How to choose your sunscreen - the complete guide by a doctor and analyses by BeautyDecoders.
A broad-spectrum SPF 50, with real UVA protection (UVA logo, PPD or PA++++). Whether you choose a chemical or mineral filter depends on your skin type. The best cream is the one with the right texture for you - because that's what you'll be applying every day.
What protection really aim
You need protection that really covers both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays reach the deeper layers of the skin: they are responsible for premature aging of the dermis (solar elastosis) and play a role in the appearance of skin cancers. UVB rays attack the superficial layers of the skin, causing sunburn, tanning, hyperpigmentation and most skin cancers.
Visit SPF (Sun Protection Factor) indicates UVB protection - a minimum SPF 50 is recommended. Visit UVA logo guarantees UVA protection at least equal to a third of the SPF. The PPD (2 to 50) and the PA (1 to 4+) specify the UVA level: a PA++++ corresponds to the highest level of protection.
To situate this step in the overall routine, see the guide facial care.
Filter chemical or mineral ?
Organic (chemical) filters
They absorb UV rays and transform them into heat. Texture often lighter, less whitening - suitable for acne-prone, oily or dark skin.
Mineral filters (physical)
Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide: reflect and absorb part of the rays. Recommended for sensitive skin, melasma, children and babies. Disadvantage: white streaks, which a tinted version limits.
If you have a bad reaction to a sunscreen, check the filters in the composition: some are known to cause irritation, such as avobenzone, oxybenzone, enzacamene and octocrylene. In terms of texture, filters known for their comfort include Tinosorb S, Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T150 and Mexoryl. Beware of fluid textures: there's a tendency not to apply enough, and not to achieve the protection indicated.
European and Asian solar or American ?
Screens French often use the same filters (octocrylene, avobenzone), which are sometimes irritating, and tend to be fairly moisturizing. Sunscreens Asian are designed for everyday use and layering: light textures, adapted to a humid climate, rather than for the beach. For United States, One of the only authorized organic anti-UVA filters is avobenzone, which is not very stable, and manufacturers have to stabilize it with other filters or antioxidants such as vitamin E.
The best sun creams by skin type
A selection of the best-rated SPF50s on the BeautyDecoded app, from Europe and Asia, with compatibility scores and a summary of reviews. The Sensitivity Verdict applies the Dr David Rule: a sensitive skin score below 0 indicates a potential risk of irritation; between -2 and -5, a product that is not suitable for sensitive skin.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-fresh SPF50+ PA++++
Universal profile - niacinamide-free
A niacinamide-free version of the brand's star sunscreen, with an aqueous texture. Sensitive skin score +0.75 - adapted, including hyper-reactive skin. Universal profile (82 to 91 on all skin types). Feedback highlights an imperceptible finish and a day-cream effect, ideal for city sunscreens.
Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Sun Serum SPF50+
Glowy - avoid near the eyes
Sun protection serum with centella and hyaluronic acid, with a glowy finish. Sensitive skin score -0.75 - slight caution. Very versatile, moisturizing profile (84 to 91). Imperceptible and easy to apply over make-up according to feedback, with a risk of stinging if applied too close to the eyes.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ - The best of both worlds
Most commented - optimal profile for oily skin
The most-reviewed sunscreen on the base (72 reviews), with a fluid texture that penetrates quickly. Sensitive skin score +0.5 - adapted. Oily skin score 91 - optimal profile. Very good make-up base according to feedback, slightly less mattifying than SVR Blur.
Eucerin Oil Control Dry-Touch Gel-Cream SPF50+ (in French)
Not suitable for sensitive skin (alcohol)
Highly mattifying, dry-touch gel-cream for oily to acne-prone skin. Oily skin score 91 - optimal profile. Sensitive skin score -3.75 - unsuitable, This is consistent with the presence of alcohol reported in returns. The non-white finish is suitable for darker skins.
Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Airyfit Sunscreen SPF50+
Moisturizing matte - dry to normal skin profile
A creamy-textured sunscreen that penetrates quickly, leaving a matte finish while moisturizing. Sensitive skin score -0.5 - slight caution. Profile geared towards dry to normal skin (91). Excellent make-up base according to feedback, although some may not like the smell.
SVR Sun Secure Blur SPF50+
Popular mattifier - dose well
Very popular, mattifying sun protection with a blurred effect (70 reviews). Oily skin score 91 - optimal profile for combination to oily skin Sensitive skin score -0.5 - slight caution. Use in moderation, as the thick texture becomes greasy in excess, and several feedbacks report that it stings the eyes. Available in fragrance-free and tinted versions.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 SPF50+ Gel-Cream
Long UVA reference - not suitable for sensitive skin
Gel-cream with filter Mexoryl 400, which covers long UVA rays (380 to 400 nm). Sensitive skin score -2.0 - unsuitable, several returns mentioning alcohol. Normal to oily skin score 91. Reference for UVA protection, to be reserved for non-reactive skin and for use alone (lint under make-up).
Avene Ultra Fluid Invisible SPF50
Does not sting the eyes
Invisible, fine-textured fluid in a practical format. Sensitive skin score 0 - suitable. Profile for dry to normal skin (84 to 91). One of the few chemical sunscreens not to sting the eyes according to feedback, with a finish sometimes judged a little shiny on oily skin.
Which solar by skin type
| Skin type | To be preferred | Further information |
|---|---|---|
| Oily skin | Light, fluid textures; avoid thick sunglasses | Suncare for oily skin |
| Dry skin | Moisturizing creams with UV protection, SPF 50 minimum | Suncare for dry skin |
| Sensitive skin | SPF 50, formulas to be tested gradually; mineral filters often better tolerated | Suncare for sensitive skin |
Your questions about sun cream
Which SPF to choose for daily facial care?
Should I choose a chemical or mineral filter?
Why does my sunscreen sting my eyes?
Are Asian sunscreens better?
Is sunscreen enough to protect against the sun?
Plastic and aesthetic surgeon - Founder of BeautyDecoded
Information for educational purposes only. It does not replace a medical consultation and must be adapted to each individual. The compatibility scores generated by the application do not prejudge the individual tolerance of each skin type. In the event of pregnancy, skin pathology or doubt, dermatological advice is recommended. A tolerance test should be carried out before using the product for the first time.