Between relentless UV rays, sky-high humidity, and surprise rainstorms, finding the best sunscreen in Singapore can feel like dating: lots of trial, some disappointment, and a few forever loves. As an avid skincare girlie who actually uses sunscreen daily (yes, even indoors), I’ve tested more formulas than I can count. From cult Japanese sunscreens to dermatologist-approved French pharmacy picks and viral Korean favourites, this guide brings together the best sunscreen Singapore weather truly demands – lightweight, high protection, and zero greasiness.
1. La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+ PA++++
Price: ~S$45 for 50ml
If you ask anyone for the best sunblock recommended by dermatologists in Singapore, chances are they’ll mention La Roche-Posay Anthelios. This French pharmacy sunscreen is famed for its very high UVA protection – it even guards against ultra-long UVA (up to 400nm) that many others miss. The UVMune 400 Fluid provides broad-spectrum coverage against UVA, UVB, infrared and pollution, making it a true all-rounder for city dwellers. Despite the powerful protection, the texture is impressively lightweight and non-greasy. It glides on like a serum and dries down without any white cast or shine. This formula is also hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and tested on sensitive skin, so it’s ideal if you’re prone to irritation.
Why it’s great for SG: This La Roche-Posay sunscreen is sweat-resistant, ultra-light, and invisible on all skin tones, so you can layer it under makeup with no pilling. Plus, it’s enriched with antioxidants to fight pollution – perfect for our urban environment.
2. Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk SPF50+ PA++++
Price: ~S$40 for 60ml
A legend in the J-beauty world, Shiseido’s Anessa Perfect UV Milk has been a go-to in Asia for years – and for good reason. This best Japanese sunscreen boasts “ Aqua Booster” technology that actually makes its UV protection stronger when it comes into contact with sweat or water, so it’s fantastic for our sweaty climate or a day at the beach. The texture is a runny, milky fluid that feels feather-light on the skin. Once applied, it sets to a satin finish with zero stickiness or white cast. In fact, one of Anessa’s star ingredients is zinc oxide, a physical filter that blocks the entire UVA & UVB spectrum, yet the formula manages to feel almost undetectable – a testament to Shiseido’s formulation prowess. It’s also loaded with skin-loving extras like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and marine collagen to moisturise, plus antioxidants (green tea, rosehip) to combat photoaging.
Why it’s great for SG: This Anessa sunscreen is extremely waterproof and sweat-proof, staying put for up to 80 minutes in water. You won’t have to worry about it melting off in our humidity. Despite being tough, it’s comfortable – no “tight” feeling and no strong sunscreen smell. Many users (myself included) find Anessa Perfect UV Milk actually leaves the skin smoother, almost like a primer.
3. Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+ PA++++
Price: ~S$15 for 50ml
When it comes to affordable everyday sunblocks, Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence is a superstar. This water-based chemical sunscreen feels just like its name – a watery essence. It squeezes out as a lightweight gel-cream that immediately sinks into the skin with no residue. The finish is refreshingly weightless and invisible, even on deeper skin tones. Bioré uses “Micro Defence” technology, which disperses the UV filters in micro-sized particles for even coverage, preventing any patchiness or missed spots. It’s also packed with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and royal jelly extract, so it doubles as a light moisturiser. There’s a hint of citrusy scent that fades quickly. Importantly, it’s non-comedogenic and allergy tested, and free of any heavy oils.
Why it’s great for SG: This Bioré sunscreen doesn’t clog pores or add any greasiness – in fact, it almost has a cooling effect on application. Even if you reapply it during the day, it layers without getting filmy or cakey. While it’s not very water-resistant (so not for sports), it’s perfect for daily urban life. Many consider this the best sunblock in Singapore for the face because it’s so easy and pleasant to reapply.
4. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF50+ PA++++
Price: ~S$6.50 for 50ml
This Korean sunscreen gained cult-favorite status worldwide for its hydrating, dewy finish and zero white cast. Isntree’s Watery Sun Gel is a chemical sunscreen loaded with 8 types of hyaluronic acid, which means it actively moisturises your skin while protecting it. The texture is that of a thin lotion or gel-cream – it’s not runny like Anessa, but not thick either, truly a “watery gel” that spreads effortlessly. When applied, it leaves a subtle glow. There’s no alcohol and no fragrance, so it’s gentle on sensitive or dry skin. Most importantly, it provides very high broad-spectrum protection using modern UV filters (like Uvinul A Plus and Tinosorb S), ensuring stable coverage. We love that it doesn’t sting the eyes and doesn’t pill under makeup.
