Shield Your Skin: The Best Sunscreens in Singapore That Beat the Hot Weather

In the vibrant city-state of Singapore, the tropical climate graces us with abundant sunshine throughout the year. While basking under the sun can be delightful, it’s more important to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Without protection, the skin can is exposed to various skin-related issues, including sunburns, premature aging, dark spots, and even an increased risk of skin cancer. This is why it’s necessary to apply sunscreen everyday!

However, thick, greasy sunscreens are torture in our hot and humid weather. This is why, Beauty Insider has compiled a list of sunscreens that won’t feel heavy while giving your skin a reliable SPF defense. You’ll find most sun care products below that are suitable for any skin types. In addition, a high SPF factor, good consistency, and added skincare benefits are all criteria we considered when picking out these sunscreens. Here is our verdict on the best sunscreens in Singapore!

Top 44 Best Sunscreens in Singapore

1. Face Republic Purity Sun Essence SPF50+ PA ++++ | Vegan-certified 

Face Republic Purity Sun Essence from Face Republic is a cult favorite sunscreen that is known for its extra lightweight consistency as well as clean and mild formula. Created with the non-nano mineral filter, it leaves zero whitecast on the skin. On top of that, this award-winning sunscreen is enhanced with niacinamide to brighten the skin tone and Centella Asiatica extract to soothes inflammation. This intensive multipurpose sunscreen delivers the skincare benefits of brightening and anti ageing.

Why we love it:

• Extra lightweight with zero white cast
• Water and sweat proof
• Clean and mild formula without artificial fragrance
• Vegan-certified, cruelty-free, and reef-safe
• Dermatologically tested ⁣

Price: $18.91

Where to buy: Shopee , Lazada and Zalora

2. SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Tone-Up Sunscreen SPF50 PA++++

The SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Tone-Up Sunscreen SPF50 PA++++ is here to help you brighten up your dull skin with just a single layer. This sunscreen is one of the best in Singapore as it protects your skin from the sun. The best part is that this sunscreen has a light texture that leaves no stickiness. It is soft and adheres to your skin smoothly. Hence, protecting your skin from UV rays thanks to its SPF50 PA++++.

In order to help your skin look brighter and skin tone seem more balanced, you’ll have to thank the synergy of the ingredients. Furthermore, this sunscreen contains AQUA BOMB Complex which hydrates to make your skin look moisturised and radiant. Striving to keep both your skin and the Earth healthy, it features a reef safe formula that doesn’t use ingredients like Octinosate and Oxybenzone.

Why we love it:

• Instantly brightens skin
• Evens out skin tone
• Non-sticky and moisturising

Price: $19.90

Where to buy: Shopee

3. Mediphyt Day Shield

One of the best sunscreens in Singapore, this fast-acting cream can protect your skin against signs of ageing caused by UVA and UVB exposure. It can give you up to 35 times the protection against sunburn. Infused with skin-lightening agents, this sunscreen can also suppress and limit melanin formation. It can absorb quickly into the skin while leaves mild fragrance that will last from morning to night.

Why we love it:

• Quickly absorbs into the skin
• Dewy finish
• Moisturising

Price: $113.00

4. Skincomm Unicel Complex YouthLoc

Trust us, this sunscreen is like unlike anything you’ve ever tried. It’s an intensively soft moisturising cream that contains three molecular sizes of hyaluronic acids, phyto-extracts, antioxidants, and most importantly, the SKINCOMM® proprietary TriDefenx™ system of full spectrum sunblock. So not only does this sunscreen protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays, it even shields the skin from the full spectrum which includes IR-A, HEVL, and Blue rays. The perfect sunscreen to protect, hydrate, moisturise, and fight free radicals, this has got everything you could ever need in a skincare product, which is why it won Beauty Insider Singapore’s Best Skincare 2023, and Best Face Sunscreen Best Newcomer Award!

