Sunscreen Guide: How to Find the Right Formula for Your Skin

With the sun's return comes a crucial question: how do you choose the right sunscreen? Navigating the jungle of creams, sprays, and oils can be overwhelming. This guide provides clear, practical advice to help you find the ideal product for your skin and lifestyle, cutting through the marketing jargon.

Our Tips for Choosing the Right Sunscreen

Before we dive into our top picks, here are the essential criteria for making the right choice.

1. Understanding SPF and Format

The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) measures the level of protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. An SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while an SPF 50 sunscreen blocks about 98%. While the difference may seem minimal, a high SPF is essential for fair skin, children, or during prolonged sun exposure.

The format is primarily a matter of personal preference and use case:

• Creams or lotions: Perfect for precise application and excellent hydration for the face and body.
• Sunscreen sprays: Ultra-convenient for quick application and for covering hard-to-reach areas.
• Sunscreen oils: Prized for their satin finish and pleasant fragrance, they combine protection with a sensory experience.

2. Matching the Formula to Your Skin Type

There's a formula for every skin type. For sunscreen for sensitive skin, opt for a fragrance-free and alcohol-free formula with high-tolerance filters to minimise the risk of irritation. Those with acne-prone skin, on the other hand, should look for lightweight, non-comedogenic textures.

Innovations like the famous Japanese sunscreen are popular for their feather-light textures, invisible finish, and cutting-edge technologies.

3. Checking for Resistance and Versatility

For days at the beach, by the pool, or during sports activities, choose a water-resistant and sweat-resistant sunscreen. Be aware that "resistant" doesn't mean "invincible": it's crucial to reapply every two hours and after every swim.

Some products offer face and body sunscreen protection, a convenient 2-in-1 solution to simplify your routine and lighten your travel bag.

Our Recommended Sunscreen Picks

Here are a few standout products that shine for their formulation, format, or targeted effectiveness.

ANESSA Double Sun Protection Set

Why it stands out: This set combines two complementary formats for flawless protection. The fluid milk is perfect for morning application, while the spray allows for easy touch-ups throughout the day, even over makeup or on hair. Its formulation includes "Double Protective Veil" technology which, according to the brand Shiseido, strengthens the protective layer when it comes into contact with water, heat, and sweat.

Key features:

• Very high SPF50+ PA++++ protection against UVA and UVB rays.
• Convenient duo: a milk for the first application and a sunscreen spray for touch-ups.
• Lightweight, non-greasy, and water-resistant texture.
• Moisturising formula that prevents skin dryness.

Who is it for? For those on the go, athletes, and fans of Japanese cosmetics who want ultra-high-performance and versatile protection for both daily use and holidays.

ANESSA Perfect UV Sunscreen Mild Milk NA SPF50+ PA++++

Why it stands out: Specially formulated for the most delicate skin, this sunscreen milk combines very high protection with a hypoallergenic formula. Free from alcohol, fragrance, colourants, and parabens, it's the go-to choice for the whole family.

Key features:

• Gentle formula suitable for sunscreen for sensitive skin, including that of babies (excluding newborns).
• Very high SPF50+ PA++++ protection.
• Fluid milk texture that spreads easily without leaving a white cast.
• Resistant to water and friction, it is easily removed with a standard cleanser.

Who is it for? Ideal for families and reactive skin types that demand the best in sun protection, without compromising on gentleness.

Hawaiian Tropic Glowing Protection Dry Oil Sunscreen Mist SPF 30

Why it stands out: This dry sunscreen oil mist combines UVA/UVB protection with pure pleasure to use. Enriched with tropical fruit extracts, it leaves the skin with a satin finish and a delicious scent, without any sticky feeling. The scent of a holiday in a bottle.

Key features:

• High SPF 30 protection.
• Continuous mist format for easy and even application.
• Water-resistant and fast-absorbing formula.
• Iconic tropical fragrance and vegan formula.

Who is it for? For those who want protection that feels like a treat, and who are looking to enhance their skin with a glowy effect while effectively protecting it from the sun.

Looking for other options to enjoy the outdoors?

Is your skin protected? Perfect. Now it's time to think about your comfort to fully enjoy the sun. To furnish your terrace, balcony, or garden, take a look at our selection of furniture.

? Browse our collection of antique outdoor armchairs to create a unique relaxation space.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What's the difference between UVA and UVB filters?

UVB rays are the main cause of sunburn. The SPF rating indicates the level of protection against these rays. UVA rays, however, penetrate deeper into the skin and are responsible for premature skin ageing (wrinkles, dark spots), while also increasing the risk of skin cancer. A good sunscreen should be "broad-spectrum," meaning it protects against both UVA (indicated by a UVA logo in a circle or a PA+ rating) and UVB rays.

2. Should I apply sunscreen every day, even in the city?

Absolutely. It's crucial to apply protection to exposed areas (face, neck, hands) all year round. UVA rays don't take a holiday: they are present even on cloudy days and can penetrate windows. It's a simple step to preserve your skin's "sun capital" and prevent premature ageing.

3. How do I choose a sunscreen that doesn't leave a white cast?

A white cast is often caused by mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide). To avoid it, there are two solutions: opt for modern formulas where these filters are micronised (as nanoparticles), or choose sunscreens based on organic (so-called "chemical") filters. Fluid textures, light lotions, and, once again, the innovations of Japanese sunscreen are renowned for their completely invisible finish.