The ultimate guide to the best sunscreens most suitable for Singapore weather

Sun Screen/PA+++, $51, Dermaheal at Amazon

Credit: Dermaheal

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Under extreme conditions, Dermaheal Sun Screen protects your skin against UVA/UVB and prevents melanin synthesis and fine lines with CG-TGP2. Application goes on smooth, with no trace of stickiness and helps to even out your skin tone and texture.

Purchase this item off Amazon, and you'll be able to get S$10 off S$50 on your first purchase. Enter code NEWBIE at checkout. 

And if you shop off StrawberryNet, you'll be able to save 15% off when you spend $99 or more on qualifying items.

Waterlover Sun Milk, $47, Biotherm at Amazon

Credit: Biotherm

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A water-resistant, high protection sun milk for the face and body, this is a sunscreen that is fast-absorbing, easy-to-apply with a non-greasy texture that leaves no white traces on skin. It also contains soothing & regenerating ingredients which limit the oxidative damage of UV rays and protects skin against harmful sunrays with eco-tested SPF filters.

Purchase this item off Amazon, and you'll be able to get S$10 off S$50 on your first purchase. Enter code NEWBIE at checkout. 

And if you shop off StrawberryNet, you'll be able to save 15% off when you spend $99 or more on qualifying items.

Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Sunscreen SPF 50, $54, Glow Recipe

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Sunscreen meets skincare with Glow Recipe’s first-ever sun protection, a lightweight SPF 50 that keeps skin protected without sacrificing skincare benefits like deep hydration, brightening, an even-tone and glow, so you’ll actually wantto wear it daily.
Glow Recipe’s latest watermelon sensation features a unique blend of chemical and mineral protection, clinically-effective niacinamide to even and brighten skin, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and ‘skinscreen’ ingredients like watermelon extracts and aloe.

Every. Single Face. SPR-Shield Watery Lotion, $50, Supergoop

Credit: Supergoop

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Meet Supergoop!’s Every. Single Face. SPR-Shield Watery Lotion – a simple, easy-to-wear SPF packed with powerful protection with a feel-it-to-believe-it, seamless finish. It’s also the brand’s most universal and versatile formula to date and leaves no white cast whilst delivering a refreshing, cooling application and a natural, non-greasy finish that everyone, from dry to oily skin types, will love.

Every.Single.Face contains a unique Amino Acid Complex, which helps lock in moisture to maintain skin hydration, plus protect against IRA and filter blue light & pollution. It also contains Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), to help reduce the appearance of powers, evens skin tone and reduces the visible effects of free radicals.

Day Care Revolution (available in Anti-aging and Brightening) SPF 50+ PA++++, $55, Elixir

Credit: Elixir

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This line of 3-in-1 sunscreens provide protection from UV rays, long lasting moisture and preps skin for makeup all in one step. It also has a non-sticky, refreshing light texture that spreads easily on the skin and offers SPF 50+ PA++++ protection against harmful UV rays.

Choose from two variants – the Anti-aging Day Care Revolution that improves skin elasticity or the Brightening Day Care Revolution that boosts skin translucency.

Ultra Sun Protection SPF45PA++, $155, Chantecaille

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Formulated to protect skin against UVA and UVB rays, the Chantecaille Ultra Sun Protection also contains antioxidants like Cherry Blossom, Lemon Balm and White Tea Extract to help skin defend against free radical damage.

Very High Protection Fluid Fragrance-Free SPF50+ 50ml, $49.90, Eau Thermale Avène

Credit: Eau Thermale Avène

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The Eau Thermale Avène – Very High Protection Fluid goes on as a light-weight fluid and dries to an invisible, dry finish which helps skin look fresh and matte. The new generation of sunscreens from Eau Thermale Avène are also formulated to be safe for the environment, which means they have improved biodegradability, and are not as easily absorbed by marine organisms. Perfect for use if you dive or do water sports.

Sunguard 50+ Protect UV, $50, Fancl

Credit: Fancl

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Besides UVA and UVB rays, this sunscreen also protects skin against blue light, which is emitted from mobile devices and computer screens. The lightweight formula doesn’t leave a white cast and is also waterproof.

Ennui Purple and Sunny Apricot, $41.90, Allie

Credit: Allie

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From skincare giant Kanebo, Allie’s sunscreens have a colour-correcting function that gives your skin a refreshed and vibrant look. Choose Ennui Purple to blur out dull skin and pores, or Sunny Apricot to correct dark circles. The formula is also lightweight and waterproof and can be used as a primer or on its own on days you with to forego the foundation. Both come with a strong SPF 50 protection against both UVA and UVB and feature sebum control technology that is particularly helpful in Singapore’s humid climate.

