11 lightweight SPFs your skin will love
‘Use sunscreen every day’ is the ultimate skincare commandment.
Dermatologists and beauty buffs alike agree that protecting your face from harmful UV rays – while simultaneously preventing wrinkles – should be a priority for everyone.
“Skin is the body’s first line of defence from everyday external aggressors which damage your skin such as UV rays,” says Prof Christian Aldridge, consultant dermatologist for LifeJacket Skin Protection.
“The damage from these can have cosmetic, physical and long-term health consequences. At best, it can age your skin and cause you discomfort but at worst, can give you a skin disease you really don’t want.”
That’s why daily protection of your skin is critical, particularly on those areas that are exposed to the sun regularly, such as your face. But in spite of all the warnings we receive, the message isn’t getting through to everyone.
To make it more likely you’ll stick to a daily habit, finding a product you love can be a huge help – attempting to rub a thick, chalky cream into your skin is not the answer.
The good news is, facial sunblocks have come a long way, and there’s a whole new batch of lightweight but effective lotions, serums and gels that are a delight to use – and many of them are under the £20 mark.
“To adequately protect your face, I recommend 5ml (about a teaspoon) of SPF of at least 30 every day,” says Aldridge.
“Especially during the months of April to September, to ensure long-term skin protection. Application should be repeated if outside for long periods or undertaking exercising in the light.”
1. Garnier Ambre Solaire SPF 50+ Super UV Invisible Face Serum, £14, Boots
A more fluid texture than any existing Garnier sunblock, Super UV Invisible Face Serum is designed for even the most sensitive skin types.
2. Sun Bum Glow 30 Moisturising Sunscreen Face Lotion, £19.99, Cult Beauty
3. The Inkey List Polyglutamic Acid Dewy Sunscreen, £14.99, LookFantastic
Fast becoming a must-have among ‘skintellectuals’, this light fluid is formulated with a trio of ultra-hydrating ingredients: polyglutamic acid, squalane and glycerin.
4. Coco & Eve Daily Water Gel SPF50+ Sunscreen, £23
The first suncare range from self-tan specialist Coco & Eve does not disappoint.
5. Skin Proud Serious Shade Lightweight Hydrating SPF 50+ Skin Serum, £16.95
6. Eucerin Sun Face Hydro Protect Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 50+, £20, Boots
7. Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin C Mineral SPF30, £28
If you prefer a mineral suncreen that provides a physical barrier on the skin (as opposed to chemical, where it works below the surface), Ole Henriksen’s Banana Bright is an excellent option.
8. Suqqu Protecting Day Cream SPF50+, £48, Cult Beauty
9. Chanel UV Essentiel, £48
10. LifeJacket Daily Protection Moisturiser, £19.99
11. Hello Sunday The Illuminating One Glow Primer SPF50, £22
Defending skin against UVA, UVB, blue light and pollution, this highly protective primer is formulated with light-illuminating particles to enhance your complexion.