Are you still struggling to find a sunscreen that it’s a pleasure to wear? My three current favourite Japanese sunscreens might give you some inspiration. They’re all lightweight formulas with SPF50+ PA++++ protection.
My skin is non-sensitive but I’m very picky when it comes to sunscreen – I refuse to make do with greasy, sticky formulas. For me, a “good” sunscreen isn’t just about numbers, certain ingredients, or lab performance. It’s vital that it stays put in real-life situations. Cosmetic elegance isn’t a trivial element.
It wasn’t difficult to narrow my sunscreen favourites down to these, because I simply grabbed the 3 that I’ve used the most this past several months. Because surely if I reach for them the most then there’s a reason for that?
There are more Japanese sunscreens reviews to come. You can browse all the Japanese sunscreens in the database here.
ALLIE Chrono Beauty Tone Up UV
This is the new and improved formula of the Nuance Change UV Gel that I featured as a Best Pick last year, and it has been trending in Japan. For good reason: it gives skin a gorgeous radiant finish that’s transfer-resistant, and it’s suitable for everyday wear and outdoors settings.
More lightweight than before, but with the same plump, juicy feel and radiant glow. It’s for anyone with non-oily skin who wants a sunscreen that will give excellent UV protection, prep skin for makeup, and add a touch of cosmetic radiance at the same time. It’s like a final skincare step and the first makeup step in one.
“Sheer Ecru” has ecru (light beige) micro-shimmer particles and it’s the one I’ve been reaching for the most lately. I keep coming back to it again because it’s incredibly quick and pleasing to use. If you’re looking for a sunscreen that will not only protect the skin but help to make it look far better, then this should be on your to-try list. It’s ¥1,979 (about US$14.70) for 60g here.
NIVEA UV DEEP PROTECT & Care Gel
This Japanese body sunscreen gel glides on like a dream and then completely disappears on the skin. Feels satisfyingly fresh and cool on a hot day.
It doesn’t leave a grubby sort of feeling that often comes along with water/sweat-resistant sunscreen. None of that here. The water gel applies beautifully and sinks in quickly — after about 20 seconds there’s just nothing left at all to suggest that you’ve applied anything to your skin. Apart from a gentle floral scent. It’s perfect for the neck and arms when you’re running errands.
This is a great option for people who want a perfectly undetectable sunscreen that won’t stain clothes. A 90g bottle will only set you back ¥871 (roughly US$6.50) at Amazon Japan.
ANESSA Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk N
Anessa does sunscreen in Japan like nobody else. You’re guaranteed to get the most thought-out and up-to-date technologies, and the flagship product is the gold-bottled milk. Regular readers will know that I’m a big fan of it. It’s my go-to sunscreen if prolonged direct sun exposure is inevitable.
This new and improved version of its flagship product is excellent. Absolutely light and sheer and without greasiness or chalkiness or any kind of annoying side-effect. It’s intensely tenacious, sits well directly beneath makeup, and won’t leave a white cast on the skin. I really can’t think of anything I don’t like about this Japanese sunscreen.
60ml is currently US$21.21 at Dokodemo.
