Beach bags ready, swimsuits packed, and shades perched perfectly on the top of our heads; beach holiday here we come! However, yearning for that sun-kissed glow should always be accompanied by taking the necessary care to protect our skin from the sun’s UV rays.
Malaysian’s sun can be pretty brutal at times and long-term exposure to it can lead to skin dryness, damage, and premature ageing. Not only that, imagine heading out to achieve that beautiful summer’s glow only to come out of it 3 shades more tanned! Now, that simply won’t do.
Slathering yourself with good sunscreen is crucial. Therefore, up ahead we’ve reviewed 9 best sunscreens and sunblocks that will be just what you need while you’re out having fun on a good day at the beach!
Editor
Nina Shahriman chevron_right
Table of Contents
9 Best Sunscreens and Sunblocks for the Beach in Malaysia 2024
Why is this our top pick?
Self-tanning on the beach? Do it the right way that’ll safeguard and protect your skin from head to toe! La Roche Posay Anthelios Uvmune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+ is designed with MEXORYL400 which is regarded to be the most efficient UV filter against the intensely damaging UV rays. Promising you the ultimate protection against UVB, UVA, and Ultra Long UVA, this sunscreen is here to protect your skin from deep cell damage.
Overview
Slather on your face, neck, or chest, La Roche Posay Anthelios Uvmune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+ has been tested under dermatological control on both sensitive and reactive skin. One of its key ingredients is Mexoryl, which is remarked to be a distinctive UV filter that protects your skin from piercing UV rays, otherwise referred to as ultra-long UVA.
Not only that, compounded with the Netlock Technology, this sunscreen is made with a non-greasy and non-sticky formulation. Its micro drops immerse with each other to form a strong protection that offers a homogenous, non-migrating, and highly resistant protection.
While La Roche Posay Anthelios Uvmune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+ is working towards protecting your skin from UV rays, its Glycerine content ensures your skin is hydrated and moisturised at the same time.
Details
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
- Non-sticky and greasy
- Doesn’t leave a white cast behind
- Water, sweat, and sand-resistant
Who is this for?
Its lightweight texture feels feather-like on your skin, without leaving any residue behind after application. The ultra-fluid texture is non-greasy and free of fragrance which makes it suitable for those with sensitive skin as well.
Moreover, La Roche Posay Anthelios Uvmune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+ offers broad-spectrum coverage against UVB/UVA rays and protects your skin against further skin damage caused by pollution and infrared rays. Positive feedback has been garnered among users towards their use of this sunscreen. They praised that this sunscreen instantly absorbs into their skin, and it doesn’t leave behind any white cast after application.
Overview
Bask in the sun without a fraction of worry about the penetrating sun rays scalding your skin! Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk optimises reverse technology that converts sweat, water, and heat as a protective veil against UV rays.
This sunscreen utilises 50% skincare ingredients that penetrate your skin providing moisture and skin-repairing effects. Despite its feather-like texture, it helps strengthen the ultraviolet light barrier when your sunscreen comes into contact with sweat or water. Furthermore, this sunscreen incorporates an Auto-Booster Technology that works with moisture in the air. This creates a more even layer on your skin, thus further ensuring that it offers a stronger UV protective veil.
Details
- SPF50+ PA++++ blocks ultraviolet light
- Offers effective skincare benefits
- Can be used as a makeup primer on the face, preventing wrinkles and skin aging
- Comes with a refreshing scent of citrus
Who is this for?
Voted as the number 1 bestselling sunscreen in Japan, Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk - SPF 50 offers powerful protection by reacting with sweat, water, heat, and humidity to offer a protective veil on your skin.
Of the studies that were conducted on the application of this sunscreen among users, visible improvement of fine lines and smoothness were noticed in just 4 weeks of application. Sure, it protects your skin from getting burnt by damaging UV rays, but it works effectively as well at keeping your skin moisturised thanks to its hyaluronic acid and collagen content.
Overview
What makes beach volleyball a fetching beach sport is when you mix up a beautiful combination of sun, sand, salt water, and sea breeze. Therefore, applying sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 is advisable especially one that’s waterproof and sweatproof.
Paula's Choice Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 50 is a broad-spectrum and antioxidant-enriched sunscreen that offers a skin-softening texture making it feel weightless on your face and/or body. It comes with a light, silky texture that is complemented by a smooth matte finish.
Comprising of vitamins A, C, and E, these antioxidants boost sun protection and brighten your skin. Thanks to its Aloe Extract, this sunscreen gently hydrates your skin whilst soothing skin redness.
Details
- Suitable for normal, oily, and combination skin
- Water-resistant formulation that makes it ideal for sports and outdoor activities
- Can be used on both the face and body
Who is this for?
Free of thick, oily, and greasy feel and appearance, Paula's Choice Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 50 contains antioxidants that work well even beneath your makeup. The best method of application of this sunscreen is to ensure that you apply it at least 15 minutes before exposing yourself to the sun.
