Hate greasy sunscreen? Six face SPFs to consider

Beauty Shelf

There’s a difference between knowing you should wear sunscreen and finding one you’re happy to put on every morning. If it leaves your face feeling greasy or makes your foundation slide around, it’s hardly going to become your favourite skincare step.

I want a face SPF that feels comfortable and works under makeup. I’m also interested in the added skincare benefits, particularly when a formula offers hydration without feeling heavy.

This week’s Beauty Shelf looks at six facial sunscreens, including some I’ve been using myself, with an option below $20.

What’s the difference between sunscreen formulas?

Facial sunscreens generally use mineral or chemical UV filters, although some formulas combine both.

Mineral sunscreens, often called physical sunscreens, use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Zinc is the ingredient you’ll commonly see in products marketed as “natural”. Some mineral formulas can feel thicker or leave a white cast, although that depends on the finished product.

Chemical sunscreens use other UV filters and often come in lightweight formulas that sit comfortably under makeup. Both types can provide effective protection, so choosing between them comes down to what suits your skin, alongside checking the SPF rating and broad-spectrum protection. “Natural” doesn’t automatically mean gentler or more protective.

For everyday use, finding a texture you like matters, but so does applying enough and reapplying as directed.

Advanced UV filters make this my standout SPF

La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Ultra Invisible Fluid SPF50+ – $42.99

I’m already a big fan of La Roche-Posay, and this is one I really like wearing. It feels nice under makeup and isn’t too greasy, which makes it an easy addition to my morning routine.

The formula uses chemical UV filters, including Mexoryl 400, which helps protect against ultra-long UVA rays. It is fragrance-free and formulated for sensitive skin, with an invisible finish.

What wins me over is how easily it fits around the products I already use. I don’t want to change my makeup routine to accommodate my sunscreen, and this one feels comfortable underneath it.

An option if brown spots bother you

RoC Soleil Protect Anti Brown Spot Unifying Fluid SPF50, 50ml – $34.99

If brown spots are something you’re trying to address, a sunscreen with an added pigmentation benefit has obvious appeal.

I like this formulation, and RoC says it is clinically proven to visibly reduce existing brown spots while providing broad-spectrum sun protection. The lightweight lotion is also designed to absorb quickly without leaving a white cast and is suitable for wearing under makeup.

That added skincare benefit is what interests me here. It gives you something to consider beyond the finish, particularly if uneven skin tone is already a focus of your routine. The brown-spot benefit is the brand’s claim, rather than a change I’ve personally measured.

Prefer a zinc-based sunscreen?

Vanessa Megan SPF50 Mineral Sunscreen, 75g — $49.95

For those who prefer a mineral formula, this Australian-made sunscreen uses 25 per cent zinc oxide as its active ingredient. It also contains hyaluronic acid to help retain moisture, making hydration part of its appeal.

The main point of difference in this selection is its zinc-based formulation. If you’ve been looking for a mineral alternative, this is the one I would recommend.

A good one for under makeup

Cancer Council Hydration Boost SPF50+, 50ml – $36.95

I bought this on holiday after forgetting my SPF, and I’ve now been using it for a few weeks.

I didn’t love the feel at first. When I initially applied it, it felt quite heavy, with that noticeable sunscreen sensation I tend to avoid on my face. Once it absorbed, though, my opinion changed.

It sits well under makeup, so it has continued to get used long after the holiday ended.

The fragrance-free formula offers broad-spectrum SPF50+ protection and contains hyaluronic acid alongside squalane for hydration. Cancer Council describes it as a daily SPF moisturiser, which may appeal if your skin tends to feel dry.

My advice with this one is to give it time to settle before judging the finish.

A favourite for a moisturiser-like feel

MECCA Cosmetica To Save Face SPF50+ Superscreen, 75ml – $48

MECCA’s To Save Face has developed a loyal following, and the appeal is easy to understand if you like sunscreen that feels closer to skincare.

This version is lightweight and hydrating, with a satin finish designed to sit beneath makeup. It contains vitamin E and sodium PCA, a moisture-binding ingredient, and is aimed at dry and combination skin. It also contains fragrance, which is worth checking if fragranced skincare tends to irritate your face.

At $48, it’s one of the more expensive purchases here, although you’re getting a 75ml tube. For readers who prefer a moisturiser-like texture to a thin fluid, it’s worth considering.

The option under $20

DermaVeen Sensitive Sun Invisible Fluid SPF50+, 50ml – $19.69

A face sunscreen doesn’t have to cost close to $50. This DermaVeen fluid is formulated for dry, sensitive skin, with broad-spectrum SPF50+ protection.

It contains the brand’s OatActiv+ ingredient to help soothe skin and is designed to absorb quickly with a non-greasy finish. It can be worn alone or beneath makeup.

For anyone watching their skincare spending, it offers a lower-priced option to consider. Chemist Warehouse currently lists the 50ml bottle at $19.69, although that price may change.

Getting enough protection from your SPF

Whichever formula you choose, using enough matters more than finding the most expensive bottle.

Cancer Council recommends about one teaspoon for the face, including the neck and ears. Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours, including after swimming or sweating. Follow the product’s directions and use sunscreen alongside other sun protection, including protective clothing and shade.

Prices may vary. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection. Wear protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses, and seek shade. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Reapply every two hours and after swimming, sweating or towelling, in accordance with the directions.