Why we love it:

• Provides full spectrum barrier
• Deeply hydrates and nourishes the skin
• Fights against free radicals

Price: $196

Where to buy: Skincomm

5. LACLAIRÉ NatureCare ToneUp UV Defence Lotion SPF50+++

If you have been searching for the best sunscreen that can deliver everything that you want, look no further because LACLAIRÉ NatureCare ToneUp UV Defence Lotion SPF50+++ is the one for you. Infused with Titanium Dioxide, it delivers comprehensive protection for up to eight hours. Whereas Sodium Hyaluronate is added to the formulation to hydrates the skin.

Why we love it:

• Ultra lightweight
• Waterproof
• Evens out skin tone

Price: $80.00

Where to buy: LACLAIRÉ or +6591261883

6. Paula’s Choice Resist Super-Light Daily Wrinkle Defense SPF 30

Paula’s Choice Resist Super-Light Daily Wrinkle Defense SPF 30 is a cult classic that helps to protect and nourish the skin. This mineral based sunscreen that doubles up as a moisturizer is packed with antioxidants to fortify skin against environmental aggressors while minimizing any signs of aging. It has a lightweight, silky consistency that delivers a soft and matte finish, so you can definitely skip the primer! With a universally perfect and slightly tinted formula, this age-defying sun protector is suitable for all skin tones. Perfect for oily to combination skin, it is also great for sensitive skin with its non irritating and gentle formula.

You’ll see a more even-looking skin tone from first use and with daily use, it will help to maintain skin’s youthfulness while minimizing shine with skin that feels and looks firmer.

Why we love it:

• Prevents premature ageing of skin
• Silky texture leaves a soft matte finish
• Boost skin’s environmental defenses
• Suitable for sensitive skin

Price: $55.00

Where to buy: Paula’s Choice

7. Astalift D-UV Clear Aqua Day Serum SPF50+ PA++++

The Astalift D-UV Clear Aqua Day Serum contains a UV-Shielding essence that is high-functioning. With SPF 50+ and PA++++, this serum helps provide high protection against UV rays. Besides that, it also has the benefit to help provide your skin with hydration. Thus, the DUV Guard and Moist Up UV-Shield help protect against dehydration caused by the sun throughout the day. Since this serum has a texture that is dewy, fresh and light, it can also be used as a makeup primer and even helps your makeup stay on for hours on end! 

Why we love it:

• Refreshing, light finish
• Hydrating
• Doubles as a makeup primer

Price: $72.00

Where to buy: Astalift

8. Cute Press All Day Brighten Tone Up Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++

Skip applying makeup with this 2-in-1 sunscreen that helps brighten and protect your skin! The Cute Press All Day Bright Tone Up Sunscreen is formulated to withstand Singapore’s humid and hot weather. With SPF50+ and PA++, it can help protect your skin from the sun. Besides that, it also has the benefit of being sweat-proof, while also helping with oil control! Since this sunscreen is suitable for all types of skin, it is also perfect for using as a base primer, before applying makeup. With a formula that is fast-absorbing and non-sticky, this sunscreen leaves your skin with a natural radiance! 

Why we love it:

• Great for base makeup that blends well
• Controls oil and sebum
• Water-resistant

Price: $16.03 (Watsons), $21.76 (Shopee), $19.46 (Lazada)

Where to buy: Watsons, Shopee & Lazada

9. Faith Insist Lamellar U.B.P Make Base

Faith is known to have products that mixes both skincare and makeup in one. This one is a tone up cream that doubles as a makeup base and a sun cream! It has a blendable pink base that brightens the complexion. To add to that, it also has blue polarized pearl that is a great primer to keep your makeup intact. Lastly, it protects the skin from the sun and blue light.

Why we love it:

• Ideal for fair to light skin tones looking to brighten the skin
• Added protection from blue light
• Makeup lasts longer

Price: $59

10. Eau Thermale Avene Very High Protection Fluid SPF 50+

Some sunscreens leave a white cast that’s particularly unflattering if you have yellow skin undertones. But this one is completely invisible. You’ll forget it’s even there, especially since it’s absorbed so quickly and doesn’t feel sticky. The perfect sunscreen for people who hate sunscreens.

