Best Sun Protection Face Serums of 2026

Charlotte Powell Avatar
Charlotte Powell
Last Updated: 2 Feb 2026

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Sun Protection Face Serums are a range of skincare products that provide protection against harmful UV rays while hydrating and nourishing the skin. These serums are designed to be lightweight and easily absorbed, leaving no greasy residue. They contain a variety of ingredients such as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help to protect the skin from damage caused by the sun's rays. These serums are ideal for those who spend a lot of time outdoors, or for those who want to protect their skin from premature ageing and sun damage.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Lucy Bee SPF 30 Hydrating Face Serum Cover #TOP 1
Lucy Bee SPF 30 Hydrating Face Serum
ftb score rating icon 9.8
NIVEA Cellular Expert Filler Daily UV Serum Fluid SPF 50+ , Hydrating Anti-Ageing Cream with Sun Protection and Hyaluronic Acid Cover #TOP 2
NIVEA Cellular Expert Filler Daily UV Serum Fluid SPF 50+ , Hydrating Anti-Ageing Cream with Sun Protection and Hyaluronic Acid
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Garnier SkinActive Vitamin C Brightening Serum Cover #TOP 3
Garnier SkinActive Vitamin C Brightening Serum
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Sun Protection Face Serums

#TOP 1

Lucy Bee SPF 30 Hydrating Face Serum

Lucy Bee
50 ml (Pack of 1)
Lucy Bee SPF 30 Hydrating Face Serum Cover
Lucy Bee SPF 30 Face Serum, Skincare Stocking Filler, Lightweight Daily UVA/UVB Sun Protection, Hyaluronic Acid, No White Cast, Dermatologist Approved for Sensitive Skin, Vegan, Pregnancy Safe 50ml

The Lucy Bee Face Serum is a hydrating 2-in-1 product that offers SPF 30 protection with the added benefits of hyaluronic acid. This dermatologist-approved serum glides on effortlessly without leaving a white cast, making it suitable for all skin tones. It provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, helping to prevent premature skin ageing caused by the sun’s rays. Additionally, it is safe for sensitive skin, and can be used during pregnancy, providing peace of mind while caring for your skin.

What We Like
Hydrating formula with SPF 30
No greasy residue
Suitable for sensitive skin
Pregnancy safe
Vegan and cruelty-free
#TOP 2

NIVEA Cellular Expert Filler Daily UV Serum Fluid SPF 50+ , Hydrating Anti-Ageing Cream with Sun Protection and Hyaluronic Acid

30 ml (Pack of 1)
NIVEA Cellular Expert Filler Daily UV Serum Fluid SPF 50+ , Hydrating Anti-Ageing Cream with Sun Protection and Hyaluronic Acid Cover
NIVEA Cellular Expert Filler Daily UV Serum Fluid SPF 50+ (30ml), Hydrating Anti-Ageing Cream with Sun Protection and Hyaluronic Acid, Face Sun Cream to Smooth Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Features
HYDRATES AND REPAIRS – Formulated With Two Types Of Pure Hyaluronic Acid, It Deeply Hydrates, Smooths Fine Lines, And Stimulates Skin's Natural Hyaluron Production For A Rejuvenated Look
ADVANCED SUN PROTECTION – This SPF50+ Sunscreen Shields Your Skin From Harmful UVA And UVB Rays, Helping To Prevent Sun Damage And Premature Ageing Caused By Daily Sun Exposure
POWERFUL ANTIOXIDANT CARE – Enriched With Licochalcone A, This NIVEA Sun Cream Protects Against Pollution And Oxidative Stress, Maintaining A Radiant, Youthful Complexion.
IMMEDIATE AND LONG-TERM RESULTS – This Face Sun Cream Delivers Instant Hydration And Smoothness, Improving Skin Smoothness By 31% In One Week And Visibly Reducing Fine Lines In Two Weeks*
GENTLE AND LIGHTWEIGHT FORMULA – Dermatologically Approved, This Fragrance-Free Sunscreen Is Suitable For All Skin Types, Including Sensitive Skin, And Ideal For Layering Under Makeup

Garnier SkinActive Vitamin C Brightening Serum

FD-MS-221110-095
Clear
30 ml (Pack of 1)
Garnier SkinActive Vitamin C Brightening Serum Cover
Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Serum for Face, with 4% Vitamin C, Niacinamide & Salicylic Acid, Brightens Skin, Reduces Dark Spots & Evens Skin Tone, Serum 30ml

The Garnier Vitamin C Serum is a lightweight facial serum designed to brighten your skin and reduce dark spots. With daily use, you can achieve a radiant and even complexion in just six days. This serum effectively targets multiple skin concerns, helping to diminish pigmentation while refining pores for a smoother appearance. The powerful formula includes a blend of niacinamide, a vitamin C derivative, and salicylic acid, ensuring your skin looks vibrant and refreshed throughout the day.

