Of course, we all know sunscreens are a must when we go out during summer in order to protect our precious skin from the strong sun. However, did you know that you should use it all year round? Not just in summer if you want to keep your beautiful skin because even on cloudy days, ultraviolet rays are still there.

 

There are so many choices of sunscreens to choose that it can be very difficult for you to choose. Do not fret! We have gathered all the information necessary to help you pick your go-to sunscreen. We will guide you on what factors are should be considered when you are buying a sunscreen that suitable for your skin as well as introduce all the best-selling Japanese sunscreens in 2019, so that you can catch the current trend in Japan!

 

 

 

First off, you need to know that there are two types of ultraviolet rays. UV-A and UV-B.

Ultraviolet rays A generally exist throughout the entire year while ultraviolet rays B are more prevalent around noon, during the rainy season and until midsummer.

UV-A

causes spots and wrinkles, they account for 90% of all the ultraviolet rays. They can pass through clouds and window glass which means you should be careful even if it is a cloudy day or when you are indoors

UV-B

causes sunburn and suntan that darkens the skin.  The rate of UV-B is lower than the UV-A.

So, it is definitely important for you to protect your skin from both of these two UV rays!

 

 

Types of sunscreens

There are generally 2 types of sunscreens, the first one being “Sunblock/UV filter” and the second one being “Sunscreen/UV absorber”. There are some similarities and differences between them.

 

Sunblock/UV Filter

The role of UV filter sunscreens is to protect the skin by reflecting UV rays like a mirror. A barrier on the skin that bounces off the ultraviolet rays.

Sunscreen/UV Absorber

The role of UV absorber sunscreens is to absorb ultraviolet rays and turn them in to energy like heat and infrared. A chemical reaction occurs on the skin which prevents the penetration rays into the skin.

 

*Ultraviolet absorbers may be irritating to the people with sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin, it is advisable to choose products that do not employ UV absorbing.

 

 

Difference between “SPF” And “PA”

SPF represents the effect of preventing UV-B

PA represents the effect of preventing UV-A

 

 

Choose “SPF” and “PA” according to your activity

This is a guide of how much SPF/PA is needed for each of these activites

For everyday use

If you don’t go out in the sun for a long period of time, it is alright to have a low SPF/PA. SPF35~50 PA+++~++++ is recommended for your daily life to provide a minimum protection.

For light exercise and going outdoor for a short period of time

SPF40~50 PA+++~++++ is effective enough to deal with light exercise and being outdoors for a short period of time. If you stay outside further or sweat, you should reapply it again in order to maintain the effect.

For heavy exercise and activities that are exposed to the sun for a long period of time

The highest SPF50 PA+++~++++ is necessary to protect you from the strong sun in this circumstance. You should reapply every 2 to 3 hours and it is advisable to pick the one that is waterproof.

 

 

Different Types of Sunscreen Textures

Sunscreens with Cream Texture Type

The cream type provides a high moisturizing power and it makes your skin moist just like a beauty essence. The ability to stay on for a long time is also high and it rarely causes unevenness.

There are also many products with waterproof that are resistant to sweat, water and friction makes it very difficult to fall off.

Sunscreens with Lotion/Milk Texture Type

This type of sunscreens is known for its ease to spread on the skin. It rarely leaves white cast and the texture does not become thick after applying.

It also has a moisturizing effect like a beauty serum which is good for dry skin. Using it as a makeup base is also recommended.

There are skin-friendly products that are less prone to allergies and acne.

Sunscreens with Gel Texture Type

Gel type has a clear and refreshing texture. Since it is very smooth and easy to apply, it does not become so difficult even when you use it in many areas.

There are many products that are suitable for sensitive skin.

 

 

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Best Japanese Sunscreens

1. Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence

 

  

Remains Light-textured Even After Reapplying!

The new Biore water-base sunblock introduces an advance micro defence formula, allowing the sunscreen to evenly glides onto the surface and preventing an uneven coating of the product to a micro level gap.

Whist the reformulation increased to PA++++, the texture remains identical to the old famously loved formula, offering a smooth and light finish without the skin feeling sticky. Its light texture allows the skin to feel moisturised as well as protected all at once. It also works great as a makeup primer.