Why we love it:

• Suitable for normal, combination to sensitive skin types
• Ocean-friendly formula
• Fragrance-free

Price: $50.40

Where to buy: Lazada

11. RESS Sunblock – All Natural (Safe For Children)

This SPF35 sunblock by RESS is Beauty Insider’s Reader’s Choice winner under the natural skincare and face sunscreen category! Featuring 100% all-natural ingredients, this sunblock combines a unique blend of plant-derived essences and herbs to form a protective barrier over your skin to shield it from UV damage. In addition to brightening lemon and rose extract, it also contains beeswax and extracts of soya and cucumber to brighten and soothe the skin. Because it is free of harsh chemicals and is ultra-gentle on the skin, it’s safe for children too! And remember, it’s never too young to start sun protection!

Why we love it:

• Suitable for sensitive skin and children
• Free of harsh chemicals and carcinogens
• Lightweight texture with no greasy residue

Price: $25.90

12. FAITH Sun Protector SPF 40 Insist Lamellar

One of the best popular sunscreens in Singapore, this sunscreen essence cuts not only UV rays, but also the blue light (those that come from laptops, phones and other gadgets) Infused with skin-loving ingredients, this sunscreen can hydrate and protect your skin. It can also prevent spots and freckles from sunburn.

Why we love it:

• Light, dewy finish
• Great for sensitive skin
• No white cast

Price: $83

Where to buy: Lazada

13. Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence SPF 50 PA ++++

Regarded as one of the best sunscreens ever, The Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence is a holy grail sun protector for those with sensitive skin. The gel-like texture can give you a soft weightless and light finish. It can completely guard the skin against UVA, UVB without leaving any greasiness or white cast.

Why we love it:

• Blends comfortably on the skin
• Vegan
• Extra moisturizing

Price: $83

14. Supergoop! Invisible Setting Powder

Dermatologists say you should reapply sunscreen every four hours, but that means ruining our makeup! This powder sunscreen is the perfect solution. You get extra sun protection every time you freshen up your makeup. Comes in four different shades and has a matte finish.

Why we love it:

• Great for touch ups
• Easy to carry around
• Convenient additional sun protection

Price: $45

Where to buy: Sephora

15. Laneige Marshmallow Sun Cushion SPF 50 PA+++

It’s perfect for sensitive skin, because it doesn’t use mineral oil and other irritating ingredients, and the Japanese apricot extract soothes away redness if you’re in the sun too long. The cushion packaging is also very convenient. We recommend this if you’re the type of person who always ends up doing her makeup in the car or office, or if you travel a lot and hate bringing bulky bottles.

Why we love it:

• Layers thinly
• Smooth and fresh finish
• Portable sun protection

Price: $18

Where to buy: Shopee

16. Hera Sun Mate Protector

We love multi-tasking products and that is why this voted as one of the best sunscreens in Singapore. Hera contains antioxidants that fight what they call TrapR: an element which makes the skin weak and exhausted when it is exposed to UV rays, stress and external irritants. Apply it under your makeup to brighten up your skin and give you a subtle glow.

Why we love it:

• Adds glow to the skin
• Protects from the sun and external aggressors
• Added anti-ageing benefits

Price: $30.40

Where to buy: Lazada

17. Shiseido Perfect UV Protector

If you love the outdoors and lead an active lifestyle, this is for you! It’s sweatproof and water-proof, but it doesn’t feel heavy or greasy at all. Whether you’re out for a jog or a swim or taking your kids to the playground, Shiseido’s the perfect shield against the elements.

Why we love it:

• Long-lasting hydration
• Strong water-resistant
• Keeps skin comfortable despite the heat

Price: $68

Where to buy: Sephora

18. Murad City Skin Age Defense

This mineral sunscreen doesn’t stop at shielding you from UVA and UVB. Its innovative mineral formula also protects against pollution, blue light from devices, and infrared radiation. It also contains vitamin C  and colour correcting tints to make your skin tone look more even and radiant.