Oil-Free Facial Sunscreen SPF 30 PA+++ with Nano Shiso and White Tea Extract, $45, Thann at Amazon

Credit: Thann

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Formulated with shiso leaf and white tea extracts which are both powerful antioxidants, the THANN Oil-Free Facial Sunscreen is also oil-free and doesn’t leave a greasy film after application.

Purchase this item off Amazon, and you'll be able to get S$10 off S$50 on your first purchase. Enter code NEWBIE at checkout. 

And if you shop off StrawberryNet, you'll be able to save 15% off when you spend $99 or more on qualifying items.

Mineral Sheerscreen SPF 30, $52, Supergoop

Credit: Supergoop

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This new addition to the Supergoop family of sunscreens introduces a new whipped texture and innovative SheerMix Technology that offers the ultimate sheer finish while providing skin with SPF 30 protection and shielding from blue light. Its lightness makes it perfect as a primer while ingredients like Bush Clover extract helps protect the skin from free radicals and oxidative stress, while Aloe leaf juice and squalane give the skin an extra bit of moisture.

Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk SPF 50+ PA++++, $39.90, Anessa at Amazon

Credit: Anessa

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It sounds too good to be true but the Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk gives skin stronger protection when it’s wet. Water bonds help sunscreen molecules align to form a uniform layer which protects skin against UV rays. The best part is that it spreads easily with its fluid texture which dries to a semi-matte finish, allowing for makeup to go on smoothly.

Purchase this item off Amazon, and you'll be able to get S$10 off S$50 on your first purchase. Enter code NEWBIE at checkout. 

And if you shop off StrawberryNet, you'll be able to save 15% off when you spend $99 or more on qualifying items.

Marshmallow Sun Cushion SPF 50+ PA+++, $26, Laniege

Credit: Laniege

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If you love cushions, this sunscreen is for you. Tap on sunscreen easily over makeup for a quick boost of sun protection before lunch or if you’re heading out for a quick brunch. It’s easy to slip this into your purse, which makes it a must-have for your next beach vacay.

Sun Mate Protector SPF50 + PA+++, $50, Hera

Credit: Hera

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The HERA Sun Mate Protector SPF50 + PA+++ is an amazing sunscreen that also works well as a makeup base. Besides defending skin against sun’s rays, it also forms a protective shield against environmental pollutants.

Aqua O2 Shield SPF 50 PA++++, $46, Cremorlab

Credit: Cremorlab

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Containing thermal water, this mineral-rich and hydrating sunscreen goes on easily and leaves no stickiness. Skin is also protected from UV rays and also blue light which is emitted from smartphones and computer monitors.

Magic Snow Sun Stick SPF 50+ PA ++++, $25, Aprilskin

Credit: Aprilskin

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This sunscreen comes in a stick form which covers and protects skin completely against UV damage. Plus points for it’s handy side and the fact that it leaves a non-sticky finish.

SunShield Aqua SPF50, $86, Estetica ést.lab at Amazon

Credit: Estetica

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The Estetica ést.lab SunShield Aqua has a lightweight watery texture that’s suitable for all skin types, including oil and sensitive skin. It also contains a variety of hydrating ingredients to keep skin moisturised while it protects.

Purchase this item off Amazon, and you'll be able to get S$10 off S$50 on your first purchase. Enter code NEWBIE at checkout. 

And if you shop off StrawberryNet, you'll be able to save 15% off when you spend $99 or more on qualifying items.

UV Mild Gel SPF 30, $18.90, Sunplay

Credit: Skin Aqua

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This sunscreen does more than just protect against UV damage. It forms a protective shield which blocks out PM 2.5 particles and prevents them from passing into the skin.

Perfect UV Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++, $62, Bevy.C

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The Bevy.C Perfect UV Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ defends skin against UV rays and is sweat-proof so skin still received adequate protection even if you are out in the hot sun.

Hydrating Shield SPF30, $72, Skin Inc

Credit: Skin Inc

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Though not strictly a sunscreen, this moisturiser hydrates skin and contains SPF30 to shield skin against sun damage. It’s lightweight texture absorbs quickly into skin and leaves no sticky feeling behind.

