If you hate the feeling of sun cream, you'll want to know about these barely-there formulas

We've tested them all, and these are the best

Summer Skincare
(Image credit: Getty)

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: 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 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, 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 dedicated our entire careers to 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.

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 2023, whatever your preference.

Best sunscreens for 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. La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+ Sun Cream

La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+

(Image credit: La Roche-Posay)

La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+ Sun Cream

Best facial sun cream for all ages

Specifications

Area: Face
UVB Protection: SPF50+
UVA Protection: UVA Seal + Mexoryl 400
Size: 50ml

Reasons to buy

+
Very high protection
+
Favourite amongst derms
+
Lightweight
+
Absorbs quickly
+
Semi-matte finish
+
Doesn't leave a white cast

Reasons to avoid

-
Not particularly hydrating (although the brand do have a more hydrating alternative)
-
Can sometimes irritate eyes if it runs

Dermatologist-loved brand La Roche-Posay goes hand in hand with excellent suncare products. This is its latest (and arguably greatest) sun cream. The rest of the Anthelios range is broad-spectrum (protects against both UVA and UVB) but new research conducted by the brand has found that long UVA rays – which make up 30 per cent of the UV spectrum – are able to penetrate deeper than both UVB and shorter UVA rays, causing more significant damage. The results of this are wrinkles, pigmentation, slack skin and, in extreme cases, skin cancer. This is why this sun cream features the new filter - Mexoryl 400 - which is the most efficient UV filter against the most penetrative of UV rays. Acting Senior Beauty Editor, Shannon Lawlor says, "Its non-oily, lightweight texture sinks into skin in seconds, making it the perfect sunscreen for all skin types and ages."

2. REN Clean Screen Mineral SPF30 Mattifying Broad-Spectrum Face Sunscreen

REN Clean Skincare Clean Screen Mineral Sun Cream SPF 30

(Image credit: Ren)

REN Clean Screen Mineral SPF30 Mattifying Broad-Spectrum Face Sunscreen

Best mattifying sun cream for face

Specifications

Area: Face
UVB Protection: SPF30
UVA Protection: Broad-spectrum
Size: 50ml

Reasons to buy

+
Suitable for sensitive skin
+
Great for oily skin
+
Matte finish

Reasons to avoid

-
Only SPF30
-
Requires some settling time before turning clear

For a mineral sunscreen to not leave behind an intense chalky finish is nothing short of a miracle. If that wasn't juicy enough, REN has also made sure its sun cream plays nicely with oily skin (thanks to mattifying rice starch) and is fully recyclable. "This facial sun cream is great for those sensitive but oily skin. It's worth noting that it does leave a white cast at first, you just have to wait a couple of minutes for things to return to normal," says Acting Senior Beauty Editor, Shannon Lawlor.

3. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF30

Best sun cream: SUPERGOOP! UNSEEN SUNSCREEN SPF 30

(Image credit: Supergoop)

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF30

Best sunscreen to apply before make-up

Specifications

Area: Face
UVB Protection: SPF30
UVA Protection: Broad-spectrum
Size: 50ml

Reasons to buy

+
Totally clear
+
Leaves skin feeling smooth and soft
+
Disguises large pores

Reasons to avoid

-
Only SPF30
-
Heavy silicone content (not great for acneic skin)

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 Acting Senior 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.

4. The Body Shop Skin Defence Multi- Protection Light Essence SPF 50 PA +++

The Body Shop Skin Defence Multi- Protection Light Essence SPF 50 PA +++

(Image credit: The Body Shop)

The Body Shop Skin Defence Multi- Protection Light Essence SPF 50 PA +++

Best facial sun cream with skin benefits

Specifications

Area: Face
UVB Protection: SPF50
UVA Protection: PA+++

Reasons to buy

+
Feels like skincare
+
Lightweight
+
Non-greasy
+
High protection

Reasons to avoid

-
Can turn greasy if you want to apply a separate face cream as well

You get a lot of bang for your buck with this sunscreen as red algae extract and antioxidant vitamin C also shield against the urban cocktail of pollution and UV. Acting Senior Beauty Editor, Shannon Lawlor says, "When it comes to facial sunscreen, it doesn't get much better than this. It's lightweight and comfortable to wear. Plus, for lazy girls like me it's a dream—all of the skincare ingredients mean I can forgo other serums and creams in the morning."

5. Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Sport Stick SPF 50

Best sunscreen: Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Sport Stick SPF 50

(Image credit: Colorescience)

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Sport Stick SPF 50

Best facial sun cream stick

Specifications

Area: Face
UVB Protection: SPF50
UVA Protection: PA ++++
Size: 18g

Reasons to buy

+
Very convenient
+
Fits in your handbag
+
Applies clear

Reasons to avoid

-
Should really only be used for top-ups

There are really no excuses for not keeping on top of your sun protection with this handy little stick. So small it will fit into even the smallest of handbags, it's ideal for on-the-go top-ups, as it's clear and glides on easily to areas that most need it - like shoulders, the chest and the face. Remember: it's unlikely you'll get adequate sun protection from using a stick alone. Start with your sun cream in the morning, and then use this handy stick for midday top-ups.

6. Garnier Ambre Solaire Super UV Anti Dark Spots & Anti Pollution Face Fluid SPF50+

Ambre Solaire Super UV Anti Dark Spots & Anti Pollution Face Fluid SPF50+

(Image credit: garnier)

Garnier Ambre Solaire Super UV Anti Dark Spots & Anti Pollution Face Fluid SPF50+

Best facial sunscreen for dark spots

Specifications

Area: Face
UVB Protection: SPF50+
UVA Protection: UVA Seal
Size: 40ml

Reasons to buy

+
Lightweight
+
Non-greasy
+
Affordable
+
High protection

Reasons to avoid

-
Lacks luxury points

There are few sunscreens out there that deliver such excellent results for an affordable price. While £12 on a sunscreen from Garnier might seem expensive, we promise you won't regret a penny of this purchase. The formula is light and skincare-like and it contains super-high protection to help prevent dark spots. You can leave your day cream on the shelf thanks to this sun cream formula.

7. L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Clinical Vitamin C UV Fluid SPF 50+ Moisturiser

L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Clinical Vitamin C UV Fluid SPF 50+

(Image credit: L'Oréal Paris)

L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Clinical Vitamin C UV Fluid SPF50+ Moisturiser

Best lightweight facial sunscreen

Specifications

Area: Face
UVB Protection: SPF50+
UVA Protection: UVA Seal
Size: 50ml

Reasons to buy

+
Super lightweight
+
Non-greasy
+
Demi-matte, skin-like finish
+
Very high protection

Reasons to avoid

-
Can cause very slight eye irritation if applied too close

Acting Senior Beauty Editor, Shannon Lawlor says, "This is, without question, one of the best 'affordable' SPFs I've ever used. It's not too different from La Roche-Posay's Anthelios (it uses the same NetLock technology to keep the formula in place on the skin), but it leaves my skin looking glowier. I use the word affordable in quote marks because although £20 is still a hefty amount of money, it's almost always on offer somewhere."

8. Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF30

Summer Fridays Shadedrops Broad Spectrum SPF30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen

(Image credit: Glossier)

Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF30

Best mineral facial sunscreen

Reasons to buy

+
Luxe, milky consistency
+
Feels and looks invisible
+
Lightweight, appealing packaging
+
General joy to use
+
Feels soothing

Reasons to avoid

-
Only comes in SPF30, so not the highest protection possible

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

Best sun creams for 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.

9. Lancaster Sun Protective Water SPF50

Lancaster Sun Beauty Sun Protective Water SPF50

(Image credit: Lancaster)

Lancaster Sun Protective Water SPF50

Best clear sunscreen

Specifications

Area: Body
UVB Protection: SPF50
UVA Protection: UVA Seal
Size: 150ml

Reasons to buy

+
High protection
+
Totally clear formula
+
Water-resistant

Reasons to avoid

-
Doesn't feel totally 'undetectable'

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 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.

