Living in Singapore’s perpetual summer means relentless exposure to the sun’s powerful rays. Choosing the best sunblock in Singapore isn’t just a matter of skincare; it’s a crucial defence against the potential long-term dangers of UV exposure.
Finding the ideal sunscreen might be difficult since so many alternatives are available.
This guide is designed to simplify your choice, detailing the top picks that cater to various skin types and needs, ensuring you’re well-protected, comfortable, and confident in Singapore’s tropical climate.
TL;DR
15 Best Sunblocks in Singapore and What are They Best For:
- Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics Sunscreen – best for daily use
- Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Milk – best for oily skin
- Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel – best for dry skin
- COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream – best for sensitive skin
- Benton Air Fit UV Defence Sun Cream – moisturising without oiliness
- Supergoop! Unseen Broad Spectrum Sunscreen – matte finish without residue
- Sunplay Ultra Shield UV Body Mist SPF 130 PA++++ – best for outdoor activities
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Sunscreen – highly protective against UVA rays
- SKINTIFIC All Day Light Sunscreen Mist – most convenient for reapplication
- Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Touch Sunscreen – rapid absorption
- ANESSA Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Suncare Spray – enduring protection
- Shiseido Global Suncare Clear Sunscreen Stick – ideal for most skin type
- CETAPHIL Sun SPF 50+ Light Gel – best everyday and outdoor usage
- Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40 – best for makeup base
- ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturising Sunscreen – best for UV protection
Table of Contents
Understanding Sun Protection
Sunscreen isn’t just about avoiding sunburn; it’s your skin’s principal defence against premature ageing and skin damage caused by UV rays.
Understanding the terms SPF, PA+, and ‘broad-spectrum’ is crucial for selecting a product that offers comprehensive protection.
Sun Protection Factor measures how well a sunscreen blocks the sun’s harmful ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation.However, UV protection doesn’t end with SPF; ‘broad-spectrum’ and PA ratings are essential for shielding against UVA rays, which penetrate deeply and contribute to skin ageing and cancer.
Physical (mineral) sunscreens create a barrier on the skin’s surface, reflecting UV rays, while chemical sunscreens absorb and neutralize them before they can harm your skin.
Your skin type, sensitivity level, and preferred texture and finish will all influence your decision.
Top Sunblock Picks for Every Skin Type
1. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics Sunscreen
- SPF/PA Rating: SPF50+, PA++++
- Best For: All skin types
- Key Features:
- Grain ferment lysate and rice bran water make this hydrating supplement all the more nutritious.
- Lightweight, creamy texture that absorbs quickly, leaving a semi-matte finish without a white cast.
- Why Choose This:
- Perfect for daily use with its high protection and moisturizing properties.
- Free from fragrance and essential oils, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
2. Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Milk
- SPF/PA Rating: SPF50+, PA++++
- Best For: Oily skin, but works well for all skin types in humid climates
- Key Features:
- Super resistant to water, sweat, and sebum, enhancing UV protection upon contact with moisture.
- Contains skincare ingredients to nurture the skin, such as collagen, aloe vera, and green tea extract.
- Why Choose This:
- Its lightweight, milk-like texture leaves a matte finish, ideal for those with oily skin or who prefer a non-greasy feel.
- Works effectively as both a standalone sun protection product and a makeup base.
3. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel
- SPF/PA Rating: SPF50+, PA++++
- Best For: Dry and dehydrated skin
- Key Features:
- Contains eight types of hyaluronic acid to deliver intense hydration, alongside calming centella asiatica and brightening niacinamide.
- The watery gel formula provides a refreshing, cooling sensation upon application with a dewy finish.
- Why Choose This:
- Offers excellent UV protection while acting as a hydrating serum, ideal for keeping dry skin moisturized throughout the day.
- For everyday usage under makeup, this lightweight and quickly absorbing formula is ideal since it does not leave behind any sticky residue or white cast.
4. COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream
- SPF/PA Rating: SPF50+, PA+++
- Best For: Sensitive skin
- Key Features:
- Infused with aloe vera extract for soothing and hydrating properties.
- Provides a gentle yet effective protection without causing irritation or skin discomfort.
- Why Choose This:
- Its calming formula is ideal for those with sensitive or irritated skin, providing sun protection without the harshness.
- The cream has a hydrating texture that blends seamlessly, leaving no white cast, making it suitable for daily use.
5. Benton Air Fit UV Defence Sun Cream
- SPF/PA Rating: SPF50+, PA++++
- Best For: Combination skin
- Key Features:
- Contains tocopherol (Vitamin E) and panthenol to nourish the skin while protecting it from UV rays.
- A non-comedogenic, lightweight solution that won’t block pores or lead to breakouts.
- Why Choose This:
- Perfectly balances moisture for combination skin, offering hydration without excess oiliness.
- The mint green emulsion has a cooling effect, making it refreshing to apply, especially in hot weather.
