Our Favourite Sunscreen in Singapore - Gels, Tints, Sticks & More

Still finding the perfect sunscreen for your skin? In sunny Singapore, where UV radiation is a constant concern, zeroing down on a sunscreen that offers effective protection while suiting your skin type and lifestyle is crucial. 

As one of the easiest and most affordable ways to prevent premature ageing and skin cancer, sunscreen is an essential step that you cannot afford to skip. This guide aims to simplify the process of finding that hero product, along with a curated list of the top sunscreens available in Singapore. 

From understanding the types of sunscreen formulas to identifying key ingredients, make an informed decision to keep your skin healthy and radiant under the tropical sun.

Types of Sunscreen: Finding the Right One for Your Skin

Sunscreens come in various formulations, each catering to different skin types, preferences, and environmental considerations. Understanding these options can help you choose the best sunscreen for personal use and the planet.

Chemical Sunscreens

These sunscreens contain organic (carbon-based) compounds like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, and others, which absorb UV radiation.

Pros:

• Typically, these formulas are lightweight and easily absorbed, making them ideal for daily use and under makeup.
• They often offer broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

Cons:

• Chemical sunscreens can sometimes cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, particularly for those with sensitive skin.
• Certain ingredients, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, have been found to contribute to coral reef bleaching and are harmful to marine life.

Best For: Individuals with normal to oily skin who prefer a non-greasy finish and are not sensitive to chemical ingredients.

Physical (Mineral) Sunscreens

These sunscreens use natural minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to create a physical barrier that reflects UV rays away from the skin.

Pros:

• They are generally less likely to cause skin irritation, making them suitable for sensitive skin and for use on children.
• Mineral sunscreens start working immediately upon application and offer broad-spectrum protection.

Cons:

• These formulas can sometimes leave a white cast on the skin, which can be a drawback for those with darker skin tones.
• They may feel heavier or greasier compared to chemical sunscreens.

Best For: People with sensitive skin, young children, and those looking for an environmentally friendly option.

Hybrid Sunscreens

Hybrid sunscreens combine both chemical and physical UV filters to offer the benefits of both types.

Pros:

• These formulations can provide comprehensive UV protection with a balance of lightweight application and physical barrier benefits.
• Often designed to minimise the white cast of physical sunscreens while reducing the potential irritation of chemical ones.

Cons:

• Depending on the specific ingredients used, they might still pose some environmental concerns.
• May still cause irritation in those highly sensitive to chemical ingredients.

Best For: Those looking for a balance of protection, aesthetics, and skin compatibility.

Reef-Safe Sunscreens

These sunscreens avoid harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, focusing on safe mineral ingredients and eco-friendly formulations.

Pros:

• They are designed to minimise environmental impact, particularly on coral reefs and marine ecosystems.
• Often contain additional skin-soothing and hydrating ingredients, making them suitable for sensitive skin.

Cons:

• May be harder to find and potentially more expensive than conventional sunscreens.
• Can still have a heavier texture and visible residue.

Best For: Eco-conscious consumers and those planning to spend time in or near oceans and other natural water bodies.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen

When selecting a sunscreen, consider the following factors:

1. Skin Type:
   • Sensitive Skin: Opt for mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
   • Oily Skin: Look for non-comedogenic formulas that won't clog pores.
   • Dry Skin: Choose sunscreens with added moisturisers and hydrating ingredients.
2. Activity Level:
   • Sports and Outdoor Activities: Water-resistant and sweat-resistant formulations are ideal.
   • Daily Use: Lightweight, non-greasy options that layer well under makeup.
3. Environmental Impact:
   • Prioritise reef-safe formulations if you are concerned about marine life.
   • Consider sunscreens in eco-friendly packaging and those with biodegradable ingredients.

Sunscreen has come a long way from its old sticky and white-casting formulas. Now, you can find sunscreen sticks, sprays, and lightweight formulas that are perfect for daily use – plus, these are non-greasy and non-sticky. Some even come in skin-tinted versions to give you optimum coverage!

Not sure where to begin? Take a look at our list of the best sunscreens available in Singapore. Whether you adore the outdoors, are a busy professional, or have sensitive skin, there is an SPF solution here you will begin to love and enjoy!

