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Ask any dermatologist about skincare and chances are they’ll tell you this: never skip sunscreen. Rain or shine, indoors or outdoors, apply sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, one of the main contributors to photoaging. However, many people dread applying facial sunscreens daily as they can feel greasy, leave a white cast, or worse – cause skin breakouts. That’s why it is important to find a sunscreen suitable for your skin. After all, the best sunscreen for your face is the one that you’ll actually use. To narrow down your options, read on for our recommendations on the best facial sunscreens in Singapore!
| Skin type | Product | SPF | PA | Price |
| All skin types | Isntree Watery Sun Gel | 50+ | ++++ | $30.59 |
| Shiseido Global Suncare The Perfect Protector | 50+ | ++++ | $68.00 | |
| La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Imperfection Sunscreen | 50+ with broad spectrum | $54.90 | ||
| Allie Chrono Beauty Gel Ex | 50+ | ++++ | $30.50 | |
| ROUND LAB 365 Derma Relief Sunscreen | 50+ | ++++ | $39.00 | |
| Hot Sorry Intensive Natural Sun Cream | 50+ | +++ | $16.04 | |
| Oily | Paula’s Choice Resist Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50 Moisturiser | 50 with broad spectrum | $20.00 — $59.00 | |
| Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence | 50+ | ++++ | $20.30 | |
| Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defense | 50 | ++++ | $87.20 | |
| Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen | 50+ | +++ | $25.00 | |
| SUNPLAY Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel Sunscreen | 50+ | ++++ | $21.05 | |
| Make p:rem Daily Sun Essence | 50+ | ++++ | $39.46 | |
| Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk | 50+ | ++++ | $47.00 | |
| Abib Quick Sunstick Protection Bar | 50+ | ++++ | $39.90 | |
| Dry | Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics | 50+ | ++++ | $20.00 — $30.00 |
| SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum | 50+ | ++++ | $43.60 | |
| Dr. Jart Every Sun Day Sun Milk | 50+ | ++++ | $35.47 | |
| Mistine Sunscreen | 50+ | +++ | $21.80 — $54.50 | |
| 3W Clinic Collagen Sunblock Cream | 50+ | +++ | $5.00 — $5.80 | |
| ORBIS Sunscreen On Face Light | 34 | +++ | $20.00 | |
| TIRTIR Mask Fit Cool Sun Cushion | 50+ | ++++ | $32.70 — $55.01 | |
| Sensitive | AXIS-Y Complete No-Stress Physical Sunscreen | 50+ | ++++ | $25.00 |
| ELTAMD UV Physical Facial Sunscreen | 41 with broad spectrum | $71.94 | ||
| Alfredo Feemas Daily Soft Touch Whitening Sunblock | 50 | +++ | $8.39 | |
| Kose SEKKISEI UV Sunscreen Mild Milk | 50+ | +++ | $28.00 | |
| Avene Tinted Cream Sunblock | 50+ with broad spectrum | $50.80 | ||
| AHC Natural Perfection Double Shield Sun Stick | 50+ | ++++ | $13.08 — $16.35 |
Can’t tell what’s so unique about the two types of sunscreens? Here’s a brief overview laid out to help you make the best decision!
| Type | Main ingredients | How it works | Best for |
| Physical | Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide | Forms a barrier on skin to protect it from UV rays | Sensitive skin as ingredients will not irritate you |
| Chemical | Avobenzone and oxybenzone | Absorbs UV rays to prevent them from penetrating skin | Non-sensitive skin as ingredients can potentially sting or burn |
The ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel (available on ISNTREE Official) is lauded as one of the best facial sunscreens in Singapore because of its hydrating yet lightweight formula. This makes it suitable for both dry and oily skin types. Containing eight types of hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, ISNTREE’s gel-like facial sunscreen keeps your skin hydrated throughout the day without leaving it tacky. When applied to the face, it spreads easily and evenly — so light and airy you almost wouldn’t be able to feel it on your skin. This sunscreen is also free of alcohol and essential oils, so sensitive skin folks don’t have to be worried about it irritating your face. All in all, it is one of the best Korean sunscreens for the face that is suitable for all skin types. For easy re-application, get the ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Sun Stick (available on COCOMO Official Store) as well!
