The best sun creams will keep you protected without leaving a sticky white cast on your skin.
Here are our top picks - based on testing and recommendations from experts.
Plus, in some cases too much exposure to UV can lead to skin cancer.
15 best sun creams 2024:
1.
This is a hybrid sunscreen, meaning it contains both physical filters and chemical absorbers.
It’s quick-drying, leaves no white marks and it’s water-, sand- and sweat-resistant.
Childs Farm Roll-On Sun Lotion SPF50+
Roll-ons are great for wriggly babies and toddlers who won’t sit still.
Gentle this may be, but it provides very high SPF50+, broad-spectrum protection that is water-resistant.
The new formulas are octocrylene-free so they’re kind to the ocean, too.
Just remember, babies under six months should be kept out of the sun entirely.
It is perfect for quick, fuss free program when we are on the go."
This particular formula includes organic almond oil, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin.
Light it may be, but it provides a sturdy defence with SPF50, broad-spectrum protection.
GoodtoKnow verdict:GoodtoKnow writerSarah Handley, says, “This is my favourite sunscreen of all time.
Im super pale, have freckles and burn really easily.
And I’ve wasted so much money on the hunt for the perfect SPF.
Ultra Violette has changed the game for me.
“Its super easy to apply, sinks in well and doesnt cause me to break out.
It’s dermatologically-tested and recommended by the NHS for those with medical skin conditions.
Its been created for particularly sensitive skin and boasts increased UVA protection (PPD46).
Delivering eight hours of sun protection, including three hours in the water from just a single system.
She adds: “No matter what sun cream you choose, always check for certified UV ratings.
Newer sunscreens have infrared (IR) protection too and should be considered.”
Other ingredients that may cause reactions include benzophenones, cinnamates and dibenzoylmethane.
You also need to avoid Retinyl Palmitate, which does not mix well with the sun.
When mixed with the sun, it can be potentially cancerous.”
What factor sun cream should I use?
The NHS recommends using a minimum SPF of 30to protect against UVB.
Sun cream alone cannot completely protect the skin from direct UV rays over a longer period of time.
How often should I reapply sun cream?
The NHS recommends reapplying sun cream every two hours,as the sun can dry it off your skin.
As skin care expert Abi Cleeve stresses, “Where you apply sun cream matters.
Howmuchyou apply matters too.
“Most people apply sunscreen too thinly and that means protection is reduced,” says Dr Paul.
“An adult should be applying around six to eight teaspoons to cover their body.
To help visualise this, some people use the two finger method.
He added: “A higher SPF does not mean you gotta re-apply it less often.
Sunscreens with high SPF ratings block slightly more UVB rays, but none offers 100 per cent protection.”
Looking for more of the best summer buys this year?
Check out our picks of thebest outdoor toysand thebest paddling pools.
He performs daily mole checks, mole removal as well as the full range of skin cancer management.
Dr Eva Melegh M.D.
is a dermatologist and cosmetologist and a member of the Belgian Society of Dermatology & Venereology.
Dr Catherine draws on a wealth of experience to assist in solving all your dermatology concerns.
Since then has created her own anti-ageing brand, Skinsense to deliver skincare solutions in beautiful lightweight formulas.
