It’s really important to get your sunscreen right. A high SPF factor, a good consistency and added skincare benefits are all criteria we might be looking for in our favourite sunscreen. Here is the verdict on nine great sunscreens that we have tried and tested!

Sunscreen Reviews

LANCÔME UV EXPERT XL-SHIELD FRESH UV AQUA GEL SPF50 PA++++ ($75/30 ML)

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 combats free radicals and prevents pollutant particles and carbon molecules from adhering to the skin.

WE LOVE… its weightless feel and refreshing sensation – a welcome relief for hot days. Easily absorbed by the skin, it leaves a smooth matte finish whilst hydrating it from within.

For more information about the product, click here.

CUTE PRESS ALL DAY BRIGHT TONE UP SUNSCREEN SPF50+ PA++ ($22.90/30G)

Looking for a 2-in-1 sunscreen to shield and brighten your skin? Well, then the Cute Press All Day Bright Tone Up Sunscreen is for you! This sunscreen has an SPF of 50+ and PA++ to help shield your skin against the sun. Even with the humid and hot weather in Singapore, this sunscreen’s formula is suitable as it is also sweat-proof! Besides that, it also has the benefit to help with controlling oil and works as a primer base as well. It is also a formula that has a non-sticky texture and absorbs quickly into the skin. Thus, you can achieve skin that shines with radiance! 

WE LOVE… its 2-in-1 properties to help control oil and ability to act as a base primer for your makeup.

For more information about the product, click here.

CRÈME SIMON DAILY DEFENSE UV PROTECTOR SPF 50CRÈME SIMON DAILY DEFENCE UV PROTECTOR SPF 50 ($68/30 ML)

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.

WE LOVE… its mattifying yet non-drying effect.

For more information about the product, click here.

Clarins UV Plus Day Screen Multi-Protection SPF50 PA++++CLARINS UV PLUS DAY SCREEN MULTI-PROTECTION SPF50 PA++++ ($75/30 ML)

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 a moisturising touch. Its ability to even out skin tone in a flash makes it perfect for no-makeup days.

For more information about the product, click here.

Shiseido Perfect UV Protector SPF50+ PA++++SHISEIDO PERFECT UV PROTECTOR SPF50+ PA++++ ($59/50 ML)

Created with WetForce technology, its UV-protective veil is strengthened when it comes in contact with moisture. Containing a stabilised Ionic Mineral Sensor that carries negative ions, these ions bond with the positive ions found in minerals in water and perspiration to create a highly water-repellent layer and make it more sun-proof. Also in the formula is the brand’s Profense CELTM which prevents oxidation and cell damage, as well as their exclusive SuperVeil-UV 360TM technology that offers uniform coverage even over tiny skin undulations.

WE LOVE…the emollient texture that belies its waterproof finish. It offers slip and allowance for thorough coverage before it dries down.

For more information about the product, click here.

Chanel Sublimage LA Protection UV SPF50 PA++++CHANEL SUBLIMAGE LA PROTECTION UV SPF50 PA++++ ($170/30 ML)

Targeting the latent damage caused by solar rays, this sun crème not only focuses on UV protection and preventing pigmentation, 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.

WE LOVE… how it feels and behaves like a luxe moisturiser rather than a typical sunscreen. Easily absorbed, the delicate, silky finish perfectly preps the skin for base makeup.

For more information about the product, click here.

DIORSNOW UV SHIELD SPF50 PA+++ ($85/30 ML)

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.

For more information about the product, click here.

SULWHASOO SNOWISE EX UV PROTECTION CREAM SPF47 PA+++ ($92/40 ML)

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.

WE LOVE… the radiant finish, and the comforting herbal scent – an unmistakable Sulwhasoo olfactory experience laden with healing and soothing vibes.

For more information about the product, click here.

YVES SAINT LAURENT Beaute Forever Light Creator UV Protection SPF50 PA++++YVES SAINT LAURENT BEAUTÉ FOREVER LIGHT CREATOR UV PROTECTION SPF50 PA++++ ($72/30 ML)

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.

WE LOVE… the lightweight gel-crème texture and luminous finish. It blends unobtrusively with non-SPF foundations to bless your visage with added protection and a subtle glow.

For more information about the product, click here.

KIEHL’S ULTRA LIGHT DAILY UV DEFENSE SUNSCREEN SPF50 PA++++ ($52/30 ML)

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.

For more information about the product, click here.

WE LOVE… the non-greasy finish of this lightweight lotion. It makes a good day-time moisturiser too.

After prepping your face with sunscreen lotion, don’t forget that moisturising it is just as important so that your face stays supple and fresh. Here we recommend 6 nourishing moisturisers for your skin!

Sunscreen FAQ

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.

best sunscreens for sensitive skin

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 defense. 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 ocide 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 in direct heat! Store in your bag or in a cabinet.