PROTECT YOUR GLOW
In Saudi Arabia, the UV index regularly reaches the "extreme" range in summer, and it stays high for much of the year. That makes sunscreen the most important step in any skincare routine. It helps prevent sunburn, dark spots and early signs of ageing, and it protects the results of every serum and cream you use. This guide explains how to choose the best sunscreen for your face, what SPF really means, and how to apply it so it works.
What does SPF mean?
SPF (sun protection factor) measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, the main cause of sunburn. Used correctly, SPF 30 filters about 97% of UVB rays and SPF 50 filters about 98%. No sunscreen blocks 100%.
SPF only tells you about UVB. UVA rays penetrate deeper, pass through car and office windows, and are a major cause of dark spots and skin ageing. To be protected from both, look for:
- "Broad spectrum" on the label, or
- PA+++ or PA++++, a UVA rating common on Korean and Japanese sunscreens, or
- the UVA logo in a circle, used on European sunscreens.
SPF 30 or SPF 50: which do you need?
SPF 30 is the minimum most dermatologists recommend for daily use. In the strong Saudi sun, and if you spend time outdoors, drive a lot or are prone to dark spots, SPF 50 is a sensible choice. Most people also apply less sunscreen than the amount used in testing, so a higher SPF gives you a useful margin. Browse our SPF 50 sunscreens for face and body.
Mineral or chemical sunscreen?
| Mineral sunscreen | Chemical sunscreen | |
|---|---|---|
| Filters | Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | Organic filters such as avobenzone or newer filters like Tinosorb |
| Feel | Can be thicker and may leave a white cast | Usually lighter and invisible on the skin |
| Best for | Sensitive or reactive skin, children | Daily wear, oily skin, wearing under makeup |
Both types protect well when applied properly. The best sunscreen is the one you enjoy wearing every day. Many modern formulas combine both types of filter.
The best sunscreen for your skin type
Oily or acne-prone skin
Look for gel, fluid or "matte finish" textures labelled oil-free or non-comedogenic. A good example is ACM Medisun SPF Sun Gel, made for oily skin, or La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Oil Control Fluid. See more in our oily and acne-prone skin range, and read our acne treatment guide for how sunscreen fits around acne treatments.
Dry skin
Choose a sunscreen cream with hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin or ceramides. If your skin still feels tight, apply a moisturiser for your skin type first and let it settle before your sunscreen. Shop the dry and dehydrated skin range.
Sensitive skin
Fragrance-free mineral sunscreens are usually the gentlest option. Patch test any new sunscreen on your jawline for a few days first. Explore our sensitive skin solutions.
Dark spots or melasma
Sun exposure makes pigmentation worse, so daily sunscreen is essential if you are treating dark spots and hyperpigmentation. A tinted sunscreen is worth considering: the iron oxides that give it colour also help protect against visible light, which can darken melasma, especially on medium to deep skin tones.
Why Korean sunscreen is so popular
Korean sunscreens are known for light, serum-like textures that feel like skincare and leave no white cast. Favourites include Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ and SKIN1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum. Browse more in our K-beauty range, or build a full routine with our guide to the Korean skincare routine.
How to apply sunscreen properly
- Use enough. For your face and neck, squeeze two full finger-lengths of sunscreen. Most people use about half of what they need.
- Make it the last step of your morning routine. Apply it after your serum and moisturiser, and before makeup.
- Don't forget easy-to-miss areas: ears, neck, hairline and the back of your hands.
- Reapply every two hours when you are outdoors, and after swimming, sweating or towel drying.
- Use a sun stick to top up over makeup during the day. The Beauty of Joseon Matte Sun Stick is easy to carry.
If you use active ingredients such as a vitamin C serum or retinol, daily sunscreen matters even more. Retinol can make skin more sensitive to the sun, as our beginner’s guide to retinol explains.
Sunscreen for the body and for children
Body skin needs protection too, especially arms, neck and feet. Our body sunscreens come in lotions and sprays that cover large areas quickly. For children, choose a gentle kids and baby sunscreen. Keep babies under six months out of direct sun and ask your paediatrician before using sunscreen on them.
Sunscreen and vitamin D
Your skin makes vitamin D in sunlight, and vitamin D deficiency is common in Saudi Arabia. Wearing sunscreen is still important for skin health. If you are concerned about your levels, ask your doctor about a blood test rather than skipping sun protection. Our article on why vitamin D deficiency is common in a sunny country explains more.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need sunscreen indoors?
If you sit near a window or drive during the day, yes. UVA rays pass through glass. If you are indoors away from windows most of the day, morning sunscreen is usually enough.
Is the SPF in my makeup enough?
Usually not. You would need to apply far more foundation or powder than normal to reach the SPF on the label. Use a dedicated sunscreen underneath.
Can I use body sunscreen on my face?
You can in a pinch, but body formulas are often thicker and may clog pores. A face sunscreen is designed to feel lighter and sit well under makeup.
Does sunscreen expire?
Yes. Check the expiry date or the open-jar symbol, and replace sunscreen that has changed colour, smell or texture. Storing it in a hot car can make it break down faster.
Ready to find yours? Explore the full range of face sunscreens at Avnzor, or ask our pharmacists for help choosing the right one for your skin.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general information purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of a physician or qualified dietitian.