We can’t write a list of the best sunscreens for the face without mentioning the Shiseido Global Suncare The Perfect Protector (available on SHISEIDO Official Store). Albeit on the pricier side, it is a product that many skincare enthusiasts and dermatologists swear by. It boasts powerful sun protection with its SynchroShield technology, which makes the protective veil stronger when it comes in contact with sweat, heat, or water. Shiseido’s facial sunscreens are also one of the best in terms of formula, as it looks invisible on the skin and blends seamlessly. Furthermore, your skin will be reaping benefits from its NatureSurge complex, which protects it from urban pollutants that cause oxidation.
The La Roche Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid (available on Watsons Singapore Official Store) is one of the best sunscreens for face that can rival the level of protection that the Shiseido sunscreen provides. It is a dermatological sun care product that boasts a patented filtering technology that offers high broad spectrum protection. This La Roche Posay sunscreen also contains Mexoryl 400, a UV filter that has an absorbance spectrum of up to 400 nm for ultra-long UVA rays. Worried that your skin will have adverse reactions using it? Fret not, as this mineral sunscreen has been tested and proven to be safe to use on sensitive skin.
Hitting the beach club? Cue the Allie Chrono Beauty Gel UV Ex (available on Kao Beauty Official Store), which is made of a beach-friendly formula that is resistant to sweat, water, and friction from sand, debris, and physical pollutants! Despite this, it does not feel sticky on your face at all. In addition to its long lasting effects, Allie’s sunscreen contains moisturising ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which keeps your face hydrated while feeling light and fresh. With its deluge of benefits, there’s no reason not to love this amazing facial sunscreen!
Curious about the best Korean sunscreen for face? The ROUND LAB 365 Derma Relief Sunscreen (available on Unnie Oppa Official Store) gained acclaim as the second-best facial sunscreen on Korea’s top beauty app, Hwahae. Beyond its impressive SPF performace, Round Lab’s facial sunblock remains highly-rated for its myriad of skin benefits. For instance, it consists of aqua ceramide, which creates a moisture barrier while protecting it from UV rays. The Round Lab sunscreen is also soothing to the skin as it contains ingredients like centella asiatica extract and panthenol. Most importantly, this leading Korean facial sunscreen has been clinically tested for SPF and broad spectrum, so you can be assured your skin receives sufficient protection!
The Hot Sorry Intensive Natural Sun Cream (available on hotsorry.sg) is one of the most affordable facial sunblocks in Singapore. Despite its basement price point, this facial sunscreen doesn’t compromise on performance and quality. It offers SPF 50+ which provides UVB protection for at least 12 hours, and blocks UVA effectively. The best part? Thanks to its lightweight texture, the Hot Sorry sunscreen doesn’t cause any pilling even if you reapply it multiple times. You can apply it after makeup, and enjoy strong UV protection throughout the day.
Paula’s Choice is a reputable skincare brand that’s been highly raved for their research-based products. That’s why they are a brand you can trust when it comes to the best sunscreens for your face. The Paula’s Choice Resist Youth Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid (available on Paula’s Choice Official Store) features a water-light texture that dries with a satin finish, making it a top recommendation from dermatologists for those with normal to oily skin types. Enriched with powerful antioxidants like pomegranate and goji extract, this popular facial sunscreen essentially provides double the anti-ageing benefits. The Paula’s Choice sunscreen also contains chamomile and green tea to soothe sensitive skin!