Why we love it:

• Helps fade and prevent spots
• Colour corrects and evens skin
• Additional protection for pollution

Price: $107.50

Where to buy: Look Fantastic

19. La Roche Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Dry Touch Gel Crème

If you’ve got oily or combination skin, you need a sunscreen that doesn’t clog your pores or make your face even shinier. On both counts, this La Roche Posay sunscreen delivers – and takes it a step further. It actually dries to a matte finish and helps control oil too. The thermal spring water in the La Roche Posay sunscreen also calms any redness and irritation.

Why we love it:

• Non-comedogenic
• Matte, comfortable finish
• Soothes skin

Price: $51.90

Where to buy: Guardian

20. Lancôme UV Expert XL-Sheild Fresh UV Aqua Gel SPF50 PA++++

Containing Coolact 10, a sensory agent developed to offer a freshness similar to that of menthol, its cool touch reduces the skin’s temperature upon application. The addition of rose petal extract helps to soothe heated and reddened skin.

This sunscreen is also made with Lancôme’s XL- ShieldTM technology: An efficacious filtering system offering 12-hour persistent protection that spans the UVB – UVA – XL-UVA (long UV rays) spectrum, as well as a pollution shield with a complex of active ingredients that combat free radicals and prevents pollutant particles and carbon molecules from adhering to the skin.

Why we love it:

• Weightless and refreshing feel
• Smooth matte finish
• Prevents moisture loss

Price: $84

Where to buy: Sephora

21. Crème Simon Daily Defence UV Protector SPF 50

An oil-free sunscreen with a hybrid of mineral and chemical filters, it combines the action of zinc oxide with the brightening and detoxifying effect of its Activ-Fleur complex comprising botanical extracts of damask rose, neroli, iris, tonka bean, vanilla bourbon, jasmine and patchouli. In addition, wheat oligosaccharides in the formula work to reduce skin pigmentation.

Why we love it:

• High protection
• Daily light sunscreen
• Layers under makeup well

Price: $75

Where to buy: Creme Simon

22. Lierac Sunissime Global Anti-Aging Protective Fluid SPF30

An anti-aging that’s innovated to have a wide-ranging spectrum while energizing and protecting the skin. Consistent use of this sunscreen will help decrease the appearance of dark spots, weakened skin, and wrinkles. Plus, it helps strengthen the skin barrier while keeping the skin hydrated.

Why we love it:

• Glowing, dewy effect on the skin
• Improves skin elasticity
• Strengthens skin barrier

Price: $58

23. Clarins UV Plus Day Screen Multi-Protection SPF50 PA++++

Containing potent plant extracts that work in tandem with a special combination of filters that offers rapid, high-level and broad-spectrum defence against UVA and UVB rays, Clarins sun care products all have an atmospheric anti-pollution complex to combat the signs of premature ageing and radiance loss.

The reformulation of their beloved sunscreen now contains organic alpine sanicle extract rich in rosmarinic acid to further fight free radicals, in addition to the original cantaloupe melon extract that lends antioxidant protection. High molecular weight hyaluronic acid prevents dehydration, while blackcurrant extract reduces the inflammatory effect caused by sun exposure and pollution.

WE LOVE… how it pairs well with different types of skincare to offer UV protection and moisturising touch. Its ability to even out skin tone in a flash makes it perfect for no-makeup days.

Why we love it:

• Lightly tints skin for no makeup days
• Light, non-oily
• Moisturizing

Price: $81

Where to buy: Clarins

24. Chanel Sublimage La Protection UV SPF50 PA++++

Targeting the latent damage caused by solar rays, this sun crème not only focuses on UV protection and preventing pigmentation, but it also rectifies the signs of ageing skin—dehydration, fine lines and dullness—by acting on the synthesis of collagen fibres and repairing damaged fibroblasts to reinforce the epidermal barrier function. With a potent formula of anti-ageing skincare ingredients including regenerative Madagascar vanilla extract, as well as a botanical oligopeptide that acts on photo-ageing, it promises to neutralise epidermal damage, regenerating the skin whilst shielding it against environmental assaults.

