Top 10 Sunscreens | Recommended by our Experts

Top 10 Sunscreens | Recommended by our Experts

When it comes to radiant, youthful skin, one rule stands above all—protecting your skin from the sun. Whether you’re dealing with dry, sensitive, oily, or combination skin, sunscreen is your number one ally in maintaining your complexion’s health and vitality. But there are so many more solutions available than the “white topical cream” we’ve become accustomed to…

At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we believe that every skin type deserves optimal protection. That’s why we’ve curated a list of our top 10 sunscreens (in no particular order of preference), each offering a very unique and tailored approach to shield your skin from harmful UV rays while catering to its unique needs.

From lightweight mattifying formulas to “foundation-replacing” tinted solutions, let’s see if we can find your perfect match.

An Extra Layer of Sun Protection

For those looking to enhance their sun protection from within, Heliocare Ultra Capsules provide an innovative solution. These oral supplements offer an additional shield when your skin is exposed to harmful UV rays. While they don’t replace the need for topical sunscreen, they work in synergy with a high-factor, broad-spectrum sunscreen to further guard against UV radiation, which is known to accelerate skin aging, trigger hyperpigmentation, and increase the risk of skin cancer through DNA damage.

Ideal for fair skin types, individuals with photosensitivity (often due to medication), those undergoing post-rejuvenation treatments, and anyone at higher risk of skin cancer, Heliocare Ultra Capsules are a powerful complement to your skincare regimen.

Usage: Take one capsule daily before sun exposure to maximize your protection. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.

Go for the Protective Glow

Achieve a luminous, healthy glow while protecting your skin with Total Protection Face Shield GLOW SPF 50. This hydrating, mineral-based sunscreen is packed with antioxidants and delivers a pearlescent finish for a radiant, lit-from-within look. Powered by EnviroScreen® Technology, it provides comprehensive protection against environmental aggressors, making it a must-have for all skin types.

Usage: Shake well before each use, as natural separation may occur. Apply at least a nickel-sized amount evenly over your face for full protection.

Note: This product contains Niacinamide (Vitamin B3). If you have a known allergy to Niacinamide or suspect you might be sensitive, perform a patch test on your forearm or neck before using.

Precision Protection for Sensitive Areas

Specially formulated for delicate areas, the Mesoestetic Mesoprotech Sun Protective Repairing Stick 100+ provides exceptional defense against UV damage. Ophthalmologically tested, this convenient stick offers targeted protection for sensitive zones such as the eye contour, lips, scars, and blemishes. With protection that surpasses the minimum SPF50+ requirements (with a UVB score of 124 and a UVA score of 32), it’s a must-have for anyone seeking advanced sun care for specific areas.

Usage: For topical use only, simply glide the stick over the areas needing protection. Reapply every two hours, particularly after towel-drying, bathing, or sweating, to maintain full effectiveness. Avoid direct contact with eyes and mucous membranes; rinse with water if necessary. Store in a cool, dry place, and keep out of the reach of children.

Lightweight Protection for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin

The NeoStrata Sheer Hydration Sunscreen SPF35 is the ideal solution for those with combination or oily, acne-prone skin. This oil-free, lightweight daytime moisturizer offers broad-spectrum protection while helping to reduce oiliness, minimize pore size, and enhance the skin’s radiance. With the power of NeoGlucosamine, a key building block of hyaluronic acid, it works to plump the skin, improve its structure, and diminish fine lines over time.

Clinically proven to speed up cell turnover, NeoStrata Sheer Hydration also targets uneven skin tone and brown marks, leaving the skin clearer and more balanced. Its antioxidant properties provide further protection against environmental damage. The formula is fragrance-free, dye-free, paraben-free, PABA-free, non-comedogenic, and not tested on animals, making it a go-to for those prone to hormonal breakouts or seeking an ethical, clean beauty option.

Usage: Apply a small amount in the morning to clean, dry skin for all-day hydration and protection.

High-Performance, Matte Finish Protection

For those seeking a non-greasy, quick-drying sunscreen with a matte finish, ZO Skin Health’s Daily Sheer SPF 50 offers exceptional broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Designed to prevent the aging effects of high-energy visible (HEV) light, this advanced sunscreen features natural melanin to further shield your skin from environmental stressors. Whether you’re engaging in outdoor activities or simply spending time in the sun, its water- and perspiration-resistant formula ensures long-lasting protection while keeping the skin hydrated to prevent dryness.

