Cake The Mag’s Favourite SPFs This Summer
Glowy skin and shiny hair start with great protection. Whether it’s July or January, SPF is more than a seasonal essential—it’s the most consistent act of self-care we can offer our skin. With formulas that hydrate, blur, brighten, and protect, today’s sunscreens do a whole lot more than just block UV rays. They’ve become skincare staples, mood-lifters, and sometimes even makeup replacements.
Whether you’re going barefaced, reaching for your favourite skin tint, or spraying and heading straight to the beach, we’ve curated a list of our go-to formulas for face, body, and hair that we’ve been relying on to keep our skin safe and glowing—all without the chalky cast or greasy after-feel.
Below, find the sunscreens we actually use (and love), broken down by category. These are the ones that stay in our handbags, beach totes, and bathroom counters—season after season.
For the Face
Ashri Skin Broadspectrum
Minimal and effective—Ashri’s SPF is a clean beauty staple. Lightweight and fragrance-free, it’s great for daily wear and reapplication. It also plays well with makeup. Shop here.
ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint
A triple threat of skincare, tint, and sun protection, this serum is packed with niacinamide, squalane, and hyaluronic acid. The dewy finish is flattering and fresh, perfect for dry or combination skin. A little goes a long way. Shop here.
Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defense
Kiehl’s delivers no-fuss protection that works on all skin types, including sensitive. Its non-comedogenic formula doubles as a moisturiser and shields from pollution. A true city essential. Shop here.
Summer Fridays ShadeDrops™
This mineral milk sunscreen melts into skin without the chalky residue mineral formulas are known for. Infused with antioxidants, it's calming and hydrating. A favourite for sensitive skin lovers. Shop here.
Supergoop Protec(tint) Daily Skin Tint
Part skin tint, part high-protection SPF, Supergoop’s Protec(tint) blends seamlessly while delivering a natural, radiant finish. It’s breathable, buildable, and loaded with skin-loving ingredients that never feel heavy. Ideal for no-makeup days or to enhance your base. Shop here.
Ultra Violette Fave Fluid
This cult-favourite Australian sunscreen is ultra-light, non-greasy, and made to layer with your makeup. It sinks in effortlessly, leaving a luminous finish and zero white cast. Shop here.
Rare Beauty Positive Light Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum
Lightweight, radiant, and protective—Rare Beauty’s formula gives just enough coverage and glow. It’s an everyday complexion hero that feels like skin. Shop here.
For the Body
We Are Feel Good Inc. Coconut Sunscreen Lotion
This tropical-scented SPF blends sun protection with hydration and a silky finish. It's rich in nourishing oils, making it perfect for dry skin. Bonus: you’ll smell like a coconut dream. Shop here.
Sun Bum Original Sunscreen
Bali Body’s iconic glow now comes with serious SPF protection. The fine mist application is fuss-free and fast-absorbing. Shop here.
Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance™ Body Spray
This SPF body spray smells like a vacation in a bottle, with a soft shimmer that enhances your tan. It’s easy to use, quick to dry, and water-resistant. Shop here.
For the Hair & Scalp
Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil
This lightweight mist creates an invisible screen that protects hair from UV damage for up to 16 hours. It helps prevent dryness and keeps hair colour vibrant. A staple for holidays and daily styling. Shop here.
COOLA Scalp and Hair Mist
COOLA’s mist shields your scalp and hair from UV damage while smelling fresh and clean. The antioxidant-rich formula even helps preserve colour-treated hair. Shop here.
Malibu Clear Hair and Scalp Protector
Designed specifically for the scalp, this lightweight mist offers strong SPF without weighing down hair. It’s invisible, non-greasy, and ideal for partings and hairlines. Shop here.
Sun Bum Scalp and Hair Mist
This refreshing hair mist protects your scalp and strands while leaving behind a salty sage scent. It’s a festival or beach day essential. Think texture, protection, and a little mood boost. Shop here.
