What Sunscreen Should I Use? Your Complete Guide

Finding the perfect sunscreen isn't just about choosing the highest SPF, it's about finding a formula you'll genuinely enjoy wearing every day. Whether you have oily, dry, sensitive or combination skin, today's sunscreens offer lightweight textures, skincare benefits and invisible finishes that make daily sun protection effortless.

To help you find your perfect match, we've rounded up some of our favourite SPF products, each offering broad-spectrum protection with unique benefits for different skin types and lifestyles.

What is the difference between chemical sunscreen and mineral (physical) sunscreen?

In sunscreen, chemical and mineral refer to the type of UV filters they use to protect your skin.

Chemical sunscreens use ingredients that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat before they can damage the skin. They are usually lightweight, easy to rub in and don't leave a white cast.

Mineral sunscreens use natural minerals such as Zinc oxide and Titanium dioxide to protect the skin. They sit on the skin's surface and block or scatter UV rays (while also absorbing some UV light). They are often recommended for sensitive skin.

I've heard chemicals from sunscreen are absorbed into the body. Is that dangerous?

Some sunscreen ingredients can be absorbed through the skin in very small amounts. However, absorption does not mean they are harmful. To date, there is no evidence that this absorption causes health problems in humans. Health authorities continue to monitor the science and recommend sunscreen use because the benefits of protecting skin from UV damage outweigh any known risks.

Let's dive into our top selling sunscreens and why they're so popular this summer!

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF 50+ Rice + Probiotics

Best for: Normal, dry and combination skin

It's easy to see why the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun has become a global bestseller. This lightweight chemical sunscreen feels more like a moisturiser than a traditional SPF, leaving skin soft, hydrated and naturally radiant without feeling greasy.

Enriched with nourishing rice extract and probiotics, it helps support the skin barrier while delivering high SPF 50+ broad-spectrum protection. It absorbs beautifully, works seamlessly under makeup and leaves no white cast, making it an everyday favourite for those who love a healthy glow.

Why we love it:

• SPF 50+ broad-spectrum protection
• Hydrating, silky texture
• Rice extract and probiotics nourish the skin
• Leaves a radiant finish
• Ideal for wearing under makeup

The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum

Best for: Normal to dry skin

For those who prefer their skincare to feel weightless, The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum delivers sun protection in an elegant serum texture.

This chemical sunscreen layers effortlessly with your skincare routine and makeup while providing lasting hydration throughout the day. The lightweight formula never feels heavy or sticky, making it ideal for daily wear.

Why we love it:

• Lightweight serum consistency
• SPF 45 daily protection
• Hydrating formula
• Layers well under makeup
• Comfortable for everyday use

Dermalogica Golden Hour Stick SPF 30

Best for: All skin types, travel and reapplication

Reapplying sunscreen has never been easier. The Dermalogica Golden Hour stick offers mess-free mineral sun protection in a convenient portable format that's perfect for handbags, holidays and outdoor activities.

The invisible finish glides smoothly over skin without disrupting makeup, making it ideal for topping up your SPF throughout the day.

Why we love it:

• SPF 30 protection
• Easy on-the-go application
• Ideal for travel and sport
• Great for reapplying over makeup
• Convenient stick format

Beauty of Joseon Aqua Fresh SPF 50+

Best for: Combination and oily skin

If you love lightweight skincare, Beauty of Joseon Aqua Fresh SPF 50+ delivers an ultra-fresh finish that feels almost invisible on the skin.

Designed specifically for those who dislike heavy sunscreens, this fast-absorbing chemical formula provides high SPF protection while helping skin look naturally fresh without excess shine.

Why we love it:

• Ultra-lightweight texture
• SPF 50+ protection
• Fast absorbing
• Fresh, natural finish
• Ideal for oily and combination skin

Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Pure Mineral Relief SPF 50+

Best for: Sensitive and redness-prone skin

Sensitive skin often needs a little extra care, and Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Pure Mineral Relief SPF 50+ delivers exactly that.

This gentle mineral sunscreen combines broad-spectrum UV protection with soothing black rice extract to help calm skin while defending it from daily sun exposure. Its comfortable formula makes it an excellent choice for reactive or easily irritated complexions.

Why we love it:

• 100% mineral protection
• SPF 50+
• Soothing black rice extract
• Gentle on sensitive skin
• Helps calm visible redness

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Oil Control Fluid SPF 50+

Best for: Oily and blemish-prone skin

If excess shine is your biggest concern, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Oil Control Fluid SPF 50+ is one of the best options available.

Its lightweight chemical formula delivers very high UV protection while helping to control oil throughout the day. The matte finish keeps skin comfortable without feeling dry, making it ideal for acne-prone and oily complexions.

Why we love it:

• SPF 50+ protection
• Matte, shine-controlling finish
• Lightweight fluid texture
• Suitable for oily and blemish-prone skin
• Comfortable all-day wear

IMAGE Skincare Daily Prevention Advanced Smartblend Mineral Moisturizer SPF 50+

Best for: Sensitive, redness-prone and post-treatment skin

For those who prefer mineral sun protection without the traditional heavy feel, the IMAGE Skincare Daily Prevention Advanced Smartblend Mineral Moisturizer SPF 50+ is a standout choice.

This premium 100% mineral sunscreen uses advanced zinc oxide technology to blend more seamlessly into the skin while delivering broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection. It also doubles as a nourishing daily moisturiser, making it perfect for sensitive, redness-prone or post-treatment skin that needs both hydration and reliable UV defence.

Why we love it:

• 100% mineral SPF 50+ protection
• Advanced zinc oxide technology
• Hydrates while protecting
• Ideal for sensitive and post-treatment skin
• Helps minimise the white cast often associated with mineral sunscreens

Don't Skip Your SPF

Daily sunscreen is one of the most effective ways to help protect your skin from premature ageing, pigmentation and UV damage. Whether you prefer a dewy finish, a lightweight serum or a mineral formula for sensitive skin, there's an SPF that fits perfectly into your skincare routine.

The best sunscreen is ultimately the one you'll wear every single day—and with so many comfortable, elegant formulas available, protecting your skin has never been easier.

Order your SPF at BeautyFeatures.ie! Enjoy delivery on the next working day when you place your order before 2pm!