I’m often told that I resemble a ghost-like Victorian waif, but it’s something I take as a compliment. After all, if Coco Chanel hadn’t popularised the tan in the early 20th century, we’d all still be striving for the opposite of sun-kissed skin.
I wear SPF50 every day, not just because it’s good skin care, but back in 2022, I was diagnosed with a Stage 1A melanoma. Thanks to my hyper-awareness of my pale, mole-covered skin (I’m always checking for anything that looks odd, and I’m always so surprised to find most people don’t do the same), I managed to catch it early.
Ten stitches on my upper right shoulder later, and I was good to go – but not without a fresh zeal to get loved ones to apply the highest sun factor whenever possible.
I suspect my melanoma was caused by a burn I had in the same spot after sitting in the sun too long and forgetting to reapply suncream (though my doctor said it’s ultimately impossible to tell). This isn’t to scare you into thinking every burn will turn into cancer – far from it. Merely not to be so blasé about letting yourself turn beet red in the hopes it’ll turn into a bronzed glow (it never does).
Face the Future’s 2025 SPF report found that 40 per cent of the UK who wear SPF only buy it when they go on holiday. Additionally, 48 per cent were not familiar with the symptoms of skin cancer, and only 22 per cent of the population applies SPF at least once daily.
To encourage consumers to purchase SPF and wear it daily, Face the Future has brought back its ‘Burn the VAT’ initiative. Brands like Hello Sunday, Heliocare, Ultrasun, Bondi Sands, Saltee and more have removed 20 per cent from all products marked SPF, as it’s normally taxed as a luxury or cosmetic product in the UK.
I spoke to the experts for further insights and to myth-bust some of the misconceptions surrounding SPF.
What exactly is SPF, and how does it work?
Clinic Lead at Face the Future, Kimberley Medd, says, “SPF, which stands for Sun Protection Factor, measures how well a sunscreen protects your skin from UV rays, which are the kind responsible for sunburn and contributing to skin cancer. SPF 30 means it would take 30 times longer for your skin to burn compared to no sunscreen.
“There are two types of SPFs - physical (mineral) and chemical filters. Physical SPFs work by sitting on top of the skin like a shield, deflecting UV rays away from penetrating your skin. Chemical SPFs absorb into the skin, absorbing UV radiation and converting it into heat to release it from the skin, chemically neutralising UV exposure.”
Dr. Sheila Li, multi-award-winning aesthetic dental surgeon and founder of Mediject, adds that SPF is, “essentially a way of delaying damage, but it doesn’t make you immune. Consistent application is key, because SPF only works properly if it’s applied in the right amount and reapplied regularly.”
What's the difference between UVA and UVB?
Founder and former Head of The Melanoma and Skin Cancer Unit (MASCU) in East Grinstead, Dr Paul Banwell tells me “UVB rays can lead to sunburn and UVA rays can travel more deeply into the skin, and both affect your skin’s health. You can remember that UVA is associated with A for ageing, whereas UVB is associated with B for burning. You need to make sure you are wearing sunscreen that protects you against both radiations.
The skin cancer expert continues, “Sun Protection Factor (SPF) shows the degree of skin protection offered by a product. This measure is only for UVB rays; there is no rating for UVA rays. I cannot emphasise enough the importance of selecting a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which will protect against UVB and UVA rays. UVB rays cause redness and sunburn as well as skin cancer while UVA rays can also cause cancer as well as ageing of the skin.”
Medd draws attention to the lack of sun protection education across the UK, “Face the Future’s 365 Days of SPF survey found that only 55 per cent of the UK are aware that UVA rays are the leading cause of premature skin ageing.”
Why is wearing SPF50 daily, no matter the weather, so important?
Dr Banwell also warns, “We are still at risk from skin cancer during the winter months. Even when it’s cold or overcast, UV rays can damage our skin. UVA rays remain constant throughout the year and can get through clouds and fog. Whilst UVB is the main culprit, UVA is an issue throughout the year, and there is evidence that infrared also contributes to skin cancer. The weather outside certainly shouldn’t give us the impression we are protected from the sun.”
Medd offers a helpful comparison: “Think of sunscreen as a daily skin health insurance policy. SPF worn daily can reduce the risk of skin cancer, slow down premature skin ageing and protect against hyperpigmentation.”
Some say that anything marketed higher than SPF50 is a myth. Is this true?
“It’s not a myth that SPF50 or higher is ineffective, but it’s also not dramatically better”, Medd explains. “SPF 50 blocks 98 per cent of UVB, whereas SPF 100 blocks 99 per cent.”
Dr. Li adds, “What matters more is how generously and consistently you apply it. Many people apply far too little, which dramatically lowers the actual protection they’re getting. So rather than chasing a higher number, focus on using a high-quality SPF50 properly.”
How do I know what SPF is right for me?
- For dry skin, Dr Banwell recommends looking for sunscreens which hydrating ingredients as well, such as hyaluronic acid, which helps retain moisture, or shea butter.