Why it’s great for SG: If you have dehydrated skin or spend a lot of time in air-conditioned environments, this Isntree sunscreen keeps your face from drying out. It essentially combines your moisturiser and sunscreen step. On days when your skin feels a bit parched or sensitive, Isntree is a lifesaver because it never irritates and actually soothes with ingredients like centella and niacinamide. It’s not marketed as water-resistant, so stick to indoor or light outdoor activities with this one.
5. SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Air-Fit Suncream Plus (SPF50+ PA++++)
Price: ~S$11 for 50ml
SKIN1004’s Madagascar Centella Air-Fit Suncream uses zinc oxide (and no chemical filters at all) to reflect UV rays, making it a great choice for sensitive or acne-prone skin that can’t tolerate chemical filters. Unlike many mineral sunscreens, which feel thick, SKIN1004 really lives up to the “air-fit” name – it’s surprisingly lightweight and blends in easily. There is a slight beige tint to help counter the white cast, and on my light-medium skin, it virtually disappears after a minute of blending. The formula is enriched with Centella Asiatica extract (aka cica) from Madagascar, which is famed for its skin-soothing and redness-reducing properties. In fact, SKIN1004 is known for centella-centric skincare, and this SKIN1004 sunscreen is no exception – it calms irritation and even helps heal breakouts faster thanks to cica’s anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s also free of fragrance, alcohol, and parabens, making it extra gentle.
Why it’s great for SG: If you’ve been hesitant to use mineral sunscreens in our weather, this one will change your mind. It’s non-greasy and sets to a natural semi-matte finish without that chalky, drying feel. No more looking like a pale mime or a grease slick – the white cast is minimal, and it actually makes the skin look softly brightened. I love this on days my skin is a bit reactive or after facial treatments, since pure zinc oxide is very stable and calming. Do note it’s not highly water-resistant, so reapply often if you sweat.
6. ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturising Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++
Price: ~S$15 for 50ml
Another Korean hit, Round Lab Birch Juice Sun Cream, gained fame for its moisturising yet non-greasy feel. This sunscreen is a hybrid – it contains both mineral and chemical filters, striking a balance between high protection and lightweight texture. It’s called “Birch Juice” because it contains sap from the Asian white birch tree (Betula platyphylla japonica) as a key ingredient. Birch juice is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, making this sun cream somewhat of a skincare-sunscreen hybrid. The formula has a creamy texture with a slight pink-beige tone. On application, it feels moist and leaves a dewy finish, making your skin look fresh and glowy. Despite the dewy look, it doesn’t feel oily or sticky – Round Lab managed to make it hydrating without being too heavy for humidity. There is no obvious scent, and it didn’t sting my eyes.
Why it’s great for SG: If you have normal to dry skin, or even combo skin that enjoys a bit of glow, Round Lab Birch Juice is lovely. It functions like a light day moisturiser with bonus SPF. The birch juice and niacinamide in it help to calm and brighten the skin over time, so it’s great for those with redness or dullness. In our climate, I set it with a bit of translucent powder on my T-zone, and it stays dewy, not greasy. The tone-up effect is subtle, but it does make your face look more awake and even-toned.
Related: Round Lab vs SKIN1004: Korean Sun Stick Review
7. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++
Price: ~S$21 for 50ml
This sunscreen has been an internet sensation, often selling out due to its viral popularity – and I can confirm it lives up to the hype. Beauty of Joseon’s Relief Sun is a lightweight cream that uses modern chemical filters to achieve broad-spectrum protection. What’s unique is its traditional Korean skincare twist: it contains 30% rice extract and fermented grains (probiotics), reflecting the brand’s hanbang (herbal) beauty heritage. The texture is a light cream that feels like a moisturising lotion. It spreads smoothly and sets to a natural finish – not overly dewy, not matte, just “your skin but better.” It’s also alcohol-free and tested to be non-irritating, making it suitable for sensitive skin and fungal acne concerns.
Why it’s great for SG: Relief Sun is an excellent daily driver sunscreen for all skin types, especially normal to slightly dry or combo skin. In our climate, it provides ample moisture, so you could even skip a separate day cream if you have oily skin. I love that even if I apply the recommended 2mg/cm² (the 3-finger rule’s worth of product), it doesn’t feel heavy or greasy. It also wears well under makeup without pilling. The inclusion of rice extract gives a subtle brightening effect and helps control inflammation, which is useful in preventing UV-induced pigmentation. While it isn’t marketed as water-resistant, I’ve found it stays on through moderate perspiration just fine.
8. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Fluid SPF50+ PA++++
Price: ~S$25 for 50ml
Neutrogena is a brand that’s been around in Singapore for ages, and their Hydro Boost Hydrating Fluid is a modern hit for good reason. This sunscreen combines Neutrogena’s signature Helioplex® technology for broad-spectrum UV protection with the beloved Hydro Boost line’s hydrating hyaluronic acid. The result? A sunscreen that shields you from UVA and UVB rays while drenching your skin in lightweight moisture. The texture is more fluid than a typical cream but not as runny as a true liquid – think of a very light lotion. It absorbs quickly and leaves an invisible finish with no white cast (it’s a purely chemical sunscreen). True to its name, it feels hydrating but refreshing – no oily residue at all, more like you applied a splash of water. It’s oil-free, non-comedogenic, and co-developed with dermatologists, so it checks the boxes for safety and efficacy.
Why it’s great for SG: The oil-free, lightweight formula is a boon for anyone with oily or combination skin living in the tropics. It also claims to be sweat and water-resistant for 2 hours, so it can handle our daily sweat-fest to an extent. I noticed that even in midday humidity, this Neutrogena sunscreen doesn’t break apart or make me look shiny – the “Dry Touch” promise holds up pretty well. If you’re just starting out with sun creams or want something you can share with the guys in your life, Hydro Boost is an easy crowd-pleaser.
9. Sunplay Skin Aqua UV Watery Essence SPF50+ PA++++
Price: ~S$17 for 50ml
The Skin Aqua UV Watery Essence is often compared to Bioré Aqua Rich, and indeed, they’re quite similar in feel. This sunscreen has a thin gel-essence consistency that spreads like water on the skin and absorbs with a velvety, barely-there finish. It’s formulated with Solarex-3 technology, which is a fancy way of saying it has a 3-in-1 defence: UV protection, hydration, and antioxidants. Notably, it contains vitamin C and vitamin E derivatives to fight free radicals, plus collagen and amino acids to nourish the skin. Despite these skincare ingredients, the formula remains oil-free and non-greasy.
Why it’s great for SG: The Skin Aqua sunscreen is perfect if you want something light enough to reapply multiple times a day without feeling gunky. The fast-absorbing, silky texture is ideal for humid afternoons when you need a touch-up and don’t want to clog your pores. It also works well on the body if you dislike heavy sunscreens – you could slather this on your arms, and it won’t leave any stickiness. One thing to mention: there’s also a Skin Aqua UV Super Moisture Gel and a Skin Aqua Tone-up UV Essence in the lineup; the former is slightly more fluid, the latter has a lavender tint to brighten skin. But the classic Watery Essence (often in a blue tube) is the most universal. It delivers intense UV protection while feeling like a hydrating serum!
10. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF40 PA+++
Price: ~S$30 for 40ml
Here’s one for the makeup lovers and anyone who hates the feel of traditional sunscreen: Supergoop’s Unseen Sunscreen is truly invisible. In fact, it doubles as a makeup primer beautifully – foundation glides over it, and it helps control shine through the day. Despite being only SPF40, it’s a broad-spectrum formula with photostable filters providing reliable everyday protection. The big appeal is that it leaves absolutely no trace on the skin: no shine, no cast, no smell. It’s also free of alcohol and fragrance. The texture comes from a blend of silicones, which is why it feels so silky (like a pore-blurring face primer). Additionally, it’s packed with antioxidants like vitamin E and red algae to further protect your skin from environmental damage. Many people who normally hate sunscreen end up loving this one because it’s so cosmetically elegant – you honestly can’t tell you’re wearing anything once it’s applied.
Why it’s great for SG: On those ultra-humid days when you dread putting anything on your face, Unseen Sunscreen is a saviour. It’s oil-free and has a velvety matte finish, so it actually helps keep your T-zone looking less shiny as the day goes on. I find it also slightly water-resistant (not officially, but it doesn’t melt off easily with sweat). If you have facial hair or a deeper skin tone, this gel sunscreen is awesome because it won’t leave any residue in stubble or make dark skin look ashy. The only downside: SPF40 is a tad lower than ideal for very intense sun exposure (so I wouldn’t wear this for a full day outdoors).