What We Like
Brightens skin effectively
Reduces dark spots
Refines pores
Suitable for all skin types
Convenient daily use

NIVEA Luminous 630 Anti Dark-Spot Serum

98711
White
1 count (Pack of 1)
NIVEA Luminous 630 Anti Dark-Spot Serum Cover
NIVEA Luminous 630 Anti Dark-Spot & Anti-Age Serum (30ml), Anti-Wrinkle Face Serum Reduces Age Spots and Dark-Spots, Firming and Hydrating Serum to Reduce Wrinkles and Fine Lines

NIVEA Luminous 630 Serum is a powerful solution to combat dark spots and signs of ageing. With its patented Thiamidol, this serum can visibly reduce dark spots accumulated over the years, offering noticeable results in just seven days. It also improves skin elasticity, helping to firm and smooth the skin while filling deep wrinkles. Additionally, the brightening agents work to restore your skin's radiance, giving you a luminous and youthful complexion. Regular use can significantly enhance your skin's overall appearance.

What We Like
Reduces dark spots effectively
Improves skin elasticity
Brightens and evens skin tone
Suitable for mature skin
Visible results in seven days

NIVEA Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Power Serum 15ml

B0BXPHPCLL
White
15 g (Pack of 1)
NIVEA Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Power Serum 15ml Cover
NIVEA Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Power Expert Wrinkle Filler Serum (15ml), Face Serum with Pure Coenzyme Q10 and Bioxifill Peptides Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles in 5 Minutes

The NIVEA Q10 Serum is designed to deliver fast results, reducing fine lines and wrinkles in just 5 minutes. You can enjoy noticeably plumper skin within just 2 weeks, as it fills and replumps wrinkles around the forehead, eyes, lips, and nasolabial folds. With a 5% Active Complex, this serum penetrates deeply into the skin, boosting collagen production effectively. Furthermore, it is enriched with Pure Coenzyme Q10 and Bioxifill peptides, helping to visibly reduce stubborn wrinkles by up to 50% in just 4 weeks.

What We Like
Quick results within 5 minutes
Boosts collagen production
Reduces stubborn wrinkles significantly
Easy application with applicator

ROSVANEE 2.5% Retinol Anti-Aging Serum

RS-R902
Retinol
60 ml (Pack of 1)
ROSVANEE 2.5% Retinol Anti-Aging Serum Cover
ROSVANEE Dermatologist Tested Retinol Serum for Face Big 2 oz, with 2.5% Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C & E, Anti Aging Facial Serum for Skin Repair, Acne, Scar, Dark Spot, Fine Line and Wrinkles

The ROSVANEE Retinol Serum is a powerful yet gentle solution for your skincare routine. With 2.5% retinol, it promotes cell turnover and boosts collagen, resulting in smooth, youthful skin. This serum effectively unclogs pores and improves uneven skin tone, helping you achieve a brighter, firmer appearance. Additionally, it contains hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and vitamin E, which work together to enhance skin strength and texture. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, it can even be used around the eyes for added convenience.

What We Like
Gentle for daily use
Improves skin texture
Brightens uneven skin tone
Suitable for all skin types
Cruelty-free and vegan
#TOP 7

The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane

769915194012
Cranberry
30 ml (Pack of 1)
The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane Cover
The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane, Intermediate Retinol Serum for the Face That Is Anti-Aging and Skin Smoothing, 30ml

Features
IMPROVES TEXTURE & TONE: Works To Even Out Skin Texture And Tone, Addressing Signs Of Aging Such As Lines And Wrinkles From The Loss Of Collagen And Elastin.
MODERATE-STRENGTH RETINOL FORMULA: Retinol 0.5% In Squalane Targets Fine Lines, Wrinkles, And Uneven Skin Texture, Offering Moderate-Strength Retinoid Support.
SUITABLE FOR INTERMEDIATE USERS: Ideal For Those Who Have Built A Tolerance To Lower-Strength Retinol, Offering An Intermediate Solution Before Progressing To Higher Concentrations.
CONDITIONS & NOURISHES: Supported With Squalane, A Conditioning Agent That Nourishes Skin To Help Target Dryness Associated With Retinol Use.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Apply A Few Drops To The Face In The Evening. Use Sun Protection During The Day. Do Not Use With Other Retinoid Products. Refrigerate After Opening.
#TOP 8

INSKIN Vitamin C Concentrated Serum Ampoules

Vitamin C
1 ml (Pack of 1)
INSKIN Vitamin C Concentrated Serum Ampoules Cover
Vitamin C Serum for Face Concentrated Ampoules, Vit C Serum Anti Ageing & Anti Wrinkle Serum, Brightening Serum for Dull,Tired Skin, Powerful Antioxidant Protection face serum, 7x2ml Ampoule Serum

The INSKIN Vitamin C Serum provides a powerful daily treatment that boosts collagen production, enhancing your skin's firmness and reducing signs of ageing. With regular use, this serum helps repair sun damage, effectively diminishing dark spots and promoting a more even skin tone. Additionally, it rejuvenates rough skin, smoothing out microgrooves and reducing excess oil and blemishes. This advanced formula also targets wrinkles and fine lines, ensuring you achieve a youthful and radiant complexion.

