As essential as daily sunscreen is, it remains one of the most commonly abandoned steps in even the most diligent skincare routines. Often it comes down to texture, finish, or compatibility with make-up – or simply not finding one that suits your skin tone or feels pleasant enough to apply (and reapply).
At this time of year, however, there’s no room for negotiation. So, here’s a round-up of six excellent, affordable sunscreens – including four for under €20 – that work across a range of skin types and scenarios.
La Roche Posay Anthelios UVAIR SPF50
The latest addition to La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios range, UVAIR SPF50 (€26 from Meaghers Pharmacy) is a new-generation sunscreen that ticks several boxes at once. It’s ultralight, fluid in texture, and absorbs into the skin within seconds – making application quick and enjoyable. What sets it apart is its unique ability to hydrate without being overly dewy. Instead, it settles into a soft, slightly matt finish, making it especially well-suited to oilier skin types – or even as a primer before make-up.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50
There are very few Korean sunscreens I’ve tried and didn’t like – but this one might just be my all-time favourite. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50 (€18.99 from Boots) combines skin-loving, soothing and moisturising ingredients with high-level protection in a dreamily light, luminous formula. If you have dry or dehydrated skin – or simply love a dewy finish from your skincare – this one’s for you. The ultra-thin texture layers beautifully under make-up, making it as functional as it is indulgent.
The Ordinary UV Filters SPF45 Sun Protection Serum
Brand new and very impressive from The Ordinary, UV Filters SPF45 Sun Protection Serum (€19.90 from Arnotts) is an exceptionally lightweight, serum-like sunscreen that suits all skin types but shines especially bright for dry or dehydrated skin. I love the pocket-sized packaging, and the formula itself is beautifully light and quick to absorb. It’s non-irritating, making it a great option for sensitive skin, and it plays perfectly under a full face of make-up.
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50
For normal, combination or dry skin – or for skin that just needs a little extra TLC – you can’t go wrong with CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50 (€17.50 from millies.ie). It’s fuss-free, fast-absorbing, and gentle enough for sensitive skin, making it ideal for quick application on the go. Plus, the ceramide-rich formula helps to soothe and strengthen the skin barrier. A great all-rounder that does exactly what you need it to.
Caudalie Vinosun Invisible High Protection Stick SPF50
I love a good sunscreen stick – especially one that works for all skin types. Caudalie Vinosun Invisible High Protection Stick SPF50 (€18 from Cult Beauty) is dry, non-greasy and incredibly easy to apply. It’s particularly brilliant for the neck and chest, especially if you wear a lot of white shirts or T-shirts – this won’t transfer or stain your clothes. It’s a pleasure to use and makes reapplying sunscreen on the go quick and fuss-free. Since it’s a stick, it’s important to apply enough for full protection – about five passes per area should do the trick.
Sculpted by Aimee Sun Mist SPF50
Reapplying sunscreen over a full face of make-up used to be tricky and often disappointing, either disturbing your base or leaving behind a sticky, greasy finish. Sculpted by Aimee Sun Mist SPF50 changes all that – it’s completely transparent, dry-touch and refreshingly cool on the skin. Best of all, it leaves no trace and doesn’t budge your make-up. It’s ideal for quick touch-ups and stress-free reapplication throughout the day.
This week I’m loving … Brow Aid IllumiLift Eye & Brow Hydrogel Mask
A rather genius new launch from the excellent Irish brand Brow Aid, IllumiLift Eye & Brow Hydrogel Mask (€9 for a single, €32 for a pack of five from browaid.com) soothes and refreshes the eye area and brows while nourishing hair follicles with a potent blend of ingredients – including Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Caffeine, Ceramides, Vitamin C, Retinyl Palmitate, and more. It feels instantly cooling and depuffs the entire area around your eyes and brows.
