Here at BEAUTY BAY HQ we’re passionate about the fact that SPF is for life, not just for summer. Alongside UVB rays (which cause the sunburn we experience in the warmer months), there are also UVA rays, which are responsible for the long-term skin damage that accelerates signs of aging and can lead to cancer, and they’re present all year round (and can penetrate windows, clothes, and cloud cover). 

That’s just one of the reasons why you should wear SPF every single day, and if it hasn’t convinced you of the importance, we don’t know what will. But if your previous experiences of SPFs have been formulas that are sticky, chalky, greasy, and breakout-triggering, you’ll be pleased to know that in 2022 brands are finally upping their game when it comes to creating skin-friendly formulations. These new formulas use the hydrating and repairing ingredients you find in your serums and moisturisers, can be worn under (and over) makeup, and cater to an inclusive range of skin tones. 

If you’re already using one, well done. If not, scroll down to discover our favourites. 

If you’re looking for an SPF to layer under your makeup, this one provides protection and hydration while also helping to lock your foundation in place and keep it looking fresh all day long. It leaves skin with a satin finish, so it creates a silky smooth base for makeup.

For those with dry skin, this cleverly combines protection and hydration thanks to rose extract, aloe vera, and vitamin E. It melts into skin without leaving a white cast or chalky residue, so is a great pick for all skin tones. 

Weightless and invisible, this sunscreen delivers protection with the added bonus of being completely undetectable on the skin. Formula-wise, it’s equal parts protecting and hydrating, and leaves skin with a subtle glow. 

This Aussie-made formula not only adheres to Australia’s super strict sunscreen requirements but also has major fans amongst the online skincare community. Chances are you’ve already spotted it on your Instagram feed or TikTok FYP before now. 

For sensitive skin types, experts recommend mineral formulas like this one. Along with SPF30 protection, the silky, loose powder formula imparts a soft, mattifying finish, while setting makeup and reducing shine.

It may be on the pricier side, but Dermalogica formulate their products with the latest technologies and to the highest standards, so you can apply this lightweight cream confident that you’re getting first class sun protection. 

Since it has a thin serum-like texture, this is a great option for oily or dehydrated skin as it absorbs quickly and delivers a powerful cocktail of balancing and hydrating ingredients to the skin. It’s basically sun protection with a bonus dose of hyaluronic acid and antioxidants.  

For acne sufferers, thin serum-like textures are less likely to clog pores than heavy creams – they also tend to absorb quicker and are less likely to leave a white cast. This has a silky-smooth texture that’s gentle on acne and doesn’t make oily skin look or feel greasy. 

This SPF is a great multitasker because as well as providing top level sun protection, it contains ingredients like aloe, glycerin, vitamin E, and licorice extract, which will help to improve texture, tone, and hydration at the same time. 

Ultrasun is beloved for its hardworking formulas that cater to a wide range of skin types. This one is a good all-rounder, offering broad spectrum SPF and blue light protection, and acting as primer, moisturiser, and sun protection simultaneously. 

With its subtle tint, soft texture, and blurring finish, this is a great option for applying under or over makeup (top tip: use a sponge). It provides skin with a powerful shield of UVA, UVB, and antioxidant protection but feels completely weightless. 

Proving that affordable formuls can hold their own against luxury ones, this light lotion is gentle enough to use on both face and body. It absorbs quickly and leaves skin feeling moisturised but not greasy.