Best sunscreens for your face to buy in 2024
Protect your skin this summer with our pick of the best sunscreens including a new buy that leaves your skin super "glowy".
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Wearing sunscreen on your face daily is essential, especially in Australia.
And one mistake we're all making? Not applying enough.
The correct amount to apply is one teaspoon for your head and neck. If this seems like a large amount, you can apply it in layers to allow it to soak into the skin effectively.
But we get it, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed at times by the amount of choice when it comes to sun protection.
Here we’ve done the hard work for you and compiled the best face sunscreens you can buy now, based on categories like affordability and shopper ratings, as well as a few news.com.au checkout team picks.
One sunscreen we're very excited about is the Avène Sunsitive Sunscreen Serum SPF 50+ which is currently on sale for only $26.99. This ultralight sunscreen leaves your skin super glowy and is sure to be your new hero product for summer.
It's also hard to look past Go-To Skincare's latest addition, Nifty Fifty Fluid which Zoe calls a "barely-there invisible lotion for SPF haters".
OUR TOP PICKS
TRIED AND TESTED: BEST BROAD SPECTRUM SUNSCREEN FOR YOUR FACE
Avène Sunsitive Sunscreen Serum SPF 50+, $26.99 (down from $49.99) at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: This lightweight sunscreen is ideal for sensitive skin types
What to consider: Leaves skin quite glowy
Formula: Liquid cream combo | Skin type: Most skin types | Size: 50ml
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, Shopping Writer
Rich in hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and aloe vera, this super hydrating lightweight sunscreen has a SPF 50+ rating. Formulated to be non-comedogenic, fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin, it’s definitely a worthwhile addition to your skin regimen.
In terms of texture, it's a little bit thicker than other fluid sunscreens I've used but once rubbed into the skin it sinks in just as nicely. Similar to Ultra Violette's Queen Screen, it does leave the skin with a dewy glow but don't let that deter you if you're worried about looking greasy as the shine sinks into the skin fairly quickly leaving behind a nice glow.
My one gripe would be the dropper could be improved as sometimes I had to do many drops to get enough for my face.
It's also available at Priceline.
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
Solar Screen SPF 50+ Lightweight Face Sunscreen Fluid, $29.99 at Gem
Why we love it: Doesn't feel sticky on the skin
What to consider: Only 30mls
Formula: Liquid | Skin type: All | Size: 30ml
Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, Shopping Writer
A fluid-like sunscreen is my favourite kind of sunscreen, and I've tried a few different ones on the market. This one from Gem is taking the cake as one of my favourites because of one simple factor - it doesn't feel sticky on the skin. This sunscreen is so easy and satisfying to apply, it blends in super quick and sits amazingly under a full face of makeup. I also love wearing it on its own as it gives a slight tint, almost poreless finish to the skin. To put it simply, this is one of the most comfortable sunscreens I've ever put on my face - and it's super budget-friendly too, sitting at just $30.
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
Nifty Fifty Fluid SPF 50 50 mL, $35 at Go-To Skincare
Why we love it: Applies super easily and leaves no dreaded white-cast
What to consider: Skin is very glowy after use
Formula: Liquid fluid | Skin type: Normal, combination, dry or dehydrated skin | Size: 50ml
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, Shopping Writer
I've been a big fan of Zoe Foster Blake's Go-To Skincare for years however the original Nifty-Fifty is probably my least favourite product the brand has. It just never quite worked with my skin and I found it would pill even when waiting a long time in between applying my different skincare products. This is why I was very excited to hear they were finally expanding their SPF range.
The new Nifty Fifty Fluid is everything I love in a sunscreen. It's lightweight, sinks into the skin super easily and leaves your skin with a beautiful glow. It also sits super nicely under makeup which is another must for me when it comes to SPF. And, it includes some pretty incredible skincare ingredients like Australian native kakadu plum to improve skin radiance, CoQ10 for antioxidant benefits and skin-soothing effects and aloe vera to hydrate and nourish.
In terms of other sunscreens on the market, I would say it's most similar to my other ride-or-die Ultra Violette's Fave Fluid. Perhaps the only difference is that this one is a tiny bit thicker and takes a second or two longer to rub in. It also leaves a glowier finish probably more like the brand's Queen Screen.
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
Queen Screen Luminising Sun Serum SPF 50+, $52 at Ultra Violette
Why we love it: Perfect under makeup
What to consider: Leaves your skin very glowy
Formula: Liquid fluid | Skin type: Normal, combination, dry or dehydrated skin | Size: 50ml
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, Shopping Writer
The cult bestselling Queen Screen is finally back in stock. The sunscreen was pulled from shelves in Australia in September last year for a much-needed upgrade. Previously, the sunscreen wasn't suitable for cold climates and small grains began to form. I experienced this myself and while it didn't impact the actual sunscreen, it wasn't the nicest application.
