la roche-posay anthelios guide to using the right spf for your skin type by escentual

Which La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF Should I Be Using?

Written by: Chelsey Edmunds

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Time to read 8 min

This article helps readers choose the best Anthelios sunscreen by categorising spf based on skin type (normal to combination, oily, dry) using a colour-coded system.

Beyond skin types, the Anthelios range also includes targeted sunscreens for specific concerns like pigmentation, acne-prone skin, and anti-ageing.

Sunscreen may be one of the best scientific innovations, but it doesn’t need to be complicated.

La Roche-Posay has made it super simple to stay protected with various formulas suited to all skin types and protection preferences. I’ll be the first to admit: I haven’t always got it right, but my many years in beauty and meetings with dermatologists have armed me with the knowledge to break down the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen range.


After listening to our customer’s concerns and re-living my own experiences with sun care, I’ve learnt that one size doesn’t fit all and low-grade formulations just won’t cut it (there’s a reason why the range has won multiple awards). In this guide, I’ll help you to find the best Anthelios Sunscreen for you, whether you’re jetting away or staying at home.

The Author: Chelsey

After eighteen years navigating the beauty landscape – from the shop floor to now – I've learned a thing or two about what you truly need. At Escentual, I'm here to bring that experience directly to you, offering expert advice to achieve your personal beauty goals.

How To Choose The Best Anthelios Sunscreen For Your Skin

Selecting the right level of SPF for your face can be tough – you shouldn’t have to compromise on texture and ingredients. The Anthelios SPF range is recommended by UK dermatologists. Its expert skincare solutions offer the highest UVA/UVB protection level for all skin types, even those with sun-intolerant skin.


Like facial moisturisers, sunscreen for your face tends to be formulated differently to body sunscreen. The delicate skin on your face is exposed to the elements daily. La Roche-Posay facial sunscreens are developed to the same high standards as skincare to protect your skin and target individual skin concerns.


Each Anthelios Face SPF Is:
• Light and non-greasy
• Broad-spectrum
• Non-comedogenic (doesn’t clog pores)
• Formulated for individual skin types
• Dermatologist-tested

Meet Your Anthelios Sunscreen Match:

Did you know that exposure to ultraviolet light from UVA or UVB rays accounts for 80% of the symptoms of premature ageing?


 Therefore, La Roche-Posay only believes in high protection to protect your skin from sun damage and fine lines. Each La Roche-Posay SPF collection is designed for distinct skin types.


Luckily the Anthelios sunscreen range is easily colour coded to help you find the perfect match for your skin type. Discover more with our La Roche-Posay Sunscreen comparison.


Yellow Is For Normal Skin

Anthelios Invisible Fluid


1) La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Invisible Fluid

Previously named Anthelios XL Ultra Light Fluid SPF50+, this popular facial SPF is ideal for those with normal to combination skin types. As La Roche-Posay’s best-selling facial sunscreen, the formula is photostable (unchanged by light), providing high UVA/UVB and ultra-long UVA protection.


 Unlike traditional sunscreens, what makes Invisible Fluid special is its thin and lightweight texture that doesn’t leave behind a white cast or marks. The hypoallergenic formula is resistant to water, sweat and sand without the usual sticky and generic SPF feel. The La Roche-Posay UVMUNE 400 Invisible Fluid is also available in an Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Invisible Tinted Fluid SPF50+, which is great if you’re looking for subtle daily coverage. They even have an Anthelios Invisible Fluid SPF30 option too!



2) La Roche-Posay XL Anthelios Ultra-Light Invisible Mist SPF50+

If you like to keep your SPF routine simple with one multi-use formula, you will love the Anthelios Invisible Spray. Its fine, lightweight texture and dry and invisible finish are safe to use on the face and body – providing broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. You can even use it on top of or beneath makeup!


3) La Roche-Posay Anthelios Stick SPF50+

For on-the-spot SPF protection, the Anthelios XL stick is a must-have. Moles, lips, ears and eyelids can reap the benefits of high UVA and UVB protection with its easy applicator and portable packaging. It has a creamy texture to hydrate your delicate skin before sinking into an invisible finish.

Green Is For Oily to Blemish-Prone Skin

Anthelios Anti-Shine


1) La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Dry Touch Gel-Cream SPF 50+

The Dry Touch Gel texture is formulated with a double anti-shine action to keep your oily skin looking matte. Whether you want coverage or not, you can choose between the Anti-Shine Dry Touch Gel-Cream SPF50+ or the Anthelios Anti-Shine Tinted Dry Touch Gel-Cream SPF50+. The tinted version uses universal micro pigments to colour adapt to your skin tone for light coverage.


2) La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Invisible Fresh Mist Spray SPF50+

Don’t be fooled by the fact this face mist is in the Anti-Shine collection; all skin types can enjoy this SPF mist. A must-have for city-dwellers, beachgoers and serious sports addicts, this easy-to-use SPF doesn’t dry your skin out; it simply protects with a lightweight formula that feels invisible on your skin and fits perfectly in your kitbag or handbag. Keen athletes will love its anti-sting formula that won’t drip into your eyes when you sweat. If you often suffer from a burnt scalp, this invisible SPF mist is a must-have!


