If you chat up any dermatologist about preventing skin aging, there’s a 100 percent chance that you’ll hear the word “sunscreen” within the first 30 seconds. We know that sunscreen is our best defence against the sun’s damaging rays (which are also the number one cause of skin cancer), so why are so many of us still unwilling to make it a permanent part of our a.m. regimen?

Well, until now, many of the sunscreen options available were unappealing on several fronts: greasy formulas, chalky, visible finishes, SPFs that only protect against 5 percent of the UV rays reaching the skin. This is why trying La Roche Posay’s Anthelios Ultra-Fluid SPF 50+ Facial Sunscreen was such a revelation. Applying the light, thin formula—then watching it disappear on our skin in seconds—made us realize that not all sunscreens are made the same. This one is oil-free and produces a matte finish, which made it an actual pleasure to apply as the last step in our skincare routine.

Most importantly, Anthelios’ commitment to preventing sun damage is unparalleled. La Roche Posay’s differentiating factor? It’s formulated with high UVB and UVA broad-spectrum protection, which means you’re protected from both types of rays. UVA rays can penetrate through clouds and windows, are present throughout the year and account for up to 95 percent of UV radiation from the sun. As the most derm-recommended sun protection in Canada and a winner in ELLE’s Beauty Grand Prix in 2021, it has some serious acclaim backing it up too.

In every other area, Anthelios Ultra-Fluid SPF 50+ Facial Sunscreen checked off all our requirements. It’s not only safe for sensitive skin but also tested under marine-life conditions, so every time you take an ocean dip, you can be confident that you’re respecting the waters you’re wading in. If you’re worried about sunscreen seeping into your eyes during sweaty activities or while swimming, don’t: This one’s got water-resistant stay-put power. After a five-kilometre run on an unseasonably warm spring day, we didn’t experience any tear-inducing sunscreen migration—just unyielding protection from the sun’s rays. Need to pack light on your next warm-weather vacay? La Roche-Posay’s product is housed in a sleek 50 mL bottle, making it the perfect carry-on travel essential.