If there’s a common step that most people tend to disregard from their skincare routine, it is, undoubtedly, sunscreen.
This isn’t particularly ideal, especially considering Singapore’s climate. Sure, we know some sunscreens have a bad rep for being too greasy or sticky on your skin, but trust us when we say that your skin will thank you for it in the long run.
The type of sunscreen you would want to apply on your face is the kind that doesn’t just give great coverage, but also feels lightweight and doesn’t make your skin feel greasy. So with that in mind, here’s a handy list of the best sunscreens you actually want to use on your face. Slather up!
Best sunscreens for your face in 2023
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50 PA++++
It’s all in the name – this serum-like sunscreen from popular K-beauty brand SKIN1004 offers a light and dewy finish, leaving your skin moisturised and protected.
Clinically tested for a guaranteed UV protection level of SPF 50+ PA++++, this sunscreen ensures your skin is shielded from harmful rays – but it doesn’t stop there.
With its Hyalu-Cica formula, it effectively soothes and calms irritated skin caused by dryness. Unlike other sunscreens, it doesn’t leave a white cast and is non-sticky when applied, so your skin will look flawless and feel comfortable all day.
Its powerful ingredients deliver a dose of hydration, giving your skin a plump and dewy appearance. Enriched with centella asiatica extract, it further soothes and heals irritated skin, promoting a healthy complexion.
Infused with the Baby Green Complex, derived from seven different sprout extracts using cryogenic extraction methods, this sunscreen replenishes your skin with essential nutrients. These extracts help protect and revitalise your skin, ensuring it stays healthy and rejuvenated.
We appreciate the convenient pump head design too, which makes it hygienic and easy to carry around, allowing for quick reapplication when needed.
To incorporate this sunscreen into your skincare routine, simply use it as the last step. Apply evenly to the areas exposed to UV rays, including your face, neck, arms, and legs!
Get FREE SKIN1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum samples!
Click here to redeemSKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50 PA++++ retails for S$43.20 (S$15.01, limited time promo!) on Shopee Mall. Also available in a twin pack and mini (15ml).
AXIS-Y Complete No-Stress Physical Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++
K-beauty enthusiasts are no strangers to this popular mineral sunscreen from AXIS-Y, but did you know that they’ve recently launched a new and improved formula?
Yup, the brand listened to feedback from its consumers (that’s you!) and worked tirelessly to improve the texture of the vegan sunscreen, transforming it into an “essence gel lotion” which resembles a moisturising cream.
Its lightweight texture smooths onto the skin easily and leaves a dewy yet non-greasy finish. Even better, the renewed version doesn’t leave a white cast on the skin, so it’s perfect for those with deeper skin tones.
Catering to those with sensitive skin, the sunscreen is now armed with the new “Hydro-Fit Formula”, which excludes essential oils and features hyaluronic acid to give your skin a healthy glow. This also allows you to reapply your SPF throughout the day without any of the residue.
The formula boasts niacinamide, which has a brightening effect on the skin. Meanwhile, squalane and calendula soothe sensitive, tired skin from UV damage as they refine your skin texture and restore your skin’s moisture balance.
It even contains the patented ingredient SYN-COLL(palmitoyl tripeptide-5), which promotes collagen production, thereby improving your skin’s elasticity and wrinkles!
AXIS-Y Complete No-Stress Physical Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++ retails for S$23 at Watsons online.
Paralapiel Tone-Up UV Protector SPF 50+PA++++
Searching for a sunscreen that offers multiple benefits? Look no further than the Paralapiel Tone-Up UV Protector SPF 50+PA++++, an upcoming sunscreen from Korea.
It not only provides strong protection against UVA and UVB rays, but it also provides a slight tone-up effect that whitens and evens out skin tone for a glowing finish. The sunscreen contains niacinamide to fade dark spots and brighten the skin over time too.
What’s more, it boasts anti-ageing ingredients like adenosine to smooth out wrinkles and preserve its youthful appearance.
