The best sunscreens of 2025 with editor-tested SPF for every skin type

Sunshine in Scandinavia comes with a caveat. Even in winter, the glare bouncing off snowbanks can rival a summer’s day in Saint-Tropez. UVA doesn’t wait for August, nor does pigmentation. And so: sunscreen. Daily. Diligently. But that doesn’t mean settling for something chalky, sticky, or vaguely medicinal.

The good news? Texture has evolved. Today’s SPFs are elegant – from mist-on top-ups to featherweight gels and velvety mineral drops. And we've road tested the majority of them across real life conditions, then filtered for the 22 that made it into our actual routines. Each pick comes with a short, sharp breakdown: what you need to know (the facts) and why we love it (our unfiltered verdict).

First, a refresher on our readers' most frequent sunscreen question.

Sunscreen defends your skin from UVA rays (which cause ageing) and UVB rays (which cause burning). But damage runs deeper. “Skin has a sun memory,” explains Eva A. Syversen of Dermalys. “It stores damage from childhood and adolescence.” Over time, that damage surfaces as wrinkles, spots and sensitivity. “Research shows 75 per cent of visible ageing is from solar radiation,” she adds.

Broad-spectrum SPF worn daily protects your barrier, slows photo-ageing and reduces skin cancer risk, even when it’s cloudy.

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how long sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays. SPF 30 blocks roughly 97 per cent, while SPF 50 offers around 98 per cent. The difference may seem small, but for fair or sensitive skin, every fraction matters. Still unsure? A good rule of measure is to reach for SPF 30 for everyday wear in low-moderate sun, SPF 50+ for prolonged exposure, sports, or sun-sensitive skin and to always choose broad-spectrum to guard against UVA, too

Other factors such as time of day, location, altitude also affect how much UV you’re exposed to. So, when in doubt, go higher.

Not entirely. Sunscreen filters UVB (burn-causing) and, in broad-spectrum formulas, UVA (ageing and tanning) rays, but no SPF blocks 100 per cent of sunlight. While high SPF may slow the tanning process, your skin can still darken gradually. The takeaway? Protection first. Being bronzed should never come at the expense of skin health.

So, can you tan with sunscreen? Yes, but with caveats. Even with diligent SPF use, a subtle tan can develop, especially under strong or prolonged sun. But it’s worth repeating: a tan is not a sign of good health; it's your skin responding to injury. For colour without consequence, self-tanners or bronzing drops offer a safer, skin-loving shortcut.

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, use the two-finger method: squeeze a line of sunscreen along the length of your index and middle fingers. Dot it across your forehead, nose, cheeks and chin, then blend. For your body, a shot-glass amount covers all exposed areas. And don’t forget easily missed spots like your ears, feet, and the back of your neck. If skin feels slightly tacky but not greasy, you’ve hit the sweet spot.

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

Pesky pilling is the thing of skincare nightmares, and most of the time our sunscreens are the culprit. The dreaded flakes that appear when skincare layers clash is a texture problem, not a user flaw. It usually stems from layering oil- and water-based products too quickly, or mixing silicone-rich formulas.

To avoid pilling, stick to lightweight, compatible formulas (for example water-based with water-based), wait a few minutes between layers and keep your routine simple — serum, moisturiser, SPF is often enough. Finally, look for gel or serum-texture sunscreens, which tend to absorb more cleanly and play well with makeup.

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

Reapplying sunscreen may feel like a chore, but it is essential. Dermatologists recommend reapplying every two hours and immediately after swimming, sweating or towel-drying. On makeup days, opt for mist, powder or stick formats to top up without smudging your base. Our editors always keep one in their bag, car, or on the desk.

Every day. Yes, even in December. Even in drizzle. “Snow acts like a mirror,” notes Syversen. “It reflects sunlight, amplifying your exposure.” In fact, up to 80 per cent of UV rays can reflect off snow, increasing your risk of long-term damage even on overcast days. If there’s daylight, there’s UVA. And UVA doesn’t take seasons off.

