10 French Sunscreens for Optimal Skin Protection

A staple of the French summer skincare routine is undoubtedly a good sunscreen (“une crème solaire”) with the highest SPF. We all know that quality sunscreen shields the skin from the sun’s powerful UV rays, minimizing the risk of painful sunburns, skin cancer, and premature aging, such as dark spots and wrinkles.

As a French native, I’m obsessed with sunscreens! I always ensure my skin is well-protected with adequate sunscreen, making it my most crucial summer habit, especially when spending extended periods outside. In my beauty cabinet, you’ll find various sunscreens with different SPF levels (20, 30, 50). To help you choose the best French sunscreen for your skin type, here are a few tips:

1. Look for “broad-spectrum” coverage – This ensures protection against both UVB rays, which cause burning, and UVA rays, which cause lasting damage.
2. Seek SPF 30 or higher – SPF 50 sunscreens block 98% of UVB rays.
3. Reapply regularly – A high SPF doesn’t mean you can go hours without reapplying. Reapply sunscreen every two hours when in the sun.
4. Consider specific concerns for facial sunscreens – Choose sunscreens that address issues like fine lines, acne, or sensitivity.

These sunscreens should be used alongside hats and protective clothing, as no sunscreen can completely prevent sun damage. Avoid sun exposure during peak hours (between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m.). Keep babies and young children out of direct sunlight. Don’t forget to protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses while exposed to the sun. From sunscreens for oily, acne-prone, dry, or sensitive skin to those specifically for the face and mineral sunscreens, here are the top picks from the best French sunscreen brands. You’re welcome ;).

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This post is not sponsored. I only share what I truly love. Some links are affiliate, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Merci!

1. For face and body: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Lotion Spray Sunscreen SPF 60
2. Tinted sunscreen: Sisley Paris Tinted Sunscreen Cream SPF 30
3. Primer sunscreen: By Terry UV Base Sunscreen Cream SPF 50
4. For acne-prone skin: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Oil Free sunscreen SPF 60
5. For oily skin: SkinCeuticals Physical Matte UV Defense SPF 50
6. For sensitive skin: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Cooling Water Sunscreen Lotion SPF 60
7. For dry skin: Lancôme UV Expert Aquagel Defense Primer & Moisturizer SPF 50
8. For mature skin: Sisley Sunleÿa Age Minimizer Sun Care SPF 50+
9. At the beach: Chantecaille Mineral Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen Mist SPF 30
10. Mineral sunscreen: Avène Solaire UV Mineral Multi-Defense Sunscreen SPF 50+

If you are prone to breakouts or have oily skin, you might hesitate to use sunscreen for fear of adding excess shine. However, these skin types may need SPF the most. Acne stems from a compromised skin barrier, which UV exposure can further weaken. Additionally, some acne treatments, such as retinol, increase photosensitivity, and sun exposure can darken acne scars. Stick to non-comedogenic formulas like La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Oil Free sunscreen SPF 60.

On the other hand, if you have very sensitive skin, opt for fragrance-free mineral formulas that sit on the skin’s surface, such as Avène Solaire UV Mineral Multi-Defense Sunscreen SPF 50+. These are less irritating than chemical sunscreens, which penetrate the skin and can become allergenic when exposed to sunlight.

Et voilà! I hope you found this blog post helpful. If you’ve tried any of the sunscreens mentioned, please share your thoughts in the comments. I’d also love to hear about your favorite sunscreens that weren’t included in the list! Merci!