Whether you’re into skincare or does little to no skincare at all, we can all agree that sunscreen should be an integral part of everyone’s routine, especially here in Malaysia where it’s summer all year long. We want to make sure that our skin is well-protected from sun’s harsh UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreen helps preventing not just sunburnt, but also premature aging, hyperpigmentation and skin cancer.
Shop your favourite sunscreen for less from overseas and ship to Malaysia hassle-free with the help of Buyandship! Our editor has gathered key tips you can keep in mind when choosing your sunscreen, difference between chemical and physical sunscreens, with 10 best sunscreen recommendations for you to get started!
Table of Contents:
► What to Look for When Choosing Sunscreen?
► What is the Difference Between Chemical and Physical Sunscreens?
► Best Sunscreens to Shop for Different Skin Types
Tips On Choosing The Right Sunscreen for You
Sunscreen is recommended to be a part of your daily skincare routine – it’s so important to wear it everyday even on cloudy days. With so many sunscreens on the market, it can be difficult to choose what’s best for you. If you’re unsure, we’ve got you covered! Here’re a few key tips recommended by dermatologists which you can look for when buying sunscreen:
Look for Sunscreens with SPF 30+
It’s recommended to buy a sunscreen with SPF 30 or above as it gives a better protection against UVB rays.
Check for Broad-Spectrum Protection on Packaging
It’s crucial to ensure the sunscreen is labelled as broad-spectrum and will give protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Choose Physical Sunscreen if You Have Sensitive Skin
If you have sensitive skin, it’s recommended to buy physical sunscreen (also known as mineral sunscreen) because it contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide which is less irritating, ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin! It’s best to look for fragrance-free formulas too.
Choose Water-Resistant Sunscreen
It’s best to use a sunscreen that is water-resistant (or sweat-resistant) especially if you’re going for water sports like swimming. According to The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), water-resistant sunscreens usually can last 40-80 minutes before you’ll need to reapply!
Chemical Sunscreen VS Physical Sunscreen
Sunscreens can be classified into chemical or physical sunscreens. Both of them can help protect skin from UV rays but also have their own properties and benefits to suit different skin types and needs.
Do you know which type of sunscreens you should wear? Here’s a quick breakdown of their differences!
| Chemical Sunscreen | Physical Sunscreen |
|---|---|
| Contains active ingredients to absorb UV light | Reflect UV light from skin’s surface |
| Easy to blend with skincare and makeup products | Thicker, texture, may leave white marks |
| Protects against UVA-UVB rays | Blocks wide range of UVA-UVB rays |
| Suitable for most skin types and tones | Ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin |
| Takes up to 20 mins to take effect after applied | Works immediately after applied |
Best Sunscreens to Shop for Different Skin Types
Biore UV Aqua Rich Water Essence Sunscreen
Amazon Japan-exclusive size! It contains a unique aqua micro capsule with UV block ingredient offering a high SPF 50+ PA++++ protection while keeping skin moisturized with hyaluronic acid and Royal Jelly! Water and sweat-proof.
Malaysia Price : RM35 / 50g
JP Price : RM40 / 110g ( JPY1,210 )
Sunplay Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel SPF50
A sunscreen that is formulated with Snow Fungus extract and hyaluronic acid to deeply moisturise skin all day long, while offering SPF 50 PA++++ protection! Its lightweight texture gives a non-greasy invisible feel after applied.
Malaysia Price : RM47 / 80g
JP Price : RM23 / 110g ( JPY694 )
Anessa Perfect UV Skincare Gel SPF50
Contains 50% skincare ingredients that provides long lasting hydration to your skin while keeping skin protected with SPF 50+ PA++++. Suitable for everyday use, with water resistance for at least 80 minutes!
Malaysia Price : RM150 / 90g
JP Price : RM63 / 90g ( JPY1,902 )
Shishedo Clear Suncare Stick SPF50+
Amazon Japan-exclusive size! It contains a unique aqua micro capsule with UV block ingredient offering a high SPF 50+ PA++++ protection while keeping skin moisturized with hyaluronic acid and Royal Jelly! Water and sweat-proof.
Size : 20g
JP Price : RM102 ( JPY3,080 )
Bondi Sands SPF 50+ Face Sunscreen Lotion
This Australian-made chemical sunscreen is fragrance-free and water-resistant, with a gentle formula that absorbs into your skin quickly and dries to an invisible finish. It offers 72 hours of hydration with aloe vera and vitamin E to keep your skin nourished.
Size : 75ml
UK Price : RM37 ( GBP6.99 )
Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50+
If you’re looking for a lightweight, almost invisible sunscreen – this is for you! This hydrating chemical sunscreen keeps you protected from UVA, UVB and IRA rays. It’s water-resistant for 80 minutes, perfect for things like running or going to the beach!
Size : 71ml
US Price : RM96 ( US$22 )
La Roche Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid SPF 50+
The invisible fluid chemical sunscreen is non-greasy and non comedogenic, meaning it protects your skin without clogging pores. It suits normal to combination skin types, also specifically designed for sensitive skin!
Size : 50ml
AU Price : RM95 ( AU$30.49 )
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Here’s a 100%-mineral, oil-free physical sunscreen made with ingredients to form a protective barrier on your skin’s surface, which helps to reflect the sun’s UVA and UVB rays without irritating sensitive skin.
Size : 50ml
US Price : RM60 ( US$13.09 )
Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Face Liquid Sunscreen SPF 50
A lightweight physical sunscreen that helps prevent sunburn. This formula dries with a matte finish, best for application under makeup or for daily wear! It’s chemical-free which is ideal for sensitive skin.
Size : 50ml
US Price : RM50 ( US$10.97 )
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55
A chemical sunscreen from the bestselling Ultra Sheer line! It absorbs quickly for an invisible, lightweight feel on your skin. Offering broad spectrum protection and non-comedogenic – it won’t clog your pores!
Size : 80ml
US Price : RM30 ( US$6.62 )
💡 Note: Product prices, quantities etc. may change due to sales. All subject to change. We do not own any of the pictures above nor affiliated with the brands mentioned. All credits are due to all of the brands featured in the article unless otherwise specified.