Why we love it:

• Very moisturizing
• Silky and smooth finish
• Boosts skin radiance

Price: $177

Where to buy: Chanel SG

25. Dior Diorsnow UV Shield SPF50 PA+++

Promising cellular protection to strengthen the skin’s structure and boost its inner resistance while shielding it from UV rays and environmental aggressors, this sunscreen is enriched with an Edelweiss Complex to help skin cells withstand the stress caused by severe temperature shifts. A resilient flower that thrives in high altitudes in spite of the extreme cold, as well as the UV glare intensified by reflective snow, the edelweiss is able to blossom and preserve a pure whiteness even under severe conditions. We love its substantial coverage that gives sensitive skin physical protection. Its soft lavender glow offsets redness as well.

Why we love it:

• Lightly lavender tinted to offset redness
• Suitable for sensitive skin
• Non-comedogenic

Price: $99

Where to buy: Sephora

26. BANILA CO Hello Sunny Hydrating Sun Essence SPF50+ PA++++

A sun essence that is lightweight with a thin texture which is why it’s perfect for daily wear! If your skin gets easily irritated when exposed to the sun, this essence also helps calm it down due to its azulene ingredient. It also moisturizes the skin throughout the day without being greasy. It’s a sunscreen that matches quite well with sensitive skin types.

Why we love it:

• Easy to blend and layer
• Calms irritated skin
• Also suitable to apply for outdoor activities

Price: $39.90

Where to buy: Zalora

27. Sulwhasoo Snowise Ex UV Protection Cream SPF47 PA+++

A lightly-textured whitening cream, it prevents UV damage and protects against the skin’s internal stresses too. Formulated with Korean traditional herbs, it contains the brand’s trademarked Snowise Brightening Triplex: White ginseng saponin to inhibit melanin formation, white ginseng polysaccharides to prevent sallowness caused by internal heat, and white cloud grass to detoxify and reduce redness caused by exposure to infrared rays. Also in the formula is the herb hedyotis diffusa which prevents UV-induced inflammation.

Why we love it:

• Multi-functional protection
• Soothes and brightens skin
• Also protects against fine dust and blue light

Price: $110

Where to buy: Shopee

28. Yves Saint Laurent Beaute Forever Light Creator UV Protection SPF50 PA++++

A reformulation of the well-loved YSL Top Secrets UV Shield, this sunscreen bears the brand’s Glycanactif WTTM complex that rejuvenates skin cells and regulates pigmentation to enhance radiance, an anti-pollution complex that reduces carbon particle adhesion to the skin, and an intelligent filtering system with a base of four filters that delivers extensive protection against UVA and UVB rays.

Why we love it:

• Protects from pollution and premature ageing of the skin
• Keeps skin healthy and comfortable
• Rejuvenates the skin

Price: $168

Where to buy: YSL Beauty SG

29. KIEHL’S Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Sunscreen SPF50 PA++++

Protecting against three forms of damaging solar rays, this reformulation of Kiehl’s popular sunscreen targets the damage caused by UVB rays and short UVA rays, as well as penetrative long UVA rays that cause significant oxidative stress, leading to inflammation and cellular deterioration. Formulated with a blend of sunscreen filters including Mexoryl SXTM and Mexoryl XLTM, this new triple UV-defense against skin-ageing also contains Vitamin E to condition the skin and fight free-radical damage, and rosa gallica extract to calm irritated skin.

Why we love it:

• Doubles as a day-time moisturiser
• Matte but hydrating
• Improves skin texture

Price: $64

Where to buy: Kiehl’s SG

30. Senka Perfect UV Milk

Not only does Senka’s sunscreen feel extra light, but it also doesn’t leave a white cast. It resists water and sweat, so it’s perfect for outdoor exercise and even your beach vacations. It has a smooth, light lotion texture that doesn’t leave behind a greasy finish.

