Collection: Sunscreen & Sun Care

Protect exposed skin with broad-spectrum sunscreen for face and body. Shop SPF 30 and SPF 50 formulas, including lightweight fluids, oil-free gels, mineral options, tinted sunscreens, sprays and children's products selected for different skin types and finishes. Apply generous... Read more
Protect exposed skin with broad-spectrum sunscreen for face and body. Shop SPF 30 and SPF 50 formulas, including lightweight fluids, oil-free gels, mineral options, tinted sunscreens, sprays and children's products selected for different skin types and finishes. Apply generously as the final skincare step, reapply during exposure and combine sunscreen with shade, clothing and a hat. Oral supplements and make-up with SPF do not replace adequate topical sun protection.

SPF, UVA and broad-spectrum protection

SPF measures protection against UVB under test conditions. UVA contributes to photoageing and skin damage, so choose a broad-spectrum product with recognised UVA protection information. UK NHS advice recommends at least SPF 30 and combining sunscreen with shade, clothing and other protective measures.

No sunscreen blocks all ultraviolet radiation. The formula you can apply generously and repeatedly is usually more useful than a theoretically perfect product you dislike wearing. Fluids and gels may suit oily skin, creams may suit dryness, tinted products can help visible-light-sensitive pigmentation, and mineral formulas may suit some sensitive skin—but no texture or filter type guarantees universal tolerance.

How much and when to apply

Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas before sun exposure, including commonly missed ears, neck and hairline. Reapply according to the label and after swimming, heavy sweating or towelling. Water resistance is time-limited and does not mean waterproof.

Use sunscreen as the final skincare step before make-up. Make-up with SPF can add protection but is rarely applied evenly or thickly enough to act as the sole sunscreen. An oral sun supplement cannot replace topical sunscreen, clothing or shade.

Sunscreen for children and sensitive skin

Babies under six months should be kept out of direct strong sunlight. For children and anyone with a skin condition, follow age guidance and seek professional advice where needed. Patch test if skin is reactive and stop if a product causes persistent burning or rash. New or changing moles and unusual skin lesions require medical assessment rather than cosmetic advice.

Explore face SPF, body sunscreen, SPF for oily skin, SPF for sensitive skin and tinted SPF.

Frequently Asked Questions

What SPF should I use every day?

The NHS recommends sunscreen with at least SPF 30, used alongside shade and protective clothing. Choose broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. Higher SPF can provide a greater margin when applied correctly, but no sunscreen gives complete protection.

How much sunscreen should I apply to my face?

Apply a generous, even layer to the face, ears and neck according to the product directions. A thin cosmetic layer may not deliver the labelled protection. Reapply during exposure and after swimming, sweating or towelling.

Is SPF 50 much better than SPF 30?

Both can provide high protection when applied correctly. SPF 50 filters more UVB than SPF 30 under test conditions, but application amount, missed areas and reapplication strongly affect real-world protection. Choose a broad-spectrum formula you will use generously.

Do I need sunscreen in the UK or on cloudy days?

UV can reach skin even when the weather feels cool or cloudy. Daily facial sunscreen is particularly useful when spending time outdoors, using photosensitising skincare or managing pigmentation. Check the UV index and use shade and clothing as well.

What is the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen?

Mineral sunscreens use filters such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide; other sunscreens use organic UV filters, and some formulas combine types. Both can provide effective protection when properly formulated and used. Choose based on verified UVA/UVB protection, texture, and tolerance.

Can make-up or moisturiser with SPF replace sunscreen?

Only if enough is applied evenly and reapplied as required, which is uncommon with make-up. A dedicated sunscreen makes adequate application easier. Treat SPF make-up as an additional layer rather than the only protection during meaningful exposure.

Do oral sun supplements replace sunscreen?

No. Supplements do not replace topical broad-spectrum sunscreen, shade, clothing or a hat. They must not be marketed as preventing sunburn or making prolonged exposure safe. Follow the supplement label and check suitability with a healthcare professional.