Hyaluronic acid, trehalose, and asiatic acid in the formula work together to draw and trap moisture in the skin to keep it smooth, supple, and plump. Meanwhile, madecassic acid and centella extract soothe irritation and rejuvenate the skin, dialling down itchiness and redness.
Titanium dioxide, a mineral sunscreen filter, does double–duty to protect tired skin from an onslaught of environmental aggressors, keeping it healthy and glowing.
Even better, the lightweight cream blends out effortlessly for a satin-matte finish – it doesn’t feel greasy or sticky in the slightest! It also has a subtle floral scent that makes sunscreen application and reapplication a real treat.
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Click here to shopParalapiel Tone-Up UV Protector SPF 50+PA++++ retails for $29.90 exclusively on Flawsome.sg.
b.glen Aqua UV SPF 50+ PA+++
Besides protecting the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays, b.glen’s Aqua UV SPF 50+ PA+++ adds plenty of moisture to your skin each time you apply it. The advanced sunscreen also helps to prevent pigmentation, dark spots, and freckles.
That’s all thanks to the QuSome®︎ beauty ingredients in the formula, which penetrate the skin to bring about extra benefits. Even better, it contains shine absorption powder that sops up excess sebum for a glowing complexion that’s never greasy or sticky, so it’s perfect for oily skin too.
Since it doubles up as an excellent makeup primer, you can slather this on right before applying makeup for a smoother, long-lasting base.
The b.glen Aqua UV SPF 50+ PA+++ is available at b.glen’s website. It retails for S$70 (60g). Pssst! DV readers get to enjoy 15% off with the promo code ‘DVbglen15’!
Senka Perfect UV Milk
This sunscreen by Senka has a light, watery texture that is easily blended, leaving no white cast and settling seamlessly into skin. And as if that isn’t appealing enough, it’s also water- and smear-resistant.
The Senka Perfect UV Milk is available at all Shiseido beauty counters at Isetan, BHG, Robinsons, and Metro. It is also available at all Watsons outlets. It retails for SGD16.90.
Melixer Vegan Airfit Sunscreen
Need a refreshing sunscreen that has a moist but non-greasy finish? Give this vegan sunscreen from K-beauty brand Melixer a go. The Air-Fit texture leaves no white cased and is infused with antioxidant-rich Asian medicinal plants like pine and basil, to protect and improve sensitive skin.
Infused with 8% kale leaf extract, its skin-friendly formula also soothes patches of dry skin, revealing a visible glow underneath. It also blocks out pollution and UV rays promptly and effectively, as the fast-absorbing and weightless formula offers SPF50+ protection for up to 10 hours!
Melixer Vegan Airfit™ Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++ Retails for S$55 on Sephora.sg.
Biore UV Mild Milk SPF50
This one is formulated for kids, who have more sensitive skin than adults, thus making it ideal for those with sensitive skin types. Its light and milky texture is easily absorbed, as well as is full of moisturising ingredients to keep your face hydrated throughout the day.
The Biore UV Mild Milk SPF50 is available at all Watsons, Guardian, and Fairprice outlets. It retails for S$10.90.
Philosophy Ultra Miracle Worker Multi-Rejuvenating Emulsion Broad Spectrum SPF25
Firm, dense and radiant skin is what you’ll get with this sunscreen from Philosophy. It even helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, to boot!
The Philosophy Ultimate Miracle Worker Multi-Rejuvenating Emulsion Broad Spectrum SPF25 is available at all Sephora outlets and retails for SGD100.
Chanel UV Essentiel Gel-Creme SPF50
Doubling as a sunscreen and a makeup primer, the Chanel UV Essentiel Gel-Crème SPF50 promises to keep skin radiant, plump, and moisturised. Be sure to reapply throughout the day, especially when under prolonged sun exposure though.
The Chanel UV Essentiel Gel-Crème is available at all beauty counters in Metro, Isetan, Takashimaya, Tangs, BHG, and Robinsons. It can also be purchased at its boutiques such as in Ion Orchard and Vivo City. It retails for SGD87.
