Tira Loves
Smell like a million bucks (for less): 9 luxe perfumes worth snagging from the Hello Beauty Sale
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We all know SPF is non-negotiable, but finding one that plays well with your makeup? That’s where things get tricky. Some formulas pill under foundation, others leave behind a greasy sheen or cast that throws off your base. And if you’ve ever skipped sunscreen because it “just didn’t sit right” under your makeup, you’re not alone.
The good news? There are now smarter, more elegant sunscreens that layer beautifully without compromising protection or finish. Whether you prefer a matte look, dewy skin or something in between, there's an SPF out there that won’t disrupt your routine—or your face.
Finish: Matte-dry | Texture: Lightweight lotion
A no-fuss classic, this one’s all about performance. The texture is lotion-light and dries down fast, leaving a soft matte finish that feels more like primer than sunscreen. There’s a bit of slip at first, but once it sets, it stays put—ideal for makeup that doesn’t like to budge. It can leave a mild cast on deeper skin tones, though it tends to fade once foundation goes on. Quietly effective, like a behind-the-scenes essential.
Finish: Sheer and dewy | Texture: Water-gel
A J-beauty favourite for good reason, this feels more like a cooling serum than traditional SPF. The gel texture melts in instantly, leaving skin fresh and lightly hydrated without stickiness. It layers beautifully under water-based or dewy foundations, the kind that usually rebel against heavier sunscreens. No white cast, just a dewy bounce—but skip it if you're wearing a silicone-heavy base, as the slip may reduce grip.
Finish: Satin-matte | Texture: Cream-essence
Made for sensitive skin, this gentle SPF is all about calm, comfort and barrier care. With panthenol and centella, it soothes while protecting, and skips alcohol, fragrance and common triggers. The finish is soft and satin-like—not matte, but not shiny either—perfect under bases that like a bit of moisture. It won’t act like a primer, but it won’t get in the way either.
This Beauty of Joseon must-have is light, smooth and totally invisible. It’s made with rice extract and probiotics to calm and moisturise your skin while protecting it from the sun. No white cast, no stickiness—just a soft, fresh finish that works under makeup or on its own. Great for sensitive skin and everyday use.
Finish: Skin-like | Texture: Lightweight cream
This cult-favourite behaves more like a nourishing moisturiser than a typical SPF. The rice extract adds softness, and the finish is a “your skin but better” glow. It layers effortlessly under foundation sticks, cream blushes and tinted moisturisers, without interference. It’s not for those after oil control or grip, but if you want your makeup to melt in naturally, this is a strong pick.
Finish: Velvet | Texture: Milky fluid
Built for endurance but feels surprisingly refined. This formula adjusts to sweat, water and heat, thanks to Shiseido’s adaptive tech—but on skin, it’s a silky fluid that dries quickly and gives a soft, velvety finish. There’s a hint of scent and initial sheen, but both settle down fast. A solid choice for humid days or anyone whose makeup tends to slide off.
Finish: Soft matte | Texture: Balm-to-powder stick
Compact, weightless and ideal for on-the-go, this sun stick smooths on like a balm then dries into a powder-like veil. Great for touch-ups, but it also works well under makeup—blurring shine and softening texture without shifting cream or powder products. With centella inside, it’s a win for acne-prone or easily irritated skin.
Finish: Skin-like matte | Texture: Hydrating lotion
This feels more like skincare than SPF, packed with ceramides, niacinamide and humectants that support your barrier. It dries down to a soft matte—never chalky—and absorbs cleanly with no residue. It works well under long-wear makeup, giving it grip without drying your skin flat. Low-key but clever, especially for sensitive or recovering skin.
Finish: Satin-luxe | Texture: Fluid
If luxury had a texture, this would be it. The featherlight formula melts into skin, offering a soft blur and subtle luminosity. Think radiant, not shiny. It pairs well with dewy foundations or skin tints, enhancing glow without overwhelming it. The price may be steep, but the finish is understated and refined—perfect for skin that wants to look expensive without looking done.
Finish: Soft matte | Texture: Watery gel-cream
Somewhere between essence and moisturiser, this lightweight SPF offers a clean, soft-matte finish that stays in place under medium to full-coverage makeup. It hydrates just enough for dry skin, yet balances oily types too. A solid middle ground—smooth, reliable and easy to layer without patchiness or oxidisation.
Finish: Matte-satin | Texture: Cream-lotion
This one leans skincare-first, with a silky mineral formula that blends in like a primer-serum hybrid. It dries to a soft matte finish—not flat, just quietly polished—and wears beautifully under makeup. There’s no tackiness or flash, just a clean, balanced base. It’s pricey, but thoughtfully made for those who want protection, comfort and a bit of barrier support in one.