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. Most sunscreens last around three years unopened, but heat, light and oxygen shorten that once opened. If it smells off, looks separated, or feels strange on application discard it. Store SPF in a cool, dry place and always check the packaging for the expiry symbol.

What you need to know: Lightweight, creamy, and utterly invisible on the skin, this Korean cult SPF filters both UVA and UVB rays while doubling as a daily moisturiser. Formulated with rice extract and probiotics, it soothes, hydrates, and layers seamlessly under makeup making it an easy fit for sensitive or combination skin types.

Why we love it: This is the sunscreen that made us want to wear sunscreen. With its barely-there texture and nourishing base, it slips easily into your routine behaving more like skincare than SPF. There’s no white cast, no sticky residue, just a soft, satiny finish and skin that feels comforted. It’s no surprise this K-beauty hero tops our list for everyday wear.

What you need to know: A fragrance-free mineral sunscreen formulated with 100 per cent physical filters and patented Fernblock antioxidant technology.

Why we love it: Most mineral sunscreens trade cast-free wear for compromise. This one doesn’t. It glides on sheer, calms redness, and sits weightlessly on even the most reactive skin. Ideal post-treatment or post-jet lag, it shields without irritation and leaves your skin looking softly matte, never chalky.

What you need to know: A chemical sunscreen serum combining hyaluronic acid and cica to hydrate and soothe while offering high UV protection.

Why we love it: Silky, invisible and serum-light, this Korean SPF treat your skin while it protects. It cushions sensitive skin with a hydrating layer that plays well with other skincare, and disappears before you even notice it’s there. The result? Comfortable, calm, water-fresh skin all day long.

What you need to know: A daily-use SPF infused with hyaluronic acid and Vichy volcanic water to fortify and moisturise the skin barrier.

Why we love it: For those who’d rather not layer three different steps in the morning, this multitasker streamlines everything. It hydrates, primes, and protects with a soft semi-matte finish that won’t pill or suffocate. Skin looks and feels like you've just had a full facial even when you’re running on only five hours’ sleep.

What you need to know: A chemical sunscreen-primer hybrid that offers SPF 50+ protection with a dewy, makeup-gripping finish.

Why we love it: This is the sunscreen makeup artists keep in their kits. It blurs, hydrates and creates the kind of luminous canvas that makes foundation redundant. No flaking, no flashback. Just that lit-from-within skin we all covet.

What you need to know: An ultra-fine facial mist that offers broad-spectrum SPF50+ protection and is suitable for sensitive skin.

Why we love it: This is your SPF safety net. A few spritzes revive makeup, boost protection, and deliver a hit of cooling hydration on sweltering days or after sun exposure. It disappears on contact and works seamlessly over bare skin or a full face, making it the very definition of handbag essential.

What you need to know: A nourishing, residue-free sunscreen designed specifically for melanin-rich skin.

Why we love it: It’s hydrating, radiant, and (crucially) completely invisible. Unlike many mainstream SPFs that leave an ashy cast, this one blends like a dream on deeper tones. Packed with avocado and jojoba oils, it doubles as a moisturiser and leaves skin with a subtle, healthy sheen.

What you need to know: A serum-foundation hybrid offering light coverage, active skincare benefits, and mineral SPF30.

Why we love it: This is the skin tint for non-foundation wearers. It evens tone, protects against UVA, UVB and blue light, and leaves a soft, dewy finish that feels closer to skincare than makeup. Shade inclusive, fragrance-free and buildable, it’s the perfect no-makeup makeup base for summer.

What you need to know: A luxury spray-on SPF that cools, protects and refreshes in one lightweight mist.

Why we love it: A spritz of this and you’ll understand the name. It cools overheated skin on contact, leaving behind a silky-soft finish that feels more sensorial than clinical. Ideal for hot weather or travel, it keeps limbs sun-safe without the telltale slick of traditional sprays.

What you need to know: A translucent setting powder that doubles as a mineral SPF and mattifying touch-up tool.