Perfect UV Protector S SPF 50+ / PA++++, $63, Shiseido

Credit: Shiseido

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Lightweight, spreads easily and leaves no sticky feeling — basically none of the yucky things we hate about sunscreen. Formulated with the unique WetForce technology, the Shiseido Perfect UV Protector S SPF 50+ / PA++++ (S$63) forms an even stronger barrier against the sun when its wet, making it perfect for outdoor sports.



 

Dermatologist Solutions Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++, $130, Kiehl's

Credit: Kiehl's

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Unlike chemical sunscreen which protects UV rays by absorbing it, mineral sunscreens like the Kiehl’s Dermatologist Solutions Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++ reflects them, making it more comfortable for those with sensitive skin.



 

Sun SPF50 Light Gel, $35.99, Cetaphil

Credit: Cetaphil

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Cetaphil Sun SPF50+ Light Gel offers high broad spectrum sun protection against UVA/UVB rays for both face and body. A lightweight sunscreen that is highly water resistant and suitable for sensitive skin, making it ideal for everyday protection.

Sun Protection Anti-aging $118, DrGL

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The perfect age-defence moisturiser-and-sunscreen-in-one, this has peptides and extracts of Liquorice and Ginkgo Biloba Leaf to brighten, hydrate, repair, and regenerate skin. A combination of chemical sunscreen filters absorb and reflect UVA and UVB rays, so your skin is protected while it’s being renewed.

White Blossom Delicate UV Shield SPF50 / PA+++, $65, Kenzoki

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The Kenzoki White Blossom Delicate UV Shield SPF50 / PA+++ (S$65) hydrates dry skin and leaves behind a dewy finish. Its plum blossom essence inhibits melanin production, which prevents the formation of dark spots and pigmentation.

UV Super Moisture Gel 110g SPF50 / PA, $15.57, Skin Aqua at Amazon

Credit: Skin Aqua

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Skin Aqua UV Super Moisture Gel 110g SPF50 / PA you’ll banish all misconceptions about sunscreens feeling heavy and greasy when you apply them. This one goes on smoothly like a gel-based moisturiser and dries to a light-weight matte finish, forming the perfect base for your makeup to go on.

Purchase this item off Amazon, and you'll be able to get S$10 off S$50 on your first purchase. Enter code NEWBIE at checkout. 

And if you shop off StrawberryNet, you'll be able to save 15% off when you spend $99 or more on qualifying items.

UV Plus Anti-Pollution SPF50 PA+++, S$80, Clarins

Credit: Clarins

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The new Clarins UV Plus Anti-Pollution SPF50 PA+++ (S$76) protects the skin from oxidative stress through powerful ingredients like organic mango leaf extract which acts as a natural shield. With a new, easy-to-use tube with a protective bubble cap, the new 30ml and 50ml sizes also make for easy handling and slip easily into a bag for all-day protection.

UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+ PA++++, $19.90, Biore at Amazon

Credit: Biore

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Glossier may have launched a new “see-through” sunscreen, but we know that Emily Weiss took inspiration from Asian sunscreens. Biore has consistently produced good sunscreens at affordable prices and the Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+ PA++++ is no exception.

With a lightweight gel texture that absorbs easily, and a waterproof formula to boot, this is definitely one of our go-to sunscreens to wear under makeup.

Purchase this item off Amazon, and you'll be able to get S$10 off S$50 on your first purchase. Enter code NEWBIE at checkout. 

And if you shop off StrawberryNet, you'll be able to save 15% off when you spend $99 or more on qualifying items.

Senka Perfect UV Milk SPF 50+ PA++++, $16.90, Shiseido

Credit: Shiseido

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There’s a lot to hate about sunscreens – thick texture, doesn’t go well under makeup and leaves a white cast. But you won’t find any of that in the Shiseido Senka Perfect White UV Milk. Its watery texture goes on easily, and leaves a powdery finish, allowing for foundation to apply easily over.

White Perfect UV Clear solution 50 + PA ++++, $72, Astalift

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The Astalift White Perfect UV Clear solution doesn’t just offer great sun protection (at SPF 50+ and PA++++), the cap comes with a unique function – it changes colour from white to purple when exposed to the sun, especially in the presence of deep UVA rays which is responsible for causing premature skin ageing. Plus, this also doubles up as a beauty essence and makeup base. Perfect for time-strapped ladies.

UV Essentiel Gel-Creme SPF 50:PA+++, $87, Chanel

Credit: Chanel

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The new gel-cream texture of this sunscreen makes it comfortable to wear in our hot and humid weather. Besides its ultra-lightweight formula (which is already a huge plus in our books), it also hydrates skin while protecting it against pollution. A must-have for city dwellers.