If you’re on a budget and do not want to spend too much on sunscreen, consider the Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence (available on Kao Official Store). What’s so special about it? For starters, it claims to be non-comedogenic, making it one of the best facial sunscreens in Singapore, especially for those with oily skin. The Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence also has a light, watery texture that is easily absorbed, giving it a non-sticky finish. Furthermore, it contains skin-nourishing ingredients like royal jelly, hyaluronic acid, and citrus extract, making it perfect as a makeup base!
Hate how some sunscreens are just so heavy and creamy that you feel weighed down by it? Well, that is because you haven’t tried Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Sunscreen (available on Nana Mall Official Store)! It is famed for its ultra-light texture that is easily absorbed into your face with a few pats. Its non-comedogenic formula leaves you with a matte finish which won’t feel greasy even in Singapore’s weather. Furthermore, the Kiehls’ sunscreen has also been dermatologist-tested, which means it’s safe to use even for reactive, sensitive skin types.
You might be put-off at first glance when you squeeze out the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen (available on Watsons Singapore Official Store) because of the thick and creamy consistency. But, unlike many “thick” sunscreens out there, it is non-comedogenic so it won’t clog your pores. The Neutrogena sunscreen is also readily absorbed into your skin with a quick massage and best of all, it gives a non-greasy finish. This comes highly recommended as one of the best and most affordable facial sunscreens in Singapore — especially for those with oily skin!
With the new advanced Solarex-5 technology, this Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel Sunscreen (available on Watsons Singapore Official Store) is designed to provide all-encompassing UV, Blue Light and Infrared defence that protects your face against sun damage, premature ageing and dryness caused by UV rays! As the name suggests, this is one of the best Japanese sunscreens for oily skin as it has a light watery texture. If you’re looking for a facial sunscreen that has a brightening effect, the Skin Aqua sunscreen might be your best bet!
A new addition to the K-Beauty scene, the Make p:rem Daily Sun Essence (available on makepremglobal.sg) has been hyped by many Korean YouTubers since its release. If you’re looking for a primer with SPF, this might be your best choice! It is so thin and light that you can easily apply your makeup over it during the day. Squeeze a little out and the cream surprisingly spreads water-thin and even breaks into tiny dew-like droplets when it comes in contact with your face. This Korean sunscreen not only promises to hydrate your skin but also helps to instantly cool your body down, which to us, is the one of the best facial sunscreens in our tropical Singapore.
Another frontrunner for the best sunscreen for oily skin is the Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk (available on Welcia-BHG Official Store). Rated as the number one sunscreen for the face in Japan, it boasts triple defence technology for ultimate sun protection. This includes an auto booster technology that strengthens the UV veil when in contact with air moisture. There’s also a thermo booster technology that powers up protection with heat, and an aqua booster technology which doubles up the shield when you sweat! That’s why the Anessa sunscreen is one of the best sunblocks for face, ensuring strong protection against the humid weather in Singapore.
With just a few swipes, the Abib Quick Sunstick Protection Bar (available on Tsupply Official Store) glides on your face easily and quickly, leaving no white cast. This Korean sunscreen stick is particularly praised for being the best sunscreen for oily skin, as it controls excessive oil production and maintains hydration without feeling greasy or sticky — even over makeup! What makes the Abib Sunstick even more attractive is that it is enhanced with acacia-peptide and ceramide to help strengthen your face’s skin barrier. This Abib sunstick is a must-have for anyone looking to protect their face with the best facial sunscreen under the hot sun.
The Beauty Of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics (available on Beauty of Joseon Official Store) has taken the internet by storm, especially on TikTok! Not only does this Korean facial sunscreen provide strong protection against UV radiation with SPF 50 and PA ++++, it also contains rice bran extract grain fermenting lysate ingredients that helps to nourish and strengthen your skin. It is akin to using a moisturiser and sunscreen at the same time! That said, the Beauty of Joseon sunscreen gives you a satin finish, and does not have the issue of pilling. This makes it seamless under makeup! However, do note that the Beauty of Joseon sunscreen is not water resistant, so we don’t recommend it for those who are doing sports.
