Ingredient library / UV protection
Sunscreen filters (UV filters).
Also on labels as: SPF · Zinc oxide · Titanium dioxide · Avobenzone · Tinosorb S · Mineral and chemical filters · PA++++
Quick answer
What is sunscreen filters (uv filters)?
Sunscreen filters absorb or reflect ultraviolet light. SPF measures protection against UVB, the main cause of sunburn; UVA protection is shown by a UVA logo or star rating in the UK and by PA ratings on Korean and Japanese products. Mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) and modern chemical filters can both protect well.
What it does
- Reduces sunburn, sun-related skin damage and the risk of skin cancer
- Helps prevent the look of premature ageing and dark marks from UV
- Supports results from actives such as retinoids and acids
Who it suits
Everyone. The NHS recommends SPF 30 or higher with at least four-star UVA protection.
How to use it
- Apply generously as the last step of your morning routine
- Reapply regularly outdoors, and after swimming, sweating or towelling
- Use enough — most people apply far less than the amount used in testing
Take care
- SPF in make-up alone is rarely applied thickly enough for full protection
- Mineral formulas can leave a white cast on deeper skin tones; tinted versions help
What it pairs with
Always the final skincare step in the morning; wait for serums to settle first.
General information, not medical advice. For a skin condition, pregnancy or persistent irritation, speak to a pharmacist, GP or dermatologist.
In the catalogue
Products listing sunscreen filters (uv filters).
La Roche-Posay · SPF
Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+
The protect step under Couture glass skin — SPF50+ fluid that stays invisible so luminosity, not white cast, carries the photograph.
Beauty of Joseon · SPF
Relief Sun: Rice + Niacinamide SPF50+
The UK and EU Relief Sun formula: a dewy protect layer that keeps skin reading as skin under a sheer base.
Beauty of Joseon · SPF
Daily Relief Sunscreen SPF 40
The US-market counterpart to Relief Sun, which is not sold in the US: protection-first skin prep with a lightweight finish.
Round Lab · SPF
Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++
The moisturising cream in the Korean SPF edit: one comfortable layer between skincare and a sheer base.
SKIN1004 · SPF
Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum
A serum-weight protect step with a dewy surface for base to sit on — sun protection that should not show up in the photograph.
COSRX · SPF
Ultra-Light Invisible Sunscreen SPF50 PA++++
A sheer fluid protect step designed to disappear, whether the face is bare or under a skin tint.
ILIA · SPF
Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
The dedicated sunscreen option in ILIA’s range. Choose it for protection-first prep rather than the coverage of Super Serum Skin Tint.
e.l.f. Cosmetics · Complexion
Halo Glow Skin Tint SPF 50
A light-coverage option for comparing tints by finish and shade availability, with the sunscreen directions kept visible.
Read further
Sources.
Sunscreen filters (UV filters), answered
What SPF should I use?
- The NHS advises SPF 30 or higher, with UVA protection of at least four stars (or the UVA logo in a circle), applied generously and reapplied.
What does PA++++ mean?
- PA is a UVA rating used on many Asian sunscreens; PA++++ is the highest grade. It is broadly comparable to a high UVA star rating.
Are mineral sunscreens better than chemical ones?
- Not inherently. Both can offer high, broad-spectrum protection. The best sunscreen is one you will apply generously every day.