Sol De Janeiro Rio Radiance Sunscreen Collection - Different Formats in a Dreamy Tropical Scent

You might recognise Sol De Janeiro for their TikTok viral body creams that smell like a delicious tropical holiday. Now, say a big hello to the brand's fab new suncare range, the Rio Radiance Sunscreen Collection, designed to nourish with beneficial ingredients in familiar beachy and nostalgic scents. 

The Sol De Janeiro Rio Radiance Body Oil SPF 50 (Limited Edition) offers broad-spectrum protection while delivering a radiant shimmer and deeply nourishing your skin without any greasy residue. This body oil is enriched with patauá oil to moisturise your skin and pongamia seed extract to shield it from environmental stressors. Golden mica adds an instant, beautiful glow suitable for all skin tones. With SPF 50 UVA/UVB protection, it is also water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, making it ideal for sun-soaked days. Additionally, it helps to even out skin tone while providing deep nourishment, ensuring your skin looks and feels its best.

The SPF 50 Body Lotion offers a soft Rio RadianceTM glow. Its lightweight, 100% mineral formula hydrates your skin for a silky, smoother feel. Infused with niacinamide for visible brightening and even skin tone, Pongamia seed extract for antioxidant protection, and cupuaçu butter to lock in moisture without making you feel greasy, this lotion is absorbed beautifully into the skin. 

Lastly, the SPF 50 Body Spray provides refreshing and immediate skin hydration, it features pongamia seed extract, pitanga extract rich in Vitamin C, niacinamide, and coconut water for lightweight hydration. 

Why we love it! Now for the true test of sunscreen abilities! Even though we are quite partial to Sol De Janeiro's range of scent-sational body creams, sunscreen formulas are a whole different ball game, especially for tropical climates. We are happy to report that these easy-to-use formulas are as pleasing on the skin as they are to the senses! Plus, the luxurious after-glow was designed for a beach holiday.

Supergoop! Protec(Tint) Sunscreen, Unseen Sunscreen Stick and Mineral Unseen Sunscreen

There is really no excuse you could make for avoiding sunscreen. Made in every possible format and formula, Supergoop! has completely changed the landscape of sunscreen products with its vast portfolio. Imagine combining a skin tint and a sunscreen for the ultimate multi-use! With the Supergoop! Protec(Tint) Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++ marries the combination of providing coverage for uneven skin tones with its buildable formula while shielding your face with SPF protection. 

Ideal for those who prefer effortless and low-maintenance makeup routines, this product ensures effective SPF protection without leaving behind any visible white residue. With its light, buildable coverage and natural finish, this lightweight formula promises a radiant complexion and smoother skin texture over time, even when worn without makeup. Plus, you can enjoy their extensive shades for all skin types!

Hate re-applying sunscreen? We all know how important it is to apply sunscreen every few hours to keep the skin protected. And this is why the nifty stick format by Supergoop! is set to become your new BFF. As the easiest way to apply your 100% invisible favourite 'Unseen Sunscreen', this expertly crafted formula delivers a natural finish with no white cast. You can even apply it over makeup! 

That's not all! You can also choose the Mineral avatar of Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen – the Mineral Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40. It is expertly formulated to deliver powerful sun protection in a weightless, scentless, cloud-like formula and it seamlessly blends with a natural finish. Psst... it doubles as the perfect makeup-gripping primer!

Why we love it! We are long-term fans of the Unseen Sunscreen, so loving it's stick formula was easy; both from a texture and a convenience perspective. I

Available at Sephora.sg

Shiseido Clear Suncare Stick and The Perfect Protector SPF50+ PA++++ 

Looking for a sunscreen that offers effective coverage for your face? You need the Clear Suncare Stick SPF 50+ in your life! This clear sunscreen stick glides smoothly, leaving no stickiness or residue on your hands. SynchroShield technology enhances its protective barrier, which becomes even stronger in response to heat, water, or perspiration, ensuring continuous defence against UVA/UVB rays and dryness. The convenient stick format allows for easy under and over-makeup applications, making it perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. Best of all, it applies seamlessly to any skin tone, with no white marks and stickiness. 

For a more traditional format, try the Shiseido Perfect Protector SPF50+ PA++++ which is specifically formulated to protect your skin against the formation of fine lines, unevenness, and wrinkles. It promises unparalleled UV protection with SynchroShield™ which strengthens your UV protection with heat and water. Shiseido's Superveil-UV 360™ technology envelops every curve and contour of your skin with superior UV coverage. Plus, it works seamlessly over and under makeup, ensuring your skin stays protected and flawless throughout the day.
Why we love it! As Asia’s No.1 Suncare brand, the Shiseido Clear Suncare Stick and the Perfect Protector SPF50+ PA++++ make for the perfect invisible shield combo. Easy to use and small in size makes these perfect for travel or on your office run. Plus, they bear well in Singapore's humidity!

