Suncare

Whether you're jetting off on holiday or enjoying a sunny day at home, suncare is a must for protecting your skin. … Read More See less

With sprays, lotions and tinted formulas available there’s a sun cream to suit every skin type and routine - helping you stay safe in the sun whatever your plans.

Related categories

Hay Fever & Allergies

Eczema & Dermatitis

Eye Infections

Dry Eye

Fungal Nail Infections

Travel Sickness

Filter By Sort & Filter

Filter By

Clear All

New

Riemann P20 Original SPF 30 Spray - 200ml

(44)

£29.99

-

+

What is sunscreen and why is it important?

Sunscreen – also known as sun cream - is designed to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

These rays can cause sunburn, premature ageing and increase your risk of skin cancer - even on cloudy days.

There are different types of sunscreen including lotions, sprays, gels and sticks. You’ll also find formulas made for specific areas like the face. Some are even tailored to specific preferences like tinted sunscreen.

The most important thing is choosing a sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF - ideally SPF 30 or higher - and applying it regularly throughout the day.

Protecting your skin with the right sun cream is one of the simplest ways to stay safe while enjoying the sun.

Types of sunscreen available

Not all sun creams are the same - different types work in different ways and suit different skin needs.

Whether you’re after gentle mineral protection or a tint that doubles as makeup, choosing the right one makes all the difference.

Let’s explore the key categories to help you find your perfect match.

Mineral sunscreen

Also called physical or natural sunscreen - mineral formulas rely on zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide to create a physical barrier that reflects and scatters UV rays before they reach your skin.

These are often a top choice for sensitive skin but may require a large application. It can easily wash off with water too, so bear that in mind if it’s a pool day.

Chemical sunscreen

Chemical sunscreens – also known as organic sunscreen - absorb UV rays and convert them into harmless heat.

They tend to be water-resistant, invisible on the skin and blend in well - making them ideal for daily wear.

Just keep in mind they may be slightly more irritating to very sensitive skin and they tend to need 20 minutes or so after application before you’re ready to get out in the sun.

Tinted sunscreen

Tinted sun care products combine mineral filters with a touch of colour to even out skin tone, reduce whiteness and offer extra protection against blue light.

They’re especially helpful for darker skin tones or anyone looking to add a subtle sun-kissed look.

Spray, stick, and other formats

Beyond lotions - sunscreens come in sprays, sticks, powders and serums - each with its own perks.

Sprays are quick and convenient, though you must rub them in to avoid patchy coverage and take care around eyes and airflow.

Sticks and powders are handy for precise application on sensitive areas like around the eyes and avoid runny mishaps common with sprays and lotions.

Look for the UVA seal

No matter which type of sunscreen you choose, it’s important to check for the UVA logo on the packaging - a circle with "UVA" inside.

This means the product meets EU standards for UVA protection, which is at least one-third of the SPF rating, helping shield your skin from premature ageing and long-term sun damage.

What SPF should you use?

When it comes to choosing sunscreen, simplicity and clarity go a long way. The NHS recommends:

At least SPF 30- SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it tells you how well a product protects your skin from UVB rays, which cause sunburn.
At least 4-star UVA protection- UVA rays cause long-term skin damage and ageing. Look for four or five stars on the back of the bottle, or a UVA logo in a circle, which means it meets EU standards.

This combination ensures both short-term and long-term skin health.

Best sunscreen for different skin types and needs

Finding the best sunscreen isn’t just about SPF - it’s about choosing a product that suits your skin and routine too.

Whether you’re in and out of water all day or you’re looking for something quick and easy to apply - here are some key features to look out for:

For sensitive skin – Choose fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulas or products labelled as suitable for sensitive skin. Mineral sunscreens and ranges like Altruist are often recommended by dermatologists
For swimming or sports – Look for water-resistant or very water-resistant sunscreens. These are effective when you’re in the water or sweating, but you’ll still need to reapply regularly.
For quick application – Spray sunscreens make it easy to cover large areas fast - just remember to rub them in! Stick sunscreens are great for topping up on the go and targeting delicate areas like the nose, ears or around the eyes.
For oily or acne-prone skin – Go for lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreens that won’t clog pores.

Suncare tips and advice

Looking after your skin in the sun isn’t just about applying sunscreen - it’s about building good habits that keep you protected all day long.

Here are five simple ways to stay safe in the sun:

Stay out of the sun between 11am and 3pm – This is when UV rays are strongest, even on cloudy days
Cover up where you can – Hats with wide brims, UV-protective clothing, and sunglasses help shield areas that are easy to miss with sunscreen
Use shade wisely – Whether it’s a tree, umbrella or canopy - taking regular breaks from direct sunlight helps avoid overexposure
Keep skin hydrated – After a day in the sun, use aftersun or a gentle moisturiser to cool, calm and rehydrate your skin
Don’t forget your lips and eyes – Use an SPF lip balm and wear UV-protection sunglasses to guard sensitive areas

Who should take extra care?

Some people are more vulnerable to sun damage and should be especially cautious -even on cloudy days. Extra care may be needed if you:

Have pale, white or light-brown skin
Have freckles
Have red/fair hair
Tend to burn rather than tan
Have many moles
Have a family history of skin cancer

Babies and young children are particularly at risk. Those under six months should be kept out of direct sunlight entirely, and older babies and toddlers should be well shaded, covered and protected with SPF 30+ both at home and abroad.

People with naturally darker skin may have some built-in UV protection - but it’s important to remember that sunburn and skin cancer can still happen.

Taking proper precautions is essential for everyone.