tap if you’re dealing with oily or combination skin. Lightweight and quick absorbing, our favourite formulation is the Missha All Around Safe Block Aqua Sun Gel – an everyday chemical sunscreen product with high UVA and UVB protection capabilities.

“It comes out of the tube a bit runny, spreads easily over skin, and dries rapidly to a totally clear and neutral finish,” described our tester. “It’s not flawless. If I am not careful about the moisturiser I wear underneath it, it can dry the hell out of my face. That said, it is still one of the most effective gel sunscreens I’ve tried.”

A lifesaver for those on the move, Germaine de Capuccini’s Protective Stick is your sun-shield sidekick. “The compact size is perfect for quick touch-ups,” shared one tester. Slide it in your gym bag or pocket, and you're set to face the sun (no matter the time of year). Whether it’s your nose, cheeks, or that beloved tattoo, this stick ensures they're shielded. “I no longer worry about my tattoo fading in the sun,” another tester remarked.

For those looking to indulge in top-notch sun protection, La Mer's Broad Spectrum Fluid is the answer. “It’s my year-round essential,” expressed one tester, “I forget I have it on!” With its barely-there feel and swift absorption, it’s no wonder it’s seen as a worthwhile splurge. The added green tint subtly combats redness, making it a multi-tasker. “It's a game-changer. Not only protected but also redness-free,” another tester mentioned.

If you’re searching for high-quality sun protection that doesn’t break the bank, look no further than Garnier Ambre Solaire’s Invisible Serum. Celebrated for its lightweight formula, one tester shared, “It’s so light, never greasy, and doesn’t clash with my perfume.” Enhanced with ceramides known for bolstering the skin’s barrier function, it stands out in the daily skincare routine. Another reviewer noted, “Usually, my nose gets burned easily, but not with this one.” Its travel-friendly size makes it perfect for on-the-go applications. “It’s easily the best value for money. Some expensive brands don’t even come close,” a satisfied user from our team exclaimed.

Packing the power of sun protection and deep hydration, the Hyal Reyouth Moist Sun stands out as a daily cream with a potent SPF 50. Its formula boasts 10 types of Hyaluronic Acid, ensuring layered moisturisation. “It feels like I'm giving my skin a hydration boost every time I use it,” one tester from our editorial team raved. Another tester noted, “Its essence-like feel is a dream. No white cast, no stickiness. Just smooth skin.”

Designed specifically for mature skin, this sunscreen offers dual action: robust UV protection and targeted anti-ageing care. Our photo-activated technology boosts antioxidants under sunlight, shielding against UV and IR rays. The formula works diligently, with sulforaphane smoothing wrinkles and vitamin PP evening out tan and reducing dark spots. “I really like that it works for combination skin,” said one user. Another mentioned, “I enjoy the Monoi scent.” A matte-finish sunscreen that feels lightweight, non-greasy, and gets straight to work.

If you frequently find yourself with a breakout, 'non-comedogenic' should be your beauty non-negotiable to help avoid clogged pores and exacerbated acne. Our favourite? EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46. This is a dermatologist-approved sunscreen that will keep your skin safe and clear. The formula comes out completely clear, leaving no white cast, and is easily worked into the skin.

Containing niacinamide, the formula helps calm the skin and prevent breakouts and is gentle enough for very sensitive, acne-prone skin according to our testers. "Niacinamide helps reduce redness and prevents the breakouts I typically get from sunscreens. It also functions well as a primer under makeup, without causing any pilling," says our testers. Although it's pricey, a little goes a long way—three pumps equal the recommended 1/4 teaspoon for the face. "I will definitely stock up on this one."

Supergoop!’s Mattescreen seamlessly merges skincare with makeup, making it a staple for those seeking shine-free sun protection. As one tester raved, “It’s among my top sunscreens. The slight tint means no white streaks, and the blurring effect is a game-changer.” With the prowess of zinc, this formula offers a two-in-one primer and sunscreen experience, creating a smoother canvas while effectively shielding from harmful UVs and even blue light. “It’s the perfect base for makeup,” another user shared, “A touch of powder on top, and I’m good to go with my oily skin.”

For those who've faced the frustrating battle of sunscreen-induced eye irritation, La Roche-Posay's Anthelios Uvmune Ultra Cream emerges as a beacon of hope. Designed meticulously for sensitive skin, especially around the delicate eye area, this hypoallergenic formula boasts very high protection without the dreaded sting. One ecstatic tester shared their transformative experience: “I've tried countless face SPFs, often ending in red, irritated eyes. With this? Not a hint of irritation, even under a scorching Spanish sun. Plus, it hydrates without causing breakouts. Simply the best face sunscreen out there.”

Lernberger Stafsing's sunscreen not only offers broad-spectrum defence against UVA and UVB rays but graces your skin with a luminous glow, warding off pigmentation and wrinkles. With its swift absorption and deep hydration, reapplication after a swim or throughout the day is a breeze. One devoted user raved, “Finding the perfect facial sunscreen with high protection has always been challenging. But this gem delivers on its promise – an SPF50 shield, an enviable glow, and ample hydration. Perfect under makeup or solo, it's the radiant finish without the oiliness that I adore.”

If you're on the hunt for a sunscreen that stays put through the most arduous Watersport, Shiseido is the ultimate choice. Combining the brand's SuperVeil-UV 360 (a tight-knit protection to let even fewer UVA and UVB rays through – and SynchoShield Technology (an innovation that reacts with water, sweat and heat to create even stronger protection as the day wears on) this water-resistant, non-greasy, formula won't budge no matter what you do – be it lounge in the pool or action-packed surfing.

"It has a slightly oily texture, but I used it when I went paddle boarding with my boyfriend he burned while I remained completely fine in the water," one tester shared.

Le Rub's All-Day Body Sunscreen packs a whole lot of goodness into every recyclable tube. Made in Italy and crafted with reef-safe mineral ingredients, this eco-friendly sunscreen boasts a weightless, skin-replenishing formula – which somehow remains non-greasy – as well as broad-spectrum protection without leaving a white cast. One thrilled user shared their sunny-day experience: “It's hard finding a reef-safe sunscreen that also feels luxurious, but this one leaves my skin feeling hydrated and protected. Plus, it smells divine! Like the Mediterranean."

Each month Vogue Scandinavia's in-house team of beauty testers try a new product category, putting old favourites and new formulas to the test. Each product is tested by at least three Vogue Scandinavia employees, helping us form unbiased and informed opinions on each participant to find the best of the bunch in each category.

Using a standardised testing template designed to focus on what our readers really want to know, our panel helps deliver valuable insights you can't find anywhere else. Occasionally, beauty brands or PR agencies will send us samples for coverage consideration, but our thoughts and opinions are always our own.

In short, these are product recommendations you can trust.