It is early summer, and that means one thing: sunscreen releases are done for the year in Japan.
It seems a bit silly to go on about sunscreens for spring when full-blown summer is just around the corner, although weather is still fairly mild in some places. I intended to do a ‘top 5’ specifically on PA++++ sunscreens but there are only a handful of them — and many aren’t something I would want to use regularly, if truth be known.
My picks this year are a mix of both, and sunscreens from last year’s releases are included as well. I was going to my do my top picks in June, but I have rushed this post after reading a few emails from readers requesting to have this out a.s.a.p. as they’re about to go away on holiday.
Some of the sunscreens mentioned will be featured in their own separate reviews, so be sure to check back if you want to know more. Also, please kind in mind that I personally dislike matte finish (for sunscreens and makeup) — skin without a bit of natural glow looks so lifeless.
So in no particular order:
1. ALLIE Extra UV Gel (Mineral Moist) N SPF50+/PA++++
It offers waterproof high UV protection that feels moisturising and lightweight enough for daily use.
2. MEN’S Biore Facial Lotion (UV Milky Type) SPF30/PA+++
The daily use milky gel applies like water and disappears into the skin without a trace. It comes a in 180ml bottle and it has light citrus scent (similar Biore UV Aqua Rich). Only for men? I say not!
3. ETVOS Mineral UV Powder SPF50/PA+++ (Limited Edition)
This all-natural, nanoparticle-free loose powder gives skin UV protection and sheer coverage — and it comes with 30-day money back guarantee.
4. NIVEA Sun Protect Water Gel SPF50/PA+++
It’s always good to have options, and this is another excellent daily use sunscreen gel that disappears into the skin.
5. Parasola Essence In UV Cut Spray EX SPF50+/PA++++
The handy floral-scented aerosol mist is water, sweat and sebum-resistant, and can be used directly on the face, body, and hair anytime during the day.
6. ALLIE Extra UV Protector (Perfect Alpha) S SPF50+/PA++++
I’ve always been a fan of Allie sunscreens, and this upgraded version is a well-rounded choice for the outdoors.
★ Fasio BB Cream SPF50+/PA++++
It has just been released in Japan but I’ve been trying the press sample since I’ve received it. This long-wearing BB cream rivals many sebum-resistant sunscreens! It can be layered without cakiness, and it gives skin a very smooth, natural finish.