This is why I'm so excited the new and improved Queen Screen is here and it's finally fixed. And I'm not the only one. 11,000 people are on the waitlist.
I've been trialling it for a few months now and I can confirm it is just as good as, if not better than, the OG. Just like the one you know and love, this Queen Screen still has a silky serum texture that easily melts into the skin, leaves a glowy finish and has that lovely rose scent. So what's changed?
The brand has added a few more ingredients to really make it a skincare/sunscreen hybrid. There are lots of vitamins including C, B5, E and F to hydrate and brighten the skin. Plus, a pink algae extract to help reduce pigmentation and extra UV filters to reduce any unwanted stinging.
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
Fave Fluid SPF50+ Ultralight SKINSCREEN, $52 at Ultra Violette
Why we love it: It's an ultra-light, fragrance-free chemical sunscreen that works for most skin types.
What to consider: Drier skin types might prefer something a little more hydrating.
Formula: Liquid fluid | Skin type: Normal, combination and oily skin types | Size: 75ml
Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, Shopping Writer
Iconic Australian skincare brand Ultra Violette has released a brand new broad-spectrum sunscreen – dubbed their “lightest formula ever”.
Fave Fluid is a lightweight, fragrance-free sunscreen that delivers a soft natural finish on the skin. It’s been developed with a bunch of skin-loving ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C and vitamin E to give you that glow-from-within.
The water-like consistency blends like an absolute dream, absorbing quickly and feeling super comfortable on the skin.
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid SPF 50+, $26.39 (down from $37.95) at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: This incredibly light chemical sunscreen promises a non-shiny finish and easy blendability - plus it's fragrance-free.
What to consider: Some users claim the 50mL does not last them a long time.
Formula: Liquid fluid | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 50ml
Tried and Tested by Harriet Amurao, Shopping Writer
This La Roche-Posay sunscreen is a cult favourite and the fragrance-free formula has been dermatologically tested for sensitive skin.
It absorbs into the skin really effortlessly, doesn’t leave a white cast and has no unpleasant scent whatsoever. While it’s technically for those with normal to combination skin, it went on smoothly and did not irritate my dry, sensitive skin at all.
My makeup applied SO seamlessly over it and I did not look greasy at all throughout the day which is so impressive.
The TikTok girlies really didn’t lie about this one - it’s truly worth the hype and price, my new holy grail!
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
BEST AFFORDABLE FACIAL SUNSCREENS: UNDER $35
Bondi Sands SPF 50+ Fragrance Free Face Sunscreen Lotion, $14.99 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it: Very affordable
What to consider: Not great for oilier skin types
Formula: Cream | Skin type: Most skin types, may not be ideal for acne-prone skin | Size: 150ml
What You Need To Know
Bondi Sands might be best known for its fake tan products but it also has a great range of affordable sunscreen and skincare. This sunscreen for the face is top of our list because of its invisible finish and the fact that it is water-resistant.
The fast-absorbing formula also contains aloe vera and vitamin E to moisturise the skin.
“Easy to blend, no white cast and not oily either. Would definitely recommend if you’re looking to try a new sunscreen,” one five-star review on Bondi Sands’ website reads.
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Sunscreen Water Gel Lotion, $15.99 (down from $27) at Chemist Warehouse
Why we love it: This ultra-light sunscreen focuses on hydrating and protecting your skin.
What to consider: May not be suitable for oily skin and acne-prone skin types.
Formula: Cream | Skin type: Most skin types | Size: 85ml
Tried and Tested by Edwina Carr Barraclough, Senior Manager eCommerce Content and Strategy
With five-star customer reviews calling this their “go-to sunscreen”, this budget option is certainly a crowd-pleaser.
I have been using this sunscreen for over two years and love the way how hydrating it is. It gives my skin a nice, fresh glow without being greasy. I often ditch moisturiser altogether as the hyaluronic acid-rich formula gives my skin all the hydration it needs.
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
Natio Daily Defence Face Moisturiser SPF 50+, $21.95 at Myer
Why we love it: This daily moisturiser with sun protection works to deeply nourish the skin.
What to consider: Some users with oily skin types did not enjoy this sunscreen.
Formula: Cream | Skin type: Most skin types | Size: 100ml
What You Need To Know
Another budget-friendly option from family-owned, natural Aussie brand Natio, the Daily Defence Moisturiser offers a two-for-one solution as an SPF50+ sunscreen. Dozens of five-star ratings on Myer have earned it a 4.8-star average, plus it contains aloe vera and vitamin E for extra skin nourishment.