11. Heliocare 360 Gel Oil-Free SPF50+ PA++++
Price: ~S$32 for 30ml
If you’re dealing with acne-prone or very oily skin and want something dermatologist-recommended, Heliocare 360 Gel Oil-Free is a top contender. Heliocare is a Spanish brand often sold in dermatology clinics, known for its scientifically advanced sunscreens. The 360 Gel Oil-Free offers broad spectrum protection covering UVA, UVB, infrared-A and even visible light – one of the most comprehensive protections on the market. It achieves this with a mix of 7 UV filters (including modern ones like Tinosorb A2B) and an innovative BioShield system. The PA++++ rating attests to its very high UVA defence. Despite this heavy-duty protection, the texture is a lightweight gel-cream with a dry-touch, matte finish. It’s non-comedogenic and actually has sebum-regulating ingredients to reduce oiliness on the skin. One unique aspect is the addition of Fernblock®, a natural fern extract (Polypodium leucotomos) that has antioxidant properties and helps repair UV damage.
Why it’s great for SG: This is a fantastic option if you have very oily skin or melasma/hyperpigmentation issues. Its formula not only mattifies shine but also helps prevent dark spots by protecting against visible light (which can exacerbate pigmentation). Even in humid weather, it stays put and keeps you from looking like an oil slick. It’s water-resistant and sweat-resistant, built for outdoor use or sports. I’ve worn this during a hike, and it didn’t sting my eyes or break me out afterwards. The presence of DNA repair enzymes and antioxidants means it’s actively helping your skin recover from any sun exposure that does occur!
12. Bioderma Photoderm MAX Aquafluid SPF50+ PA++++
Price: ~S$33 for 40ml
Rounding out our list is another derm-favourite: Bioderma Photoderm MAX Aquafluid. This French sunscreen is designed for combination to oily and sensitive skin. “Aquafluid” is the perfect name – it has an extremely fluid, runny texture that turns almost powdery once it sets. Bioderma uses a patented BioCellular Protection™ complex that not only shields from UVA/UVB but also helps protect skin cells and prevent UV-induced immune suppression. What you’ll love is the finish: they call it a “dry touch” with a mattifying effect, and it truly leaves skin feeling soft and matte. This makes it great if you hate any shine or if you plan to wear makeup on top. It’s fragrance-free, paraben-free, and very high tolerance – suitable even for sensitive and acne-prone individuals. This best sunscreen comes in both tinted and non-tinted versions; the tinted one can double as a light foundation for a bit of coverage.
Why it’s great for SG: On scorching, humid days, Photoderm Aquafluid is a reliable option because it feels barely there and controls oil. I find that even after a couple of hours outside, my face isn’t melting or ultra-shiny when I use this. It’s almost like a light primer in texture – in fact, you might not even need setting powder if you’re on the oilier side. Because it’s formulated for sensitive skin, it’s gentle post-procedure or if you have conditions like rosacea. Bioderma also emphasises cellular protection, so you’re getting some anti-ageing benefits in terms of preventing deep-down damage.
Which is better, PA+++ or PA++++?
When it comes to UVA protection ratings, PA++++ is higher (and better) than PA+++. The PA system (commonly used in Asian sunscreens) measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVA rays, which cause skin ageing and pigmentation. More “+” signs mean a higher level of protection. So a sunscreen labelled PA++++ offers the maximum UVA defence currently available, whereas PA+++ is a step down in UVA shielding. In short, if you’re concerned about wrinkles and dark spots from sun exposure, reach for PA++++ when possible.
What is the 3-finger rule for sunscreen?
The 3-finger rule is a handy way to ensure you’re applying enough sunscreen on your face (and neck). It means squeezing out a line of sunscreen along the length of three fingers – typically your index, middle, and ring fingers. This amount – three finger-lengths of product – is roughly what you need to adequately cover your face and neck with SPF.
Finding the best sunscreen in Singapore
In sunny Singapore, wearing sunscreen isn’t just an afterthought – it’s a daily essential for healthy, youthful skin. The best sunscreen Singapore folks need is one that you’ll apply generously and reapply with ease, whether it’s a dermatologist-recommended fluid or a trendy Korean sun gel. It might take a few tries to find your personal favourite, but the payoff is huge: smoother, clearer skin and peace of mind under the sun. And don’t forget to pair your sunscreen with a good skincare routine for maximum benefits – check out our guides on the best Japanese skin care products and best Korean skincare to complement your sun protection game.
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