I’ve been meeting quite a number of new faces recently and one question that’s been on repeat is this:
“How come your skin so fair ah?”
Genetics. Ha!
I’ll probably get slapped if I say that.
While I believe it’s partly due to my genes, the addiction to sunscreens has also protected me all these years.
I’m going to let you in on my go-to sunscreen so stay on this page if you’re curious.
Prices reflected are accurate at the time of writing.
MELIXIR: Vegan Airfit™ Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++
Price: $55
With over 40 reviews and a solid 5-star rating, this product will start us off our list. It’s a vegan option and reef-safe for those who want to lessen their impact on the environment. It suits most skin conditions so whether you have dry, oily, normal, sensitive, or combination skin types, this cream formulation works. Worried about leaving a white residue on your face? Put your worries aside because this lightweight sun cream leaves no white cast. Get your SPF 50+ protection for up to 10 hours with this product!
SUPERGOOP!: Mineral Sheerscreen SPF 50 PA++++
Price: $62
This one from SUPERGOOP’s a Sephora exclusive. It comes in a super sheer, lotion formulation that even protects your skin from blue light. This is thanks to its unique blend of non-nano zinc oxide + titanium dioxide. You can even use this sheer screen as a makeup primer so that’s a 2-in-1 use. Beauty fanatics who are worried about even a teeny-weeny bit of white cast can consider the Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++ instead.
LANEIGE: Radian-C Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++
Price: $42
Ladies and gentlemen who have skins prone to breakouts should try out this LANEIGE sun cream. We don’t often see sunscreens infused with vitamin C so this is certainly a good addition to your skincare routine. Apart from vitamin C, it also contains EAE + Niacinamide for those extra doses of vitamins your dull skin needs to thrive. Treat your skin to this sun cream that is sure to brighten up your complexion over time.
SHISEIDO: Global Suncare The Perfect Protector SPF 50+/PA++++
Price: $68
Looking for a waterproof sunscreen to literally weather the storm? Look no further than this SHISEIDO suncare protector that claims to be “very water resistant”. This is all thanks to its SynchroShield™ technology, which works its magic even when exposed to water or perspiration. Apart from shielding you against UVA and UVB rays, it also tackles urban pollutants like dust and soot, and even dryness. Consider the Clear Suncare Stick SPF 50+ PA++++ instead if you want a no-mess, touch-free application.
3W CLINIC: Intensive UV Sunblock Cream
Price: $3.55
Appreciate you reading thus far! As promised, here’s the product that I’ve been using for years and it works wonders, despite its affordable pricing. Sent directly to you from Korea via Shopee, you can rest assured that it’s 100% authentic. There are other options under the same listing but the one I’m using is the Intensive UV Sunblock Cream. It’s a cream-type formulation but doesn’t feel heavy on the skin.
Tip: To avoid a white cast, apply a thin layer first, then reapply again as needed.
INNISFREE: Tone Up No Sebum Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
Price: $13.68
For all you Innisfree lovers out there, here is one from the Korean brand founded by Amore Pacific. Certain sunscreens offer that glowy finish but if you’re one with a naturally oily complexion that gives off too much “grease” and shine, then this Innisfree sunscreen will suit you well. This is because it provides a matte finish by controlling excessive sebum output. As a plus point, it tones up your skin with Centella and green tea extract.
AJUSTE: Airytouch UV Spray
Price: $14.40
Sometimes we need a quick fix of sun protection before we run a quick outdoor errand and other than a cap and mask, a spray would do the trick. Consider this UV Spray from AJUSTE, which has sold over 1,500 bottles and managed to score itself a 4.9 rating. It’s made in Japan and offers no sticky after-spray effect. Advertised to be gentle on your skin, the product also offers 7 moisturizing botanical ingredients you can treat your skin to. It dries quickly and is suitable for application post-makeup.
BIORE: UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence/Gel
Price: $14.80
We’re finally at the last product of this list. But I’ve realized that I’ve yet to introduce to you any watery formulations in this post. So here you go: Biore’s UV Aqua Rich series. Whether it’s the essence or gel type, it gives you a “水感” (“watery feel”) which is good for skin types that can’t survive cream-type formulas. This product contains Butylene Glycol, Hyaluronic Acid, and Royal Jelly Extract for 3x of the moisturization effects you need.
Singapore’s weather is hot AF and the sun’s rays are no joke. Never underestimate what a few minutes of fun out in the sun can do to your delicate skin barriers. I made the mistake of not wearing sunscreen all in the name of “letting my skin rest” and “sun tanning” when I was younger and regretted it after dark spots start appearing. So start stocking up on your sunscreens and apply them generously before you expose your skin to sunshine. It’s definitely a wise beauty investment your skin will thank you decades later.
