Sunscreen is arguably the most crucial part of the skincare routine, especially in Malaysia, where it's hot and humid. Dermatologists will tell you that it's the best anti-ageing product you can use, not to mention that consistent use lowers the risk of skin cancer. That should be reason enough for you to start applying it religiously.
With so many options in the market, it can be hard finding one that suits your skin type. Below, we’ve listed our recommendations that are sure to garner your interest.
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Why it’s our top pick
We like this mineral sunscreen because it works great for all skin types - it’s moisturizing yet non-greasy and it’s hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic so it’s perfect for those with sensitive skin. It provides high protection against UVA, UVB and blue light exposure. Plus, it doesn’t leave a white cast so there’s no more worrying about that!
Overview
This sunscreen is formulated with a high-performance filtering complex to provide high protection against UV rays and blue light exposure. It’s also enriched with Uriage Thermal Water, Aquaspongines and Vitamin E for intense hydration and nourishment. The light cream formula is also fragrance-free and absorbs quickly into the skin.
Testimonies
This Uriage sunscreen is especially great for sensitive skin because it’s hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. It doesn’t leave a white cast and some users also mention that it absorbs easily into the skin. However, since it’s a mineral sunscreen, some stinging may occur if it gets near the eye area so apply it with care.
Looking for a sunscreen that serves as a primer for your makeup as well? Say hello to your new best friend, Biore UV Perfect Milk.
Overview:
Its luminously lightweight texture provides an extremely protective barrier to protect your skin from UV rays that can lead to the formation of dark spots and freckles. This sunscreen is formulated with the Aqua Shield Smooth Veil that is not only impervious to sweat and water but also has a lasting effect on your skin to give optimum UV protection. To top it off, its weightless and non-sticky texture gives your skin a sheer glow. Your makeup will glide right on!
Testimonies:
At first application, users found the sunscreen to be watery. However, once it’s absorbed into the skin, it mattifies without leaving a greasy look.
Those with acne-prone skin share the same struggle as those with oily skin when choosing skin products as the wrong one could trigger a breakout. Sunscreen protects your skin from potential environmental stressors that could worsen acne. Give the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF50 a chance!
Overview:
This sunscreen is formulated with Helioplex™ Technology that guarantees the sun-protective barrier remains intact to shield your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Besides, the Dry-Touch Technology assures that your skin is both shine and clog-free to avoid potential breakouts.
Testimonies:
Regarded as a go-to sunscreen, users have complimented how this fabulous sunscreen doesn’t clog their pores. Though it gives their skin a sheer finish, it does not cause more acne.
Looking for light and natural-looking coverage? Say yes to tinted sunscreens!
Overview:
Comprising an ultra-light colour correction formula, this sunscreen contains superior UVA and UVB protection to provide instant skin coverage and nourishing qualities. Its beige tint covers any sign of blemishes and skin dullness seamlessly while its oil-absorbing properties eliminate shine.
Testimonies:
Its milky and creamy texture results in a pearl finishing, giving you a natural velvety appearance. However, users have experienced that its light tint does make their face look a little paler.
Nobody likes sunscreen that leaves a white cast unless it’s Halloween and that’s the look you’re going for. On regular days, it can be odd to walk around with your face being a different colour from the rest of your body. With the COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream, that won’t be an issue.
Overview:
The Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract soothes and moisturizes your skin. Thanks to its lightweight texture, it’s instantly absorbed into your skin and doesn’t feel greasy. With its scientifically proven sun protection and naturally derived ingredients, rest assured that your skin is secured with an added protective layer.
Testimonies:
True to its claims, users were impressed at how moisturizing this sunscreen is and at the fact that it doesn't leave a white cast. Thanks to its non-oily texture, it doesn’t cause breakouts either.
The BIORE UV Aqua Rich Water Essence Cool SPF50+ is a cult-favourite and for good reason. It’s light and just sinks into the skin, making it easy to apply and is moisturising. Need we say more? We will, so read on.
Overview:
BIORE UV Aqua Rich Water Essence Cool SPF50+ combines Aqua Micro Capsules with UV absorbing ingredients that ensure an effective and enduring double-block effect with a light and cool water-like sensation. It contains hyaluronic acid and Mix Citrus Essence which are moisturising ingredients that provide hydration to the skin.
Testimonies:
It has a lightweight texture that glides onto the skin and blends perfectly under makeup. Not only is it affordable, but users have also praised how this sunscreen does not cause any breakouts! At this price point, its performance truly exceeds expectations.
