With so many SPFs now on the market, it can be difficult to pick out the best one for you. While we’re glad that there are so many options available, it can be very overwhelming, especially if you are new to the skincare scene.
Not to mention, Google Trends data reveals that searches for ‘Best SPF For Face’ have increased by 100% in the last 30 days!
We caught up with Kimberley Medd, Head of Clinic at Face The Future to get the low-down on SPFs, and her recommendations for each skin type.
HOW CAN YOU DETERMINE YOUR SKIN TYPE?
“There are some general signs that will determine your skin type. For example, normal skin has a good balance of oil and moisture, whereas combination skin will usually have an oily T-zone with dry areas. Dry skin feels tight and flaky, which is often paired with a dull complexion. Oily skin looks shiny, and will be prone to blackheads and breakouts. It’s important to note that your skin type can change throughout your life, due to environmental factors such as the climate, and hormonal factors such as stress, which means what works for your skin will change too!”
WHAT’S THE BEST SPF FOR EACH SKIN TYPE?
OILY SKIN:
“If you have oily skin, I would highly recommend an SPF that is oil-free to prevent further skin congestion, and to reduce shine. A standout SPF for those with oily skin is the EVY Sunscreen Mousse SPF50 (£25.00, facethefuture.co.uk). This SPF boasts a unique, non-sticky mousse formula that is oil-free, and free from alcohols and preservatives that could be potentially irritating to the skin.”
COMBINATION SKIN:
“Combination skin types need an SPF that adds moisture to dry areas of the skin, but that is also oil-free and non-comedogenic to prevent skin congestion in the T-zone. The Heliocare SPF50 Gel (£21.00, facethefuture.co.uk) is perfect for combination skin. This lightweight sunscreen is non-comedogenic, doesn’t leave a white residue, and effortlessly soaks into the skin. It provides long-lasting, high-strength protection against UVA and UVB rays, thanks to ultra-advanced mineral and non-mineral filters.”
DRY SKIN:
“For dry skin types, I would recommend a formula that includes moisturising ingredients, such as Vitamin E, Glycerin or Ceramides. One of my top picks has to be the Ultrasun Face SPF30 (£22.00, facethefuture.co.uk). This lightweight sunscreen boasts an innovative formula, which blends powerful ingredients to stimulate cellular renewal, plump the skin, maintain moisture levels, and reduce uneven skin tone – all while offering high levels of protection against UVA and UVB rays, and free-radical damage that causes premature ageing.”
NORMAL SKIN:
“Normal skin types require an SPF that isn’t greasy, but that also isn’t too drying. The La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Invisible Fluid SPF30 (£19.00, facethefuture.co.uk) is a great choice for normal skin types. Boasting a comfortable, non-greasy formula, this non-sticky sunscreen is reliable for providing hydration, as well as broad-spectrum protection from UVA, UVB and infrared rays. It’s also formulated for sensitive skin, so if you are prone to inflammation or irritation, this is the sunscreen for you.”