6. Supergoop! Unseen Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
- SPF/PA Rating: SPF40
- Best For: Oily skin, suitable as a makeup primer
- Key Features:
- Completely invisible, weightless, scentless formula that provides broad-spectrum protection.
- Doubles as a primer, smoothing the skin for makeup application, and controls oil throughout the day.
- Why Choose This:
- Ideal for those who dislike the typical sunscreen feel or appearance, as it leaves no residue or shine.
- Its oil-free composition is excellent for oily skin types, maintaining a matte finish even in humid conditions.
7. Sunplay Ultra Shield UV Body Mist SPF 130 PA++++
- SPF/PA Rating: SPF130, PA++++
- Best For: All skin types, especially those seeking high protection
- Key Features:
- For extended periods spent outside, this ultra-high SPF is a must-have.
- Convenient spray mist for easy and quick application, even on the go.
- Why Choose This:
- It provides extensive coverage against UV rays and is perfect for outdoor activities or high sun exposure days.
- Refreshing and non-greasy, the gentle mist composition leaves no residue behind.
8. La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Sunscreen
- SPF/PA Rating: SPF50+, broad spectrum
- Best For: Sensitive skin, including those prone to sun allergies
- Key Features:
- Contains Mexoryl 400, offering high protection against long UVA rays and preventing sun-induced damage.
- Ultra-light fluid texture that feels invisible on the skin, with a non-greasy, non-sticky finish.
- Why Choose This:
- It is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and dermatologically certified to be gentle on sensitive skin.
- Its invisible finish and resistance to water make it a reliable choice for daily use, suitable under makeup.
9. SKINTIFIC All Day Light Sunscreen Mist
- SPF/PA Rating: SPF50, PA++++
- Best For: All skin types, perfect for reapplication over makeup
- Key Features:
- Features a fine mist that can be applied over makeup without disturbance, providing hydration and protection.
- Enriched with antioxidants and soothing ingredients to protect and nourish the skin.
- Why Choose This:
- Its revolutionary mist structure enables for convenient reapplication throughout the day, guaranteeing ongoing protection.
- Vegan-friendly and environmentally conscious formulation, suitable for eco-conscious users.
10. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Touch Sunscreen
- SPF/PA Rating: SPF50, PA++++
- Best For: All skin types, particularly those preferring a lightweight feel
- Key Features:
- Contains Helioplex® technology, which provides excellent broad-spectrum protection against both age-causing UVA and scorching UVB radiation.
- Non-comedogenic, oil-free formula that provides a matte finish and sheer, ultra-light texture.
- Why Choose This:
- The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, leaving a clean, non-shiny finish – ideal for daily use under makeup.
- It is ideal for busy days or high-humidity situations since it resists water, perspiration, and rub-off.
11. ANESSA Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Suncare Spray
- SPF/PA Rating: SPF50+, PA++++
- Best For: All skin types, particularly for active individuals
- Key Features:
- Innovative Aqua Booster Technology that enhances UV protection when in contact with water or sweat.
- Lightweight, non-sticky spray format that can be easily applied and re-applied over makeup without mess.
- Why Choose This:
- Ideal for sports or outdoor activities, offering enduring protection that strengthens in water.
- Convenient spray mechanism allows for full-body coverage, ensuring no spot is missed.
12. Shiseido Global Suncare Clear Sunscreen Stick
- SPF/PA Rating: SPF50+
- Best For: All skin types, great for on-the-go application
- Key Features:
- Clear stick format provides a transparent, non-greasy layer of high protection without white residue.
- Includes chemicals that keep sun protection effective all day long by resisting perspiration, water, and sebum.
- Why Choose This:
- Portable and easy to apply, perfect for quick touch-ups and targeted application on high-exposure areas.
- All skin types may use it without worry since the non-comedogenic formula does not clog pores.
13. CETAPHIL Sun SPF 50+ Light Gel
- SPF/PA Rating: SPF50+, broad spectrum
- Best For: Sensitive skin, including acne-prone types
- Key Features:
- An ultra-light gel solution that nourishes skin without drying it out or leaving behind any white residue.
- Formulated with photostable UV filters for reliable and long-lasting broad-spectrum protection.
- Why Choose This:
- Hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested, ensuring it’s gentle on the most sensitive skin.
- Designed for both everyday usage and extended periods spent outdoors, this product is quick-absorbing and water-resistant.
14. Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40
- SPF/PA Rating: SPF40, PA+++
- Best For: Oily and sensitive skin, ideal as a makeup primer
- Key Features:
- 100% mineral formula offering a matte finish, controlling shine and blurring pores.
- Contains antioxidants and a blue-light shielding complex, providing extra protection against digital light exposure.
- Why Choose This:
- In addition to creating a smooth and uniform basis for makeup, the tinted product is able to adapt to a variety of skin tones.