Those with dry skin in Singapore will relate to the dilemma of applying cream-type products. While they help to lock in moisture, these facial sunscreens tend to feel too heavy in the humidity. The SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu Cica Water Fit Sun Serum (available on SKIN1004 Official Store) solves this problem. Formulated with hyaluronic acid and cica to hydrate dry skin like a serum, those who want to achieve a dewy, glass skin look will definitely love this! As moisturising as it is, the SKIN1004 Sun Serum feels fresh and lightweight, and will not weigh down on your skin at all. It is also one of the best sunscreens for face that has gone through skin irritation tests to be safe for sensitive skin types, and also clinically tested for its SPF.
The Dr. Jart Every Sun Day Sun Milk (available on LYNE_COSMETIC.KR) is one of the best Korean sunscreens that is moisturising and soothing, preventing dryness without leaving your face feeling greasy. For those with dry skin, go for the moisturising variation of the Dr. Jart Every Sun Day Sun Milk which is a cream-filled sunscreen with ceramides to strengthen your skin barrier. Alternatively, you can also opt for the tone-up variation, which features a subtle light pink-beige colour. This can help to colour correct your skin for a healthier and brighter complexion. Just a word of caution though, if you have a slightly dark or brown skin tone, this might not work for you and might leave your skin looking slightly grey without makeup.
Not all cream-type facial sunscreens feel greasy and sticky. Case in point: the Mistine Sunscreen (available on MISTINE_official.sg) that doubles as an effective moisturiser. Despite its hydrating properties, it does not leave your face feeling oily, and gives you a matte finish after application. It also combines the formula of a physical sunscreen and chemical sunscreen into one to give you high protection that lasts up to 12 hours! In addition, the Mistine Sunscreen contains centella extract and propolis which nourishes and soothes your skin.
Infused with hydrated collagen and collagen amino acids, the 3W Clinic Collagen Sunblock Cream (available on J Worldwide Distributor) is one of the best sunscreens for dry skin in Singapore. It effectively moisturises your skin throughout the day, while providing ample UVA and UVB protection. If you have sensitive skin, the 3W Clinic sunblock cream also contains aloe vera which offers a soothing effect. This sunblock can also be used as a makeup base thanks to its hydrating properties!
Find foundations too heavy but still want some coverage to even out your skin tone? The ORBIS Sunscreen On Face Light (available on ORBIS SINGAPORE Official Store) helps you do just that! It contains an ultra-lightweight hybrid airy powder that helps conceal pores, giving the face a healthy glow. This ORBIS sunscreen is also formulated with 80% beauty serum, keeping the skin moist and dewy. That said, its oil-free, non-comedogenic formula makes it the best sunscreen for dry skin types! With countless good reviews, it’s a no-brainer that the ORBIS sunscreen is one of the best sunscreens in Singapore.
TIRTIR cushions are all the rage right now. But did you know they have a cushion specifically designed for those who prioritise SPF protection? Meet the TIRTIR Mask Fit Cool Sun Cushion (available on TIRTIR Official Store), a lightweight sunscreen engineered for effortless daily use while also doubling as a foundation — making it the best sunscreen cushion for those seeking an all-in-one base product. Offering a pinkish apricot undertone, the TIRTIR Mask Fit Cool Sun Cushion is the best SPF cushion in Singapore that tones your skin while keeping your makeup in place for up to 30 hours. In addition to providing optimal sun protection throughout the day, this sun cushion is also packed with minerals like aqua ceramide, delivering extra moisturising benefits for those with dry skin. If you need a quick refresh, reapplication is simple with a single pat using the puff applicator included in the cushion — the best way to keep up a seamless and long-lasting protective sunscreen layer.
