Here are the 10 best French sunscreens to effectively protect your skin from the sun! One of the staples of the French summer skincare routine is definitively a good sunscreen (“crème solaire” in French) with the highest SPF. We all know that a good sunscreen protects the skin from the sun’s powerful UV rays, and minimizes the risk of painful sunburns, skin cancer, and premature signs of aging, such as dark spots and wrinkles.
Being French, I’m obsessed with sunscreens! I always protect my skin with enough sunscreen and make it the most important summer habit whenever I leave the house for a long period of time. In my beauty cabinet, I often have a few different types of sunscreen with different SPF levels (20, 30, 50). So, in order to help choose the best French sunscreen for your skin type, here are a few tips below:
- Look for a French sunscreen with “broad-spectrum” coverage —meaning it protects against UVB rays that cause burning and UVA rays that cause lasting damage.
- Seek for SPF of 30 or higher —SPF 50 sunscreens block 98% of UVB rays.
- Remember that a high SPF doesn’t mean you can go hours without reapplying! You should always reapply sunscreen after every two hours in the sun.
- When shopping for sunscreen for your face, look for one that addresses specific concerns like fine lines, acne, or sensitivity.
Of course, these sunscreens should be used in addition to hats and protective clothing, since no sunscreen can completely prevent sun damage. Also, avoid going out during the sun peak hours (between 12 pm to 4 pm). And keep babies and young children out of direct sunlight. Finally, don’t forget to protect your eyes, wear sunglasses while being exposed to the sun.
So, from sunscreens for oily, acne-prone, dry, or sensitive skin to sunscreens for the face and mineral sunscreens, here are all of the best sunscreens from the best French sunscreen brands.
1. Best Sunscreen For Face And Body
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Lotion Spray Sunscreen SPF 60
2. Best Tinted Sunscreen
Sisley Paris Tinted Sunscreen Cream SPF 30
3. Best Primer Sunscreen
By Terry UV Base Sunscreen Cream SPF 50
4. Best Sunscreen For Acne-prone Skin
SkinCeuticals Physical Matte UV Defense SPF 50
5. Best Sunscreen For Oily Skin
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60
If you have prone to breakouts or oily skin you might be hesitant to use sunscreen for fear of adding excess shine. But in fact, those skin types may need SPF the most. Indeed, acne stems from a compromised skin barrier, which can be further weakened by UV exposure. In addition, some acne treatments, such as retinol increase photosensitivity, and sun exposure can darken acne scars. Stick to non-comedogenic formulas and consider switching to a facial sunscreen to protect specific blemish-prone areas.
6. Best Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin
Avène Solaire UV Mineral Multi-Defense Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50+
If you have very sensitive skin, prefer mineral formulas (fragrance-free) that sit atop the skin’s surface, making them less irritating than chemical ones. Indeed, chemical sunscreens penetrate the skin and can become allergenic in the presence of sunlight. For more details, check out my article on the best French mineral sunscreens.
7. Best Sunscreen For Dry Skin
Lancôme UV Expert Aquagel Defense Primer & Moisturizer SPF 50
8. Best Sunscreen For Mature Skin
Sisley Sunleÿa Age Minimizer Sun Care SPF 50+ Sunscreen
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, 90% of the visible signs of aging including fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, and texture are attributed to UV exposure. That’s why taking preventive measures to protect your complexion from UV rays will help to keep your skin healthy. Mature skin is generally more delicate, dry, and prone to fine lines and wrinkles. That’s why you would need to seek sunscreens that not only have a high SPF but are also hydrating and antioxidant-rich to prevent signs of aging from forming.
9. Best Sunscreen For The Beach
La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF 60 Cooling Water Lotion Sunscreen
When going to the beach or being in full sun, opt for a full-strength sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50. I’ll recommend not laying down in extremely harsh sunshine for hours and hours. Limit the amount of time in the sun (especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.), seek shade, and apply an SPF50 every hour.
10. Best Mineral Sunscreen
Et voilà! I hope this guide will help you find the best French sunscreen tailored to your skin’s needs! If you have any questions, please let me know in the comments below.
Disclaimer: I independently select all products featured on Leonce Chenal. If you buy something through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely love.
Good advice as an American girl I wear it sun or not. La Roche has always been my top pick and don’t think this is weird but Coppertone 50 for face only. I have been using since I was a child still the best for me. Love your blog. I have a blog as well I’d you wish to follow
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Thank you so much Lisa <3 I agree with you, La Roche-Posay is definitely my go-to sunscreen for the summer! xoxo Leonce
Great options. I love Avène Mineral Tinted Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50+ and use it instead of foundation.