Why we love it:

• Dewy finish
• Suitable for all skin types
• Smudge-resistant and water-resistant

Price: $16.90

Where to buy: Lazada

31. Aveeno Baby Natural Protection

This gentle sunscreen is made of 100% naturally sourced ingredients. It even has natural oat extracts to soothe and nourish sensitive skin. It’s oil-free, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic and paraben-free You and your baby can use this moisturising sunscreen for all-day protection!

Why we love it:

• Tear-free mineral sunscreen
• Formulated for sensitive skin
• Comfortable on baby’s skin

Price: $19.90

Where to buy: Lazada

32. Solyph Face The Wild Suncream

This physcial sunscreen protects the skin from UV rays, blue lights, and micropollutants. Its formula is made to hydrate the skin while prepping it so it doubles as a primer under makeup. It’s also infused with Probiotics and Green tea to keep the complexion healthy. Suitable for all skin types and different kinds of lifestyles including those who are active.

Why we love it:

• Unique and functional packaging
• Cooling and soothing
• Boosts skin health

Price: $49

Where to buy:

33. Avene Eau Thermale Day Protector UV EX SPD 30 PA+++ 

This is claimed as one of the best sunscreens in Singapore for people who are super sensitive to the sun. “I get sunburned really easily, and even after just sitting at the poolside for an hour — under the umbrella! — my face turns red,” says Sophie. She tried many sunscreens but says Eau Thermale Avene has worked best for her. “It feels light on the skin and lasts long.”

Why we love it:

• Soothing anti-irritation properties
• Helps makeup last longer
• Protects skin from UV and external aggressors

Price: $41.12

Where to buy: Watsons

34. Missha All Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk 

Hate very thick, creamy and sticky sunscreens? Then go for Missha’s sunscreen/ It is very light and liquid – you almost feel like you’re just applying an essence! It even has additional anti-ageing ingredients, so it heals and protects your skin at the same time.

Why we love it:

• Moisturising and nourishing
• Dewy finish with no white cast
• Shields skin from other external irritants

Price: $32.40

Where to buy: Shopee

35. Orbis UV Cut Sunscreen On Face Light SPF 34 PA+++

This sunscreen packed with SPF 34 is one that makes your skin look healthy while it shields your skin from ultraviolet rays, infrared rays and air pollutants. Not only that, but this sunscreen also contains ultra-lightweight Hybrid Airy Powder that naturally conceals pores for a much soft-focus finish while being sweat and water-resistant. This formula is perfect for those who prefer lightweight textures.

Why we love it:

• Suitable for dehydrated, dry skin
• Brightens skin
• Doubles as a makeup primer

Price: $18.00

Where to buy: Orbis Singapore

36. Dermalogica Solar Defense Booster SPF50

The Dermalogica Solar Defense Booster is a broad-spectrum sunscreen that adds critical UV defence to your foundation or moisturizer. This sunscreen boosts the UV defence of the prescribed Dermalogica moisturisers by mixing equal parts together. Not only that, but it is also a non-chalky and sophisticated formula that gives your skin the shield it needs from the damaging causes for the environment.

Why we love it:

• Can be used with makeup
• Improves look of base makeup
• Environmental-friendly

Price: $120.00

Where to buy: Dermalogica Singapore

37. Skin Inc Hydrating Shield+ SPF30

This power-packed sunscreen by Skin Inc is packed with antioxidants like Vitamin E, Amurense Bark Extract and Hyaluronic acid. This is for much longer-lasting hydration. Additionally, the licorice extract in the formula helps in soothing the skin’s inflammation. Not only that, but the formula is also non-greasy, lightweight and it hydrates while protecting the skin from external stresses like pollution, sun exposure and weather.