First Aid Beauty Hello Fab Triple Protection Skin Tint With Goji
This gem from First Aid Beauty protects your face against the harmful effects of the sun and urban pollution, as well as assists in evening out your skin tone. Plus, it even conceals imperfections, blends easily, and creates a smooth canvas for makeup application after!
The First Aid Beauty Hello Fab Triple Protection Skin Tint With Goji is available at all Sephora outlets and retails for S$53.
Origins Dr Weil For Origins Mega Defense Advanced Daily UV Defender SPF45
It’s 100% non-chemical formula and powerful three-tier daily protection against the skin damaging effects of pollution, dehydration and environmental stress makes it a big hit among fans.
The Origins Dr Weil For Origins Mega Defense Advanced Daily UV Defender SPF45 is available at all Sephora outlets and retails for SGD72.
Orbis Sunscreen On Face Light
Ultra lightweight with a natural tint, this affordable sunscreen is a must-add to your skincare routine.
The Orbis Sunscreen On Face Light is available at Orbis boutiques as well as at its beauty counters at Takashimaya, Metro, and Robinsons. It retails for SGD18.
Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF50
Suitable for all skin types, the Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF50 PA++++ facial sunscreen doesn’t just help defend against UV rays, but pollution and free radicals as well. Its matte, powdery finish also means no forehead glare!
The Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF50 is available at all Kiehl’s outlets. It retails for S$56 for 30ml, and S$89 for 60ml.
It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream SPF50+
Aptly named Your Skin But Better, this CC Cream by It Cosmetics is highly pigmented and multi-tasking. Besides keeping your face protected from the intense rays of the sun, it also contains anti-ageing properties. What can’t it do?
The It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream SPF50+ is available at all Sephora outlets in Singapore. It retails for SGD62.
La Mer SPF50 UV Protecting Fluid
Comfortable, hydrated, and soothed— that is what the La Mer SPF50 UV Protecting Fluid promises to deliver on with the infusion of its signature nutrient-rich Miracle Broth, all whilst keeping your face protected.
The La Mer SPF50 UV Protecting Fluid is available at beauty counters in Tangs, Metro as well as at The Shilla Duty-Free at Singapore’s Changi Airport. It retails for S$180.
Cetaphil UVA/UVB Defense SPF50+
A patented formula with a system of seven UV filters, this sunscreen by Cetaphil is designed to provide optimum sun protection. Not just that, it also serves to soothe and moisturise skin.
The Cetaphil UVA/UVB Defense SPF50+ is available at all Guardian, Watsons, Fairprice, and Cold Storage outlets. It can also be purchased on Redmart. It retails for S$26.90.
Aveeno Sensitive Skin Sunscreen
Containing 100% naturally sourced ingredients, this sunscreen from Aveeno is an extra-gentle formula that promises to give you sun protection without irritating your skin.
The Aveeno Sensitive Skin Sunscreen is available at all Watsons outlets as well as on Lazada. It retails for S$26.10.
Missha All Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk SPF50+
With the lightweight consistency of a serum, this facial sunscreen from Missha is definitely ideal for layering over a face full of skincare and makeup.
The Missha All Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk SPF50+ is available at all OG beauty counters, as well as at all Missha outlets. It retails for S$35.90.
Skin Inc Hydrating Shield + SPF30
Get this: The Skin Inc Hydrating Shield + SPF30 is not just a sunscreen— it is, in fact, a sunscreen, moisturiser, and a anti-ageing lotion designed to protect your skin from sun exposure and pollution. Sounds like a true triple threat to us!
The Skin Inc Hydrating Shield + SPF30 is available at all Skin Inc boutiques. It retails for SGD72.
Eau Thermale Avene SPF50+ Tinted Cream
If your face is prone to burning up in the sun easily, then this sunscreen from Eau Thermale Avene is the right pick for you. Formulated for skin that is hypersensitive to the sun, it is also fragrance-free, lightweight, and long-lasting.
The Eau Thermale Avene SPF50+ Tinted Cream is available at all Watsons and Guardian outlets. It retails for S$49.70.