• SPF50+ and PA++++
• Water resistance
• Can be used as a makeup base
• Light and comfortable texture
• Colourless
• Gentle scent of white muguet
• Suitable for all skin types

 

Price: $8.30 USD

Shop here

 

 

 

2. Anessa Perfect UV Skin Care Milk

 

 

High Performance Against Sweat and Water!

It is the perfect sunscreen that blocks powerful ultraviolet that pierces into the skin barrier. The advanced sunblock aqua booster technology allows stronger UV block when exposed to sweat and water.

The Anessa sunscreen spreads smoothly on the face, leaving a lightweight texture on the skin. It creates a smoother canvas for the layering of makeup and such.

• Strongest UV protection
• Blocks powerful ultraviolet
• Sweat and water resistant
• Does not leave a white cast when applying
• Contain aqua booster technology
• Can be used all over
• Suitable for normal to dry skin

 

Price: $30.25 USD

Shop here

 

 

 

3. Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel

 

 

Comfortable with Water Like Gel

This sunscreen gel gives a fresh and water-like feeling to the skin. Containing 4 moisturizing ingredients "Super Hyaluronic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid Na, Amino Acid, Collagen".

The gel delivers extremely concentrated moisture to prevent dryness and skin dehydration. The aqua gel protects the skin with the best UV-cut effect. Unique ingredients that prevent the UV-cut function from being ineffective by light. 

• SPF50+ PA++++
• Provides concentrated moisture
• Water like texture
• 4 moisturizing ingredients
• Unscented and uncoloured
• Gentle ingredients
• Suitable for sensitive skin

 

Price: $10.95 USD

Shop here

 

 

 

4. Allie Extra UV Gel

 

 

Effective Against Sweat, Water and Friction!

Allie Extra UV is known for its effective double proof function. First, waterproof against sweat and water and friction proof. Even if you rub against your bag or clothes, the sunscreen will not fall. Gentle prescription for your skin with beauty essence ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and collagen.

• Super waterproof
• Friction and rubbing resistance
• Moisturising ingredients (Hyaluronic acid + collagen)
• Gently washed off by facial cleanser, body soap
• Makeup base
• Fragrance free, paraben free
• Suitable for all skin types 

 

Price: ¥2,178 JPY ($20 USD)

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5. Nivea Sun Zero Filling UV Lotion

 

 

Friendly to the Skin!

A UV lotion that dries quickly, very good for your busy mornings. Firmly protects the skin from strong UV rays preventing both UV-A and UV-B. Comfortable to the skin as there is no stickiness and white residue as well as providing moisture with O2 hyaluronic acid combination.

• SPF50+ PA++++
• No fragrance, no colouring
• Allergy tested
• Washed off easily by soap, face wash etc
• For face and body
• Suitable for all skin types

 

Price: ¥927 JPY ($8.50 USD)

Shop here

 

 

6. Biore UV Athlizm Skin Protect Essence

 

 

The supreme sunscreen with UV-cut effect that can withstand in harsh environments (High-temperate and high-humidity environment 40 C, 75% humidity).

Features “Tough Boost tech” that takes care of sweat and rubbing and a moist touch essence that gives a smooth skin feeling after applying. This is a perfect choice for your active days!

• SPF50+/PA++++
• Super waterproof
• Can be used as a makeup base
• White floral scent
• Washed off by soap
• Acne resistant
• Suitable for dry skin to normal skin

 

Price: ¥1,318 JPY ($12.1 USD)

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7. Skin Aqua Tone Up UV Essence

 

 

Protect From the Sun and Tone Up Your Skin!

Protecting from UV from the sunlight and tone up your skin at the same time with this essence! A sunscreen that feels just like water and is extremely comfortable to use. It also provides you moisture while protecting you under the sun.

• SPF50+ PA++++
• Transparency lavender coloured
• Preservation free
• Mineral oil free
• Mild acidity
• Allergy tested
• Suitable for oily skin

 

Price: ¥767 JPY ($7 USD)

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8. RMK UV Face Protector 50

 

 

A sunscreen with enhanced UV protection that gives you a fresh feeling. Including AD powder which creates a thin protection film which is perfect for the skin. Strong protection against both UV-B and UV-A which could leave deep damage to your skin.