As it’s water-resistant, regardless of whether you’re swimming or perspiring, this sunscreen can be used for up to 80 minutes before reapplying again. Users too praised that this sunscreen doesn’t feel heavy and is neither sticky nor greasy on their skin upon application. It also doesn’t sting the eyes when the product accidentally gets into the eyes during sweating.
Overview
Regarded to be the leading sunscreen brand that offers the highest SPF sun protection, say hello to SunPlay Superblock Sunblock Lotion SPF 130 PA++++. It consists of the latest Solarex-3 technology that assures you powerful and long-lasting protection against UVA and UVB rays. Together with its Solarex-3 Technology Superior Photostability, this prevents the sunscreen from breaking down easily under the skin.
Not only that but this sunscreen is made with anti-aging skincare benefits. It contains RonaCare Ectoin and Antileukine 6 which reduce fine lines and wrinkles. With the inclusion of hyaluronic acid, this sunscreen is filled with intense hydration that effectively locks in moisture.
Free of oxybenzone that’s harmful to coral reefs, this sunscreen is certainly safe to use when you decide to go scuba diving as it cares for the environment as well.
Details
- Lightweight in texture and non-greasy
- Water and sweat-resistant
- Suitable to be used on both face and body
Who is this for?
Commended as the no.1 brand in Malaysia and for providing the highest SPF sun protection with the lightest texture, SunPlay Superblock Sunblock Lotion SPF 130 PA++++ is here to give your skin the ultimate coverage when you’re out enjoying fun-filled beach activities under the scorching sun.
Users praised that this sunscreen doesn’t leave a shine on the skin nor any white cast. It dries to a satin and natural finish and stays on through sweat. It also doesn’t sting the eyes.
Overview
Spread evenly over your face and body, 3W Clinic Sun Block Intensive UV Sun Screen provides a subtle, smooth finish that serves well as a make-up base. Thanks to its high-potent moisturising ingredients such as Aloe Vera, Mulberry Root, and Red Ginseng, this sunblock keeps your skin hydrated.
Containing Aloe Extract, this sunblock relieves skin irritation by offering it protection from external aggressors. Its high SPF 50 PA+++ safeguards your skin from damaging UV rays. Its affordable price tag makes this sunblock one that’s worth keeping in your ‘most-used skincare’ stash. Its smooth texture, quick absorption, and pleasant scent will have you begging for more.
Details
- Long-lasting coverage against the UV rays
- Its moisturising qualities keep your skin soft and smooth
Who is this for?
Users complimented how the 3W Clinic Sun Block Intensive UV Sun Screen is lightweight on the skin yet provides optimum coverage from damaging UV rays. They also praised that it leaves their skin feeling extremely soft. Besides, this sunscreen doesn’t leave behind any white cast on the skin as it gently dries to a matte finish nor does it contain any fragrance.
Overview
The importance of slathering your skin with sunscreen each time you head out to the beach is a no-brainer. Oftentimes, we prioritise applying sunscreen to our faces. However, skin protection from damaging UV rays goes beyond our face. Our hands, legs, neck, and decolletage need protection from the sun as well.
Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunblock SPF50 Lotion is a high-performance sunscreen that’s designed for sports enthusiasts and active individuals who need protection from the sun when they’re out on the beach. Non-greasy on the skin, this sunblock is fast-absorbing making it feel seamless on your skin.
Details
- Provides clinically proven UVA/UVB protection
- Comes with a lightweight and breathable formulation
- Free from harmful ingredients such as oxybenzone and octinoxate
Who is this for?
Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation to protect your skin against the sun’s harmful UV rays, this sunblock is a favourite among many users. They complimented that it’s great to be used for the whole family. Beach or not, this sunblock protects the skin for several hours. Its quick absorption leaves no traces of white cast behind on your skin.
Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunblock SPF50 Lotion’s long-lasting coverage against water and sweat is yet another bonus. Some users have even pointed out that this sunblock protects their skin from tanning. With an interval of reapplication every few hours of this sunblock, it certainly protects their skin from sunburn.
Overview
If you’re not one for lotion or cream applications, then you may want to consider a spray sunscreen application instead. Easy and instant, Aqua UV Sun Protection Spray SPF50+ PA++++ is just as effective as its lotion sunscreen counterparts are at protecting your skin against damaging UV rays.
Still, despite its ‘spray-like’ application, it’s important that you still rub the sunscreen onto your skin. This assures you that the product is absorbed thoroughly into your skin and performs its intended benefits.
Offering protection from the UV rays whilst instantly cooling and refreshing your body, Banana Boat Sport Cool Zone Spray SPF50 will be hard to pass on. It’s enriched with Aloe, which instantly cools and refreshes your skin upon application. Its non-greasy, 4-hour water and sweat-resistance qualities will keep you protected from the sun rays no matter how long you’re sunbathing on the beach.
