With the rise of scorching temperatures, most people are frantically searching for ways to beat the intolerable heat and protect their skin. Yes, the best answer is water-based sunscreens.

It seems that one aspect of our daily routine that we often overlook is simply sunscreen. Applying sunscreen is the ultimate rule that should be embedded in your skincare ritual. 

Slathering sunscreen all over the face, on the other hand, is a nightmare in disguise for those with oily or acne-prone skin, as the product leaves the skin greasy and shiny. Is it, however, true?

You can get your hands on a variety of products, including water-based sunscreen, thanks to the abundance of sunscreens on the market. Not sure which one to choose? Scroll down to see Beauty Insider’s personal pick.

What is Water Based Sunscreen?

The beauty world has never failed to amaze us with its latest creations and one of them has to be water based sunscreen. Although this product seems to be under the radar for a while now, it certainly deserves a spot in your beauty vanity. As the name suggests, water based sunscreen usually indicates that its formulation features water as its first ingredient. Aside from its ultra-lightweight texture, water based sunscreen leaves a non-oily and greasy finish, making it ideal for those with oily and acne-prone skin types. 

How To Choose The Right Water Based Sunscreen For Your Skin?

Although it may seem insignificant, applying sunscreen can protect your skin from the risk of developing various issues including skin cancer, hyperpigmentation, damage, wrinkles and even sunburn. Honestly, the majority of us prefer to splurge on the best water based sunscreens with the highest rating or review. Unfortunately, such products may not deliver similar results as each individual has different skin and routine. Thereby before you purchase any water based sunscreens make sure that they fulfil these criteria:

  • Prioritise water based sunscreens that have at least SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 30
  • Select products that offer broad-spectrum coverage
  • A formulation that features active ingredients like titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and avobenzone

The Best Water Based Sunscreens That Deliver Comprehensive Protection

1. Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 

If you’re looking for the best Korean water based sunscreens, Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 should be on top of your list. With aloe vera as its star ingredient, it delivers multiple benefits including preventing premature ageing, revitalising damaged skin, soothing inflammation and retaining moisture, and ensuring a radiant complexion. 

Why we love it:

  • Soothes inflammation
  • Packed with hydrating properties
  • Compact size

Price: $17.50 (Original price $19.90)

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2. Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defence SPF 50 

Touted as one of the best water based sunscreens, Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defence SPF 50 has an ultra-lightweight texture that absorbs easily on the skin without leaving any white cast. Aside from featuring a broad spectrum formula and UVA/UVB technology, it provides comprehensive protection from environmental aggressors and pollution. This dermatologist-tested sunscreen retains the skin moisture level with a matte finish. 

Why we love it:

  • Ideal for all skin types
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Protects the skin from pollution 

Price: $56.00

Where to buy: Kiehl’s official website 

3. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++

With thousands of positive reviews on its efficacy, Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++ is one of the certified cult favourite water based sunscreens. It features an oil-free formula that seamlessly blends into the skin with a radiant finish. This antioxidant-rich SPF features broad-spectrum coverage that protects the skin from harmful UV rays and blue light. What’s more, it is lightweight and invisible, making it a perfect addition to beat the sunrays. 

Why we love it:

  • Oil-free formula
  • Delivers invisible finish
  • Scentless 
  • Protects from blue light 

Price: Starts from $28.00

Where to buy: Sephora 

4. Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk SPF 50+ 

Shield your skin from UV rays with the newly reformulated Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk SPF 50+. Created with Auto Booster Technology, its veil of protection becomes stronger with exposure to heat, sweat, water and humidity. It is infused with skin-loving ingredients like collagen, super hyaluronic acid, green tea extract and yellow flower extract to keep the skin looking plumper and youthful. Thanks to its SPF 50, you can cherish the sunshine without having to worry at all. 

Why we love it:

  • Non-greasy formula
  • Bio based plastic packaging
  • Comprehensive SPF protection 

Price: $41.90 (60ml) and $14.90 (20ml)

Where to buy: Watsons 

5. Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+

Formulated with the world’s first micro defence formula, Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+ delivers comprehensive coverage at a micro level. Powered by hyaluronic acid, royal jelly extract and butylene glycol, these ingredients are packed with hydrating properties to quench thirsty skin. With its watery texture, this water based sunscreen easily absorbs into the skin without leaving any greasy residue. 

Why we love it:

  • Features watery texture
  • Delivers coverage at micro level
  • Good value

Price: $18.90

Where to buy: Guardian 

6. Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Sunscreen SPF 50

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Sunscreen SPF 50 is a hybrid product that delivers skincare and sunscreen benefits. It is loaded with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera extract and niacinamide to deeply nourish the skin. This glow boosting sunscreen is formulated with both chemical and mineral filters for comprehensive protection. If you’re looking for the best water based sunscreens, this newly launched product is the one for you. 

Why we love it:

  • Reef-safe
  • Delivers the benefits of sunscreen and skincare
  • Non-comedogenic.