• SPF50+ PA++++
• Water-based prescription
• Does not leave white cast
• Moisturising ingredients (Baby peach extract)
• Good for both daily use and active days
• Suitable for all skin types

 

Price: ¥2,690 JPY ($24.60 USD)

Shop Here

 

 

 

9. Acseine Super Sunshield Bright Veil

 

 

A cream base sunscreen that delivers the best UV-cutting effect (Hybrid UV shield) with a focus on comfort and gentles.

The “Moist Veil” supports the skin barrier function with a smooth texture feeling. Brightness and colour unevenness are also corrected by “Fine Bright Formulation”.

• SPF50+ PA++++
• Perfect Veil technology
• Waterproof
• Low irritation, fragrance free, alcohol free, paraben free
• Allergy tested
• Suitable for sensitive skin

 

Price: ¥3,100 JPY ($28.40 USD)

 

 

 

10. Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV

 

 

Lightweight but powerful!

Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV is a lightweight gel sunscreen containing SPF50+ PA++++. It is a light gel that lathers smoothly without leaving a sticky residue, recommended for those who prefer a light and refreshing sunscreen. It also serves as a makeup base. Once applied, the gel breaks down into a watery texture that effectively protects the skin from UV rays. In addition, this gel sunscreen contains 85% beautifying ingredients that provide moisture to the skin.

• SPF50+ and PA++++
• Lightweight texture
• Gel formula
• 85% beautifying ingredients
• Suitable for all skin types

 

Shop here

 

 

11. Nivea Sun UV Protect Super Water Gel

 

 

A skin-friendly water gel that melts into the skin!

This sunscreen gently protects your bare skin from strong UV rays, with the protection of SPF50 PA+++. Nivea Sun UV applies like lotion with its watery texture, it is lightweight and does not leave a sticky residue. A skin-friendly water gel sunscreen that melts into your skin. In addition, it contains hyaluronic acids and natural plant extracts, making it super moisturising to the skin. It can also be removed with a simple cleanser and does not clog your pores. Comfortable to wear without any white cast. It is fragrance free and colour free.

• SPF50 and PA+++
• Watery texture
• Lightweight
• Contains hyaluronic acids
• Suitable for all skin types

Shop here

 

12. Curel UV Essence

 

 

Contains ceramide care!

Curel UV Essence contains ceramide care while protecting your skin from UV rays. It is suitable for dry and sensitive skin. Curel focuses on healing dry and damaged skin. This sunscreen can be applied on your face and body, it has a lightweight texture that is perfect for those with sensitive skin. The essence does not dry out your skin but rather provides extra moisture through plant derived ingredients. The ceramide care helps prevent rash and irritation from the harsh UV rays. It is formulated with hydrating ingredients such as eucalyptus extract.

• Contains ceramide care
• Focuses on healing dry and damaged skin
• Can be used for face and body
• Contains moisturising ingredients
• Suitable for dry and sensitive skin

 

Shop here

 

 

13. Nivea Sun UV Super Water Gel

 

 

Lightweight texture, with 75% skincare ingredients!

Nivea Sun UV Super Water Gel is another great sunscreen for oily skin, it protects your skin from strong UV rays with SPF50 PA+++, gently moisturises skin and prevents dryness. It has a water base formula with 75% skincare ingredients, aiming to hydrate and protect the skin. Due to its lightweight texture, the sunscreen can also be used as a makeup base to prevent makeup from smudging. Free of fragrance and colourant, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

• SPF50 and PA+++
• Water base
• Contains 75% skincare ingredients
• Lightweight texture
• Free of fragrance and colourant
• Suitable for oily skin

 

Shop here

 

 

14. Hada Labo Gokujyun UV White Gel

 

 

All-in-one gel!