Why we love it: Perfect for top-ups without ruining your base, this weightless powder mattifies on the go while restoring sun protection. It’s the answer to mid-afternoon shine, beach-to-dinner reapplication, or any time you want SPF without getting your hands involved.

What you need to know: A featherlight chemical gel SPF ideal for oily and combination skin types.

Why we love it: A blueprint for gel SPFs done right. The weightless formula glides on cool, absorbs instantly, and leaves a shine-free, second-skin finish. Excellent under makeup and ideal for oily or combination skin, it delivers hydration without heaviness and high coverage without the cast.

What you need to know: A transparent, fragrance-free stick for targeted SPF top-ups on the go.

Why we love it: A swipe-and-go essential. This compact stick makes touch-ups frictionless, blending invisibly onto skin without disrupting makeup. Ideal for sensitive areas like the nose or tattoos, it’s fragrance-free, mess-free, and made for on-the-move protection.

What you need to know: A luxury fluid SPF-serum hybrid with a sheer green tint and satin finish.

Why we love it: Silky, sheer and barely perceptible on skin. This serum-like fluid smooths on with zero residue and a soft green tint that subtly corrects redness. High-protection, high-performance, and every inch the indulgent upgrade.

What you need to know: A non-greasy drugstore SPF serum enriched with ceramides for barrier support.

Why we love it: A pharmacy favourite that performs like premium. The clear, serum-like texture melts into skin, leaving no film or fragrance trail. Fortified with ceramides, it supports the skin barrier while offering full-strength UV defence at a fraction of the price.

What you need to know: A deeply hydrating SPF infused with 10 types of hyaluronic acid.

Why we love it: A hydration hit with SPF benefits built in. Layered with ten forms of hyaluronic acid, it cushions dry skin in moisture while delivering a clear, breathable finish. Ideal for drier types or winter layering.

What you need to know: An anti-ageing SPF with a matte finish and brightening, firming actives.

Why we love it: A multitasking shield for mature skin. This matte-finish formula targets UV, IR and pigmentation with photo-activated antioxidants and brightening vitamin PP. Smooths, firms, and defends all without the weight or greasiness.

What you need to know: A dermatologist-loved, niacinamide-rich SPF for acne-prone skin.

Why we love it: A breakout-safe go-to for reactive skin. The oil-free, clear formula blends seamlessly without triggering flare-ups, while niacinamide calms inflammation and supports clarity. Skin stays protected, balanced and comfortably matte.

What you need to know: A zinc-based mineral SPF-primer hybrid that smooths and mattifies.

Why we love it: Equal parts primer and protector. The soft mousse texture blurs pores, absorbs excess oil and sets a flawless canvas for makeup. No cast, no flashback, just reliable UV defence in a polished matte finish.

What you need to know: A high-tolerance SPF designed for sensitive skin and delicate eye areas.

Why we love it: Tailored for the easily irritated. This high-tolerance formula hydrates, protects, and stays put without stinging eyes or congesting skin. Broad-spectrum protection wrapped in a cushiony, fragrance-free cream.

What you need to know: A luminous SPF 50 that hydrates and protects with a glow-enhancing finish.

Why we love it: Glowy without the grease. This hydrating SPF leaves behind a luminous finish that wears well under makeup or solo. Broad-spectrum protection comes with antioxidant support, making it ideal for daily city wear.

What you need to know: A heat- and water-resistant SPF formulated for face and body protection.

Why we love it: Built for endurance. Water, sweat and heat only strengthen its protection thanks to Shiseido’s SynchroShield technology. Despite its athletic credentials, the lotion feels featherlight and leaves skin comfortably soft, not slick.

What you need to know: A reef-safe, mineral-based SPF with a luxe finish and botanical scent.

Why we love it: Eco credentials with a superb finish. This reef-safe, zinc-based cream melts in fast with no cast and a soft, almost-luminous finish. The tomato leaf and citrus scent makes even the reapplication routine enjoyable.