The ultimate SPF edit: our best sunscreen and aftersun picks
Written byEmily Coates
Reviewed byHeeral Tomlinson
With moisturising sun creams, long-lasting SPF sprays and cooling aftersun lotions, discover our best sunscreen picks for protected, hydrated, holiday-ready skin all summer long
Our top picks
Everyday high-factor SPF
Holland & Barrett
Holland & Barrett Sunscreen SPF 50 150ml
3 for 2 Mix & Match
€8.45
€19.50
K-beauty favourite
BEAUTY OF JOSEON
BEAUTY OF JOSEON Relief Sun : Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++ 50ml
€0.00
Whether you’re heading abroad, planning a UK staycation or simply making the most of the sun, SPF matters far beyond beach days and heatwaves. Even on a cloudy day, daily sunscreen helps protect skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays, which the NHS warns can contribute to sunburn, premature skin ageing and increase the risk of skin cancer.1
From lightweight Korean sunscreen and invisible body sprays to gentle mineral SPFs and cooling aftersun lotions, the newest generation of sun care is designed to fit seamlessly into everyday life – no sticky finishes required. We’ve rounded up some of our favourite sunscreen and aftersun picks to help keep skin protected, hydrated and comfortable all summer long.
Our favourite sunscreen picks
Looking for a sunscreen that keeps things simple? Holland & Barrett’s SPF50 Sunscreen delivers high-protection daily coverage with a lightweight, easy-to-wear finish that works for everything from beach days to everyday errands.
Formulated with broad-spectrum UVA and UVB filters, the fast-absorbing spray helps protect skin against sun exposure while moisturising at the same time. Marula, raspberry and rosehip oils help leave skin feeling soft, nourished and comfortable while the lightweight texture absorbs easily with no white cast left behind.
One of the most talked-about SPFs in K-beauty, Beauty of Joseon’s Relief Sun feels more like a lightweight moisturiser than traditional sunscreen. The silky cream texture absorbs quickly without leaving a white cast while rice extract, probiotics and niacinamide help leave skin looking hydrated and fresh. Broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ helps protect against both UVA and UVB rays.2-3
If you’re after reliable everyday sun protection, this lightweight SPF30 spray is an easy warm-weather staple. Holland & Barrett’s fast-absorbing sunscreen helps protect against UVA and UVB rays while feeling comfortable and breathable on skin – ideal for park days, staycations and everyday wear.
Enriched with marula, raspberry and rosehip oils, the moisturising formula helps leave skin feeling soft and hydrated with no heavy or greasy finish. The easy spray format also makes quick top-ups simple when you’re out and about.
Sun Bum’s Original SPF30 Lotion brings serious beach holiday energy to your sunscreen routine. Lightweight, moisturising and fast-absorbing, the bestselling formula helps protect skin against UVA and UVB rays while feeling comfortable enough for everyday wear. Water resistant for up to 80 minutes, it’s designed for everything from pool days to long afternoons in the sun while the iconic tropical scent gives it that instantly recognisable ‘smells like summer’ feeling.
Created with delicate skin in mind, Badger’s baby sunscreen uses mineral zinc oxide to provide broad-spectrum SPF30 protection in a simple, skin-friendly formula. Made with just seven ingredients including soothing calendula and calming chamomile, it helps keep skin feeling comfortable while protecting against the sun’s harmful rays.
The creamy texture is powered by a sunflower oil base for easier application while the family-friendly formula makes it a great option for beach days, holidays and adventures. Always follow instructions for use carefully when using SPF.
Our favourite aftersun picks
After a long day in the sun, this lightweight aftersun gel is designed to cool, comfort and hydrate skin. The fast-absorbing, non-sticky formula helps soothe the feeling of heat while supporting the skin barrier with calming ingredients including aloe vera leaf juice. Fragrance-free and suitable for all skin types, it’s made to slot easily into your post-sun routine – whether you’re treating sun-exposed skin or simply layering on lightweight hydration before bed.
After a long day in the sun, this cooling aftersun spray helps refresh and rehydrate heat-exposed skin. Enriched with soothing aloe vera and vitamin E, Sun Bum’s lightweight formula absorbs quickly to help restore moisture without leaving behind a sticky or greasy feel.
The easy spray format makes full-body application effortless after beach days, pool swims and holidays in the heat while the fresh, cooling finish leaves skin feeling soft, smooth and comforted.
FAQs about sunscreen and aftersun
Dermatologists generally recommend using at least SPF30 daily, even on cloudy days. Higher SPFs, such as SPF50+, provide increased protection against UVB rays when applied correctly and reapplied regularly.1,5
There’s no major difference – sunscreen and sun cream are often used interchangeably to describe products that help protect skin from UV rays. Some formulas may feel lighter or more fluid while creams can feel richer and more moisturising.
Korean sunscreen formulas are known for their lightweight textures and skincare-first ingredients. Many are designed to feel comfortable under makeup while delivering high UVA and UVB protection.
Zinc oxide sunscreen uses mineral UV filters that sit on top of the skin to help reflect harmful rays. These formulas are often popular with people looking for mineral SPF or sunscreen for delicate skin.5
Aftersun lotion helps hydrate and soothe skin after sun exposure. Many formulas contain ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E to help cool skin and support moisture levels.
The final say
The best sunscreen is ultimately the one you’ll actually want to wear every day – whether that’s a lightweight Korean sunscreen, a family-friendly body spray or a gentle mineral SPF for delicate skin. And once the sun goes down, a hydrating aftersun lotion can help keep skin feeling calm, comfortable and moisturised after long days outdoors.
Looking to upgrade your facial SPF routine too? Discover our edit of the best sunscreens for face protection or get holiday-ready with our essential beauty packing list for sunny escapes.
Remember to always read label and follow instructions carefully when using SPF and suncare products.
Disclaimer – This article provides informational advice and is not a substitute for medical care. Working with experts for accuracy, we take great care to ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant. However, you should always consult your GP or healthcare professional before using supplements or alternative products, particularly if you have medical conditions or are under supervision.
1. NHS. Sunscreen and sun safety [Internet]. NHS; [cited 2026 May 27]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/sunscreen-and-sun-safety/
2. Beauty of Joseon. Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++ product information [Internet]. Beauty of Joseon; [cited 2026 May 27].
3. Chavda VP, Acharya DR, Hala V, et al. Sunscreens: A comprehensive review with the application of nanotechnology. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol. 2023;84:104744.
4. Altruist. Face Fluid Sunscreen SPF30 product information [Internet]. Altruist Dermatologist Sunscreen; [cited 2026 May 27].
Skin Cancer Foundation. Sunscreen explained [Internet].
5. Skin Cancer Foundation; [cited 2026 May 27]. Available from: https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen/
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