Shop yours at Sephora or online at shop.shiseido.com.sg.

Caudalie SPF50 Invisible High Protection Stick and Vinosun Very High Protection Lightweight Cream SPF 50+

Need sun protection for the whole family? Then you will love applying the Caudalie SPF50 Invisible High Protection Stick designed with natural filters to protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Best of all, it is gentle and effective, making it suitable even for children aged 3 and under.

In fact, the water-resistant format allows you to enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about it washing off easily. And unlike traditional sunscreens, it won't leave a white cast on your skin, and is fragrance-free, making it suitable for those with sensitive noses. We adore that this sunscreen comes formulated with grape seed oil to nourish and hydrate your skin, while organic Buriti oil helps to calm and soothe your face. But the sunscreen stick is not just for your face — it can also be used on your lips, décolleté, moles, and tattoos, offering comprehensive coverage wherever you need it. 

However, if you are after very high protection and looking for a similar invisible and skin-friendly formula, take a look at Caudalie's Vinosun Very High Protection Lightweight Cream SPF 50+. Applied after your skincare routine and as a base under makeup, this sunscreen effectively shields your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays and prevents photoaging. Dermatologically tested and suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive, this fragrance-free formula ensures comprehensive protection while being gentle on the skin.

Why we love it! Skinloving suncare is worth the indulgence, especially if you are seeking anti-ageing properties that can also calm and soothe highly sensitive skin. Plus, who doesn't love one sunscreen for the whole family?  

Available on Sephora.sg.

SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Cream -  Prevents Spots, Dullness and Improves Texture

The SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Cream SPF50+/PA++++ is a lightweight and effortless sun protection solution designed with an essence-like texture for a smooth makeup base suitable even for sensitive skin.

Providing nurturing full-spectrum protection with SPF50+ PA++++, it effectively shields against photo-ageing caused by harmful UVA, UVB, IR rays, and external pollution, preventing the formation of spots, dullness, and rough texture on the skin. This formula features Pitera, Ume Extract, and Niacinamide, which penetrates the skin to combat external environmental damage, resulting in a long-lasting aura glow for up to 8 hours.

With its comprehensive protection and skin-nourishing properties, the SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Cream offers more than just sun defence, delivering your skin a brightened aura glow and maintaining your skin’s health.

Why we love it! SK-II loyalists need no introduction to the brand's skin-enhancing properties. While this might sound like a sunscreen, you are also getting the full effect of proprietary Pitera and its accompanying brightening glow! Team with your favourite SK-II essence for a highly-efficient skincare regime. 

Shop at https://www.sk-ii.com.sg/

Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF 50+ Luminising Serum Skinscreen - Enriched Hydrating Formula for Suncare

Planning a beach day and craving that cool summer glow? This is your sign to elevate your beach experience with the bestselling Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF 50+ Luminising Serum Skinscreen, now enriched with an upgraded formula! This sunscreen contains advanced skincare ingredients and UV filters, which offer strong protection against all types of sun rays.

With brightening and hydrating ingredients such as such as D-Panthenol, Glycerin, Pentavitin, IBR-Solage from pink microalgae, and Superox-C from Kakadu Plum, rest assured that your irritated skin will be soothed and glowy right after applying. 

Additionally, it is infused with Vitamins E and F to strengthen the skin barrier and offer antioxidant protection. The Queen Screen SPF50+ will make your skin smoother and glossier than ever before, so you can enjoy sun protection fit for a queen! 

Why we love it! Feel like a queen all-day, every-day with this light serum sunscreen. Brightening ingredients add the right amount of love for your skin while its advanced UV filters protect against anything the sun has in mind for you. Plus, how gorgeous is that blue bottle?

Available at Sephora.sg.

Evereden Fluid Silk Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 - For On-The-Go Sun Protection 

Another compact-friendly option is the Evereden Fluid Silk Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50, which goes above and beyond with this suncare product. While many of us may think of sunscreen solely as a means of shielding our faces from harmful UV rays, this lightweight and sheer suncare product takes it a step further. 

