There was a time when the SPF I pulled out on my sun lounger said everything about me. My tiny French pharmacy tubes practically announced: “I have a skincare routine and questionable spending habits.” Meanwhile, every cheaper sunscreen I tried left me greasy, ghostly, or sliding off my face by lunchtime.

Thankfully, SPF has had a serious glow-up. Affordable sunscreens are now genuinely chic: lightweight, glowy, makeup-friendly, and comfortable to wear every day. I no longer feel like I need to spend £40 on a bottle the size of a travel toothpaste just to get good protection and cute packaging. Here are some of my affordable faves…

I no longer feel like I need to spend £40 on a bottle the size of a travel toothpaste just to get good protection and cute packaging.

Tamara, Contributing Beauty Editor

For glow and no-makeup days

One of the best affordable launches in recent years, in my opinion. This gives skin that glossy, healthy-looking finish with a slight tint that somehow makes you appear significantly more rested than you are, while also doubling as a brilliant makeup primer. It’s lightweight, flattering, and ideal for anyone who wants SPF with a touch of radiance.
K-beauty SPFs really do understand texture better than most, and this is proof. Silky, lightweight, and beautifully hydrating, it melts into the skin like a moisturiser rather than a traditional sunscreen. No white cast, no heaviness, no drama.

For sensitive or stressed skin

Developed by dermatologists and no-nonsense, Altruist remains one of the best affordable SPFs full stop. Fragrance-free, gentle, and genuinely effective, it’s ideal if your skin dislikes overly fragranced or complicated formulas.
This one really delivers. Packed with skincare benefits, it gives my skin that juicy, dewy finish without feeling heavy, sits beautifully under makeup, and never irritates my sensitive skin.

For everyday city wear

Beauty editors refuse to stop recommending this for good reason. It’s lightweight, sits beautifully under makeup and doesn’t leave skin looking greasy by midday.
If you’re someone who claims to “hate the feeling of SPF”, this is usually the formula that changes your mind. Non-perfumed, featherlight and virtually invisible on the skin, it survives heat, humidity, and long days in warm climes.

For hot holidays and humid weather

I love this one for days when I want SPF to make my skin look better, not just protected. It’s lightweight, properly glowy without tipping into greasy territory, and gives that expensive finish without the £40 price tag.
I was so pleased when this launched because I’ve always loved CeraVe’s skincare and wanted an SPF that felt just as reliable. It’s lightweight, properly invisible on the skin, and one of those formulas I’ll happily wear every single day without thinking about it.
Beauty, Skincare

The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.

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