10. Sun Bum Original SPF30 Lotion

Sun Bum Original Broad Spectrum Moisturizing Sun Cream-SPF 30

(Image credit: Sun Bum)

Sun Bum Original SPF30 Lotion

Best sun cream for moisturising

Specifications

Area: Face
UVB Protection: SPF30
UVA Protection: UVA Seal
Size: 177ml

Reasons to buy

+
Smells divine
+
Non-greasy
+
Absorbs quickly

Reasons to avoid

-
Only SPF30

You rarely see 'oil-free' and 'moisturising' in the same sentence when it comes to sunscreen. Sun Bum is the exception. The cream may come out white but it goes on clear, absorbs fast and smells of a piña colada in a good way. We've never met a beauty editor who doesn't like this formula.

11.  Ultrasun SPF30 Tan Activator

Ultrasun Tan Activator for Body SPF30

(Image credit: Ultrasun)

Ultrasun SPF30 Tan Activator

Best sunscreen for tanning

Specifications

Area: Body
UVB Protection: SPF30
UVA Protection: UVA Seal and PA +++
Size: 150ml

Reasons to buy

+
Water-resistant
+
Moisturising

Reasons to avoid

-
Only SPF30

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.

12. Nivea SUN Kids Protect & Care Caring Roll-On

Best sunscreen: NIVEA SUN Kids SPF50+ Sun Cream Roll-On

(Image credit: Nivea)

Nivea SUN Kids Protect & Care Caring Roll-On

Best sun cream for kids

Specifications

Area: All over
UVB Protection: SPF50+
UVA Protection: UVA Seal
Size: 50ml

Reasons to buy

+
Very easy to apply
+
High protection
+
Smells great

Reasons to avoid

-
A small bottle

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.

13. Coola Pina Colada SPF30 Sunscreen Spray

Best sunscreen: COOLA CLASSIC SUNSCREEN SPRAY SPF30 PINA COLADA

(Image credit: Coola)

Coola Pina Colada SPF30 Sunscreen Spray

Best sunscreen for cooling

Specifications

Area: Body
UVB Protection: SPF30
UVA Protection: Broad-spectrum
Size: 177ml

Reasons to buy

+
Smells amazing
+
Applies clear
+
Moisturising formula

Reasons to avoid

-
A little greasy (like an oil)
-
Only SPF30

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. So 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 Acting Senior Beauty Editor, Shannon Lawlor.

14. Eucerin Sun Allergy Protection Sun Creme-Gel SPF50

Eucerin® Sun Protection Sun Allergy Protection Sun Creme-Gel 50 High

(Image credit: Eucerin)

Eucerin Sun Allergy Protection Sun Creme-Gel SPF50

Best sun cream for sensitive skin

Specifications

Area: Body
UVB Protection: SPF50
UVA Protection: UVA Seal
Size: 150ml

Reasons to buy

+
Created alongside dermatologists
+
Protects against sun allergies
+
Waterproof

Reasons to avoid

-
Can feel a little greasy

For those who are really, really sensitive to the sun and have allergies triggered by free radicals, this is ideal for everyday use in the summer. There are two ingredients inside that protect the upper and deeper levels of the skin offering double the protection.

15. Avène Very High Protection Spray Sun Cream SPF50+

Avène Very High Protection Spray Sun Cream SPF50+

(Image credit: Avène)

Avène Very High Protection Spray Sun Cream SPF50+

Best French pharmacy sun cream

Specifications

Area: Body
UVB Protection: SPF50+
UVA Protection: UVA Seal
Size: 200ml

Reasons to buy

+
Antioxidant protection
+
Water-resistant
+
Suitable for sensitive skin

Reasons to avoid

-
Best for top ups rather than initial application

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

16. Vichy Capital Soleil Solar Protective Water Hydrating SPF50

Best suncreen: VICHY Capital Soleil Solar Protective Water Hydrating SPF50

(Image credit: Vichy)

Vichy Capital Soleil Solar Protective Water Hydrating SPF50

Best sunscreen with a water formula

Specifications

Area: Body
UVB Protection: SPF50
UVA Protection: UVA Seal
Size: 200ml

Reasons to buy

+
Weightless formula
+
Applies totally clear
+
Hydrating

Reasons to avoid

-
Should be applied liberally

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

17. Piz Buin Allergy Sun Sensitive Skin Lotion SPF50+

Piz Buin Allergy Sun Sensitive Skin Lotion SPF50+

(Image credit: Piz Buin)