Price: $54.00

Where to buy: Sephora 

7. Innisfree Tone Up Watering Sunscreen SPF 50+

The next product that often makes it to the list of water based sunscreens is Innisfree Tone Up Watering Sunscreen SPF 50+. This hybrid sunscreen of mineral and chemical filters doubles as a makeup base, making it a must-have in your daily routine. Infused with vitamin C, it delivers a brightening effect for a radiant finish. The ultra-lightweight texture allows the sunscreen to seamlessly penetrate the skin and keep it hydrated. 

Why we love it:

  • Features an airy hydrating formula
  • Brightening effect
  • Functions as a makeup base 

Price: $22.00

Where to buy: Innisfree official website 

8. Laneige Watery Sun Cream SPF50+ 

Kiss goodbye to harmful UV rays with the Laneige Watery Sun Cream SPF50+. It features a watery consistency that permeates into the skin easily. Formulated with Laneige Water Screen technology, it helps to protect the skin from environmental stressors and deliver long-lasting hydration. With the SPF 50, it effectively shields the skin from UV rays, ensuring comprehensive coverage. 

Why we love it:

  • Waterproof
  • Free from harmful ingredients
  • Features powerful protection of SPF 50

Price: $36.00

Where to buy: Laneige official website 

9. Bio-essence Bio-water Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50 

With its innovative formulation and efficacy, Bio-essence Bio-water Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50 truly deserves a spot in the list of the best water based sunscreens. Aside from its watery texture, it has essential ingredients including hyaluronic acid which helps to replenish dull skin and deliver intense hydration. It is formulated without alcohol, mineral oil and fragrance, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin types. 

Why we love it:

  • Ideal for sensitive skin
  • Replenishes the skin
  • Dermatology tested

Price: $25.90

Where to buy: Bio-essence official website

10. Shiseido Perfect UV Protector

Shiseido Perfect UV Protector is recommended for those who engage in strenuous outdoor and indoor activities. It has WetForce technology, which provides multi-protection against extreme heat and sunlight. The protection becomes stronger as you sweat. Its fragrance also interacts with natural sweat to produce a pleasant scent. The Shiseido Perfect UV Protector is our pick for the best sunscreen for the face in Singapore against sun damage and ageing.

Why we love it:

  • Transforms the smell of sweat into a pleasing scent
  • Reduces wrinkles and dark spots
  • Suitable for all skin types 
  • Lightweight

Price: $60

Where to buy: Shopee 

11. Wardah UV Shield Aqua Fresh Essence SPF 50 

Wardah UV Shield Aqua Fresh Essence is formulated for all skin types, from dry to combination. This sunscreen is designed to feel and work like an essence, so it applies lightly to the skin and absorbs quickly. It employs Aquafused Technology to provide a constantly refreshing sensation that hydrates the skin throughout the day. This technology keeps dry patches on the skin at bay while keeping oil at bay in oilier areas of the face. Furthermore, this drugstore sunscreen contains Artemisia Capillaris Extract, a vitamin A, C, and Niacin-rich ingredient that works to soothe skin irritation and fight redness.

Why we love it:

  • Good value
  • High SPF Level
  • Formulated for all dry to combination skin types
  • Absorbed quickly 
  • Rich in vitamin A, and C

Price: $5.99

Where to buy: Shopee

12. Nivea Sun Triple Protect Acne Oil Control SPF50 

For those struggling with acne, Nivea Sun Triple Protect Acne Oil Control SPF50  hears you. This sunscreen offers triple protection against UVA, UVB, and even blue light. It also does not clog pores and is crafted to leave the skin matte for 8 hours. Many users have stated that it is not only ultralight but also easily absorbed into the skin. Overall, it’s ideal for those with oily, acne-prone skin.

Why we love it:

  • SPF50+ PA+++
  • Ultralight and quick absorption formula
  • Non-pore clogging (Himalayan salt) 
  • Formulated for acne-prone skin

Price: $17.55

Where to buy: Guardian 

13. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-shine Fresh Mist SPF50 Facial Sunscreen 

With just a few sprays of La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-shine Fresh Mist SPF50 Facial Sunscreen, you’re ready to go. When applied, this no-white cast guarantee is invisible and has an anti-shine finish for a non-greasy mattifying appearance. It’s also non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog your pores or encourage the growth of blackheads. This dermatologically tested, alcohol-free spray sunscreen offers SPF50 protection from harmful pollutants and UV rays that cause early ageing.

Why we love it:

  • Waterproof and sweat-proof formula 
  • Dermatologically tested
  • Leaves your skin feeling light, airy, and revitalised every spray
  • Only takes up a few seconds for the sunscreen to become translucent
  • Won’t clog pore and encourage formation of blackheads

Price: $20.90
Where to buy: Guardian

Have you tried out any of these water based sunscreens? Make sure to follow Beauty Insider on Instagram and Facebook for the latest update!