Sante Labo Ultraviolet Radiation Forecast UV Cream
A gentle but powerful sunscreen, this one by Sante Labo is made of a titanium-zinc blend that disappears into skin in seconds. Trust us when we say that the lightweight formula will make it feel like you’re not wearing any sunscreen at all!
The Sante Labo Ultraviolet Radiation Forecast UV Cream is available on Rakuten, and it retails for SGD24.20.
Tony Moly My Sunny Perfecting Sun Block SPF50+
Keep your skin hydrated and protected from the sun with this sunscreen by Tony Moly. Made up of 60% moisture base, this is one product that is sure not to leave your skin parched.
The Tony Moly My Sunny Perfecting Sun Block SPF50+ is available at all Tony Moly boutiques located in Bugis Junction and Vivocity. It retails for SGD31.90.
Dermalogica Solar Defense Booster SPF50
Cited to be a non-chalky, non-greasy formula, this sunscreen by Dermalogica also helps improve skin smoothness and softness. Sounds like a win-win to us!
The Dermalogica Solar Defense Booster is available at all AsterSpring outlets, as well as several other authorized retailers such as Beauty Esthetic, A&Y Beauty Paradise, and Beauty Star. It retails for S$120.
E.l.f Beauty Shield SPF50 Skin Shielding Moisturiser
This one is not just affordable, it also contains a slight tint that helps blur away imperfections and redness on your face! Plus, it’s also a moisturiser, so you can be sure that it’ll keep your skin hydrated as well.
The E.l.f Beauty Shield SPF50 Skin Shielding Moisturiser can be purchased on its site and retails for S$16.34.
Aesop Protective Facial Lotion SPF25
Not only does it shield you from the sun, but this broad-spectrum sunscreen from Aesop also provides your face with antioxidant benefits with the addition of green tea in its formula. The sunscreen also smells pleasantly of rosemary, with it sinking quickly into the skin without leaving any white residue.
The Aesop Protective Facial Lotion SPF25 is available at its boutiques in Ion, Ngee Ann City, Raffles City, Suntec City, Vivocity, and Westgate. It can also be purchased from its beauty counters in Tangs. It retails for S$77.
Fresh Sugar Sport Treatment Sunscreen SPF30
In its convenient, travel-friendly packaging, this facial sunscreen from Fresh is sure to be a good addition to your makeup bag. Not only is it water-resistant, but it is also moisturising, providing water-resistant UV protection to the face, lips and eye area.
The Fresh Sugar Sport Treatment Sunscreen SPF30 is available at Fresh boutiques at Ion and Raffles City. It is also available at all Sephora outlets in Singapore, and retails for S$38.
Lancome UV Expert Youth-Shield Aqua Gel SPF50
Keep your skin looking more youthful with this sunscreen by Lancome. Enriched with a powerful filtering system, it effectively protects your skin from sources of hyperpigmentation and photo-ageing. And not just that, it even mattifies your face and reduces pore visibility at the same time. Score!
The Lancome UV Expert Youth Shield Aqua Gel SPF50 is available at its beauty counters in Isetan, Tangs, Metro, Robinsons, Takashimaya, BHG, and OG. It can also be purchased on Sephora. It retails for S$75 for 30ml.
Aprilskin Magic Snow Sun Stick SPF50+
That’s right, it’s a facial sunscreen in the classic stick form. This one by Aprilskin delivers powerful sun protection, and also contains Aloe Vera and Green Tea extract to help soothe and energize the skin.
The Aprilskin Magic Snow Sun Stick SPF50+ is available at all Guardian outlets and retails for S$25. It can also be purchased from online retailers such as Lazada, and Qoo10.
Murad City Skin Broad Spectrum SPF50
Boasting 100% mineral broad spectrum PA++++ and SPF50, this sunscreen from Murad doesn’t just protect skin from UVA/UVB rays, it even shields skin from infrared radiation, pollution, and blue light that is most often emitted from your devices.
The Murad City Skin Broad Spectrum SPF50 is available at selected Sephora outlets such as Tampines 1, Great World City, and Bugis +. It is also available at all Robinsons beauty counters and retails for S$112.
