Our 7 Favorite French Sunscreens

by Maddy Piggott
Photo ยฉNuxe

Many articles have explored how the French age gracefully, often attributing it to their impeccable taste and a “less is more” attitude towards life in general. They wouldn’t be wrong… however, one key to their youthful appearance lies in a very simple yet essential skincare product: French sunscreens.

Despite their love for the occasional sunbathing session, the French are incredibly diligent when it comes to using SPF infused products. Parents teach their children the importance of sunscreen from a young age, and facial sunscreens with UVA and UVB protection upwards of factor 30 are frequently used as part of daily skincare routines โ€” regardless of the weather. Not only does this minimize the risk of burning in summer, but it helps to prevent sun damage and premature aging year-round.

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Renowned for their sensitive-skin friendly ingredients, pleasant textures, and high efficacy, French sunscreen formulations are some of the best worldwide and a constantly sought-after product during French pharmacy hauls.

From lightweight fluids to nourishing creams and oils, these are the French sunscreens that stand out this summer:

La Roche Posay: Anthelios Ultra Light Fluid Face Sunscreen SPF60

For the whole family

$33.99

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One of the most popular French sun creams is La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios Ultra Light Fluid Face Sunscreen. Coming in a range of SPF factors, this sunscreen boasts a milky, lightweight texture, making it ideal for everyday use. The Anthelios range also comes in multiple formats and textures to cater to individual preferences.

As a highly trusted brand in France, La Roche-Posay is known for its dermatologist-recommended and sensitive skin friendly products. Their sunscreens are praised for their effectiveness against UV rays and affordability, making them an excellent choice for the entire family.

Caudalie: Daily Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Lotion

For daily use

$39

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For daily use, we love Caudalie’s Daily Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF50 Lotion. Another cult favorite in France, Caudalie is known for its commitment to natural ingredients. Their tinted zinc sunscreen offers a both sun protection and brightening benefits through the addition of Niacinamide and their signature antioxidant Viniferine. This product is perfect for those who prefer mineral-based sunscreens and seek both sun protection and skin enhancing benefits in one.

Avene: Intense Protect Cream SPF50+

For the body

$29

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Avene is renowned for its gentle and soothing products, and this sunscreen is no exception. With broad-spectrum protection and a gentle formula, it protects without causing irritation, making it a go-to for individuals with delicate skin or young children. Its formula is also water resistant and availabile in large formats, making it the French sunbather’s BFF.

Embryolisse: Sun Stick SPF50+

For on-the-go application

$17.60

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For a targeted top-up, Embryolisse’s Sun Stick SPF 50+ is quick and convenient option. This portable sun stick is perfect for on-the-go application, ensuring that often overlooked areas like the nose, ears, and lips are well-protected.

Pro Tip: Sunsticks can also be re-applied over make-up without ruining your look!

Chantecaille: Ultra Sun Protection Sunscreen SPF45

For the multi-taskers

$85

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Chantecaille’s Ultra Sun Protection Sunscreen is a luxurious option that combines high sun protection with anti-inflammatory and skin firming benefits. Chantecaille is known for its high-quality, botanical-based products, and this sunscreen offers a lightweight, matte finish that’s perfect for daily wear alone or as a primer before makeup.

SVR: Sun Secure Fluid Dry-Touch Lotion and Extreme Multi-Resistant Matt Gel SPF50+ Travel Set

For travel-stressed skin

$44.20

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For travel-stressed skin that can’t quite decide what it needs, we recommend this travel set from SVR, another French pharmacy favorite. Featuring two of their standout sunscreens, it includes the Sun Secure Fluid Dry-Touch Lotion SPF50+ and the Sun Secure Extreme Multi-Resistant Matt Gel SPF50+.

The Sun Secure Fluid Dry-Touch Lotion SPF50+ offers high protection in a lightweight, non-sticky formula. Suitable for all skin types, especially normal to combination skin, it provides a natural finish that is easy to integrate into any daily routine. This lotion is particularly beneficial during and after long, drying flights, offering both protection and hydration.

However, we know that holiday skin can be prone to breakouts or become oilier than usual, especially in hot climates. In such cases, the Sun Secure Extreme Multi-Resistant Matt Gel SPF50+ is an excellent substitute. This gel-based sunscreen provides a refreshing cooling sensation and a matte, clear finish. Its non-greasy texture absorbs quickly and the formula withstands water, sweat, and sand, making it ideal for outdoor holiday activities.

NUXE: Sun High Protection Fondant Cream, Oil and Aftersun

For that holiday glow

$91.10

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Rounding up our selection, the ever-popular NUXE offers a luxurious suncare and post-sun care combination with their Sun High Protection Fondant Cream SPF 50, oil, and aftersun products. Richly scented, these face and body sunscreens and aftersun lotion are packed with nourishing ingredients, perfect for protecting and restoring the skin during and after sun exposure.

Read next: 7 Favorite French Face Masks

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