Piz Buin Allergy Sun Sensitive Skin Lotion SPF50+

Best affordable sun cream for sensitive skin

Specifications

Area: Body
UVB Protection: SPF50+
UVA Protection: UVA Seal
Size: 400ml

Reasons to buy

+
Water-resistant
+
Smells great
+
Non-greasy
+
Excellent for those with sensitive skin

Reasons to avoid

-
It is scented, so won't be good for those who prefer fragrance free

When we asked the Marie Claire UK office what their all-time favourite sun cream for the body is, the majority of the team agreed that Piz Buin takes the crown. It's not as expensive as other formulas which match its excellence. It's lightweight, non-greasy, smells great, doesn't irritate sensitive skin and, most importantly, is really effective and preventing burning.

18. Balibody Face & Body Suncreen Spray SPF50+

Best sunscreen: Bali Body Face and Body Sunscreen Spray 50+ Aerosol

(Image credit: Bali Body)

Bali Body Face & Body Suncreen Spray SPF50+

Best spray sunscreen

Specifications

Area: All over
UVB Protection: SPF50+
UVA Protection: Broad-spectrum
Size: 211ml

Reasons to buy

+
Easy to apply
+
Lightweight
+
Hydrating

Reasons to avoid

-
Although it can be used on the face, we'd recommend a specialised formula

One of the easiest sunscreens to use, this lightweight formula is designed for both your face and body to protect your skin while adding nourishment and hydration.

19. NUXE Sun Face and Body Delicious Lotion SPF30

Best sun cream: NUXE Sun Delicious Lotion High Protection Face & Body Sun Cream SPF 30

(Image credit: Nuxe)

NUXE Sun Face and Body Delicious Lotion SPF30

Best fragranced sun cream

Specifications

Area: Body
UVB Protection: SPF30
UVA Protection: UVA Seal
Size: 150ml

Reasons to buy

+
Smells amazing
+
Moisturising formula
+
Luxurious but lightweight texture

Reasons to avoid

-
Leaves a slight moisturising film

If you are 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.

20. Rituals The Ritual of Karma Sun Protection Milky Spray SPF 30

Rituals The Ritual of Karma Sun Protection Milky Spray SPF 30

(Image credit: Rituals)

Rituals The Ritual of Karma Sun Protection Milky Spray SPF 30

Best luxurious sun cream

Specifications

Area: Body
UVB Protection: SPF30
UVA Protection: UVA Seal
Size: 200ml

Reasons to buy

+
Lightweight formula
+
Smells amazing
+
Moisturising finish
+
Looks great on the shelf

Reasons to avoid

-
Not great for super high protection as only SPF30

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 Acting Senior Beauty Editor, Shannon Lawlor. "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 little guide to help you decipher the information.

You want your suncream 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 power) number indicates the level of protection against burning. The NHS recommends using SPF 30 and above. SPF 30 is clinically proven to be a sufficient amount of protection to reduce the adverse effects of sunlight.

UVA protection:

To protect against ageing, skin-damaging rays, you should look for UVA protection. You want to make sure 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 suncare 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 you’d be right. Historically sunscreen had a bad reputation for being gloopy and leaving behind white smears, especially on dark skin tones. (However, there are some that are the best sun creams for dark skin tones.)

However, the 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. Oh-so sheer that they glide over the skin as light as coconut water.

This is especially true of the latest SPF50 oil-in-water hybrids, which are as far from a traditional suncream as you can get.

The 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 dermatologist Dr Hiva 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 such as 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.

Katie Thomas

Katie Thomas is the Senior Beauty Editor at Marie Claire UK. With over 10 years of experience on women's luxury lifestyle titles, she covers everything from the best beauty looks from the red carpet and stand out trends from the catwalk, to colonic irrigation and to the best mascaras on the market. She started her career on fashion desks across the industry - from The Telegraph to Brides - but found her calling in the Tatler beauty department. From there she moved to Instyle, before joining the Marie Claire digital team in 2018. She’s made it her own personal mission to find the best concealer in the world to cover her tenacious dark circles. She’s obsessed with skincare that makes her skin bouncy and glowy, low-maintenance hair that doesn’t require brushing and a cracking good manicure. Oh and she wears more jewellery than the Queen.

With contributions from