Sun-away Cooling Watery Sun Block EX SPF50+ PA++, $61, Su:m37 ̊

Credit: Su:m37 ̊

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Enriched with soothing and hydrating ingredients, the su:m37 ̊ Sun-away Cooling Watery Sun Block EX SPF50+ PA++, has a lightweight formula that works perfectly under makeup and doesn’t pill when you apply foundation.

Prevage City Smart Broad Spectrum SPF 50 PA++++Hydrating Shield, $79, Elizabeth Arden

Credit: Elizabeth Arden

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Containing Idebedone, a powerful antioxidant, the Elizabeth Arden Prevage City Smart Broad Spectrum SPF 50 PA++++Hydrating Shield not only protects against UV rays, but also free radical damage.

Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++, $99, SK-II

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With Atmosphere Therapy Complex O, this lightweight emulsion doesn’t just shield against UV light, but infrared as well. It also contains the proprietary Pitera and Niacinamide to keep skin radiant and healthy.

Tone Up Protection Sun SPF 42 PA+++, $47.20, CNP Laboratory

Credit: CNP Laboratory

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Containing physical UV filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, this deflects hazardous ultraviolet rays without feeling thick or sticky. Moreover, it also contains pearl powder which brightens the complexion and regulates sebum production while deep sea water infuses skin with minerals and amino acids to lock in moisture so smoother, plumper skin throughout the day.

Sun Lotion Extra Light SPF 50+, $34.50, Eucerin

Credit: Eucerin

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Perfect for use on the body, this water-resistant formula ensures that you are amply protected from head to toe throughout the day. Furthermore, it is infused with Licochalcone A, a powerful antioxidant which offers UV protection at a cellular level to prevent DNA damage. While it packs powerful UV protection, it remains mild enough to be suitable for even those with compromised skin barrer, like those with atopic eczema.

Silk Gel SPF 30, $35.90, Heliocare at Amazon

Credit: Heliocare

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For those with acne-prone skin, finding a sunscreen that combines powerful UV protection, sebum-regulating properties and keeps skin moisturised is an uphill task. Enter Heliocare Silk Gel SPF 30, an innovative sunscreen that boasts a cooling gel texture that absorbs rapidly without any stickiness or greasiness. It also gets bonus points for containing anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory ingredients to keep blemishes at bay while ensuring that skin is amply protected, down to the cellular level.

Purchase this item off Amazon, and you'll be able to get S$10 off S$50 on your first purchase. Enter code NEWBIE at checkout. 

And if you shop off StrawberryNet, you'll be able to save 15% off when you spend $99 or more on qualifying items.

Anthelios XL Anti-Shine Dry Touch Gel-Cream SPF 50+, $36.90, La Roche-Posay

Credit: La Roche-Posay

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Battling a shiny T-zone is a daily challenge for most of us, even for those with dry skin. Which explains why this quick-dry, mattifying sunscreen is a hit, even amongst the most demanding of beauty editors. This sunscreen does a valiant job of fighting the signs of hyperpigmentation and offers optimal UVA and UVB rays protection, even in extreme sunshine intensity. Tested under dermatological control, it is formulated sans fragrances and parabens, and is non-comedogenic, making it the go-to choice for all skin types, especially those with extremely sensitive skin or oily skin.

Red Sunblock, $48, Medicube

Credit: Medicube

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Made with 100 per cent physical sunscreen filters, this certified hypoallergenic formula is suitable for all skin types—even the super sensitive ones. Conforming to the highest certification standards in Korea, this ultra-mild sunscreen is also formulated with Centella Asiatica extract (known for accelerating cellular repair) and Madecassoside, and boasts a powerful SPF 50+ PA++++ protection. Plus, factor in a non-sticky formula and a comfortable matte finish and you’ve got an indispensible product on hand.

Beyond Sun Protection SPF 75+, $81.50, Crystal Tomato

Credit: Crystal Tomato

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A sunscreen that was five years in the making, Crystal Tomato’s Beyond Sun Protection was extensively researched to provide the best well-rounded protection against UVA, UVB and blue light. In fact, it was tested to be able to block out 54 per cent of blue light, which is emitted from mobile devices, computer screens, florescent lights and the sun. The best thing is its texture, which applies easily, leaving no white cast and a comfortable powdery finish.



This article was first published in Women's Weekly.