Usage: Apply generously 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating, or immediately after towel drying, and at least every two hours for maximum protection. For children under 6 months, consult a doctor before use.

Mineral Anti-Ageing Protection

Formulated specifically for sensitive, combination, and oily skin, the Mesoestetic Mesoprotech Mineral Matt Anti-aging Fluid SPF 50+ offers superior sun protection with added anti-aging benefits. This lightweight emulsion is designed with physical filters to ensure high dermal tolerance, making it ideal for delicate or damaged skin. Its advanced formula provides a powdery, matte finish that controls excess oil and shine, all while delivering maximum sun protection. The non-comedogenic and water-resistant formula makes it a go-to choice for daily wear, combining cutting-edge technology with anti-aging properties.

Usage: For optimal protection, apply generously to clean, dry skin at least 30 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every two hours, especially after towel-drying, swimming, or sweating. Be sure to apply enough product to ensure full protection, as using less can significantly reduce effectiveness. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes, and keep out of reach of children.

Advanced Sun Protection for Active Lifestyles

The Heliocare 360 Invisible Spray SPF 50+ offers ultimate body protection in a convenient, transparent spray format. Its WET SKIN formula ensures effective coverage, even on wet skin, making it ideal for outdoor activities like swimming or sports. This invisible, refreshing spray absorbs quickly, providing a hypoallergenic, water- and sand-resistant finish, perfect for those on the go.

Key Benefits:

  • Transparent, fast-absorbing formula
  • Water and sand resistant
  • Hypoallergenic, refreshing finish
  • Protects against UVB, UVA, visible, and infrared radiation
  • Features Fernblock®+ for added repair and antioxidant protection

Usage: Shake well before use. Apply generously and evenly before sun exposure, ensuring full coverage. Reapply frequently, especially after prolonged swimming, towel-drying, or excessive sweating.

Protect With a Pop of Colour

The Total Protection Colour Balm SPF 50 offers exceptional protection and hydration of the lips and cheeks with a gorgeous pop of color! Each shade (there are 3: Bronze, Blush, and Berry) is designed with our EnviroScreen® Technology to provide all-mineral protection from environmental aggressors.

Usage: Apply liberally to lips and cheeks. For sheer color, use fingertips to lightly dab color onto the skin. For fuller color, apply directly onto the skin, or layer on as needed. Reapply at least every two hours.

Pro Tip: Blend shades to create custom looks with unmatched Total Protection.

Convenient, On-the-Go Sun Protection

The Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 offers an innovative, portable solution for all-mineral sun protection that’s perfect for on-the-go application. Powered by EnviroScreen® Technology, this easy-to-use, brush-on formula provides broad-spectrum protection while hydrating and nourishing the skin. Ideal for use alone or over makeup, it’s a 100% chemical-free, mineral-based sunscreen that ensures complete skin defense. The best part? It’s available in a variety of shades!

Designed with antimicrobial bristles to maintain freshness, this dermatologist-recommended brush-on shield is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes. The convenient packaging makes reapplication throughout the day a breeze, whether you’re at the beach or in the city.

Usage:

  1. Open: Remove the brush cap, pull back the sleeve, and discard the rubber band. Replace the cap.
  2. Activate: Tap the capped brush firmly against a hard surface 5-10 times to activate the powder flow. Remove the cap and check the bristles for powder release. Repeat if necessary until you see powder.
  3. Apply: Using circular motions, sweep the brush generously across your face for at least 60 seconds, covering all areas, including ears and neck. For reapplication, shake the brush or tap as needed to reload the powder. If using over makeup, ensure your base has fully set before applying.

Reapply every two hours, especially after sweating or swimming, for continued protection.

Sensitive Skin Protection for Kids

Heliocare’s 360° Pediatrics Lotion is the ideal photoimmunoprotection for children. It has been tested on the sensitive skin of babies and children under dermatological, pediatric, and ophthalmological control. It increases the skin’s resistance to the sun, protects, and repairs DNA damage, and offers immunological defense and anti-oxidant activity.

Usage: Always shake this product before using and apply it evenly and generously before sun exposure. It is important to reapply frequently, especially after swimming or sweating.

Want to discuss your ideal solutions with a professional? Email us at skinclinic@drnwilkinson.co.za to enquire about your personalised consultation.