The Axis-Y Complete No Stress Physical Sunscreen (available on COCOMO Official Store) is a skincare gem for those with sensitive, reactive skin! While physical sunscreens are suitable for sensitive skin types, this Axis-Y sunscreen takes it up a notch with mugwort, a gentle and hydrating ingredient with anti-inflammatory properties that is even suitable for those with eczema. To make it even better, this best Korean facial sunscreen also contains calendula which promotes wound healing, and chamomile, a powerful antioxidant. These mild, soothing ingredients also ensure that it won’t clog up your pores, so you won’t have to worry about breakouts either!
Highly recommended by dermatologists, the ELTAMD UV Physical Sunscreen (available on Strawberrynet SG Official Store) definitely takes the cake for one of the best sunblocks for face in Singapore. Its formula is mild and soothing for highly sensitive skin – even for those who recently underwent facial procedures. It also boasts a non-comedogenic formula that is friendly for oily skin types, and is water-resistant so it won’t wear off with sweat. This makes it a great sun protection for workouts. The ELTAMD sunscreen is also high in antioxidants, which help to absorb free radicals that cause ageing.
If you’re looking for a facial sunscreen that has brightening effects, the Alfredo Feemas Daily Soft Touch Whitening Sunscreen (available on AirShell Singapore) fits the bill. It contains portulaca oleracea extract and morus alba bark extract which brightens and soothes the skin at the same time. In addition, this sunscreen also contains aloe vera leaf extract which is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This is great for those with sensitive or troubled skin. For the best results, it is recommended to reapply every two to three hours to maintain its UV protection.
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Don’t you just love a sunscreen that’s exceptionally moisturising? The Kose SEKKISEI UV Sunscreen Mild Milk (available on Kosé Official Store) is one of the most hydrating facial sunscreens in Singapore. And that’s got to do with a combination of Job’s tears seed extract, Damage Resistant Complex and other beneficial ingredients in the formula. These are moisturising ingredients that will keep your skin smooth and supple while boosting its natural barrier that keeps harmful UV rays out. This Kosé sunscreen has also been dermatologically tested, so rest assured that it’s suitable for those with sensitive skin!
Avene is a brand that’s dermatologist-approved and sensitive skin friendly. The Avene Tinted Cream Sunblock (available on Watsons Singapore Official Store) certainly lives up to that, and is one of the best tinted facial sunscreens in Singapore for those with dry, sensitive skin. It features a natural tint that gives your face an instant glow, revealing a healthy complexion. Apart from protecting your skin against UVA and UVB rays, it also shields your skin against blue light up to 450 nm. Needless to say, the Avene tinted sun cream also contains one of their most popular products, the Avene Thermal Spring Water, which gives it a soothing effect.
Having the best sunscreens for the face to protect you from harmful sun rays is great. But have you thought about blocking your skin from infrared rays? Infrared rays refer to the radiated heat from computers, phones, hair dryers and more. Infrared rays are just as harmful, if not more harmful than UV rays. It causes free radical damage and accelerates ageing.
The AHC Natural Perfection Double Shield Sun Stick (available on YAOCOS.kr) shields your skin from both ultraviolet and infrared rays thanks to its patented UV IR Block technology. Additionally, this AHC sunscreen contains a concoction of natural ingredients that makes it perfect for those with sensitive skin. The phyto protect complex, schisandra chinensis fruit extract and bambusa vulgaris extract protect the skin from external impurities while adding a soothing factor so you won’t face any irritation. This AHC sunscreen is also extremely hydrating, so you’ll always have that moisturised skin for days to come!
Having explored the best sunscreens for face, we would like to shift the spotlight to some of the top sunblocks for the body – just to ensure your skin is protected from head to toe. From gentle, lightweight formulas to water-resistant options, let’s dive into the best sunscreens for body that offer reliable defence and nourishment for every inch of your skin.
Known for the best eczema treatment products, Cetaphil is a brand that offers skin and body care gems that are safe to use for any skin type. Those with sensitive or eczema-prone skin can consider the Cetaphil Light Gel Sunscreen (available on Cetaphil Official Store), one of the best sunscreens for the body in Singapore that offers broad spectrum protection. It is also lightweight yet water resistant, which feels comfortable when applied. This Cetaphil sunscreen also contains vitamin E, which acts as a soothing antioxidant to protect the skin from environmental damage.