An all-in-one gel sunscreen that contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin C derivatives to care for your skin. It is a thick formula, suitable for the winter season. It protects the skin against harsh UV rays with SPF50+ PA+++. Even though it has a thick formula, it will blend with your skin and deliver moisture to the stratum layer. Comfortable and soothing to the skin without drying out your complexion. Gentle on the skin, unscented, colourless, mineral oil free. A multi-function gel, making your skincare routine easier!

• SPF50+ and PA+++
• Thick formula
• vitamin C derivatives
• Unscented
• Suitable for dry skin

 

Shop here

 

 

15. Anessa Whitening UV Sunscreen Gel

 

 

Increase skin elasticity and anti-oxidation.

Anessa Whitening UV Sunscreen Gel contains 50% skincare ingredients, making it hydrating and gentle at the same time, with SPF50+ PA++++ which nourishes and protects the skin. It helps to moisturise the skin by increasing elasticity and anti-oxidation. A sunscreen for your face and body with the active whitening ingredient "tranexamic acid", which inhibits melanin production and prevents stains and freckles. The gel can be removed with facial cleanser. It is waterproof with a long-lasting formula. Manufactured by one of the world's leading skincare brands, Shiseido.

• Contains 50% skincare ingredients
• SPF50+ and PA++++
• Nourishes and protects the skin
• Increases skin elasticity
• Contains tranexamic acid
• Suitable for all skin types

 

Shop here

 

 

16. Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel

 

 

A favourite to many!

This sunscreen provides a rich water-base gel that protects the skin with SPF50+ PA++++. It contains unique Aqua Micro Capsules with UV blocking ingredients that take this sunscreen to the next level. Formulated with water capsules, which prevents drying out your skin. Enriched with hyaluronic acid and essences to hydrate and soften the skin. Incredibly lightweight, it quickly melts into the skin, leaving your skin feeling fresh and protected. A favourite to many, it is simple but effective.

• SPF50+ and PA++++
• Contains unique Aqua Micro Capsules
• Enriched with hyaluronic acid
• Hydrating and protective
• Suitable for all skin types

 

Shop here

 

 

17. Kose UV Perfect Gel Super Super Waterproof

 

 

Non-greasy formula that provides extra protection!

This is a waterproof and sweatproof sunscreen that provides effective UV protection. This multi-functional UV gel keeps the skin moisturised throughout the day with a long-lasting formula, perfect for outdoor activities. With SPF50+ and PA++++, this sunscreen protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays. It is lightweight with a non-greasy formula that doesn't leave a sticky residue or white cast on the skin. Suitable for face and skin.

• Waterproof and sweatproof
• Long-lasting formula
• SPF50+ and PA++++
• Protection from UVA and UVB rays
• Can be used for face and body
• Suitable for all skin types

 

 

 

18. Biore UV Sarasara Bright Milk

 

 

Long-lasting UV blocking effect!

Biore UV Milk is a lightweight sunscreen that protects the skin from strong UV rays and prevents dark spots. It has a waterproof formula with a long-lasting UV blocking effect. Contains hyaluronic acid that deeply hydrates the skin. In addition, it features light correction powder to brighten the skin and cover unevenness, pores, and dullness of the skin. It can be used as a makeup base to help your makeup adhere to your bare skin. Use makeup cleanser when removing the sunscreen.

• Lightweight formula
• Prevents dark spots and freckles
• Contains hyaluronic acid
• Contains correction powder
• Can be used as makeup base
• Suitable for normal skin

 

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19. Biore UV Aqua Rich Light Up Essence

 

 

Contains translucent pearl powder for natural glow!

Finally, Biore UV Aqua Rich Light Up Essence provides natural transparency by controlling visible light while protecting the skin from strong UV rays (SPF50+ PA++++). It is a lightweight yet powerful formula that provides maximum UV protection without stripping away your natural shine. Can be used for both face and body. Also doubles as a makeup base. In addition, it contains translucent pearl powder that enhances natural glow from within. Also has a light floral scent.

• Lightweight formula
• SPF50+ and PA++++
• Can be used for face and body
• Works as makeup base
• Contains translucent pearl powder
• Suitable for all skin types

 

Shop here

 

 

 

 

See Here for the Best Japanese Skincare Products!

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