These are the 19 best sun creams according to Marie Claire's beauty editors—and they're actually a joy to apply

Suncare is a bit like flossing your teeth; you know it’s bad to skip it, but sometimes you just can’t be bothered. Even when you're using the very best sun cream it can feel like a chore. Now that the sun is shining again and things are starting to heat up, making sure you're applying SPF every single day (and topping up every few hours) is more important than ever.

We are here to tell you to never skip sun cream. Sun damage is not to be messed with—which is why finding a good facial sunscreen is important.

We say that because according to Cancer Research UK every year around 16,744 new melanoma (the fifth most common cancer in the UK) cases are recorded in the UK.

"There is a misconception in the UK that we don’t need to wear sunscreen as the sun isn’t as strong," says consultant dermatologist at OneWelbeck Skin Health & Allergy and Eudelo clinic Dr Hiva Fassihi, who specialises in sun-sensitive disorders.

"The UV index measures the strength of sun-burning UV rays outside, ranging from one to a very high 11. When it reaches three you need to apply sunscreen. In the UK, the UV index can hit six or seven in summer, so broad-spectrum sun cream is essential."

The good news is that nowadays there are plenty of sun creams that actually feel really nice to apply. In fact, they feel so nice that even the most stubborn SPF-haters out there will find themselves looking forward to slapping them on every day.

Having said that, we know that there are plenty of duds out there when it comes to sun cream. Luckily, in a bid to save you time, energy and annoyance, we have spent our careers testing every formula out there to draw up a definitive list of the best sun cream. 

While you're here, we've also curated edits of the best SPF to apply over make-up and the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin. You're welcome.

Best sun creams for 2024: Quick links

• Best sunscreen to apply before make-up: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 30, from £15 | Cult Beauty
• Best mineral facial sunscreen: Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30, £36 | Cult Beauty
• Best sunscreen for hyperpigmentation: L'Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Dark Spot UV Fluid SPF 50+, £20 | Lookfantastic
• Best sunscreen for glowing skin: Garnier Ambre Solaire Vitamin C Daily UV Brightening Fluid Glow SPF 50+, £12.99 | Boots
• Best serum sunscreen: Naked Sundays CabanaClear Water Gel Serum SPF 50, £25 | Sephora
• Best sunscreen for irritated skin: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5+ SPF 50, £14.43 | Amazon
• Best luxury facial sunscreen: Tatcha The Silk Sunscreen SPF 50, £65 | Tatcha
• Best lightweight facial sunscreen: Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence, £15.99 | Superdrug
• Best sunscreen for dry skin: £16.50 | Lookfantastic
• Best sunscreen spray: Sun Bum Original Moisturizing Sunscreen Spray, £20.99 | Lookfantastic
• Best sunscreen stick: Caudalie Vinosun Protect Stick Invisible Haute Protection SPF 50, £10 | Notino
• Best clear sunscreen: Lancaster Sun Protective Water, £31 | Lookfantastic
• Best sunscreen for tanning: Ultrasun Tan Activator For Body SPF 30, £28 | Lookfantastic
• Best sunscreen for kids: Nivea SUN Kids Protect & Care Caring Roll-On SPF 50+, £5.50 | Boots
• Best sunscreen for cooling: Coola Pina Colada Sunscreen Spray SPF 30, £25 | Sephora
• Best French pharmacy sunscreen: Avène Spray Sun Cream, £21.85 | Boots
• Best sunscreen with a water formula: Vichy Capital Soleil Solar Protective Water, £20.95 | Lookfantastic
• Best fragranced sunscreen: NUXE Sun Face and Body Delicious Sun Spray, £24 | Marks & Spencer
• Best luxurious sunscreen: Rituals The Ritual of Karma Invisible Sun Protection Milky Spray, £22.90 | Lookfantastic

Our testing criteria for the best sun cream

Each of these sun creams has been tested by someone on the Marie Claire UK beauty team against the below criteria. If the sun cream reveals a 'yes' answer to the below, it's made it on the our edit of the best.

• Is the UVA and UVB protection high enough/efficient?
• Is the formula easy to apply?
• Does the formula leave apply clear, rather than leaving a white cast?
• Is the formula comfortable to wear, rather than greasy?
• Is the sun cream enjoyable enough to use that you'll want to apply it every day?

So here goes; the best sun cream money can buy in 2024, whatever your preference.

Best sunscreens for the face

Much like skincare, when it comes to sun creams it's important to use a different product for your face and your body. Keep on scrolling for the best facial sunscreens to shop now.

1. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 30

Weightless, scentless and utterly undetectable—exactly what you want from a facial sunscreen. Plus, it doubles up as a primer and deflects UV rays without suffocating your pores. 

"I really love this product—I consider it to be one of the best sunscreens out there. It applies more like a make-up primer and leave skin feeling unbelievably smooth," says Marie Claire's Executive Beauty Editor Shannon Lawlor. Having said that, it is worth noting it has high silicone content, so if you don't like the feeling of silky silicones on your skin, it likely won't be for you.

2. Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30

If you're looking for a facial sunscreen perfect for everyday wear here in overcast Blighty, we can promise you that this is the product you're after. It's milky, it's nourishing and it feels beautiful on the skin. In fact, Shannon says it's just as enjoyable to apply as a luxury face cream.

3. L'Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Dark Spot UV Fluid SPF 50+

Part of L'Oréal's new Bright Reveal range, which contains lipohydroxy acid and niacinamide to reduce the look of existing dark spots and post-acne marks, and stop new ones from developing.

"Hyperpigmentation can especially flare up in the summer, and wearing a high factor SPF every single day can help to avoid this," says Laura. "I'm a big fan of these fluid SPFs from L'Oréal as they're so lightweight and sink in immediately."

4. Garnier Ambre Solaire Vitamin C Daily UV Brightening Fluid Glow SPF 50+

Garnier's giving us a bit of everything with this new face SPF for 2024: vitamin C, high factor sun protection, hydration and a sheer, radiant tint (it's also available in an invisible version if you prefer). 

"I think Garnier makes some of the very best facial sunscreens on the high street; they're a great price (and often on offer) and feel lovely on the skin. And this is no exception," says Laura. "It gives an added glow boost to the skin that gives slight Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter vibes."

5. Naked Sundays CabanaClear Water Gel Serum SPF 50

Australian sun cream brands are some of the very best, delivering high levels of protection in formulas that are genuinely a pleasure to use—and this Naked Sundays  Water Gel Serum is no exception. It really is what is says on the bottle: a clear, hydrating serum that just happens to have an SPF 50 in it too.

"This is really unique; I've never felt a sunscreen quite like it," says Laura. "It feels so much like a serum, disappearing immediately—and invisibly—into the skin, yet still leaving a hydrated feeling. A new favourite, for sure."

6. La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5+ SPF 50

The orginal La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume is a must-have in any skincare SOS kit, famed for its ability to calm and protect niggly skin, from mild eczema to the dreaded post-retinoid flaking. It also comes in this SPF 50 version, giving very high sun protection as it soothes.

"Although slightly thinner than the original, this is still very rich and leaves behind protective film—great for dry skin, not so good for oily or spot-prone complexions," says Laura. "It can be used all over the face and body, but I'll probably keep use it sparingly if I have patches of irritation flare up."

7. Tatcha The Silk Sunscreen SPF 50

Tatcha's formulas are exquisite, and always a joy to apply—and this new sunscreen is no exception. Its a thin, milky liquid that leaves no white marks on the skin, just a lovely hydrated feeling. If you find that your skin is sometimes irritated by chemical SPFs, choose a mineral one like this instead.

"This is really gorgeous," says Laura. "I can only comment on how it looks on my (pale) skin, but it doesn't leave even the faintest hint of white sheen on the skin. My only problem is that, given the price, I'd be tempted to use it sparingly—something not advised when applying sun cream."

8. Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence

Bioré doesn't just make pore strips—the Japanese brand also makes a really good drugstore facial SPF, available in SPFs 30 and 50. It's inspired by the lightweight, water-like formulas popular in Japanese skincare.

"I've recommended this to so many people—men and women—and they all love it," says Laura. "The texture is so nice, and it's a really good price too."

9. Cerave Facial Moisturising Lotion

Cerave is the go-to for anyone looking for dermatologist-approved skincare that doesn't cost a fortune, and this SPF 50 is a great everyday option for those with normal to dry skin.

"Cerave is a beauty editor's favourite for a reason," says Laura. "This face sun cream is easy to apply, feels hydrating on the skin and won't break you out."

Best sunscreens for the body

Now that you've chosen one for your face, it's important to give your body the same level of protection. Enter stage right, our edit of the best sun creams for your body.

10. Sun Bum Original Moisturizing Sunscreen Spray

"I buy this spray-on sun cream every time I go on holiday—even at the airport, where the price is wildly inflated," says Laura. "It's light and easy to apply for top-ups when outside, yet also feels thorough enough. My boyfriend loves it too."