- If you have oily skin, Dr Banwell says a chemical cream may be more suitable than a mineral sunscreen as they tend to be drier and less shiny on the skin. Look for mattifying sunscreen, with ingredients such as charcoal, kaolin or bentonite, which are oil-absorbent ingredients.
- For those prone to blemishes, Dr Banwell recommends choosing a light product which won’t clog pores, as thicker creams can cause flare-ups. “Look for sunscreens which also contain niacinamide as that can help with redness.”
Do you have any SPF application and re-application tips?
All three experts agree on one particular, lesser-known fact: the amount of SPF you use matters.
Medd recommends using “two fingertips worth, ensuring you don’t forget your ears, hairline, hands and lips. For your body, around 28ml is the minimum. Always apply at least 15 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every two hours.”
Dr Paul Banwell says, “Most people apply sunscreen too thinly, and that means protection is reduced. An adult should apply around six to eight teaspoons to cover their body. If you are using a spray, you want to apply until an even sheen appears all over the skin.”
“Regardless of the SPF, it’s important to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply it every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. A high SPF should not lead to a false sense of security - it will not protect you from burning. A higher SPF does not mean you need to reapply it less often. Sunscreens with high SPF ratings block slightly more UVB rays, but none offers 100 per cent protection.”
Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Derrick Phillips, chimes in, “For your face and neck alone, you should use half a teaspoon of SPF which is equivalent to three finger lengths of product. Apply your sunscreen after your usual moisturiser and before your makeup. But then when you’re re-applying it’s fine to apply on top of make-up.”
So with our experts' advice and warnings in mind, I’ve curated a selection of the best broad-spectrum SPF50s on the market for every skin type.
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Best SPF50 face creams
Heliocare 360° Water Gel SPF50+ PA++++ 50ml
Type: chemical
If you’re like me and hate the way that certain suncreams feel on the skin – sticky, oily, irritating and all-around clogging – look for broad-spectrum SPF50s that are described as “water gels”.
A fairly new innovation that utilises hyaluronic acid for an ultra-moisturising finish, they blend into the skin seamlessly and are incredibly easy to reapply, even when sweaty.
I have very sensitive skin and haven’t had any adverse reactions to this brilliant UVA and UVB protecting option, which also shields against environmental aggressors.
Buy now £23.35, Lookfantastic
Thank You Farmer Sun Project Water Sun Cream SPF50+ 50ml
Type: chemical
No one does SPF quite like K Beauty. They’ve been perfecting gel-like SPF formulas that melt into the skin for decades, and this Water Sun Cream by Thank You Farmer is one such option.
It’s filled to the brim with skin-boosting botanicals as well as oodles of hyaluronic acid and provides a glowing, dewy finish both underneath makeup, and over the top of it when reapplied.
I wore this every day while skiing in the sunshine a couple of years ago, and my skin looked the same before and after five days in harsh UV. I still keep it in my bag for re-application on the move.
Buy now £18.00, Cult Beauty
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Age Correct SPF50+ Sun Cream 50ml
Type: chemical
I’m a La Roche-Posay superfan. I’ve tried pretty much all the brand’s suncreams, and on the rare occasion I do get a mild burn, I immediately apply the cult-favourite Cicaplast Baume B5+, which quite repairs skin overnight (great if you’ve damaged your skin barrier too).
I picked up this age-correcting SPF with the Anthelios range at the airport recently and instantly loved the way the formula felt. It not only hydrates while providing broad-spectrum protection, but visibly pumps the skin – leaving it looking healthier and glowy.
Buy now £33.00, Cult Beauty
Cell Fusion C Aquatica Stick Sunscreen 100 SPF50+ PA++++ (19g)
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Type: chemical
Yet another K-Beauty wonder, Aquatica’s Stick Sunscreen feels like butter.
I’m always wary of SPF stick options, because if you miss a spot, you’ll likely be left with a nasty strip of raw red skin damage. After applying the sunscreen on my face and neck, I blend it in with two fingers, carefully and without rubbing it off.
Suitable for all skin types with a soft finish and broad-spectrum protection, it’s also enhanced by hyaluronic acid and cooling water mint. A no-brainer, if you ask me.
Buy now £13.94, PURESEOUL
La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Aquagel UV Serum SPF 30 50ml
Type: chemical
Ok, ok. It’s not an SPF50 - but with regular re-application, it provides brilliant protection.
This suncream is a cult-favourite on the Standard Shopping desk, so much so that one of us has turned our entire extended family (full of fair-skinned beauties) onto the product. La Roche-Posay’s Hyalu B5 Aquagel UV Serum is equipped with powerful SPF 30 and has a gel-like consistency that absorbs quickly into the skin, much like water.
It’s void of any grease or residue and feels more like an ultra-hydrating serum base than an uber protective sunscreen. It’s one to pop in your bag and take with you wherever you roam, whether the sun’s out or not.
