What you can find in this article:
- Introduction
- Why Japanese Sunscreens Are a Must-Have
- Understanding the Different Types of Japanese Sunscreens
- Top Japanese Sunscreens to Try
- Japanese Sunscreens vs. Other Asian Sunscreens
- Choosing the Right Japanese Sunscreen for Your Skin Type
- Tips for Incorporating Japanese Sunscreens into Your Skincare Routine
- FAQs About Japanese Sunscreens
- Conclusion
Introduction
Recently I have started using Biore UV Sunscreen and it is one of the best sunscreen’s I’ve ever used. I kept seeing posts on Instagram, Pinterest about this particular sunscreen so I had to give it a try. It costs almost same as other high end products. Biore UV is a Japanese Sunscreen. Other than this, I have used Lakme,
When it comes to sun protection, Japanese sunscreens are known worldwide for their cutting-edge formulas that blend seamlessly into your skincare routine. Whether you’re looking for a sunscreen that doubles as a makeup base, provides broad-spectrum protection, or caters to sensitive skin, Japanese sunscreens have you covered. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best Japanese sunscreens, highlight their active ingredients, textures, and benefits, and help you find the perfect sunscreen for your skin type and lifestyle.
Japanese sunscreens are known for providing comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can penetrate deep into the skin, causing long-term damage such as fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, while UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and contribute to skin cancer. The best Japanese sunscreens feature high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) and PA ratings to ensure you’re shielded from both types of harmful UV rays.
1. Broad-Spectrum Protection
Japanese sunscreens are known for providing comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can penetrate deep into the skin, causing long-term damage such as fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, while UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and contribute to skin cancer. The best Japanese sunscreens feature high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) and PA ratings to ensure you’re shielded from both types of harmful UV rays.
2. Lightweight, Comfortable Formulas
A standout feature of Japanese sunscreens is their lightweight, often watery texture. This is particularly beneficial for those with oily or combination skin, as these sunscreens don’t clog pores or leave a greasy residue. Their non-sticky formula also makes them comfortable to wear even in hot, humid weather. Some popular options include gel and milky sunscreens, which absorb quickly and leave the skin feeling fresh and hydrated.
3. Skin-Nourishing Ingredients
Japanese sunscreens often contain skincare ingredients that go beyond sun protection. Hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant, is commonly included to keep the skin hydrated throughout the day. Ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, and botanical extracts also provide soothing and antioxidant benefits, making these sunscreens suitable for sensitive and dry skin.
4. Advanced UV Filters
Japanese sunscreens are formulated with advanced UV filters, including both physical and chemical options. Physical filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide a barrier that reflects UV rays away from the skin. Meanwhile, chemical filters such as ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate and diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate absorb UV rays and convert them into harmless heat, offering a broader range of protection.
5. Water-Resistant Formulas for Active Lifestyles
If you lead an active lifestyle, you’ll appreciate the water-resistant formulas found in many Japanese sunscreens. Whether you’re swimming, sweating, or spending an extended period outdoors, these sunscreens offer long-lasting protection without the need for constant reapplication.
Understanding the Different Types of Japanese Sunscreens
The variety of sunscreens available can be overwhelming, but understanding the different types will help you choose the right one for your needs. Here’s a breakdown of the main categories:
1. Physical Sunscreens (Mineral Sunscreens)
Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide
Best For: Sensitive skin, pregnant women, young children
How They Work: Physical sunscreens sit on top of the skin and act as a barrier that reflects UV rays. They are often recommended for sensitive skin types as they are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. However, some physical sunscreens can leave a white cast, which is more visible on darker skin tones. Fortunately, Japanese brands have refined their formulations to minimize this effect, making them suitable for all skin tones.
2. Chemical Sunscreens
Active Ingredients: Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, octocrylene
Best For: Oily and combination skin, those who prefer lightweight textures
How They Work: Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin. These sunscreens are typically lightweight and easy to apply, without leaving any residue. Japanese chemical sunscreens are renowned for their innovative formulas that provide strong protection without feeling heavy on the skin.
3. Hybrid Sunscreens
Active Ingredients: Combination of physical and chemical filters
Best For: All skin types, those seeking comprehensive protection
How They Work: Hybrid sunscreens combine the benefits of both physical and chemical filters, offering broad-spectrum protection with a balanced feel on the skin. They are ideal for those who want the best of both worlds—effective UV protection with a lightweight, non-greasy texture.
Top Japanese Sunscreens to Try
Now that you understand the key features and types of sunscreens, let’s dive into some of the best Japanese sunscreens on the market. Each of these products has been carefully selected based on their effectiveness, texture, and suitability for different skin types.
1. Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk SPF 50+ PA++++
Best For: All skin types, especially oily and combination skin
Product Description: Shiseido’s Anessa line is iconic in the world of sun care, and the Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk is one of their best-selling products. This sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection with a high SPF 50+ and PA++++ rating, ensuring your skin is shielded from both UVA and UVB rays. Its milky texture absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a white cast, making it a great option for everyday use. Additionally, it’s water-resistant and sweat-proof, making it ideal for outdoor activities and hot weather.
Why It’s Great: The formula includes skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid and collagen, which help maintain skin hydration and elasticity. This sunscreen also doubles as a makeup base, providing a smooth canvas for foundation while protecting your skin from harmful UV rays.
2. Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel SPF 50+ PA++++
Best For: Dry and sensitive skin
Product Description: The Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel is a favorite among those with dry and sensitive skin. Its gel-like texture is lightweight yet deeply hydrating, thanks to the inclusion of hyaluronic acid and amino acids. The high SPF 50+ and PA++++ rating provide robust protection against UVA and UVB rays, making it suitable for daily use.
Why It’s Great: This sunscreen is fragrance-free, colorant-free, and mineral oil-free, reducing the risk of irritation for sensitive skin types. It also contains ceramides that help strengthen the skin barrier, ensuring your skin stays protected and hydrated throughout the day.
3. Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
Best For: Normal to combination skin
Product Description: Biore’s UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence is one of the most popular sunscreens globally, thanks to its incredibly light and refreshing texture. The water-based formula absorbs quickly, leaving no sticky residue or white cast, making it perfect for daily use. It offers strong protection with SPF 50+ and PA++++, ensuring your skin is well-protected from harmful UV rays.
Why It’s Great: The formula is enriched with hyaluronic acid and royal jelly extract, providing hydration while keeping the skin smooth and supple. This sunscreen is also known for its high water content, making it feel more like a hydrating serum than a traditional sunscreen.
4. Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV SPF 50+ PA++++
Best For: All skin types, particularly sensitive skin
Product Description: The Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV is a gentle sunscreen that caters to those with sensitive skin. Its gel formula is free from alcohol, making it suitable for skin that is easily irritated. Despite its gentle nature, it provides strong UV protection with SPF 50+ and PA++++, shielding your skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
Why It’s Great: This sunscreen has a dewy finish, leaving the skin with a healthy, radiant glow. It also serves as an excellent makeup base, allowing foundation to glide on smoothly without pilling or patchiness. Additionally, the formula includes botanical extracts that provide antioxidant benefits, protecting the skin from environmental stressors.
5. Allie Extra UV Gel Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++
Best For: Outdoor activities and extended periods in the sun
Product Description: Allie’s Extra UV Gel is designed for those who spend a lot of time outdoors. Its water-resistant formula ensures long-lasting protection, even during activities like swimming or hiking. The SPF 50+ and PA++++ rating offer broad-spectrum protection, making it a reliable choice for any outdoor adventure.
Why It’s Great: The gel texture is lightweight and non-sticky, absorbing quickly into the skin without leaving any residue. It also contains skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid and collagen, which help maintain skin hydration and elasticity, even under the sun.
Japanese Sunscreens vs. Other Asian Sunscreens
While Japanese sunscreens are highly regarded, other Asian countries, particularly Korea, also produce exceptional sunscreens. Here’s how Japanese sunscreens compare to their Korean counterparts:
1. Texture and Finish
Japanese Sunscreens: Known for their lightweight, watery textures, Japanese sunscreens typically have a more matte or satin finish, making them ideal for oily or combination skin. They absorb quickly and leave no residue, making them suitable for hot and humid climates.
Korean Sunscreens: Korean sunscreens often focus on hydration and a dewy finish, making them a great choice for dry or mature skin. They are usually formulated with ingredients like snail mucin, ceramides, and niacinamide, which provide additional skincare benefits.
2. Ingredients and UV Filters
Japanese Sunscreens: Japanese formulations often include a mix of physical and chemical UV filters, providing comprehensive protection without compromising on texture. They are also more likely to include advanced UV absorbers that are not yet widely used in Western products.
Korean Sunscreens: Korean sunscreens tend to focus on chemical UV filters, with an emphasis on skin-soothing and brightening ingredients. They often include niacinamide, which helps with skin tone and brightening, as well as calming ingredients like Centella asiatica.
*Note- I have also been using Centella Asiatica . It has lightweight texture and has no smell. Makes my skin super soft and isn’t greasy at all!
3. Price and Accessibility
Japanese Sunscreens: These tend to be moderately priced, with a wide range of options available at different price points. They are readily available online and in stores that specialize in Asian beauty products.
Korean Sunscreens: Similarly, Korean sunscreens are generally affordable and widely available, both online and in physical stores. The popularity of K-beauty has made Korean sunscreens more accessible in many countries.