Laneige Marshmallow Sun Cushion SPF50+
That’s right, it’s facial sunscreen in cushion form! If you’re a fan of the cushion compact, invest in this one from Laneige, which helps protect and preserve your skin’s moisture barrier from the harsh rays of the sun.
The Laneige Marshmallow Sun Cushion SPF50+ is available at all beauty counters in BHG, Isetan, Tangs, Robinsons, and Metro. It is also available in its standalone boutiques and at Sephora. It retails for S$36.
Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk
This sunscreen from Anessa has achieved cult-like status, with users raving about its great texture and hydrating properties. It even dries into a semi-matte texture that makes makeup application a breeze after.
The Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk is available at all Watsons outlets in Singapore. It retails for S$39.90.
L’Oreal Paris UV Perfect Matte & Fresh Sunscreen
This L’Oreal Paris UV Perfect Matte & Fresh sunscreen is designed specifically for those with combination and oily skin – hurray! This sunscreen for oily skin contains Mattifying Kaolin Clay to effectively absorb excess oil on your face for a fresh, shine-free look all day long without having to blot off the oil or worrying about makeup caking up.
The 100% oil-free formula feels lightweight and doesn’t leave a greasy residue on your skin, perfect for layering under makeup or wearing on its own. It’s also less likely to clog your pores and cause acne!
The L’Oreal Paris UV Perfect Matte & Fresh offers SPF50 PA++++, with patented MexorylTM broad filters, to provide broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB. Tested to block out 98% UV rays, this hard-working sunscreen will protect your skin from sun damages such as cancer, sunburn, as well as premature signs of ageing such as dark spots and pigmentation.
Another major brownie point for this lightweight sunscreen is that it can maintain its efficacy in harsh conditions of up to 45°C and 80% humidity, all while protecting the skin from dust and pollution particles. If that doesn’t sound like an ideal daily sunscreen to use in Singapore, we don’t know what does!
L’Oreal Paris UV Perfect Matte & Fresh is exclusively available at Watsons. It retails at SGD20.90.
Skinceuticals Ultimate UV Defense SPF30
Great for all skin types, this sunscreen by Skinceuticals is also ideal for daily use as well as for high altitude climates. Pop it in your travel bag the next time you decide to go jet-setting!
The Skinceuticals Ultimate UV Defense SPF30 IS available at several aesthetic clinics such as Parklane Medical Aesthetics and Frances Beauty Aesthetic clinic. It can also be purchased online on its site. It retails for SGD42.
Bevy C Perfect UV Sunscreen SPF50
Get this: The Bevy C Perfect UV Sunscreen SPF50 is sweat-proof, water-proof, and even slated to help soothe and repair sunburned skin.
The Bevy C Perfect UV Sunscreen SPF50 is available at its beauty counters in Tangs, Isetan and Metro. It can also be purchased on Zalora. It retails for S$61.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF40
Weightless, colourless, and oil-free, this sunscreen from Supergoop! is a dream for Singapore’s climate. According to reviews, it works best for oily and sensitive skin.
The Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 is available at all Sephora outlets. It retails for SGD50.
Clinique Super City Block Oil-Free Daily Face Protector Broad Spectrum SPF40
Users have raved about its sheer, weightless formula and how this sunscreen is suitable for those with even the most sensitive skin. The creamy formula is also extremely easy to blend, which is a bonus!
The Clinique Super City Block Oil-Free Daily Face Protector Broad Spectrum SPF40 is available at beauty counters in Isetan, Robinsons, Metro, BHG, Tangs, Takashimaya, as well as at all Sephora outlets. It retails for S$50.
The DrGL Sun Protection Anti-Aging
Going above and beyond basic sun protection is the DrGL Sun Protection Anti-Aging. It basically ensures that skin is hydrated, repaired, and reinforced against the assault of the sun, thus giving you a youthful and radiant complexion.
The DrGL Sun Protection Anti-Aging is available at its website. DrGL products are also available at Sephora.sg and Sephora ION. It retails for SGD108.
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