When it comes to my year-round skincare routine, and most likely yours too, SPF is a non-negotiable. But as someone looking for both an SPF for sensitive skin and an SPF for my deeper skin tone, I've tried so many facial SPFs that are either too dehydrating or leave an ashy white cast on my face. And, might I add, the perils don't stop there—finding a body sunscreen that also ticks the boxes is equally as hard. Enter the SPF oil—a glowy and hydration-boosting product that has completely changed my outlook on sun protection.
However, since being introduced to them, I can't help but wonder how they compare to traditional sunscreen formulas, and whether they are an actually effective way to protect myself from the sun. If you're curious about this as well, I spoke with an expert to break down what we should all know about SPF oils.
What Is an SPF Oil?
An SPF oil is a sun protection product that combines effective broad-spectrum sunscreen ingredients with nourishing oils that provide a wide range of different skincare benefits. Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Mary Sommerlad says, "The main difference between an oil sunscreen and a cream sunscreen is the formulation, which dictates the texture and the finish. Oil is a lipid-based formulation only with little to no water, giving a lightweight transparent formula which has an oil texture and glossy finish, perfect for those wanting a dewy/glass-skin look. Creams are a combination of oil and water to create an opaque formula, which can have a fluid or stiffer texture and can have a matte or glossy finish based on the ingredients."
This means that, unlike traditional SPF creams or lotions, SPF oils are transparent formulas that leave the face and body with a luminous sheen, making them perfect for those of us who seek hydration without the white cast that thicker creams and SPF serums often leave behind.
Are Oil Sunscreens as Effective as Classic Cream Formulas?
The easy answer? They can be, but like all types of sun protection, it's important that they are used correctly. Dr Sommerlad states that, "An oil sunscreen should, in theory, be as effective as a cream sunscreen in terms of UVB (SPF) protection and any UVA claims provided—it is formulated and tested under the ISO (International Organisation for Standardisation). As sunscreen is considered a cosmetic rather than a medication, there are many brands making claims that, when tested in independent labs, do not meet the SPF or UVA protection they claim to. For this reason, I recommend buying sunscreen formulated by well-known brands and from reputable outlets that test the sunscreens they sell. In addition, in real-world experience, oils may be trickier to ensure an even coverage, leading to missed areas of skin."
What Is the Most Effective Way to Apply an SPF Oil?
Similarly to SPF waters, because of their lightweight consistency, SPF oils can be more difficult to apply evenly. To get the most out of them, start with clean, dry skin and use about a teaspoon of SPF oil for your face and neck and around 6-8 teaspoons of the product to effectively cover the rest of your body. The benefit of SPF oils is that they glide on seamlessly, but because they can feel deceptively nourishing, rubbing them into the skin thoroughly is key for maximum protection.
Dr Sommerlad agrees. "Unlike with a cream, it is harder to ensure you have the "two finger lengths" amount [of sunscreen for the face], as oils are transparent and liquid; therefore, I recommend double application. Apply a thin, even amount to the sun-exposed areas, wait a minute or two, then reapply to ensure even and complete coverage. Reapply every two hours, after sweating/ perspiration and after swimming," she says.
What Are “Tan-Boosting” SPF Oils?
According to Dr Sommerlad, SPF oils marketed as tan-boosting should be pursued with caution. "Tan boosting is a marketing term that can have different meanings. It may mean that the oil contains pigments to give the skin the appearance of a tan. It may also mean it contains ingredients that stimulate the pigment cells, melanin, to make more. Finally, it may mean it contains ingredients that accelerate pigment production when the skin is exposed to sunlight. In this situation, one hopes the manufacturer is referring to day-to-day sun exposure rather than deliberate sunbathing.
"As a dermatologist, I would also advocate a fake tan as there is no such thing as a 'safe' or 'base' tan. Therefore, I would always recommend using higher value protections (eg SPF30 or 50) and reapply every 2 hours or after perspiring or swimming."
With all of this knowledge in mind, I put some SPF oils to the test to find out which formulas are worth your time. Keep scrolling to discover the seven best sunscreen oils for summer and beyond.
The Best SPF Oils
1. Best Overall SPF Oil: Calyspo Dry Oil SPF 30, £12
2. Best SPF Face Oil: Hello Sunday The One That Makes You Glow SPF40, £25
3. Best SPF Oil for Dry Skin: SVR Sun Secure Body Oil Spray SPF 50+
4. Best SPF Oil for Oily Skin: Vichy Capital Soleil Cell Protect Oil SPF 50, £28
5. Best Luxury SPF Oil: Clarins Glowing Sun Oil High Protection SPF30, £29
6. Best Affordable SPF Oil: Malibu Non-Greasy Dry Oil Spray SPF 50, £7
7. Best SPF Oil with a Glow: Nuxe Shimmering Gold Sun Oil SPF 50, £29
1. Calypso Dry Oil SPF 30
Sun Protection Factor: 30
Notable Ingredients: N/A
Shimmer?: No
Scented? No
My main goal when finding an SPF oil was to find a formula that both protects me from the sun and keeps my face, body and scalp nourished and moisturised in the heat. I was not expecting an Amazon find to be my favourite at all, but I haven't stopped using Calypso's SPF 30 Dry Oil since I got it. Not only is it water-resistant, but it also provides great protection without the sticky, thick feeling that a lot of hydrating suncreams have, making it ideal for those of us with dry skin. I use it all over my body. Despite its larger size, I've also been packing this in my workbag to top up throughout the day.
