Determined to find an acne-friendly sunscreen, L360’s Evelyn Richards tested countless SPFs. These are her top recommended products for the summer.
Finding a sunscreen that won’t send your skin into meltdown is no small feat. The spot-prone among us know the fear: will it sting, clog or coat our skin in that suspicious, greasy sheen?
The good news is that SPF technology has come a long way, with many boasting lightweight, breathable and non-comedogenic formulas.
Whether you’re after a mattifying primer-like base, a hydrating cream with soothing ingredients or something invisible to wear daily, these are the only SPFs I trust to deliver protection without pore problems.
Read more: 7 best SPF moisturisers for face, tested for sun protection
Skin + Me Daily Defence Oil-free SPF 50 Sunscreen
This one’s my current holy grail. It’s oil-free, super-lightweight and sits comfortably under makeup without pilling or feeling greasy.
I love that it’s SPF 50, so I know I’m getting solid protection, and it’s specifically formulated not to clog pores — a must for my breakout-prone skin.
Plus, it’s developed by dermatologists, which gives me extra peace of mind.
Buy from Skin + Me for £19.99.
Read more: The best SPF sunscreens for all types of skin
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 30
This is what I reach for when I want my sunscreen to double as a primer. It’s completely invisible, has a smooth, velvety texture and makes my makeup go on flawlessly.
Because it’s a chemical sunscreen, there’s zero white cast and the formula is fragrance-free — which my sensitive, acne-prone skin really appreciates.
Read more: 5 best sweat-proof SPFs for face and body, tried & tested
Ultra Violette Fave Fluid SPF 50+
When I need something that’s high protection but still feels breathable, I grab this one. It’s a great option for running or when hiking for long durations under the sun.
It’s light, weightless and doesn’t mess with my skin even when I’m dealing with breakouts.
It hydrates just enough thanks to ingredients like vitamin E and pentavitin, but never feels heavy or sticky.
Read more: Should I be wearing SPF100? Experts weigh in on sunscreen
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Oil Control Invisible Fluid SPF50+
This is a classic for a reason. It has a super-light texture that dries down to a matte finish, which really helps with my midday oiliness.
I especially love using this in the summer when my skin gets extra shiny. Instead, it keeps it protected and balanced for hours.
Hero Cosmetics Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30
If you’re suffering from red skin but don’t want to slather on the foundation, this is a great sunscreen option.
It’s a mineral formula with a subtle green tint that helps tone down redness — something I really appreciate when my skin is flaring up.
Despite being a mineral SPF, it’s not chalky at all. In fact, it’s surprisingly lightweight and gives my skin a nice, natural look.
DRMTLGY Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 45
This multitasker is a great pick when I want light coverage without the hassle of foundation. It gives me a soft glow, doesn’t cling to dry patches and doesn’t clog my pores.
It contains niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, which help smooth and hydrate my skin while keeping breakouts at bay.
COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+
My skin can be really reactive — to stress, heat, even certain ingredients. On those days, this is my go-to.
It’s hydrating, gentle and packed with aloe vera, which helps calm everything down.
Even though it’s creamier than most, it absorbs fast and doesn’t feel greasy or sticky.
Paula’s Choice Clear Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 30+
When I want something that’s more like a serum than a sunscreen, this is it.
It’s super-light, non-greasy and packed with antioxidants like green tea and camomile. It gives a soft matte finish and layers perfectly under makeup.
I use it on days when I’m mostly indoors or not getting direct sun.
Feature image: Freepik
