We've said it before, and we'll say it again: if SPF isn't part of your daily skincare routine, you might as well toss out all those other products. In 2024, it's no secret that daily sunscreen is non-negotiable—not just for the aesthetic benefits (think: reducing inflammation, brown spots, and fine lines), but also for the protection it offers against the very real risk of skin cancer.
So, why are so many of us still skipping our SPF? Often the reason is as simple as having not found the right one. Thankfully, sunscreen formulas have come a long way, and we now have access to a plethora of sophisticated options that make protecting our skin a lot less complicated. Whether you're looking for a product that won't break you out, wears well under makeup, or delivers a dose of glow, keep reading below for eight sunscreens that slip, slop—slap.
Editor's Note: When using sunscreen always read the label and follow directions for use.
Urban List's Top Picks
- Best Overall, Ultra Violette Supreme Screen SPF50
- Best Value, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion SPF50
- Best Luxury, Rationale #3 The Tinted Serum SPF50+
- Best Invisible, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Best For Sensitive Skin, Ultra Violette Fave Fluid SPF 50+ Ultralight Fragrance Free Skinscreen
- Best For Glow, Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 30
- Best Matte, La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Anti-Shine Dry Touch Facial Sunscreen SPF50+
- Best Mist, Naked Sundays SPF50+ Hydrating Glow Mist
Best Overall Ultra Violette Supreme Screen SPF50
Want all the protection without any of the fuss? This three-in-one product should be at the top of your list. Cleverly combining sunscreen protection with the hydration of moisturiser and the skin prep of primer—there's literally no excuse not to wear your SPF every day when it's this easy.
Beyond UVA and UVB protection, this product also has you covered when it comes to additional skin-improving benefits thanks to its lineup of Australian native antioxidants.
NEED TO KNOW
- Price: From $52
- SPF Rating: SPF 50+
- Size: 75ml, 125ml
Best Value Sunscreen Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion SPF50
This gel-texture sunscreen is an excellent option if you're after a budget-friendly choice that won't disappoint. The water-gel lotion feels the exact opposite of what you'd expect your old-school sunscreens to feel—it's cool, soothing and dries down quickly, leaving barely a trace.
While this product has a non-greasy finish, it leaves skin looking and feeling hydrated, so will work as a base under makeup, even on more sensitive or oily skin.
NEED TO KNOW
- Price: $18.69
- SPF Rating: SPF 50+
- Size: 85ml
Best Luxury Sunscreen Rationale #3 The Tinted Serum SPF50+
On application, this super-liquid formula feels almost oil-like; however, it quickly dries down to leave behind a lightweight film that looks hydrated and radiant and provides solar and environmental protection thanks to its proprietary Zinc Fusion technology.
Thanks to its slightly tinted, cast-free finish, the formula has also been designed with all skin tones in mind.
NEED TO KNOW
- Price: $204
- SPF Rating: SPF 50+
- Size: 30ml
Best Invisible Sunscreen La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+
A go-to brand for some of the most sophisticated formulas at an affordable price point, this lightweight and milky SPF from La Roche-Posay is no different. The fragrance-free and dermatologically tested formula wears beautifully on the skin and provides SPF50+ protection, all while looking undetectable—meaning those with deeper skin tones don't need to worry about any discolouration or white cast.
While specifically formulated for sensitive skin types, this is suitable for almost anyone and wears well under makeup or in lieu of moisturiser on more oily skin.
NEED TO KNOW
- Price: $37.95
- SPF Rating: SPF 50+
- Size: 50ml
Best Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin Ultra Violette Fave Fluid SPF 50+ Ultralight Fragrance Free Skinscreen
When you're sensitive or breakout-prone, introducing new products into your routine can feel like playing reaction roulette. Luckily, this product caters precisely to this dilemma.
The broad-spectrum sunscreen offers protection against UVA and UVB rays, while the super-lightweight and oil-free finish works perfectly to protect and prime for makeup application without upsetting your skin in the process.
NEED TO KNOW
- Price: $52
- SPF Rating: SPF 50+
- Size: 75ml
Best Sunscreen For Glow Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 30
If you like a side of glow served up with your SPF, look no further than this product. With its luxe packaging, this sunscreen feels more like applying a fancy primer than an SPF.
The super lightweight formula will leave even the driest skin looking seriously glowy without feeling thick or heavy and acts as an ideal base for makeup.
NEED TO KNOW
- Price: From $34.65
- SPF Rating: SPF 30+
- Size: 20ml, 50ml, 73ml
Best Matte Sunscreen La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Anti-Shine Dry Touch Facial Sunscreen SPF50+
Designed specifically for oily and problem-prone skin, this SPF50 will protect against damaging UV rays while simultaneously keeping you shine-free, thanks to the addition of oil absorbers.
The ultra-sheer formula also contains ingredients that work to soothe inflammation and help control acne triggers, without leaving a thick or heavy film on the skin.
NEED TO KNOW
- Price: $37.95
- SPF Rating: SPF 50+
- Size: 50ml
Best Sunscreen Mist Naked Sundays SPF50+ Hydrating Glow Mist
While we don't suggest this should be the only SPF in your lineup, this mist from Naked Sundays was specifically designed for both refreshing, setting and topping up your sunscreen throughout the day.
Simply spray generously for extra protection and it will dry down for a refreshed finish without disrupting your makeup or skincare. Keep this product close at hand for a quick, hands-free re-application.
NEED TO KNOW
- Price: $38
- SPF Rating: SPF 50+ (mist designed for topping up your SPF)
- Size: 75ml
Image credit: Supergoop | Instagram
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