Sunscreen isn’t just a summer essential – it’s your skin’s daily armour. But with so many options out there (and not all of them great), how do you find one that truly delivers?
Enter the Daily Vanity Beauty Awards 2025. We’ve rounded up the year’s top SPF winners – from lightweight everyday picks to dermatologist-approved formulas and even ingestible options – so you can protect your skin, no matter your needs.
Best Affordable Sun Protection Cream
Beauty Of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua Fresh: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++ Experts’, Editor’s and Readers’ Choice
What it does:
This lightweight sunscreen combines the soothing benefits of rice and probiotics, maintaining a hydrating, non-greasy finish. Its gentle formula makes it a standout for those seeking reliable UV defence without compromise.
Where to purchase:
Best Sun Protection Creams
Crystal Tomato Beyond Sun Protection SPF 79+ Experts’ Choice
What it does:
It combines advanced UV filters with soothing ingredients like Ectoin (a hydrating agent) and Bisabolol (chamomile) to hydrate and protect the skin. Non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types.
Where to purchase:
Evans Dermalogical Very High Protection Mineral Sunscreen SPF 60+ PA++++ Readers’ Choice
What it does:
Designed to provide strong defence with mineral-based ingredients. Its non-comedogenic and calming properties make it ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin, offering both protection and hydration throughout the day.
Where to purchase:
Dr. Dennis Gross All-Physical Ultimate Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50 Editor’s Choice
What it does:
100% mineral, SPF 50 sunscreen that protects against UV rays, pollution, and blue light. Suitable for all skin types, it’s oil-free, fragrance-free, and enriched with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and tranexamic acid.
Where to purchase:
Best Sun Protection Supplements
Nano Singapore Sunguard Care Expert’s Choice
What it does:
An oral sunblock supplement that protects against UV rays, blue light, and pollution. It contains Raybloc™ ( a type of fern) and vitamin D, to brighten and nourish the skin. Ideal for daily use, especially for sunny climates.
Where to purchase:
Crystal Tomato Whitening Supplement Reader’s Choice
What it does:
It brightens the skin, reduces pigmentation, and evens out skin tone. Formulated with a conversion of vitamin A and amino acid, it provides antioxidant protection for long-term clarity.
Where to purchase:
Company of Wellness Good To Glow Editor’s Choice
What it does:
A daily skin supplement that’s packed with collagen, biotin, zinc, and vitamins C and E, along with ashwagandha (a herb) to support skin elasticity.
Where to purchase:
Best Sun Protection Gels
Clinique Even Better City Block Brightening Aqua Gel + Anti-Pollution Primer SPF 45/PA++ Experts’ Choice
What it does:
Its lightweight gel hydrates and preps the skin for makeup, creating a smooth base. Ideal for sensitive skin, combining skincare and makeup benefits.
Where to purchase:
Anessa Moisture UV Sunscreen Mild Gel SPF35 PA+++ (For Sensitive Skin) Readers’ Choice
What it does:
A gentle sunscreen for sensitive skin, offering broad-spectrum protection. It features Aqua Booster EX Technology for enhanced water resistance and can also be used as a makeup base.
Where to purchase:
SEKKISEI Skincare UV Defense Essence Gel Editor’s Choice
What it does:
Infused with Japanese herbal ingredients like Coix Seed and Melothria, it brightens and nourishes the skin. Its lightweight, non-greasy formula also acts as a makeup base.
Where to purchase:
Best Sun Protection Lotion
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum Experts’, Readers’ and Editor’s Choice
What it does:
Provides high UV protection while soothing and hydrating the skin. It contains centella asiatica and hyaluronic acid to enhance skin resilience and moisture.
Where to purchase:
Best Tone-Up Sun Protection
CNP Laboratory Tone-Up Protection Sun SPF 42 PA+++ Expert’s, Reader’s and Editor’s Choice
What it does:
An effective UV protection while providing a natural tone-up effect to brighten and even out your skin. Its lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly, leaving a smooth, dewy finish.
Where to purchase:
Meet the Expert Judges
Our panel of pros brought their insider know-how to help us crown the standouts.
- Ginger Lynette, a seasoned makeup artist with a decade-long career, has worked her magic on celebs, brands, and international campaigns. Her mantra? Enhance, not erase.
- Dr Xu Rongrong, aesthetic doctor at The Urban Clinic, believes great skin starts at home with the right products. Her holistic take blends effective routines with in-clinic precision.
- Dr Ang Sue-May, a dual-accredited Consultant Dermatologist and founder of Shine Dermatology, champions long-term skin health over quick fixes—and knows exactly what ingredients deliver.
- Dr Byron Tee, also from The Urban Clinic, specialises in advanced hair and skincare. His focus is subtle enhancements and real, radiant results.
- Kelly Chew, hairstylist at Chez Vous: HideAway, is the queen of low-maintenance Korean textures. With 12 years of experience, she’s mastered the art of effortless hair that lasts.
- Melvin Tseng, makeup artist, producer, and beauty creator, is a creative force who turns bold visions into beauty statements – think avant-garde looks with an editorial edge.
