Applying sunscreen whenever you step out, especially in summer, goes deeper than preventing unsightly and painful sunburn. It guards against long-term skin problems. With every minute spent in the sun, our skin absorbs UV rays that will eventually compromise the quality of our skin cells. UV rays, to state the more obvious effect, make the skin older by reducing elastin and collagen levels. This leads to wrinkles, fine lines, rough texture, dark spots and other issues down the road. And naturally, all of these things are much more noticeable on our faces.

Hence, it is crucial that we apply and reapply sunscreen throughout the day. Taking skin sensitivity and general skin type into account is also essential when selecting a protective formula, especially when deciding between a chemical sunscreen that absorbs and releases UV radiation and a physical sunscreen that reflects it. While that can sound like a lot to keep in mind as you head out of the door, our handy round-up of the best of the best sunscreens, and the levels of SPF (to counteract UVB rays) and PA (anti-UVA rays) they contain, will help steer you along a complexion-pristine path.

EviDenS de Beauté – The Total Shield

EviDenS de Beauté takes heed of the adage ‘prevention is better than cure’ with its high-protection primer The Total Shield SPF 50 PA++++ Anti-Pollution. Creating an impenetrable veil above your skincare serums and creams, this non-greasy gel offers the optimum defence against UV rays and environmental aggressors to slow the ageing process. Thanks to its clear matte finish, it can even be applied over makeup throughout the day for extended protection.

Givenchy – Le Soin Noir Fluid UV Protection

Givenchy ensures you are always protected with Le Soin Noir Fluid UV Protection SPF 50+ PA++++. Formulated with marine extract for an illuminating effect, the lightweight texture of this sunscreen melts into your skin and forms a shield against photo-ageing and external aggressors. A younger-looking and revitalised complexion has never been easier to achieve, so make sure you include this step in your morning routine.

La Mer – The Broad Spectrum U V Protecting Fluid

With La Mer’s SPF 50 UV Protecting Fluid, you can treat your skin to the sun’s golden glow without worrying about its damaging effects. The luxuriously light composition hydrates, calms and nourishes while preventing discolouration and shielding your skin from ultraviolet radiation damage.

La Prairie – Cellular Swiss UV Protection Veil

Cellular Swiss UV Protection Veil SPF 50 PA++++ is a lightweight protection and treatment product in one. Designed by La Prairie to be used over your moisturiser, this powerful veil offers daily protection against exposure to UVA and UVB rays and the environment. It truly is the perfect sunscreen for daily sun protection.

RéVive – Soleil Superiéur Sunscreen

A lightweight transparent cream from RéVive, Soleil Superiéur SPF 50 Sunscreen PA++++ aids with UV filter protection. Applying it before makeup is ideal since the luxuriously smooth consistency works to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while also penetrating the skin deeply without leaving a greasy coating.

Rodial – SPF 50 Drops

In Rodial’s world, daily defence is essential to a stellar skincare ritual – that’s why SPF 50 Drops makes the perfect final step to a considered routine. Silky and weightless, the butterfly bush-infused formula protects from harmful UVA and UVB radiation, while bluelight filter technology works to shield skin from collagen degeneration and loss of elasticity. Meanwhile, an effective hydration system combines hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to ensure a nourished, replenished and protected complexion.

Sarah Chapman – Skinesis Skin Insurance Invisible

With a smooth second-skin feel and no white cast, Sarah Chapman’s invisible Skin Insurance with SPF 50 is ideal for all skin types and offers excellent protection from infrared, thermal and ultraviolet ageing. The formula, featuring Photosomes-V, uses visible light energy to help repair damage and boost UV resistance.

Sisley – Sunleÿa G.E. Age Minimising Global Sun Care

In addition to preventing wrinkles, brown spots, dryness and loss of firmness, Sunleÿa G.E. Age Minimising Global Sun Care SFP 30 PA+++ also leaves the skin with a radiant, long-lasting tan. While Sisley’s blend of painstakingly created and incredibly advanced solar filters provides enhanced protection against UVA and UVB radiation, a novel age-minimising strategy and combination of potent active substances help prevent photo-induced ageing. Skin is smooth and moisturised after using this shea butter-enriched product.

Ultra Violette – Daydream Screen

Tinted Veil Daydream Screen SPF 50 Tinted Veil from Ultra Violette makes a powerful multipurpose addition to your daily skincare routine. The ultra-lightweight moisturising formula is perfect for wearing alone or as a base for makeup, delivering a radiant, healthy-looking glow while providing broad UVA and UVB protection.

Valmont – Restoring Perfection

Ensure you guard your skin against the harmful effects of the sun every day with Valmont’s Restoring Perfection cream, which is buoyed by SPF 50 and has anti-ageing properties. It helps regain skin firmness and density while offering a protective treatment.