SPF is a non-negotiable in my daily skincare routine, and, like the masses, I only wish I’d started sooner. That said, I’m a big believer in better late than never and know that slathering the stuff on now is protecting my skin against further damage. Trust me, it's not too late. As a beauty editor I’ve tried and tested my fair share of face SPFs and have quickly come to the conclusion that not all are made equal. While I’ve just finished my beloved Emma Lewisham Face Crème (consider me obsessed) I have been eager to put another to the test - a new iteration of a bona fide cult classic. Enter the La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVAir Daily Invisible Fluid SPF50, £25, which has - spoiler alert - impressed me no end. Here's my full review.
What does the La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVAir Daily Invisible Fluid SPF50 do?
Everything you need a good facial SPF to do, and more. Firstly, the high levels of protection. SPF50 protects skin from UV and UVB rays, warding off the after effects - more visible wrinkles, fine lines, pigmentation and broken veins. The new ‘air’ element is a move away from the originalLa Roche-Posay Anthelios formulation. While the OG is a cult classic with a loyal fan base, UVAir has met a demand for something lighter. This iteration is considerably more second-skin-like when it comes to the finish. The original will always be a failsafe, but it feels like a heavy duty SPF compared to this one. Not only does it tick all the SPF boxes the original does, it's also made with hyaluronic acid to flood skin with a layer of hydration and niacinamide to reduce redness. It feels like skincare, a luxe SPF.
Shop: La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVAir Daily Invisible Fluid SPF50
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La Roche-Posay say: A light-as-air daily facial sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection and up to 24-hour hydration.
One reviewer said: 'I absolutely love La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVAir Daily Invisible Fluid SPF50+. It's ideal for oily skin! The lightweight, fluid texture absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, making it perfect for my daily routine. It offers excellent sun protection and feels really comfortable on the skin. Plus, it doesn't clog pores or exacerbate oiliness, which is a huge plus for me. Highly recommend for anyone looking for an effective, non-greasy sunscreen!'
Pros
- Contains hyaluronic acid and nicinamide
- Ideal for oily complexions
Cons
- Bottle is small at 40ml
- Can sometimes be tricky to squeeze out
How to apply
I shake the tube before squeezing out two finger lengths worth - this is the recommended amount according to dermatologists when it comes to dosing your skin up with adequate protection. I apply this as the final step of my skincare routine in the morning and follow with my foundation. I find this doubles up as a primer as it soaks up excess oil while at once coating my skin with a layer of hydration. If I’m not wearing make-up, I reapply every few hours to keep my skin fully protected. I'm diligent when it comes to SPF nowadays. As with all SPF, liberal application is key. And as this one is such a pleasure to apply, it’s hardly a chore.
Our verdict
Rachael Martin, beauty editor:
‘I’m incredibly fussy when it comes to which SPF I use. I have oily, acne-prone sensitive skin, so finding something that won’t slide right off, or, by contrast, block my pores, is never easy. At this point, La Roche is well known for its prowess in the realm of excellent sunscreen - there’s a reason why the French pharmacy brand are celebrating their 50th anniversary, after all. Once again, they’ve hit the nail on the head with UVAir. If you’re after a light, every day SPF then this could be just the ticket. The texture is everything I look for in a facial sunscreen. It’s silky and fluid, milky and light. Although I typically apply quite a lot of it (the more the merrier where SPF is concerned) it sinks in quickly, like a second skin and doesn't leave a white cast. It’s also refreshingly non-greasy - there’s fancy ‘Zero-Gram Feel Air Phase’ technology, which, in layman's terms, helps control oiliness for up to 16 hours.
'One of my biggest beauty bugbears is pilling - but this acts like a primer, leaving my skin soft, smooth and perfectly prepped ahead of my foundation. The finish is a semi-matte one - shine is reduced without leaving my skin feeling dry or tight. My only gripe is in the size. The bottle is small at 40ml and I’m well over half way finished despite only having used it for three weeks. If there was a bigger option, I'd definitely invest to save the faff of repurchasing every six weeks or so.'
Final thoughts
'If you're after a facial sunscreen that is a genuine joy to apply then consider this your new go to. It’s beautifully light, feels soothing and plays perfectly under make-up. Oily skinned gals? Rejoice! This one's for you.'
Rachael Martin is Grazia’s beauty editor. Originally from Northern Ireland, she studied English Literature at Queen’s University Belfast, before moving to London to pursue a career in magazine journalism.