2. Hello Sunday The One That Makes You Glow SPF40
Sun Protection Factor: 40
Notable Ingredients: Vitamin E, rice, rice germ extract
Shimmer? No
Scented? No
When it comes to facial SPF oils, my main concern was finding a formula that simultaneously protects me from UV rays and works to treat my skin concerns. This fragrance-free face oil from Hello Sunday offers SPF 40 protection and uses niacinamide and antioxidant vitamins to even out the skin tone. I'll admit that I haven't yet seen any results regarding my dark spots; however, its glowy and hydrating formula is enough to get me to continue using it. Not to mention that it works equally as well on its own and underneath makeup. My only note is that I learned the hard way that this oil can sting the eyes, so be extra cautious to avoid contact.
3. SVR Sun Secure Body Oil Spray SPF 50+
Sun Protection Factor: 50
Notable Ingredients: Vitamin E, watercress extract, niacinamide
Shimmer? No
Scented? No
If you have dry skin, you most likely suffer from skin irritation as well. As someone who has extremely sensitive and dehydrated skin myself, I knew I had to try SVR's Sun Secure Body Oil Spray SPF 50+ for Hypersensitive Skin. Featuring patented solar technology, the oil is formulated to protect you against the harmful effects of sun rays. It also contains vitamin E, watercress extract and niacinamide for both moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite being labelled a dry oil, this did feel slightly oilier on the skin than the other SPF oils I tried; however, with my skin type, I did not mind this at all.
4. Vichy Capital Soleil Cell Protect Oil SPF 50
Sun Protection Factor: 50
Notable Ingredients: Squalane, vitamin E, ceramides
Shimmer? No
Scented? No
If you have oily skin, fear not—you don't have to skip out on the benefits of SPF oil. Simply opt for a dry oil formula like Vichy's Capital Soleil Cell Protect Oil SPF 50 that won't feel greasy. This dry-touch formula promises to leave the skin looking radiant without feeling too heavy. The multi-purpose formula can also be applied to the scalp and ends of hair for added sun protection. As I mentioned above, I have very dry skin, so this is not a formula that I would personally reach for every day. However, if you often find SPF too oily or feel worried that an SPF oil will clog your pores, this is one to try.
5. Clarins Glowing Sun Oil High Protection SPF30
Sun Protection Factor: 30
Notable Ingredients: Organic cocoa extract, vitamin E derivative, hyaluronic acid
Shimmer? No
Scented? Yes—subtly sweet and fruity
When I first went on a hunt for the perfect SPF oil, I did a quick poll in the office with my fellow Who What Wear UK editors. And despite its slightly higher price point, there was a product that kept being mentioned—Clarins' Glowing Sun Oil. This broad-spectrum dry oil promises added skin benefits without a sticky residue. Suitable for all skin types, it leaves the skin with a satin finish and sun protection that's both water-resistant and suitable for outdoor activities. It has a subtly sweet scent, but it didn't cause any irritation to my skin or scalp. Although this comes with a slightly heavier price tag than a few of the other sprays I tried, I'd say it's worth splashing out on if you like your skincare to come with a more luxurious experience.
6. Malibu Sun Non-Greasy Dry Oil Spray SPF 50
Sun Protection Factor: 50
Notable Ingredients: Vitamin E
Shimmer? No
Scented? No
You don't have to splash out loads of cash for quality skincare. Malibu Sun's oil spray provides skin with SPF 50 sun protection for under £10. Enriched with vitamin E, this water and sweat-resistant formula is also beautifully nourishing. It does have a slightly sterile smell at first, but this quickly fades into nothing. I've used it on my body, face, hair and scalp, and I love how easily it settles in without feeling too heavy or greasy.
7. Nuxe Shimmering Gold Sun Oil SPF 50
Sun Protection Factor: 50
Notable Ingredients: Rice, rosemary extract
Shimmer? Yes—100% natural-origin pearly particles
Scented? Yes—sweet orange, tiaré flower and vanilla
Perfect for achieving an extra glowy and bronze look, Nuxe's Shimmering Sun Oil is formulated with 100% natural-origin shimmer particles to give the face and body an instant golden glow. This is definitely one to take with you on holiday. Who What Wear UK beauty director, Shannon Lawlor, swears by this stuff. "Not only is Nuxe sun protection some of the best around (I like all of my skincare products to feel luxurious, SPF included), but this particular oil leaves my limbs with a JLo-esque glow. And that is basically all I have ever dreamed of," she says.
Why Trust Us?
At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, fragrance and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.
We focus on sun protection formulas that work, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our SPF selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.
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