11. Caudalie Vinosun Protect Stick Invisible Haute Protection SPF 50

Sun cream sticks such as this one won't be any good for general application but are great for touch-up on small or more delicate areas such as the nose, ears, over tattoos, and around the edges of swimwear.

"I always pack a sun cream stick in my suitcase, and this year it'll be this Caudalie one," says Laura. "I like how chunky and wide it is, and how it's quite firm so doesn't immediately melt in the sun."

12. Lancaster Sun Protective Water

High filters to thwart UV rays? Tick. Completely sheer coverage? Double tick. "The fact that it can be applied to wet skin also deserves a mention," says Marie Claire's Senior Beauty Editor Katie Thomas. Those with dark skin tones can apply with abandon—there’s zero chance of this sunscreen leaving a grey cast behind.

13. Ultrasun Tan Activator For Body SPF 30

If the benefits of UV protection aren't enticing enough, then the addition of an ingredient to activate the tanning process should be. Truth be told, there is no safe way to tan, however, if you do insist on sitting out in the sun, make sure you're wearing an SPF like this one.

"In all honestly my pale skin never really tans, but if I was hoping to achieve a slight golden glow in mild sun—and safely—I'd do it wearing this," says freelance beauty editor Laura Mulley.

14. Nivea SUN Kids Protect & Care Caring Roll-On SPF 50+

Putting sun cream on children is one of life's biggest challenges. They don't want it on and you don't want to do it—so anything that makes life that little bit easier is a winner. Nivea's SPF 50+ Roll-On is exactly that: full body application in no time at all. Plus it has that gorgeous Nivea Sun smell, which makes cuddles with the tiny ones afterwards glorious.

"I don't have children but even I'm tempted to use this just from the smell alone," says Laura. "I'm all for hands-free sun cream application too (although you will need to rub this in a bit afterwards)."

15. Coola Pina Colada Sunscreen Spray SPF 30

This is the ultimate summer holiday sun cream. Not only does it smell just like one—pineapples and coconuts—but it's so easy to apply; when you're in and out of the sea, cafés and outfits, this spray makes for super simple reapplication. 

"This is my ride-or-die sunscreen. It feels so luxurious to apply and has everyone asking after it because of that all-important tropical scent," says Shannon.

16. Avène Spray Sun Cream

You can always rely on the French pharmacies to deliver top-notch sunscreen, and this spray formula from Avène was spotted on one of Hailey Bieber's Instagram stories, in a photo of Hailey and Kendall Jenner sunbathing. What makes this SPF so great is that it's suitable for everyone—even those with sensitive skin and children. 

"I adore spray-on sun creams, and will always choose them of thick creams," says Laura. "This one dries very quickly but isn't completely clear—something to bear in mind if you have dark skin. I love its twist-up, travel-safe locking mechanism too."

17. Vichy Capital Soleil Solar Protective Water

By combining hyaluronic acid with mineral water and a high-factor SPF, you get the balance just right: your skin is hydrated and protected while the clear, non-greasy formula suits all skin types and skin tones. 

Marie Claire Editor Sunil Makan says, "This is the best body sunscreen out there, in my opinion."

18. NUXE Sun Face and Body Delicious Sun Spray

If you're looking for a sun cream with a delicious, long-lasting scent, this NUXE one is for you. The rich, hydrating formula leaves a silky finish on the skin and delivers an uplifting fragrance with notes of sweet orange, Tahitian gardenia and vanilla.

"This smells divine—almost as good as an actual perfume," says Laura. "The formula itself  is really lovely too; milky, quickly absorbed and not at all greasy."

19. Rituals The Ritual of Karma Invisible Sun Protection Milky Spray

This sun cream might not be the most expensive on the list but, in our opinion, it's definitely most luxurious. Not only does this milky spray leave skin feeling beautifully soft and looking glowing, but it also smells delicious, making it a total joy to use. If you're somebody who struggles to find the motivation to apply sun cream, investing in this can should do the trick. 

"I absolutely adore this sun cream," says Shannon. "Whenever I pull it out of my bag, somebody else wants in on it too."

How to choose the best sun cream for your skin

There are lots of little symbols and numbers on sun cream bottles, which can be confusing, so here's a guide to help you decipher the information.

You want your sun cream to protect against both UVA (the skin-ageing rays) and UVB (the burning rays). Look for the term broad-spectrum, as this indicates the formula contains adequate protection against both types of rays. However, it's a good idea to pay closer attention to the individual levels of both UVA and UVB protection.