Heading for a vacation at the best Bali beach clubs or southern island-hopping in Singapore? Don’t forget to pack one of the best sunscreens for body in Singapore! The Banana Boat Sport Ultra Lotion (available on Watsons Singapore Official Store) boasts clinically proven UVA and UVB protection, protecting your skin while you’re chasing thrills with water sports or getting your dose of vitamin D. It is also highly water and sweat resistant, which allows it to last longer despite adrenaline-pumping activities. The best part? The Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunscreen doesn’t feel greasy on the skin!
After you’ve picked your sunscreen, make sure you’re applying them the right way so that your skin is adequately protected. Always apply sunscreen as the last step of your skincare routine, followed by makeup, if any. Also, follow the pro-tips below for maximum sun protection!
Don’t scrimp on sunscreen! It is recommended to use at least 2mg of sunscreen per cm of skin. But to make it easier, the general guide is to squeeze at least two finger lengths worth of sunscreen and apply all of them on your face. Remember to cover your neck and the back of your ears as well!
To allow sunscreen to fully absorb, we recommend applying it 20 minutes before heading out. This buffer time is needed to create a protective barrier that shields you from UV rays.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, it is important to reapply sunscreen throughout the day to ensure your skin is protected. This is because sunscreen can wear off due to sweat, or be broken down by sun exposure. However, if you’re staying indoors, re-application is not necessary.
Before diving into the best facial sunscreens in Singapore, here are some important factors to note before committing to one.
There are two types of UV rays you need to protect your skin against – UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are responsible for skin ageing such as wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, while UVB rays cause sunburns and skin cancer. SPF is a number that refers to how much UVB rays it can protect you against. According to MedicalNewsToday, SPF15 filters out approximately 93% of UVB rays. SPF 30 blocks 97%, and SPF 50 blocks about 98% of UVB. For sufficient sun protection in Singapore, choose a sunscreen that has SPF 30 and above. If you want to be extra sure that the sunscreen does what it claims, check whether the sunscreen’s SPF is clinically tested.
SPF is not the only thing you need in a facial sunscreen. To ensure that it protects you against both UVA and UVB rays, check whether it offers broad spectrum protection. The “broad spectrum” label guarantees that the sunscreen offers the same amount of protection against UVA rays as UVB rays, according to its SPF.
Another way to find out whether your sunscreen offers UVA protection is to look out for PA labels, a rating system developed in Japan. PA+ offers some UVA protection, PA++ offers moderate protection, and PA+++ and above offers high protection.
The humid weather in Singapore makes it easy to sweat buckets even if it’s just a short walk outside. To prevent your sunscreen from wearing off due to perspiration, ensure it has a waterproof formula.
If you have acne-prone or oily skin, it is important that your sunscreen is non-comedogenic. This means that it is oil-free and does not contain ingredients that can potentially clog your pores.
If you have dry skin, thicker sunscreens can do you good as they offer hydrating benefits. Dry skin sisters can also look out for hydrating ingredients in their sunscreens, such as ceramides and hyaluronic acids.
The two types of sunscreen you’ll find on the market are physical and chemical sunscreens. Physical sunscreens form a film that sits on the surface of your skin to reflect UV rays, while chemical sunscreens will be absorbed into the skin without surface detection. For those with sensitive skin, physical sunscreens are recommended as they contain ingredients that won’t sting.
From physical sunscreens for sensitive skin to tinted sunscreens for light coverage, we hope you found the best facial sunscreen your skin loves! For more skincare recommendations, check out our list of the best anti-ageing serums and the best Korean face masks!
This article was updated on 23 August 2024. Additional research done by Quek Jie Ann.
Ending the year with a blast (of fireworks).
Prep a merry feast!
Deck the halls with boughs of holly!
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