I'm a bit of an SPF snob, but these budget-friendly sunscreen formulas have won me over.
If there's one skincare step you must never neglect—even in the UK—it's sunscreen. While we all recognize that facial SPF is a vital part of any daily regimen, locating an affordable sunscreen that delivers solid protection and feels pleasant on your skin can still be a task. Whether you're looking for a multi-functional moisturizer with SPF, a non-greasy body sunscreen, or a newer format like SPF sticks or sprays, there are numerous budget-friendly choices available that do not sacrifice efficacy. In this guide, I've compiled a list of the best affordable sunscreens (including body sunscreens as well) tailored for every skin type, texture preference, and application method. From airy SPF serums to mattifying formulas ideal for oily skin, you will discover something here that fits seamlessly into your routine. And if you’re uncertain about how to apply it properly (yes, you still need to wear it under makeup), our expert advice on sunscreen application will keep you covered—literally.
**Testing Methodology**
I consulted the editors at Who What Wear UK, who have tested hundreds of SPFs among themselves, to identify the best affordable sunscreens they truly recommend and personally use. These are genuine endorsements that have been utilized daily and on vacation, assuring you that these truly represent the top choices available.
**Best Affordable Sunscreen, Tried & Tested**
- **Best SPF Overall:** La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVmune 400 Invisible Fluid Non-Perfumed Suncream SPF 50+ (£20)
- **Best Body SPF Overall:** Hawaiian Tropic Hydrating Protection Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 (£17)
- **Best SPF Underneath Makeup:** Beauty Pie Super Healthy Skin Featherlight UVA/UVB SPF 50 Sunscreen + Primer (£25)
- **Best Invisible Facial SPF:** Byoma Ultralight Face Fluid SPF 50 (£15)
- **Best Oil-Free Facial SPF:** Skin + Me Daily Defence Oil-Free SPF 50 Sunscreen (£20)
- **Best Facial SPF For Dry Skin:** The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum (£16)
- **Best Facial SPF For Oily Skin:** La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVAir Daily Invisible
1. **La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVmune 400 Invisible Fluid Non-Perfumed Suncream SPF 50+**
- **Best SPF Overall**
La Roche-Posay's Anthelios is regarded as the gold standard in sunscreen. Dermatologists, skin experts, and beauty enthusiasts all trust it for its reliable protection against UVA and UVB rays. It's an ideal facial SPF due to its lightweight, milky texture that absorbs quickly. Moreover, it has various formulations (one for oily skin types and another targeting dark spots), ensuring there's a suitable option for everyone. Additionally, the formula is fragrance-free, making it particularly suitable for sensitive skin.
**Pros:** Lightweight, suitable for all skin types, no white cast, absorbs into a non-greasy finish, fragrance-free—ideal for sensitive skin.
**Cons:** Its popularity often leads to it being sold out.
2. **Hawaiian Tropic Hydrating Protection Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50**
- **Best Body SPF Overall**
The Who What Wear UK team enthusiastically recommended this body SPF. The lightweight lotion absorbs quickly (without leaving a white cast) and keeps skin moisturized, soft, and, most importantly, protected from the sun at SPF 50. It has a pleasant, tropical scent that isn't overpowering. The formula includes shea butter and cocoa butter, providing intense nourishment, effectively functioning as both a body moisturizer and sunscreen.
**Pros:** Moisturizing, no white cast, light, tropical scent, water-resistant.
**Cons:** Some may find the fragrance off-putting.
3. **Beauty Pie Super Healthy Skin Featherlight UVA/UVB SPF 50 Sunscreen + Primer**
- **Best SPF Underneath Makeup**
The price shown applies to members. If you're seeking an affordable sunscreen that works well under makeup, look no further. This sunscreen is exceptionally lightweight and has a serum-like texture that melds into the skin for a natural finish. Once dry, it feels soft, allowing for easy application of foundation or skin tint without causing your makeup to become shiny throughout the day. My base makeup applies effortlessly after using it, and the SPF 50 protection gives me confidence that my skin is shielded as well.
Rebecca's review: "Beauty Pie's Super Healthy Skin Featherlight SPF is a product you'll be unwilling to replace once tried," says Who What Wear UK's senior fashion & beauty editor for branded content, Rebecca Rhys-Evans. "Its 'featherlight' designation is telling; it glides on effortlessly, ensures true hydration (something my skin requires), and doesn't feel thick or sticky. Not only does it provide full protection at SPF 50, but it also acts
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