Buy now £39.90, Cult Beauty
Best SPF50 body creams
Augustinus Bader The SPF 50
As sun exposure is one of the leading causes of skin ageing, it feels only right that legendary label Augustinus Bader (known for its anti-ageing The Cream and The Rich Cream) has expanded its skincare selection to include an SPF 50. The facial product that feels a long time coming provides broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays to prevent and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
While acting as a shield, the cream combats redness, enhances glow and results in long-lasting hydration.
Buy now £105.00, Augustinus Bader
111SKIN Repair Sunscreen SPF50+
Eagerly awaited, 111SKIN has entered the SPF game.
he plastic surgeon-led label incorporates its proprietary complex NAC Y2TM into each product in its collection and the Repair Sunscreen SPF50+ is no different. This ensures that while you are coating your skin in a layer of its UVA, UVB and HEV light protective properties, you are also treating your complexion to its anti-ageing, restorative magic.
Dr Yannis Alexandrides has made a formula so gentle that it can be used by his patients after surgical procedures, improving skin texture and signs of photoaging. A joy to apply.
Buy now £95.00, 111SKIN
Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance Body Spray SPF 50 200ml
Type: chemical
Proving that sun protection is chic, Sol De Janeiro’s Rio Radiance Body Spray offers broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection. It’s a pricier option, but worthy of the investment.
It’s infused with Sol de Janeiro’s signature Cheriosa 87 fragrance, which I’ve found doesn’t make my sensitive skin react - but do avoid if fragrance usually irritates your skin.
This suncream is lightweight, far from oily, and instantly hydrates.
Buy now £36.00, Cult Beauty
Ultra Violette Extreme Screen Hydrating Body & Hand Skinscreen SPF50+
Type: chemical
There are no chalky textures or white casts in sight with this lightweight suncream from Ultra Violette. Whether you’re popping it into your handbag to adorn your digits (an often overlooked area) with sun protection or in your holiday wash bag, the brand has got you covered for skin-loving formulations that protect against environmental aggressors and strengthen the skin’s natural moisture levels at the same time. The SPF50+ product contains soothing aloe vera and nourishing vitamin E, leaving behind a subtle sheen and a fresh scent.
Buy now £27.00, Cult Beauty
Avene Very High Protection Spray, SPF 50+
Type: chemical
From French brand Avene, this formula offers intense protection for pale and sensitive skin and is particularly adept at protecting from very intense sunlight, so if you’ve got plans to visit heat spots such as Australia within the next couple of years (travel restrictions permitting) it’s a trustworthy choice.
Containing thermal spring water and an antioxidant called pre-tocopheryl, it quickly absorbs into the skin and dries completely clear, so make sure you take care to cover every area during application.
Buy now £22.48, Amazon
Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion SPF50 71ml
Supergoop! sunscreens are getting serious attention right now thanks to their fun packaging and varied, effective formulas.
For sports, the SPF 50 sunscreen has up to 80 minutes of water-resistant wear and it’s lightweight with a hydrating feel, so you won’t feel caked or sticky before you even get in the water. It also has a pleasing citrusy scent.
Buy now £23.00, lookfantastic
Bioderma Photoderm Max Mist SPF 50+
Type: chemical
Make SPF application a total breeze with this high protection sun cream from Bioderma that offers transparent coverage without leaving behind white marks.
It is suitable for sensitive skin and is unscented, waterproof and photostable. It can be used on both the body and face but the brand recommends that you spray into your hands before applying to your face.
Buy now £17.60, Lookfantastic
Best SPF50 lip balms
Hello Sunday The One For Your Lips Lip Balm SPF50 15ml
Type: chemical (reef-safe)
This is a one-and-done product for me. Instantly hydrating, broad-spectrum SPF50, and perfect under lipstick, Hello Sunday’s sun-protecting lip balm is brilliant for year-round use. It’s enriched with shea butter and squalane for an ultra-soft feeling.
Buy now £7.00, Cult Beauty
Ultra Violette Sheen Screen Hydrating Lip Balm SPF50
For an SPF product that doesn’t feel like an SPF product, Ultra Violette is part of a new generation of suncare labels that imbue the infamously laborious task of slathering on sun protection with the sensorial aspects of facial care. The Sheen Screen Hydrating Lip Balm is a case in point.
This nourishing hero is made up of lanolin, shea butter and cacao seed butter that leaves a healthy, hydrated shine, but coats your lips with SPF50. There are also five shades available, ranging from the dusty mauve Rose hue to the translucent glittery Shimmer.
Buy now £16.00, Cult Beauty
Ultrasun Lip Protection SPF50
Type: chemical
There is a reason why the Ultrasun Lip Protection SPF50 is a bestseller. The emollient-rich formula works double duty to restore moisture to dry and cracked lips, while also ensuring that the situation is not further exacerbated through high sun protection. It is made up of shea butter, argan oil and vitamin E, a nourishing trio that feels silky smooth on application.
Buy now £10.00, lookfantastic