Why we love it:

• Repairs as it soothes
• Prevents moisture loss
• Intense hydration

Price: $74.00

Where to buy: Sephora

38. Cetaphil UVA/UVB Defense

Cetaphil’s sunscreen is a strong sun protection formula for healthier skin. It is formulated using patented Mexoryl technology, a patented formula with a system of 8 litres to provide optimum sun protection against UV rays. Not only that, but this formula also provides the skin high levels of protection while moisturising and soothing the skin.

Why we love it:

• Great for dry, sensitive skin
• Protects the face and body
• High protection

Price: $25.13

Where to buy: Watsons Singapore

39. Banana Boat Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF50 PA +++

This sunscreen locks the active ingredients in place and boosts the staying power of the sunscreen. Not only that, but it also provides you with powerful protection that absorbs quickly and would not run to your eyes. Additionally, this enhanced sunscreen lotion is specially designed for sports enthusiasts. This sunscreen has also been recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation.

Why we love it:

• Ideal for outdoor use and water sports
• Strong water resistance
• Non-greasy

Price: $11.92

Where to buy: Watsons Singapore

40. Innisfree Perfect UV Protection Cream Triple Care

This sunscreen formula is infused with sunflower oil and green tea extract. This helps protect the skin against UV rays. Also, the long-lasting UV protection cream prevents sweat and sebum building up and it is recommended for outdoor activities as it is also a waterproof formula. What’s more is that this is not only a sunscreen but also a 3-in-1 cream that has benefits for anti-wrinkling, brightening and UV protection.

Why we love it:

• Great for oily skin
• Anti-ageing and brightening benefits
• Reduces excess oil and sebum production

Price: $22.00

Where to buy: Innisfree Singapore

41. ROUND LAB 365 Derma Relief Sunscreen 

Lightweight and coral reef-friendly, the ROUND LAB 365 Derma Relief Sunscreen is designed to provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays! It garnered popularity in Singapore as one of the best sunscreens because of its clean and gentle formula. It nourishes, hydrates, and protects the skin while also improving the overall skin health. 

Why we love it: 

• Ideal for all skin types
• Provides strong sun protection without compromising the skin
• Calms and soothes skin

Price: $28.00

Where to buy: Shopee

42. ANESSA Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk

Created by ANESSA, a renowned Japanese skincare brand, this sunscreen milk is designed to provide superior defense against harsh UV rays while providing skin-loving benefits. Its water and sweat-resistant formula, thanks to its Aqua Booster EX technology, doesn’t melt or move around, without turning greasy or sticky. It has a silky, smooth texture that makes it easy to blend and absorb into the skin. 

Why we love it: 

• Matte finish
• Promotes softer, plumper skin
• Daily sun protection that doubles as makeup base

Price: $34.00

Where to buy: Shopee

43. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Sun Gel

Another one of the best sunscreens in Singapore that provide strong sun protection, hydration, and prevents sun damage is from Isntree! Their Hyaluronic Acid Sun Gel is great for oily, combination, and dehydrated skin types because of its smooth, matte finish that doesn’t dry out the skin. In addition, it doesn’t worsen the oil production and prevents moisture loss throughout the day.

Why we love it: 

• Light, refreshing formula
• Affordable
• Strengthens skin barrier

Price: $14.43

Where to buy: Lazada

44. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics

As the name suggests, this sunscreen from Beauty of Joseon, combines the benefits of rice extract and probiotics to provide effective sun defense while nourishing the skin. It’s rich in antioxidants and a natural microbiome to boost the skin’s radiance, promote healthy skin barrier, and prevent skin irritation. It garnered a loyal following and repeat orders because of its light texture that blends easily into the skin – which feels like you didn’t apply anything at all! It’s great to use in Singapore’s humid, hot weather.

Why we love it: 

• Anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
• Improves skin texture and moisture retention
• Enhances skin resiliancy

Price: $12

Where to buy: Lazada

Sunscreen FAQs

What should I look for in a sunscreen?