UVB protection

The SPF (sun protection factor) number indicates the level of protection against burning. The NHS recommends using SPF 30 and above, as this clinically proven to be reduce the adverse effects of sunlight.

UVA protection

To protect against skin-ageing, skin-damaging rays, look for UVA protection too. You want to make sure that your suncream protects against UVA rays because they travel deeper into the skin, where they can trigger pigmentation, wrinkles and loss of firmness. This protection is indicated in various forms, depending on where the sun cream is from.

UVA star rating: Here in the UK, our sun care brands will use the UVA star rating. It shows UVA in a circle with stars below indicating the level of protection. One star is minimum, two stars moderate, three stars good, four stars superior and five stars ultra.

UVA Seal: This is the most common UVA rating. It's the letters UVA in a circle and has been classed as sufficient protection.

PA Rating: Seen mostly on American and International brands. The higher the number of + after the PA the better (the highest rating is PA++++). It's not really recognised as the best way to show protection here in the UK.

Why is it so important to use the best sun cream?

We chatted with Jo Stoddart, cancer specialist at Bupa UK, about the importance of protecting your skin from the sun.

"Melanoma is a type of cancer that starts in the pigment cells in your skin—called melanocytes—and can spread to other parts of your body. Thought mainly to be due to sun exposure, the incidence is increasing and unfortunately in some cases can be life-threatening."

What are the causes of melanoma?

Melanoma is caused by various genetic and environmental factors. There are certain genetic factors, which will increase your risk of developing melanoma, including those who have a larger number of moles or moles that are atypical. Additionally, people with pale skin, red or blonde hair and blue or green eyes are at a greater risk than those with dark features.

Family history is also important when it comes to your risk of melanoma, with it playing a part in around one in ten cases.

Excessive exposure to sunlight or UV radiation from sunbed use is the main environmental factor that can cause melanoma. If you have had severe sunburn or intense exposure to the sun in the past, particularly in childhood, then you are also at a higher risk.

What are the signs of melanoma?

Melanoma may start in an existing mole on your skin or it may start on normal skin, creating a new, abnormal mole. There are key signs to look out for when checking your moles on a monthly basis.

We suggest employing the ABCDE checklist when you check your moles, which should flag up the key signs that your mole could be a melanoma:

A – asymmetry – one half of the mole looks different to the other

B – border irregularity – the edges are uneven or jagged

C – colour variability – the mole is a mixture of different colours

D – diameter – the mole is bigger than 6mm across

E – evolution – the mole has changed in size, shape or colour

"But sunscreen is so sticky and unpleasant," we hear you say. And in the past, you’d be right. Historically sunscreen had a bad reputation for being gloopy and leaving behind white smears, especially on dark skin tones. There are nowaday, however, some that are the best sun creams for dark skin tones.)

But formulations now are so different to days gone by. They absorb quickly, they have added skincare benefits and most importantly they are easy to apply.

The latest SPF waters

New technology means that the latest sunscreens are now genuinely invisible on application, and oh-so sheer that they glide over the skin as light as coconut water.

This is especially true of the latest SPF 50 oil-in-water hybrids, which are as far from a traditional suncream as you can get. These waters use the same bi-phase technology found in eye make-up removers.

"You need to have oil in sunscreen as that’s where the high, broad-spectrum filters are embedded," says Dr Fassihi. "The water phase is where the hydrating and antioxidant ingredients sit."

Dispensed as a fine mist, those like La Roche Posay Anthelios Invisible Spray SPF50+ and Vichy Capital Soleil Solar Protective Water Hydrating SPF50 are so lightweight, you could almost forget you were wearing sun cream altogether.

The bottom line? You’re more likely to want to use them every day.

Use a separate sunscreen for the face

The sun protection ingredients for facial use aren’t necessarily different from those you apply elsewhere— you’ll just find the textures thinner, less pore-clogging and designed to play nicely under make-up.

The best facial sunscreens and the best SPF moisturisers are also flooded with additional skincare ingredients such as antioxidants to ward off sun-related issues including wrinkles, pigmentation and dehydration.

How to use sunscreen

Rub it in well: Per the NHS's guidelines apply two tablespoons' worth to the entire body (or two teaspoons if you're only exposing your face, neck and arms) and re-apply every two hours.

Remember that sunscreen can expire: This makes it less effective. Check the bottle for the open jar symbol, which indicates a product's shelf life after it's been opened. For sun cream this is usually 12 months, so even if it hasn’t hit its expiration date, if it's over a year old, it won’t be as effective. And remember to always store your sun cream in a cool, dry place.