With Bio-Essence Bio-Water Hydrating Sunscreen SPF50+, say hello to hydrated skin and goodbye to sun damage.
Overview:
The Hyaluronic Acid content in this sunscreen effectively replenishes and retains vital moisture to ensure that your skin remains hydrated and supple at all times. Its SPF 50+ guards your skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays. This sunscreen also boosts your skin's ability to repair, renew, and replenishing itself with its Bio-Energy Complex formula.
Testimonies:
Users report that this sunscreen isn't greasy and does not leave a white cast. Do note that some users have expressed that the fragrance can be a little strong.
Physical sunscreens consist of active mineral ingredients such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, that stay on your skin’s surface area to deflect the harmful UV rays from your skin. If you’re looking for one, then this Guardian Daily Sun Face Cream SPF50 is exactly what you need.
Overview:
This water-based sunscreen contains 100% organic aloe vera to soothe your skin and restore its moisture. It even has vitamin E that provides antioxidant benefits to maintain your skin's youthful appearance. Not only that, thanks to vitamin B3 and licorice extract, this sunscreen gives your skin complexion a luminous glow.
Testimonies:
Users have found that this sunscreen feels great on the skin and leaves a nice dewy glow, though those with oily and acne-prone skin may favour a matte finish.
Choosing any skincare product when you have oily skin can be tricky at times. Thankfully, there is sunscreen out there for oily skin types, such as the L'Oreal Paris UV Defender Matte & Fresh SPF50+.
Overview:
This sunscreen does more than just protect your skin from harmful UV rays. It also helps prevent fine lines, dark spots, and skin dullness. With Airlicium, an oil-control ingredient that absorbs 7 times its weight in sebum, expect a matte finish even in hot and humid climates.
Testimonies:
Its soft texture certainly does not leave a white cast. In terms of oil control, users realise that they don't find themselves reaching for blotting paper. However, some claim that it feels a bit sticky.
If you've been searching high and low for a sunscreen that works well for combination skin, then this milky sunscreen is your best bet. It has been regarded as the number one sunscreen brand in Japan for 19 years.
Overview:
ANESSA Perfect UV Sunscreen features "Aqua Booster EX" technology that responds with minerals found in sweat and water to achieve a much stronger protective veil over the skin. It is also made with 50% skincare ingredients such as super hyaluronic acid and rosehip to improve skin hydration and protect against environmental stressors.
Testimonies:
Users have praised how well this sunscreen works for combination skin. Don’t worry about patchy application as this travel-sized sunscreen glides smoothly onto the skin. It doesn't leave that icky sticky feeling either.
La Roche Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid SPF50+ has been recommended by 60,000 dermatologists worldwide. Its high UV protection delivered in the lightest texture has made this sunscreen a customer favourite.
Overview:
Free of fragrance, this sunscreen is suitable for all skin types, but particularly for those with sensitive skin. Its non-greasy and non-comedogenic properties can protect your skin without clogging pores. This sunscreen also makes for a perfect makeup base thanks to its barely-there finish.
Testimonies:
Though a little pricey, users were impressed at how great this sunscreen works on acne-prone skin as it doesn't cause breakouts or further aggravate the skin and how it doesn’t cause irritation for those with sensitive skin. Its lightweight texture ensures quick absorption into the skin without leaving the skin feeling and looking oily.
After applying sunscreen on your face, don’t forget to apply it on your body. This Biore pick features Japanese technology for more protection against sun damage and pollution.
Overview
This sunscreen has UVA and UVB protection with SPF 50+ PA+++ to protect your skin from sunburns and prevent premature ageing. It’s also formulated with an anti-pollution shield to protect against pollution and ingredients like menthol and cucumber extract to provide users with a cooling sensation upon application.
Testimonies
According to user reviews, this sunscreen easily absorbs into the skin and has a pleasant smell. Many users also note that this sunscreen has a cooling effect on the skin so it’s great for those living in the hot Malaysian weather.
FAQ:
- Drugstore vs High-End Sunscreen
Seeing that sunscreen is meant to be used daily and we'll probably go through quite a few tubes, you must be wondering whether high-end sunscreen is worth buying when there are cheaper alternatives out there.
Well, the only difference between the two is the price. Regardless of the brand or price point, both types offer the same features; SPF 30 to 50, broad-spectrum, and water resistance. There is no correlation between the price and the effectiveness.
At the end of the day, it all boils down to personal preference and the consideration of any skin sensitivities you might have. Everyone has distinct needs and different budgets.