We tested countless SPF moisturisers to help prepare your skin for summer. These are the best of the bunch.
It feels redundant to begin by emphasising the importance of wearing sunscreen. We’re all aware that it’s imperative to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun, but even I can acknowledge that remembering to do this every day can be easier said than done.
Still, if you care about your skin, it’s vital. “Ninety per cent of the ageing process is caused by UV rays,” says aesthetic and regenerative doctor Dr Miriam Adebibe.
“To avoid or lessen the effects of UV-associated skin complaints, photoprotection in the form of a physical or chemical high SPF sunscreen is key. You should opt for a minimum SPF 30-plus and reapply every couple of hours.”
And it’s not just the dangers of sun exposure that we need to be aware of. Dr Adebibe also points to blue light reflection from our phones as possibly being more damaging, as the device can increase the penetration of light into the skin.
This is because the blue light emitted from our devices can penetrate the skin, possibly damaging the lipids and proteins that hold moisture. According to this paper from the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, the impact of prolonged exposure to blue light may hasten the ageing process, and can cause more general skin damage.
But while — luckily — the importance of SPF is predominantly common knowledge at this point, it can still be difficult for even the skincare afficionados among us to remember the task every day.
To help with this, the team and I at Living360 have tried and tested many SPF moisturisers to see how effortlessly they apply, how much protection they provide and whether they can be easily incorporated into a skincare routine.
It’s important to remember sunscreen works by dosage, so if you’re using a moisturiser with SPF (like the one from Elemis below) it’ll only be effective if you use enough — a quarter teaspoon measurement or at least two finger lengths for your face, double to include your entire neck.
Scroll down to look through the team’s top picks for the sunny season, and you can also check out Living360’s lifestyle editor Mattie’s reels on Instagram — where she provides reviews in full.
Dr David Jack All Day Long Daily Defence SPF 50
Best for: City dwellers
Featuring SPF 50 and blue-light protection, this moisturiser has been created to act as a shield from city life. To tackle pollution-induced inflammation, the cream also includes azeloyl diglycinate — a moisturising ingredient that soothes the skin and reduces the breakdown of collagen. Ideal for urban dwellers and those who have a lot of screen time, this moisturiser leaves a sheer finish and acts as a great makeup primer. £95 for 50ml. drdavidjack.com
Read more: Are SPF100 sunscreens really more effective? Experts weigh in
Dr Somji Vitamin C Daily Defence Moisturiser with SPF 30
Best for: Get-up-and-goers
Designed to protect and repair, this moisturiser from Dr Somji boasts green tangerine exosomes, hyaluronic acid and ectoin to protect, repair and hydrate the skin. A great option for those looking for a multipurpose SPF, the cream protects against UVB and blue light while also containing vitamin C to boost radiance and correct age spots. It’s lightweight and absorbs quickly into the skin, suited to those who prefer a quick and easy skincare routine. £75 for 50ml. drsomjiskincare.com
Eucerin Anti-Pigment SPF 30
Best for: Reducing dark patches
Made with a patented Thiamidol ingredient, this cream from Eucerin helps to reduce melanin production and prevent against dark spots. Ideal for those who are noticing signs of sunlight exposure and ageing, the cream aims to reverse the damage while also containing UVA/UVB SPF 30 protection, to return skin to a hydrated and even complexion. £34. facethefuture.co.uk
Face the Future is offering 20% off core skincare SPF as part of its VAT burn campaign, running until October 2025.
Read more: Summer beauty hacks: how to make your makeup last in the heat
Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream SPF 30
Best for: Reducing fine lines and wrinkles
Beautifully rich and hydrating, this Elemis cream contains padina pavonica — a form of algae that’s known to support hydration and reduce the signs of ageing. It also contains chlorella — a microalgae said to leave skin feeling firmer and healthier. The cream has a super lightweight and satin feel and is best suited to those looking to rectify fine lines and wrinkles. £95. selfridges.com
Clarins Youth-Protecting Sunscreen SPF 50
Best for: A matte finish
If you prefer a matte finish, this option from Clarins is a safe bet. The SPF 50 cream is water-resistant and contains organic cocoa extract to boost hydration, while the vitamin E concentration helps to protect the skin from the effects of free radicals. £27. selfridges.com
Read more: Kim Kardashian’s dermatologist shares the secrets to her flawless skin
Bioderma Pigmentbio Daily Care SPF 50
Best for: Brightening the skin
To provide a bright and radiant base, this SPF from Bioderma features Lumireveal technology which aims to brighten the complexion and boost cell renewal for a lightening effect. There’s also vitamins C, E and PP in there to help with hydration. The cream is a great tacky base that can act as a primer, but more importantly, it’s enriched with strong SPF filters to protect against UVA and UVB. £25. facethefuture.co.uk
Feature image credit: Pexels