What We Like
Boosts collagen production
Repairs sun damage
Reduces dark spots
Targets wrinkles effectively
#TOP 9

CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum

Clear
30 ml (Pack of 1)
CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum Cover
CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum for Face, Anti-Aging Face Serum Skin Care for Fine Lines, Skin Tone Evenness, Discoloration Serum 30ml

Features
Targets Blemishes, Sun Protection
Unclog Pores
Targets Blackheads,deeply Cleanses
Removes Oiliness
Helps Eliminate Spots
#TOP 10

Olay Vitamin C SPF50 + Super Serum Mini Giftset

8006530073035
White
One Size
Olay Vitamin C SPF50 + Super Serum Mini Giftset Cover
Olay Vitamin C SPF50 + Super Serum Mini Giftset: Niacinamide, Vitamin C Serum with Collagen Peptide 14ml + Vitamin C SPF 50 Face Cream Moisturiser 50ml, Brightening Glow Skincare for Women

Features
TREAT WITH SUPER SERUM: Dive Into The Delight Of The Mini Olay Super Serum, Packed With 5 Benefits In 1: Improved Skin Texture, A More Even-Looking Skin Tone, Firmer-Feeling Skin, Smoother Visible Lines, And Long-Lasting Hydration
MULTI-BENEFIT SKINCARE: Crafted With Potent Ingredients, This Giftset Deliver Multiple Benefits, Streamlining Your Skincare Routine For Effortless Radiance
REFRESHING CITRUS FRAGRANCE: Indulge Your Senses With The Uplifting Essence Of Citrus! The Delightful Scent Transforms Your Skincare Ritual Into A Refreshing Experience, Making Every Application A Treat
NON-STICKY AND INVISIBLE FINISH: Enjoy The Luxurious Feel Of Both Products As They Blend Perfectly Into Your Skin, Leaving No White Cast - Just A Gorgeous, Flawless Finish That Suits All Skin Tones
MOISTURISE AND PROTECT WITH VITAMIN C SPF 50+: Embrace The Glow With The Vitamin C Brighten & Glow Moisturiser! Enjoy 24-Hour Hydration, An Instant Healthy Glow, And Protection From Sun-Induced Dark Spots. With Powerful UVA And UVB Defense
INTENSE HYDRATION FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: Both Products Are Your Hydration Heroes, Delivering A Burst Of Moisture That Leaves Your Skin Feeling Soft, Refreshed, And Beautifully Nourished All Day Long
INSTANT RADIANCE: Experience An Immediate Boost In Luminosity With This Powerful Duo, Enhancing Your Skin's Natural Glow
FAST-ABSORBING FORMULAS: Say Goodbye To Sticky Residue! The Lightweight, Fast-Absorbing Formulas Of Both The Serum And Moisturizer Glide On Effortlessly, Fitting Seamlessly Into Your Busy Routine
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can serum be used as sunscreen?

Plus, the act of putting on the moisturizer or serum over the physical formulation can give the sunblock a patchy effect, thereby reducing your sun protection. So it should be serum (the lightest product always goes on first), then moisturizer, then sunblock.

2. Is sun serum and sunscreen the same?

The difference is that sunscreen serums contain, of course, the added benefit of broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and without the dreaded white cast that lead many, unfortunately, to forgo SPF altogether. (We shudder at the thought, especially since not wearing SPF can, at its worst, lead to skin cancer.)

3. Is SPF 30 or 50 better for face?

A sunscreen with SPF 30 will protect you from around 96.7% of UVB rays, whereas an SPF of 50 means protection from about 98% of UVB rays. Anything beyond SPF 50 makes very little difference in terms of risk of sun damage, and no sunscreens offer 100% protection from UVB rays.

Editor's Notes

During our sun protection face serum research, we found 61 sun protection face serum products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 197,970 customer reviews through our big data system to write the sun protection face serums list. We found that most customers choose sun protection face serums with an average price of £13.29.

The sun protection face serums are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of sun protection face serums, including Lucy Bee, NIVEA, Garnier, ROSVANEE, The Ordinary.

Written by
Charlotte Powell Avatar

Charlotte Powell is a dermatologist and a licensed cosmetologist from Westminster, London. However, she was first a cosmetologist from London Beauty Training School. According to Charlotte, she needed better insight into the human skin, hence the dermatology degree. Long before she acquired her degree, she wrote and edited articles, eBooks, and editorials for companies and websites. Charlotte combines her skill and knowledge in providing DIY Beauty tips amongst other fashion related topics.