- Oil-free, fragrance-free, and sensitivity-tested, making it a safe option for those prone to skin irritations.
15. ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturising Sunscreen
- SPF/PA Rating: SPF50+, PA++++
- Best For: Dry and normal skin, especially those needing extra hydration
- Key Features:
- Enriched with birch sap juice, known for its hydrating and soothing properties, alongside niacinamide for brightening.
- Offers a moist, refreshing feel without a sticky finish, maintaining skin’s moisture balance throughout the day.
- Why Choose This:
- Provides a strong UV protection layer while enhancing skin vitality and improving moisture retention.
- Following application, the skin is left feeling supple and smooth because of the creamy texture, which spreads easily and absorbs swiftly.
Considerations for Selecting the Right Sunblock
Selecting the ideal sunblock is more than just picking up the highest SPF off the shelf.
It involves understanding your skin’s needs, your lifestyle, and how different formulas interact with your skin. HTo help you choose the best sunscreen, we have outlined the following factors:
Learn Your Skin’s Texture
- Oily Skin: the best option is to search for a lightweight, oil-free solution that leaves a matte finish. This will help prevent shine and clogged pores.
- Dry Skin: choose a sunblock that also hydrates, such as one containing hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
- Sensitive Skin: To avoid skin irritation and allergies, use a mineral sunblock with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
- Combination Skin: Seek out versatile sunscreens that balance hydration without adding excess oil, possibly with a semi-matte finish.
Consider the SPF Level
- The SPF number tells you how long it would take for the sun’s UV rays to turn your skin red if you used the product exactly as recommended versus if you didn’t use any sublock.
- Generally, SPF 30 is suitable for everyday use, while SPF 50 or higher is recommended for extended outdoor activities or if you have fair skin that burns easily.
Wide-range protection is what you need.
- Make sure the sunblocks shield you from both sunlight and harmful UVB rays. UVB rays induce sunburn and directly destroy skin cells, whereas UVA rays age skin cells and may lead to skin cancer.
Water-Resistance for Active Lifestyles
- If you do water sports often or perspire heavily, you should choose a sunblock that will remain on your skin for longer. In this manner, it may be used when swimming or exercising without any issues.
Texture and Finish Matter
- The right texture—whether it’s a lightweight gel, a hydrating cream, or a quick-absorbent spray—can influence how likely you are to use the product regularly.
- Consider if you prefer a sheer, invisible finish, a tinted sunscreen, or a heavier cream that provides moisture along with sun protection.
Compatibility with Makeup
- If you wear makeup daily, look for sunscreens that can double as a primer or opt for non-comedogenic formulas that won’t interfere with your makeup application.
Environmental and Health Considerations
- Be conscious of sunscreens with “reef-safe” labels if you swim in natural bodies of water, as certain ingredients in sunscreens can harm aquatic ecosystems.
- Check to see if it has extra antioxidants, which can help protect against free radicals and pollution toxins.
Understanding these factors will help you navigate the vast array of sunblock options available, ensuring you select a product that not only protects your skin from the sun’s harmful rays but also complements your skincare routine and lifestyle.
How to Apply Subblock for the Best Protection
It is just as important to use sunblock correctly as it is to buy the right product.
Apply Generously and Evenly
- Cover all of your skin with enough sunscreen. For most people, one ounce, which is about the size of a shot glass, is enough to cover their whole body.
- Don’t skimp on hard-to-reach and often-forgotten places like the ears, back of the neck, hands, and feet.
Timing is Key
- Put on sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outside so that it has time to do its job and protect your skin.
- For daily use, incorporate sunscreen into your morning skincare routine to ensure you’re protected right from the start of your day.
Reapply Regularly
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming, sweating, or towel-drying, since these activities might deplete the protection.
- Even if you’re using water-resistant sunscreen, it’s crucial to reapply after any water activity or excessive sweating.
Don’t Forget Overcast Days
- To get full protection, you should wear sunscreen even on cloudy or rainy days, because UV rays can get through clouds.
- Reflective surfaces like water, snow, and sand can intensify UV exposure, making reapplication even more essential.
Use with Other Forms of Protection
- Pair sunblock with other forms of sun protection like wide-brimmed hats, UV-blocking sunglasses, and long-sleeved clothing to maximize your defense against UV rays.
- If you can, stay in the shade. This is especially important from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when the sun is at its hottest.
By following these application tips, you can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your sunblock, ensuring that your skin remains protected from harmful UV rays while you enjoy the outdoors.
Conclusion
Selecting and applying the right sunblock is a pivotal step in your skincare routine, safeguarding your skin from the invisible yet profound impacts of UV rays.
Embrace this daily ritual not just as a preventive measure but as an act of self-care that preserves your skin’s health and radiance.
Remember, the best sunblock is the one you use consistently, so find your match, apply diligently, and step into the sunlight with confidence, knowing you’re well-protected.