Details
- Offers quick absorption without a greasy feel
- Instantly cools and refreshes your skin
- Free from oxybeonzone and octinoxate
Who is this for?
Sun-soaked days just never felt so breezy thanks to Banana Boat Sport Cool Zone Spray SPF50. Its UVA/UVB broad spectrum coverage is non-greasy and doesn’t run into your eyes. Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, Banana Boat Sport Cool Zone Spray SPF50 has been positively acclaimed among its loyal users. They’ve reviewed how this sunscreen spray is extremely easy to apply.
Not only is it extremely water-resistant, but this sunscreen certainly helped protect their skin after several reapplications under the sun. Its small-sized bottle certainly goes a long way.
Overview
Made with sustainably sourced palm oil, NIVEA Sun Triple Protect Anti-Wrinkle is an ultralight sunscreen with a quick absorption quality. This sunscreen is made with advanced technology that offers triple protection that effectively protects the skin from blue light, UVA, UVB, and external aggressors.
While NIVEA Sun Triple Protect Anti-Wrinkle can be used for the face, it can also be used on the body as well. Long-term exposure to damaging UV rays can fasten the skin ageing process. Thanks to the inclusion of European Algae, this ingredient helps prevent and reduce fine lines around the eye area.
Details
- Comes in an extremely lightweight texture that offers 3-times protection against damaging sun rays
- Made with European Algae for anti-wrinkle benefits
- Offers protection against the Blue Light Effect
Who is this for?
Sunscreen application is important for protecting your skin’s appearance as well as its health at any age. With regular usage, this prevents sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. Therefore, don’t hesitate to apply sunblock on your face daily.
NIVEA Sun Triple Protect Anti-Wrinkle offers an SPF50 PA+++ which is sufficient to protect and assure your skin health. It keeps your skin looking and feeling youthful and radiant, whilst protected at the same time from the high UV rays.
Overview
Looking forward to a fun day at the beach? Don’t forget to splatter on a good amount of sunscreen to give you optimum protection from the sun. What you need is a waterproof sunscreen. Innisfree Intensive Triple Shield Sunscreen SPF50 PA++ is a waterproof sunscreen that comes with a matte finish. Its Intensive Triple-Shield innovative technology optimises mineral filters to block harmful UV rays.
This sunscreen works to protect your skin by creating a protective layer on the surface of your skin to avert the damaging UV rays. Besides reducing wrinkles and offering a whitening effect, this sunscreen is noted to be a water-reflecting type that sustains underwater pressure.
Details
- Glides smoothly and easily on the skin with a matte finish
- Water and sand-resistant
- Formulated with light and pleasant low-allergen fragrance
Who is this for?
Users praised that Innisfree Intensive Triple Shield Sunscreen SPF50 PA++ works effectively at preventing sunburn on the skin. It not only is easy to use but provides good coverage as well. This multifunctional sunscreen decreases the appearance of wrinkles and instead brightens the skin and forms a protective layer to deflect damaging UV rays.
So, before you head out to the beach, apply this sunscreen evenly on the face and body. Remember to also reapply after swimming or when you experience excessive perspiration.
FAQ:
- How do you take care of your skin at the beach?
Before you hop your way to the beach, it’s important that you prepare yourself well before basking for hours under the scorching sun. Regardless of the steps to prepare your skin well before heading to the beach, it’s also important to continuously care for your skin even while at the beach.
- The salt air and piercing UV rays can dry out our skin. So, the first and foremost step should always be preparing your skin well to keep it optimally hydrated. Use a gentle cleanser followed by a serum or toner that contains hyaluronic acid.
- Next, moisturise your skin by using a moisturiser that contains humectants. This helps to draw water to your skin’s surface and locks in hydration which creates a moisture barrier that protects your skin.
- You’ve now reached the step where you apply a generous amount of sunscreen on your skin, of course! Look for sunscreens that contain an SPF protection of at least 30. It’s advisable to apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before arriving at the beach. This way, it gives ample time for the sunscreen to thoroughly absorb into your skin.
- While out on the beach, do ensure to reapply your sunscreen every 2 hours. If you’re planning on taking a swim with the fish, it’s best to opt for mineral sunscreen as it’s more environmentally friendly compared to chemical sunscreens. Also, mineral-based formulas are suitable for those with sensitive skin.
- Sunbaked on the beach seems like a tempting idea but do avoid peak hours between 10 am and 4 pm as it is at this time when the sun rays are at their most dangerous. If you have to be at the beach at this time, then do remember to be under a shade such as an umbrella or the use of a white-brimmed hat.
- Last but not least, is hydration, hydration, hydration. Quench yourself with plenty of water to retain skin elasticity, tone, and appearance.