We’re all probably aware of just how important SPF is. Come rain, wind or shine, sunscreen is an everyday essential needed to protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays emitted from the sun. But as someone who works in beauty, I’ve tried a lot of SPFs in my time, and finding one without a white cast has been a challenge to say the least. Of course, this is fine when I’m layering a full face of makeup on top, but on my no-makeup days, a suncream that leaves a chalky residue all over my darker skin tone is a genuine nightmare.
(Image credit: Who What Wear UK)
Having the same struggles? Well, never fear, because gone are the days of streaky, ashen faces that feel heavy and greasy, and in their place lies a myriad of sun protection formulas that feel lightweight and, more importantly, are undetectable on the skin. But with this, I couldn’t help but wonder how these invisible SPFs compare to traditional sunscreen formulas, and whether they are actually an effective way to protect myself from the sun.
To help navigate my way through the world of the best SPFs without white cast, I sat down with consultant dermatologist, Dr Mary Sommerlad, to answer my burning questions.
What Is an SPF?
Dr Sommerlad says, “SPF stands for sun protection factor and is a marker of how much protection a sunscreen formula gives a person from the rays of sunlight that can burn the skin and contribute to skin cancer formation, known as ultraviolet B (UV-B).
“In the UK, SPF is usually given as a number, such as 30 or 50. This number indicates that, when sunscreen is applied correctly, your skin takes 30 or 50 times longer to burn than it would without protection. As the amount of UVB reaching the skin varies by time of day, it may be simpler to think of SPF 30 as blocking about 97% of UVB rays from affecting the skin, whilst SPF 50 blocks around 98%. This difference is important, especially if you have had skin cancer, work outdoors or have outdoor hobbies.
“SPF does not indicate how much UVA protection sunscreen provides. UVA causes premature ageing, hyperpigmentation and skin cancer. So you should choose broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF 30 or 50 and a good UVA protection, especially if you have darker skin tones.”
Why Do Some SPFs Leave a White Cast?
“A white cast is common in mineral sunscreens or sunscreens that are hybrid and have a lot of inorganic/ mineral filters, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These filters sit on the skin and are naturally white in appearance. In those with deeply pigmented skin, the contrast between the natural skin tone and the ashen appearance of the sunscreen filter gives a more striking white cast. This is even more obvious in 100% mineral sunscreens, hybrid sunscreens that have high levels of zinc oxide and if the sunscreen formulation is very thick (e.g., a cream or paste sunscreen rather than a liquid/ fluid/ gel)”, explains Dr Sommerlad.
Are Chemical or Mineral SPFs Better for Avoiding White Cast?
Dr Sommerlad states that, “Chemical sunscreens are far better than mineral SPFs at avoiding white casts, as the filters do not reflect visible light. Instead, they use filters that have been tested for many years and have a strong safety profile with minimal absorption into the body. Micronised mineral sunscreens can also have reduced white cast as the Zinc has been processed to a much smaller particle size, which is useful to know if you are looking for a mineral-only sunscreen.”
The Best SPFs Without White Cast
1. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5
Beauty of Joseon
Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 Spf50+
SPF Factor: 50+
Formula: Watery lotion
Mineral or Chemical? Chemical (organic)
Fragrance-free? Yes
Key Ingredients: 30% rice seed water, vitamin B5, green tea, artichoke leaf extract
Pros
- Super hydrating and lightweight formula
Cons
- Those with dry skin may have to use this along with another moisturiser
After seeing Beauty of Joseon’s Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 SPF50+ on my TikTok FYP for months, I finally decided to give it a try. I knew it was described as a non-white-cast formula, but I genuinely did not expect it to be quite so invisible as it actually was. And that’s not even the best part of it. Often, when it’s really hot outside, I feel discouraged about applying my SPF because it can feel heavy and sticky on my face, but this formula is a light, watery lotion that stays hydrating without feeling greasy. I saw a lot of beauty content creators on TikTok suggest this for those with oily skin, but as someone with eczema and extremely dehydrated skin, rest assured that this SPF is perfect for those with dry skin as well.
2. Cerave Invisible Hydrating Sunscreen
CeraVe
Invisible Hydrating Sunscreen SPF50
SPF Factor: 50
Formula: Cream
Mineral or Chemical? Chemical
Fragrance-free? Yes
Key Ingredients: 3 essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II), MVE moisturising technology, glycerin, vitamin E
Pros
- Hydrating and rich formula
Cons
- May be too rich for those with oily skin
As I mentioned above, I have extremely dry and sensitive skin, so finding an SPF that comes with all the benefits of a hydrating moisturiser is always a plus to me. CeraVe’s Invisible Hydrating Sunscreen is packed with skin-loving ingredients such as a triple ceramide complex and vitamins E that nourish the skin without feeling too greasy. When I first squeezed this sunscreen out of the tube, I was worried that the formula would be too thick and leave a white residue on my skin, but it sheers out into an undetectable layer of sun protection, something I’ll be very grateful for on those non-makeup days.
3. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Oil Control Fluid
La Roche-Posay
Anthelios Oil Control Fluid Spf50+
SPF Factor: 50+
Formula: Fluid
Mineral or Chemical? Chemical
Fragrance-free? Yes
Key Ingredients: Airlicium™ (99% air + 1% silica), netlock technology, zinc PCA, La Roche-Posay thermal spring water
Pros
- Sleek packaging makes this easy to take on the go
Cons
- Very runny formula so can get messy
When it comes to sunscreens without a white cast, La Roche-Posay is a brand that is loved by dermatologists and beauty editors alike. This formula is a lightweight fluid that is sweat-resistant and helps to absorb excess oil for a long-lasting mattifying effect on the face. And don’t be afraid of the slightly beige formula, I find that there is still no white cast left on the skin, making it perfect for those looking for an invisible sunscreen that’s not too greasy. But if you have dry skin, never fear, as this French pharmacy brand also has a regular formula that’s hydrating and just as undetectable.
4. L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Filler Deep Replumping Anti-Ageing
L’Oréal Paris
Revitalift Filler Deep Replumping Anti-Ageing SPF50
SPF Factor: 50
Formula: Lightweight cream
Mineral or Chemical? Chemical
Fragrance-free? No
Key Ingredients: High-concentrated hyaluronic acid, glycerin, Fibroxyl plant extract
Pros
- Super hydrating formula that doubles as face cream
Cons
- Has fragrance which might irritate those with sensitive skin
I don’t have mature skin, but I often find myself looking for mature-skin product suggestions due to how moisturising they are. L’Oréal Paris’ Revitalift Filler Deep Replumping Anti-Ageing is a day cream that was created to replump the skin with moisture, tone the face and reduce wrinkles. It’s lightweight and non-greasy, absorbing into the skin without leaving any residue. I love that it’s a two-in-one SPF/moisturiser hybrid, making your skincare routine easier on busy mornings. My only note would be that it’s not fragrance-free, so it could cause irritation in those with sensitive skin.
5. Mimétique Everyday 50 Invisible Face Fluid
Mimétique
Everyday 50 Invisible Face Fluid SPF50
SPF Factor: 50
Formula: Fluid-serum
Mineral or Chemical? Chemical
Fragrance-free? Yes
Key Ingredients: Biomimetic peptides, biomimetic exosomes, hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, glycerin, sea water
Pros
- Hydrating, glowy formula with added skincare benefits
Cons
- May be too rich for those with oily skin
When it comes to facial SPFs, finding a formula that simultaneously protects me from UV rays and works to treat my skin concerns was a top priority. Mimétique’s Everyday 50 Invisible Face Fluid offers the SPF 50 protection I’m looking for and simultaneously uses Biomimetic peptides and antioxidant-rich exosomes to even out the skin tone. I have to 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.
6. Garnier Ambre Solaire Super Uv Face Protection Sun Cream Fluid
Garnier
Ambre Solaire SPF50+ Super UV Face Protection Sun Cream Fluid
SPF Factor: 50+
Formula: Fluid
Mineral or Chemical? Chemical
Fragrance-free? Yes
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, glycerin, silica, perlite
Pros
- A great budget-friendly option for those looking for an SPF without white cast
Cons
- Some reviews state that it’s too heavy for those with oily skin
If you’re looking for a non-white-cast sunscreen that’s effective without requiring you to break the bank, Garnier has nailed it with their Ambre Solaire SPF that sits at a very budget-friendly £14. It has a fluid consistency that makes it feel super lightweight on the face, but it’s also packed with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and glycerin to help moisturise and nourish the skin. I’m usually a luxury skincare lover myself, but I cannot deny that this product’s formula and packaging feel way more sophisticated than its £14 price tag, rivalling a number of high-end options on the market.
7. Tatcha The Milky Sunscreen
Tatcha
the Milky Sunscreen SPF50
SPF Factor: 50+
Formula: Fluid-cream hybrid
Mineral or Chemical? Chemical
Fragrance-free? No
Key Ingredients: Encapsulated Ectoin, vitamin E, Okinawa aloe, triple-fermented rice complex
Pros
- Hydrating, glowy formula with added skincare benefits
Cons
- Significantly more expensive than other SPFs without white casts
Some luxury skincare products are undeniably worth the extra splurge, and Tatcha’s The Milky Sunscreen is just that. If you’re someone who hates the feeling of SPF on your face, this is the formula to try. I’ve described other formulas in the round-up as lightweight, but this is by far the sheerest formula I tested. And don’t just take it from me, one reviewer described it as “so light you don’t feel as though wearing a factor 50 sunscreen at all.”