Get a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects you from both UVA and UVB rays. According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, only broad-spectrum sunscreens can lower your risk for melanomas and skin cancer. Look for a minimum of SPF 30 if you are going outdoors.

How much sunscreen do I need to apply?

You should apply 1 ounce of sunscreen (roughly the amount of a shot glass) all over your face and body. Bear in mind that SPF protection assumes that you’re using the right amount. So, if you get an SPF 50 sunscreen, but only put half an ounce, you are only really getting SPF 25.

What’s the right way to apply sunscreen?

Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going out of the house, so your skin has enough time to absorb it. If you are using a face sunscreen, apply it after skincare and before makeup.

Reapply sunscreen after every four hours! If you don’t want sunscreen to ruin your makeup, consider getting a sunscreen spray or powder sunscreen to “layer” your sun protection.

My makeup already has SPF. Can I skip sunscreen?

Even if your foundation, BB or CC cream has sun protection, you probably apply a very sheer layer. This isn’t enough to significantly block UV damage.

Think of sun protection in makeup as your second layer of defence. They give additional protection, but should never replace sunscreen.

Do I need to wear sunscreen even if I’m indoors?

Yes. UVA rays — which cause pigmentation and early ageing — can penetrate windows and clouds.

What’s the best sunscreen routine for oily skin?

Choose a sunscreen formula that is oil-free, non-comedogenic and non-acnegenic. Gel and water-based formulas will also feel lighter.

If you tend to get breakouts or have sensitive skin, avoid these ingredients: benzophenones (like oxybenzone), cinnamates, and octocrylene, They are usually found in chemical sunscreens.

If you have particularly acne-prone skin, you may want to use sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium oxide. These are physical sunscreens that block the sunlight rather than being absorbed by the skin. They’re less likely to irritate the skin, but they can feel a bit thicker.

How do I know if my sunscreen has expired?

Most sunscreens will have an expiry date on the bottle. However, you should use up your sunscreen within a year after opening it. Exposure to sun, moisture and extreme heat conditions will cause ingredients to deteriorate and become less effective. Don’t leave sunscreen in the car or indirect heat! Store in your bag or in a cabinet.

The benefits of applying sunscreen?

First and foremost, the most obvious benefit of applying sunscreen regularly is to prevent signs of premature ageing. Because the sun’s UV rays are incredibly harsh on the skin, going out without protection can accelerate signs of skin ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation spots. In addition to protecting your skin from the onset of wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, wearing sunscreen regularly can also protect new moles from forming and becoming full-blown melanomas (aka skin cancer). Furthermore, as continuous exposure to the sun breaks down the skin’s collagen, wearing sunscreen can protect the skin from premature sagging as well.

What SPF should I use?

Generally, dermatologists recommend opting for sunscreens with a sun protection factor of 50+. This is because most people don’t normally apply a generous enough layer anyway. Hence, applying a sunscreen with at least SPF50 will ensure that you will get sufficient sun protection. However, sunscreens that claim to have SPF100 and above are just marketing gimmicks and are not necessary for getting adequate sun protection. Hence, just stick to your SPF50 sunscreens and you’re pretty much set for the day.

Should I apply sunscreen before skincare or makeup?

The answer is somewhere right in the middle. You should be applying your sunscreen after your serum or moisturiser and right before makeup application. Since some sunscreens contain alcohol and can be quite drying on the skin, it is important to protect your skin beforehand with a moisturiser. Also, applying a layer of moisturiser beforehand can help to seal in any moisture and fortify the skin’s moisture barrier. After applying your regular skincare, follow up with a generous layer of sunscreen and apply it onto your face, ears, neck and chest area.

Usually, a nickel-sized amount should be able to cover your entire face and neck area. However, there’s no harm in applying more sunscreen! Since sunscreen tends to melt off in the heat and humidity, always remember to reapply it throughout the day. If you’re wearing makeup, spritz on a hydrating mist to refresh your skin and follow up with a layer of sunscreen.

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