If you’re looking for an SPF to complement your La Roche-Posay Effaclar routine, the Anti-Shine collection works perfectly.


Blue: Anthelios Hydrating Cream

For Dry Skin

Available in the Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Hydrating Cream SPF50+ and the Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Hydrating Tinted Cream SPF50+, this hypoallergenic formula contains minimal ingredients to reduce the chance of irritation whilst offering 24 hours of hydration thanks to La Roche-Posay iconic thermal water. Resistant to water and non-comedogenic, UVMUNE 400 Hydrating Cream has a velveteen texture that melts into your skin with ease whilst topping up your hydration levels when you’re out and about in the sun.


Previously named the Anthelios Comfort Cream, this sunscreen now protects against long UVA rays. It’s still suitable for sensitive skin types, contact lens wearers and anyone suffering from a sun allergy.

Shop the hydrating body range here.

Metallic is for Targeting Skin Concerns

Anthelios for Pigmentation, Acne & Wrinkles

1) La Roche-Posay Anthelios Pigment Correct Daily Tinted Cream SPF50+

Melanin is a natural pigment that protects the skin from the sun; UV exposure can create extra melanin, which can worsen your hyperpigmentation. Why not combine your SPF with your hyperpigmentation treatment?


The La Roche-Posay Anthelios Pigment Correct SPF corrects signs of hyperpigmentation, such as dark spots and dullness, whilst protecting your skin from sun damage. This La Roche-Posay Sunscreen merges skincare and suncare with Cellox-B3-Tech, which treats pigmentation and protects against skin damage caused by infrared, pollution and oxidative stress. Its subtle tint provides high coverage for uneven skin tones – it’s a great skin-loving alternative to foundation.

2) La Roche-Posay Anthelios Oil Correct Daily Gel-Cream SPF50+

Summer can be a nightmare for oily, acne-prone skin. I’m all too familiar with the extra T-zone shine during summer. That’s where the Anthelios Oil Correct SPF 50+ comes in! Its non-comedogenic formula combines salicylic acid, niacinamide and zinc to correct imperfections, regulate oil production and deeply unclog pores. But what makes it unique is its lightweight texture that provides a 12-hour mattified finish (no greasy T-zone’s here).

3) La Roche-Posay Anthelios Age Correct Cream SPF50

Repeated sun exposure could cause your collagen and elastin to break down, resulting in wrinkles, sagging and even age spots. That’s where the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Age Correct SPF 50 comes in. A multi-purpose anti-ageing sunscreen designed to shield against photoaging and skin damage. Its hypoallergenic formula takes a multi-functional approach to suncare, minimising wrinkles, brightening dark spots and boosting elasticity. The La Roche-Posay Age Correct has a slightly thicker texture with a non-greasy finish that offers 24 hours of hydration.

Common Anthelios FAQs

How do I know which Anthelios SPF is right for my skin type?

The range is categorised by a colour-coded system on the packaging to make selection easier:

  • Yellow (Invisible Fluid): Best for normal to combination skin. It is known for its ultra-light, non-greasy texture that doesn't leave a white cast.

  • Green (Anti-Shine): Best for oily to blemish-prone skin. These formulas (like the Dry Touch Gel-Cream) have a double anti-shine action to provide a matte finish.

  • Blue (Hydrating Cream): Best for dry skin. It provides 24-hour hydration and is formulated to be extra gentle for sensitive or reactive skin.

  • Metallic/Silver (Targeted Care): Designed for specific concerns like hyperpigmentation (Pigment Correct), aging (Age Correct), or acne (Oil Correct).

Is there a sunscreen that won't sting my eyes?

Yes. The article highlights the Anthelios Anti-Shine Invisible Fresh Mist Spray and the Hydrating Cream as being particularly good for those who worry about SPF dripping into their eyes during sport or sweating, as they feature anti-stinging technologies.

Which Anthelios product should I use if I wear makeup?

  • For prep: The Invisible Fluid is recommended because it is thin and sits well under foundation.

  • For touch-ups: The Invisible Mist Spray is a popular choice because it can be applied directly over makeup throughout the day without ruining it.

Do they offer tinted versions?

Yes. Many people ask for "daily coverage" without a heavy foundation. The guide notes that the Invisible Fluid, Hydrating Cream, and Anti-Shine Gel-Cream all have tinted versions that use micro-pigments to adapt to skin tones.

What is "UVMUNE 400"?

This is a common technical question. It refers to La Roche-Posay's latest filtration technology (Mexoryl 400), which protects against ultra-long UVA rays, the specific rays that contribute most to long-term skin aging and cell damage.

Are these sunscreens safe for sensitive skin?

A recurring concern for shoppers is irritation. The FAQs clarify that the entire Anthelios range is:

  • Dermatologist-tested.

  • Non-comedogenic (won't clog pores).

  • Hypoallergenic.

  • Formulated with La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water to soothe the skin.

How do I protect small areas like moles or lips?

For "on-the-spot" protection, people often ask for portable options. The article recommends the Anthelios Stick SPF50+, which is designed specifically for sensitive or high-exposure areas like moles, ears, and eyelids.

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