Not only does this product offer robust protection, but it also nourishes your skin with ingredients like sunflower seed oil and safflower oleotech. This 100% mineral and water-resistant formula ensures that your skin stays shielded from harmful UV rays while simultaneously providing hydration and care, leaving your skin feeling healthy and replenished. These ingredients work together to strengthen your skin's natural barrier against the sun, ensuring that you stay protected and keep your skin healthy and hydrated.

Why we love it! Another favourite for the whole family, Evereden's Fluid Mineral Sunscreen gives a sheer finish without feeling sticky. We also love how this sunblock can be attached to our bags using its handy clip-on ring. This way, we can find it easily, without having to rummage through our bags for reapplication.  

Get yours at Sephora or the Evereden official website.

Anessa Gold Series - Perfect Lightweight Suncare for Super Sunny Weather

Anessa remains one of the top suncare brands in Japan with its award-winning formulas that combat UV rays to a tee. Their Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Gel SPF50+ PA++++ is a versatile solution designed to boost your skin's appearance while providing essential protection. Formulated to improve the look of dark spots, this gel moisturises and regulates water retention, leaving your skin with a beautiful complexion. Suitable for both face and body and compatible with all skin types, its dewy, fresh gel texture ensures a comfortable application experience.

Meanwhile, the Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk SPF50+ PA++++ stands as the top choice among sunscreens in Japan. With its exceptional UV protection, this lightweight product shields areas prone to dark spots around the eyes and cheeks. Both include Auto Veil Technology and Auto Booster Technology for double protection against harmful UV rays. This technology smooths out uneven surfaces on the UV protective veil, creating a powerful shield against the sun’s rays. 

Plus, they cast your skin with long-lasting moisturisation, enhanced rub resistance, and exceptional water resistance. 

Why we love it! Another range that takes sunscreen seriously and offers it in every possible format for your convenience. In the simplest of terms, Annessa makes sun protection easy. And you can find the products at most drugstores and online on their website. 

ForestMD Silk Sun Screen SPF60 - Ultralight Sunscreen Made for Singapore’s Weather

ForestMD Silk Sun Screen SPF60 is an incredibly lightweight product made for Singapore's climate and weather conditions. It offers broad protection against harmful sun rays and helps prevent premature skin ageing and further sun damage. Formulated with a blend of silk crystal, nano gold, aloe vera, tremella mushroom extract, and green tea, it heals the skin while defending it against environmental stressors. This unique combination of ingredients is carefully selected to meet the needs of sensitive and acne-prone skin so that your skin feels pampered and shielded. 

It also uses liposomal technology, which features the active ingredients deep into the skin for maximum absorption and bioavailability. Suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone or sensitive skin, ForestMD Silk Sun Screen SPF60 will be your go-to solution for sun protection and skin care.

Why we love it! Formulated in Singapore, and made in Korea, ForestMD's Silk Sunscreen is a game changer for those with acne. The ultra-light sunscreen is specially created for outdoor activities, where UV exposure is strongest; and yet will leave your skin feeling light and non-sticky. 

Buy it on the Forest MD website. 

KOSÉ SEKKISEI SKINCARE UV Essence Milk - Silky Smooth Sunscreen 

With its airy texture and ability to provide a smooth finish, the KOSÉ SEKKISEI SKINCARE UV Essence Milk is highly recommended as a lightweight, primer-like sunscreen. This milk formula effortlessly absorbs into the skin, leaving it non-greasy while offering effective protection against harmful UV rays. It is no wonder that this product is a cult favourite among Japanese skincare enthusiasts!

The KOSÉ SEKKISEI SKINCARE UV Essence Milk incorporates SEKKISEI’s original coral-friendly formula to safeguard marine environments. This versatile sunscreen blocks UV rays and acts as a barrier against airborne particles like pollen, dirt, and dust. Additionally, it doubles as a makeup base with its super waterproof formula. 

Acne-suffers will be pleasantly surprised by this product as this dermatologically tested formula is less likely to cause breakouts. This sunscreen is enriched with various Asian herb extracts such as Japanese Job’s tears extract, fermented Job’s tears extract, Job’s tears water, angelica extract, melothria (white lotus) extract, peony extract, rose myrtle extract, and indigo extract. Additionally, it contains Vitamin E, Squalane for moisturising, and Asian minerals for skin protection, offering a wealth of skincare benefits.