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
BEST BRONZING DROPS FOR YOUR FACIAL SUNSCREENS
Queen Screen SPF50 Super Glow Drops, $45 at Ultra Violette
Why we love it: This tinted makeup hybrid is ideal to mix with your favourite sunscreen for an added bronze look.
What to consider: May not be ideal for darker skin tones.
Formula: Liquid | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 30ml
What You Need To Know
So you've tried plain old bronzing drops to add to your moisturiser, but what about ones with added SPF protection? This "genius" product idea from Ultra Violette protects your skin from the sun, and nourishes it with the popular Queen Screen formula, all while giving you a super bronzed and glowy look.
They also come in an illuminating version if you prefer something more dewy.
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
BEST CLEAR SUNSCREEN FOR FACE
Airyday Clear as Day SPF50+ Dreamscreen, $51 at Airyday
Why we love it: This clear sunscreen is super quick to apply and blend, plus it leaves a gorgeous finish on the skin.
What to consider: May not work as well for oily and combination skin types.
Formula: Gel | Skin type: Most skin types | Size: 75ml
Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, Shopping Writer
This unique formulation from Australian brand Airyday is a completely clear sunscreen with a weightless feel. The gel texture is infused with hyaluronic acid, vitamins C, E and F to hydrate the skin, plus it features a delicious (and hypo-allergenic) watermelon scent.
This is one of the most comfortable and lightweight feeling sunscreens. It dries down nicely and gives a blurring, soft matte finish to the skin.
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
BEST EVERYDAY SUNSCREEN FOR FACE
Go-To Nifty Fifty Hydrating Sunscreen, $49 at Go-To Skincare
Why we love it: This best-selling sunscreen is non-greasy, lightweight and sits fantastic under makeup.
What to consider: Some users claim this product pills on the skin and leaves clumps of product residue on their face.
Formula: Cream | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 50ml
What You Need To Know
This sunscreen offers broad-spectrum SPF50 protection thanks to four advanced UV filters: Tinosorb S, Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T150 and Tinosorb A2B.
It also contains kakadu plum to protect the skin against premature ageing, aloe vera to soothe and hydrate skin as well CoQ10 for antioxidants.
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
Alpha-H Daily Essential Moisturiser SPF50+ 130ml, $64.95 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it: This highly-rated sunscreen is super creamy and hydrating.
What to consider: Some users claim it felt too greasy on their skin.
Formula: Cream | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 50ml
What You Need To Know
A hydrating vegan moisturiser with an SPF rating of 50+, the Alpha-H Daily Essential Moisturiser offers broad-spectrum protection. It leaves skin with a matte finish, and avoids a white cast, making it a great base for makeup. With almost 350 five-star ratings on the Alpha-H website, you can ensure great value for money, too.
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
BEST FACE SUNSCREEN FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
Naked Sundays SPF50+ Collagen Glow 100% Mineral Perfecting Priming Lotion, $39.95 at Naked Sundays
Why we love it: This multi-tasking formula helps to smooth fine lines, and texture and boost moisture and hydration.
What to consider: Some users claim it feels too thick on their skin, as it is made from 22.5 per cent zinc oxide.
Formula: Cream | Skin type: All skin types, especially sensitive skin | Size: 50ml
What You Need To Know
This mineral SPF contains vegan collagen and watermelon extract to nourish skin while offering sun protection, thanks to zinc oxide. The tinted formula goes on translucent for a glowy finish – we recommend using Naked Sundays’ SPF BFF Brush to buff it onto your face.
‘“ When I squeezed this out of the tube, it seemed very thick and I thought it was going to be hard to spread onto my face,” one shopper wrote in a five-star review on Naked Sundays website.
“I was wrong. It goes on like a dream with either fingers or a brush! This is also an excellent base for either powder or liquid foundation and leaves you with a dewy, non-greasy finish. Absolutely love and will be back for more!”
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
Paula’s Choice Super-Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30+, $43.20 (down from $54) at Paula’s Choice
Why we love it: This mineral-based SPF leaves a gorgeous soft matte finish on the skin.
What to consider: Some users did not like the tint for their darker skin tone.
Formula: Cream | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 60ml
What You Need To Know
If you’re after a moisturising SPF with a slight sheer tint, this pick from Paula’s Choice has you covered. Its silky texture leaves your face with a soft matte finish. Almost 400 reviewers have awarded it five stars if you need further convincing.
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
BEST HYDRATING SUNSCREEN FOR FACE
Supreme Screen SPF50+, $52 at Ultra Violette
Why we love it: It's a multi-tasking cream that combines the benefits of a moisturiser, primer and SPF in one.
What to consider: May feel too hydrating for some.