4. Environmental Considerations
Japanese Sunscreens: Many Japanese sunscreens are formulated to be reef-safe, avoiding ingredients that can harm coral reefs, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. This makes them a more eco-friendly choice for those concerned about the environment.
Korean Sunscreens: Korean sunscreens are also increasingly formulated to be reef-safe, with brands paying attention to the environmental impact of their products. However, it’s always important to check the ingredient list if reef safety is a priority for you.
Choosing the Right Japanese Sunscreen for Your Skin Type
Selecting the perfect sunscreen depends on your skin type and personal preferences. Here’s a guide to help you choose:
1. Oily and Combination Skin
Recommended Products: Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk, Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence
What to Look For: Opt for sunscreens with a lightweight, non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly. Gel or water-based formulas are ideal, as they won’t clog pores or contribute to oiliness.
2. Dry Skin
Recommended Products: Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel, Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV
What to Look For: Choose sunscreens with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Cream or lotion-based sunscreens are beneficial as they provide extra moisture to keep your skin hydrated throughout the day.
3. Sensitive Skin
Recommended Products: Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV, Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel
What to Look For: Look for sunscreens that are free from alcohol, fragrance, and other potential irritants. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are usually gentler on sensitive skin.
4. Mature Skin
Recommended Products: Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk, Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence
What to Look For: Sunscreens with anti-aging ingredients like collagen and antioxidants are ideal. Also, consider products with a hydrating formula to keep the skin plump and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Tips for Incorporating Japanese Sunscreens into Your Skincare Routine
Incorporating sunscreen into your daily routine is crucial for maintaining healthy, youthful skin. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your Japanese sunscreen:
1. Apply Sunscreen as the Last Step of Your Morning Routine
Sunscreen should always be the final step in your morning skincare routine, after moisturizer and before makeup. This ensures that it provides the maximum level of protection without being diluted by other products.
2. Use the Right Amount
To achieve the advertised level of protection, it’s essential to use the correct amount of sunscreen. Dermatologists recommend using a quarter teaspoon of sunscreen for the face and neck. For the entire body, about an ounce (a shot glass full) is needed.
3. Reapply Regularly
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you’re spending time outdoors, sweating, or swimming. For convenience, consider carrying a travel-sized sunscreen or a sunscreen mist for easy reapplication.
4. Don’t Forget Your Ears, Neck, and Hands
These areas are often overlooked but are just as susceptible to sun damage as your face. Make sure to apply sunscreen to your ears, neck, and the backs of your hands.
5. Combine with Other Sun Protection Measures
Sunscreen is just one part of a holistic approach to sun protection. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing to further shield your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
FAQ
Yes, many Japanese sunscreens are designed to work seamlessly with makeup. Their lightweight, non-greasy formulas make them ideal as a makeup base, providing a smooth surface for foundation and other cosmetics.
Japanese sunscreens are often praised for their lightweight texture and high-performance formulas. They tend to absorb quickly, leaving no white cast, and are often more comfortable to wear under makeup. In contrast, many Western sunscreens can feel heavier and may leave a noticeable residue.
Yes, Japanese sunscreens are formulated to provide broad-spectrum protection, meaning they protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for sunscreens with both a high SPF rating and a high PA rating for comprehensive protection.
While you can use the same sunscreen for both face and body, some people prefer to use a separate product for the body, especially if they need a larger quantity or prefer a different texture. Many Japanese sunscreens are formulated for both face and body use, making them versatile options.
Yes, regular use of sunscreen can help prevent the formation of dark spots and hyperpigmentation by protecting your skin from UV damage. Some Japanese sunscreens also include brightening ingredients like vitamin C derivatives to help even out skin tone.
Many Japanese sunscreens are formulated to be reef-safe, meaning they do not contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate that can harm coral reefs. If this is a concern for you, look for sunscreens specifically labeled as reef-safe.
SPF measures the level of protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer. PA rating, on the other hand, measures the protection against UVA rays, which cause long-term skin damage like wrinkles and dark spots. The more plus signs after the PA, the higher the protection against UVA rays.
The choice between physical and chemical sunscreens depends on your skin type and preferences. Physical sunscreens are best for sensitive skin as they are less likely to cause irritation. Chemical sunscreens are usually lighter and more suitable for oily or combination skin.
Conclusion
Japanese sunscreens are a staple in any skincare routine. They offer the perfect balance of effective sun protection and skin-loving ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a sunscreen for everyday use, outdoor activities, or as part of your makeup routine, the right Japanese sunscreen can make all the difference in keeping your skin healthy and radiant. From lightweight gels to water-resistant formulas, these sunscreens cater to all skin types and preferences. Try a few products for yourself and let us know which worked best for you!
Author: Shivangi
Edit: Kinga