8. Summer Fridays Shadedrops Broad Spectrum Mineral Milk
Summer Fridays
Shadedrops Broad Spectrum Mineral Milk SPF50
SPF Factor: 50
Formula: Fluid
Mineral or Chemical? Mineral
Fragrance-free? Yes
Key Ingredients: Antioxidant complex (vitamin E, vitamin C, ectoin), ceramide NP, glycerin, shea butter, chamomile extract, allantoin
Pros
- Sits well under makeup without pilling
Cons
- May be too rich for those with oily or acne-prone skin
Finding an SPF that will sit well under your makeup without pilling can be a challenge, but luckily, Summer Friday’s new hybrid formula is the perfect solution. Not only is the packaging extremely chic, but this invisible formula is packed with ceramides and shea butter to help nourish the skin, as well as vitamin E, vitamin C and ectoin that work to protect the skin from free radicals. It sits beautifully under makeup, but can also be worn alone for a glowy base. As someone with eczema, I love how hydrating and rich this formula is, but I would be cautious for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
8. Caudalie Invisible High Protection Stick
Caudalie
Invisible High Protection Stick SPF50
SPF Factor: 50
Formula: Stick balm
Mineral or Chemical? Chemical
Fragrance-free? Yes
Key Ingredients: Organic grape-seed oil, organic buriti oil, cocoa seed butter, candelilla, rice, carnauba waxes
Pros
- Stick formula is easy to take on the go
Cons
- May disturb makeup during top ups
An SPF stick is one of my go-to ways to top up my sun protection when I’m on the go, but it’s also a great alternative for those who don’t like the feeling of traditional sunscreen on their face. Caudalie’s Invisible High Protection Stick has a clear consistency, almost like a lip balm, but it doesn’t feel sticky at all. Enriched with nourishing grape seed oil and cocoa seed butter, it keeps my skin soft and moisturised while providing a smooth, invisible finish with no white cast. It works best on no-makeup and light makeup, but when I have a full-coverage base on, it can disturb the products on my face slightly, so I’ll still be opting for an SPF spray on those days.
10. Naked Sundays Hydrating Glow Face Mist
Naked Sundays
Hydrating Glow Face Mist SPF50+
SPF Factor: 50+
Formula: Water spray
Mineral or Chemical? Chemical
Fragrance-free? No (watermelon-scented)
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, watermelon extract, Kakadu plum, vitamin E
Cons
- May be too rich for oily skin types
Finding an SPF that provides effective sun protection and hydrates my skin effectively without causing irritation has been a journey, to say the least. But I haven’t put down Naked Sundays SPF 50+ Hydrating Glow Mist since I discovered it a few years back. When I have a full face of makeup on, I use it after my normal setting spray to melt everything in, leaving me with a dewy and fresh base ready for the day. But I also use it on non-makeup days to give my bare skin a glow as I’m on the move. And if that doesn’t convince you, then let it be known that it also smells incredible, so much so that I get asked all the time what perfume I’m using whenever I spray it.
11. Vichy Capital Soleil Cell Protect Oil
Vichy
Capital Soleil Cell Protect Oil SPF50
SPF Factor: 50
Formula: Oil spray
Mineral or Chemical? Chemical
Fragrance-free? No
Key Ingredients: 1% squalane, vitamin E, ceramides
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Spray nozzle can be messy and get on clothes
The easiest way to get sun protection without a white cast? An SPF oil, of course, and Vichy’s Capital Soleil Cell Protect Oil SPF 50 is a dry-touch spray formula that promises to leave the skin soft and radiant without feeling too heavy. Not to mention that this multi-purpose formula can also be applied to the scalp and ends of hair for added sun protection. It also contains vitamin E, 1% squalane and ceramides for moisturising 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.
How Can I Make Sure My No-Cast SPF Is Working?
Dr Sommerlad gives her tips on effective sunscreen application below:
1. Apply sunscreen BEFORE leaving the house—consider it the final step of skincare and before make-up.
2. Apply sunscreen after any serums or moisturisers you have used have mostly dried down—fluid/ liquid/ gel formulations will always blend in better than a cream (save creams for the limbs/ body).
3. Ensure you cover all exposed skin with a thin film of your sunscreen—if you are spending the day outside, I recommend “double application” in order to get the full benefit of the sunscreen (most of us use far less than the amount that the sunscreens are tested on in lab environments); in practice, that means applying the sunscreen, waiting 2 minutes, then reapplying it.
4. Reapply after sweating, after gym or swimming or every two hours in warm weather—don’t forget the edges of the face as well as the neck, the ears, upper chest and back of hands.
5. Store your sunscreen away from direct sunlight and remember to replace sunscreens that have sat out in the sun, are more than 6 months old, or have breaks in the packaging.
6. Use sprays to reapply if you have used makeup, but be aware that sprays may not give you the same coverage as a liquid/ fluid sunscreen.
How I Tested
I tested a wide range of sunscreens over the last few months, evaluating each SPF’s ability to blend seamlessly into my skin without leaving a white cast or residue, as well as how they performed with and without makeup layered on top.
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 some skincare, makeup, hair 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 formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.