Formula: Cream | Skin type: Most skin types | Size: 75ml
What You Need To Know
Ultra Violette’s extensive range of sunscreens are popular for a reason and this is a top pick because it’s so hydrating for your skin.
Supreme Screen is a chemical sunscreen offering sun protection while leaving your skin with a satin-like finish – there’s no need to use a primer or moisturiser after this sunscreen as it does it all.
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
Cancer Council SPF 50+ Face Day Wear Serum, $12.47 (down from $24.95) at Chemist Warehouse
Why we love it: This sunscreen is formulated for dry, sensitive and combination skin.
What to consider: The dewy finish may be too shiny for some.
Formula: Cream | Skin type: Most skin types | Size: 50ml
What You Need To Know
This sunscreen serum is ultra-lightweight and leaves skin with a dewy finish thanks to extra ingredients like vitamin E, hyaluronic acid and aloe vera.
The dermatologically tested formula is ideal for being worn under makeup, plus it’s made in Australia.
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
BEST SUNSCREEN MIST FOR FACE
Naked Sundays SPF50+ Hydrating Glow Mist, $38 at Naked Sundays
Why we love it: Enriched with hyaluronic acid, watermelon extract and Kakadu plum to deliver skin-loving ingredients to your complexion.
What to consider: Some users noted it stung their eyes.
Formula: Mist | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 50ml
What You Need To Know
Naked Sunday’s Hydrating Glow Mist is a cult favourite for a reason, with over 200,000 bottles of it sold since the brand launched two years ago.
Not only does it offer sun protection but it also leaves you with a glowy finish after use. With extra ingredients like Kakadu plum, watermelon extra and hyaluronic acid it’s also Australian-made and non-comedogenic.
“I have oily skin and was sceptical how this would go but it feels lovely on the skin and smells amazing. My skin felt hydrated but not oilier. Once I let it sink in, it sat nicely under makeup,” one five-star review on Naked Sundays website reads.
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
Preen Screen SPF50 Reapplication Mist SKINSCREEN, $42 at Ultra Violette
Why we love it: Works fantastic under or over makeup.
What to consider: Some users did not like the smell.
Formula: Mist | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 75ml
What You Need To Know
One of the newest launches to come from cult brand Ultra Violette is this handy reapplication mist. It’s packed with loads of skin-soothing ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin E, vitamin C and aloe vera. Plus, the ultrafine and lightweight mist is perfect to reapply your sunscreen throughout the day and over makeup.
Always read the label and read the directions for use. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent reapplication is required for effective sun protection.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING FACE SUNSCREEN
When choosing face sunscreens to include in our list, we evaluated several factors:
Skin Type: Do you have normal, combination, dry, oily or sensitive skin? Different formulations may be targeted to your type of skin. For example, zinc oxide is a great pick for more sensitive skin types.
Application Method: Sunscreens can come with various application methods, including lotions with pumps or droppers, sprays, or sticks. Each are effective, but it depends on your personal preference.
Finish: Some sunscreens offer a dewy finish, while others provide a matte appearance - generally ones that contain zinc oxide will have more of a mattifying effect if that's what you're after.
Added Ingredients: With sunscreen becoming a greater part of the skincare world, added ingredients such as antioxidants and actives can offer boosted anti-ageing benefits.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
With hundreds of sunscreens available, it’s impossible to test every product out there. To help you find the best sunscreen, we tested a few well-known brands at different price points. In addition, our shopping team read hundreds of customer reviews and looked at test results and ratings from product review sites to find the best sunscreen for your skin.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW DO I CHOOSE THE RIGHT SUNSCREEN?
“When it comes to the right sunscreen for you, there is no one size fits all, as there is such a variety of skin types and needs,” says Caitlan Wyer, Senior Buyer for Beauty at THE ICONIC.
“When browsing, read through the product information and ingredient lists available, as you will find there is greater assortment and choice available than ever before. From options for sensitive skin or dry skin, as well as formulas that are lightweight enough to wear under your everyday make-up while avoiding the undesirable white film on your skin or that sticky feeling.”
WHAT IS THE CORRECT WAY TO APPLY SUNSCREEN?
According to SunSmart, you should apply sunscreen 20 minutes before you go outside and reapply every two hours, or after swimming or excessive sweating.
The correct amount to apply is one teaspoon for your head and neck, each limb, and the front and back of the body.
If this seems like a large amount, you can apply it in layers to allow it to soak into the skin effectively.
“I’ve found it easiest to include in my morning routine, after applying moisturiser, before makeup, or even on its own after cleansing. This way I never forget to apply sunscreen,” says Caitlin.
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When using sunscreen, always read the label. Use only as directed. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun. Wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Remember to slip, slop, slap, seek shade and slide on sunglasses. Frequent reapplication or use in accordance with directions is required for effective sun protection.
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