Why we love it! If you enjoy the texture of an essence, this sunscreen is perfect for that non-greasy look. Users swear by its water-proof formula, which doubles up as an efficient primer for makeup!

Shop yours at their Lazada store.

Aesop Protective Facial Lotion SPF50 - Medium-Weight Lotion for Everyday Use

Aesop is renowned for its wide range of products enriched with essential oils, but did you know they also offer sunscreen with similar benefits? As part of their Sun Care series, the Aesop Protective Facial Lotion SPF50 serves as an everyday moisturiser that shields your skin from UV rays while keeping it hydrated. It offers protection against UVA and UVB rays and is suitable for most skin types, especially 'normal' to dry skin. Worried about white residue? Fear not, as this lotion features a non-greasy formula with a smooth finish, ensuring your skin remains residue-free.

This sunscreen contains hydrating ingredients like Niacinamide and Saccharide Isomerate, which help keep your skin moisturised. It also has Tocopherol, which nourishes the skin. Essential oils such as Sage Leaf, Lavender Stem, and Cedar Atlas are added for their hydrating, soothing, and purifying properties, giving the sunscreen a warm, herbal, and woody scent.

Why we love it! Aesop's neutral packaging means it can be used by all genders. The fragrance is lovely and so is the texture! It absorbs well and won't leave behind that greasy feeling. And while it might feel expensive, the feeling of luxury does come through – both in the packaging and the product.

Shop for it at Aesop.

Givenchy Beauty Skin Perfecto - Sunscreen in Two Non-Greasy Formats

Introducing Givenchy Beauty's groundbreaking skincare collection: Skin Perfecto. This revolutionary line embodies vitality, freshness, and energy, unveiling your skin's innate healthy radiance. Infused with a Vitamin Complex*, enriched with active ingredients abundant in skin-nourishing vitamins. Central to the range is the Vitamin Blend Complex*, containing vitamin-rich active ingredients which help to reactivate the energy of skin cells.

Now available in 2 UV products — fluid and stick versions — these perfect your daily ritual by protecting the skin against UVA and UVB rays all year round. 

The Radiance Perfecting UV Fluid SPF 50+ PA ++++ has a lightweight, melting texture offering optimal protection. This complete treatment combines a perfecting effect with global protection against UVA and UVB rays while preserving the skin’s hydration(+41%** after 24 hours). We love the light, rosy texture which melts into the skin upon application without leaving a trace. The pearly formula delivers a subtle radiance to the complexion leaving behind a glow that lasts through the day. 

And if you are after convenient touch-ups while on the move, the Radiance Perfecting Stick comes with an efficient SPF 50+ PA ++++ filter, and not only shields the skin but also sustains its moisture level for a full day*.

Why we love it! Its pink powdery marbled tones blend seamlessly with the skin, ensuring an uncomplicated and sensory application. Best of all, you can re-apply your sunscreen whenever necessary - just glide across your face and follow up with a gentle massage to blend in! 

Available at the Givenchy Beauty Boutique at Raffles City Singapore, Sephora in-stores and online.

Paula’s Choice Advanced Sun Protection Daily Moisturiser - Dewy, Glowing Skin with Zero White Cast

Hands up if you need moisturising sunscreen for the face that doesn’t leave it streaky, greasy or with a white cast! Introducing Paula's Choice Advanced Sun Protection Daily Moisturizer SPF 50, the newest sunscreen on the block to revolutionise your skincare routine. 

This innovative SPF offers a range of benefits that make it a standout product in the market. Firstly, it provides advanced protection by shielding your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays, effectively preventing premature signs of ageing. With a blend of 5 state-of-the-art synthetic UV filters, this sunscreen ensures optimal photostability and tolerability, making it suitable even for sensitive skin users. 

The Advanced Sun Protection Daily Moisturiser is enriched with a supportive blend of antioxidants. These powerful ingredients protect your skin from harmful free radicals caused by sun exposure and pollution and possess anti-ageing properties. 

Why we love it! We especially love how this sunscreen hydrates, leaving behind a dewy, glowing look on the skin. The inclusion of emollients helps to improve moisture levels, leaving skin feeling soft and nourished. Its comfortable, sheer finish feels more like a moisturiser rather than a traditional sunscreen as it effortlessly blends into the skin. Zero white cast!

Available at Paulaschoice.sg, with free local shipping on all orders