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The Best Sunscreens

YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE BEST SUNSCREEN PHILIPPINES

Wearing sunscreen lotion or powder is a highly important step in skin care. Whether itโ€™s sunny or cloudy, or if youโ€™re staying inside or spending time outdoors โ€” no matter the season, one should always be wearing sunscreen.

This is the one step in skin care that no one should ever, ever skip. Sunscreens protect the skin from the sunโ€™s harmful rays. They also have active ingredients that lessen the risk of skin issues such as dark spots, fine lines, or even worse, skin cancer. 

In this article, weโ€™ve rounded up the best ones in the market. Whether youโ€™re someone who hasnโ€™t included sunscreen lotion in your routine or maybe you just want to switch it up, you might stumble upon the best sunscreen lotion for you in this list. Letโ€™s go and dive in!


WHAT ARE THE MOST RECOMMENDED SUNSCREENS?

Editor's Choice

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum
Best Overall
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen
Best Non-Greasy
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Mineral Ultra-Light Fluid Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Best Fast-Absorbing
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum

If you have sensitive and acne-prone skin, then the EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum is the one for you! This lightweight sunscreen has antioxidants and comes in an untinted and tinted version.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen

Looking for a non-greasy formula? The Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen is the one for you! It's lightweight, has a wide range of SPF, and works well with makeup.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Mineral Ultra-Light Fluid

The La Roche-Posay Anthelios is the fastest among our list when if comes to absorption. It comes in 3 shades, non-sticky and non-greasy, and dries with a matte finish.

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LETโ€™S GO OVER EACH SUNSCREEN

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Thereโ€™s a reason why this sunscreen lotion is recommended by board-certified dermatologists. The EltaMD Clear sunscreen is oil-free, paraben-free, fragrance-free, and lightweight.

Formulated with niacinamide, the EltaMD Clear claims to be able to improve skin tone and discoloration, too, apart from its sun-protecting active ingredients. 

Not only can this sunscreen protect its wearer from UVB and UVA rays with its SPF 46 rating, but when you wear sunscreen, it also helps calm the skin of people who have sensitive skin and are acne-prone.

Aside from niacinamide, it also contains hydrating hyaluronic acid and lactic acid, two active sunscreen ingredients that promote healthy-looking skin. While its name implies that this sunscreen is untinted, a tinted version is also available. 

Considering the Philippines’ climate, we would say this is the best face sunscreen that offers protection for the skin immediately.

PROS AND CONS OF THE ELTAMD CLEAR

ProsCons
โœ”๏ธ Best for sensitive and acne-prone skin types
โœ”๏ธ Lightweight
โœ”๏ธ Has beneficial antioxidants
โœ–๏ธ Pricey

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Neutrogenaโ€™s Ultra Sheer sunscreens are available in SPF ranges of 45 to 70. No matter which SPF range you choose, youโ€™re sure to be protected from any harmful sun exposure.

The brand claims that its Ultra Sheer sunscreen is formulated with Helioplex Technology, offering broad-spectrum protection from both UVB and UVA rays. This works for different light or dark skin tones and if you have dry skin. 

As the productโ€™s name implies, this daily sunscreen is dry touch, meaning it applies easily and sinks in quickly. The best thing about the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer is that itโ€™s ultra-lightweight and non-greasy, ideal for those who dislike shine. This also means that this sunscreen can go well under makeup.

PROS AND CONS OF THE NEUTROGENA ULTRA SHEER

ProsCons
โœ”๏ธ Non-greasy
โœ”๏ธ Lightweight
โœ”๏ธ SPF 45 to SPF 70
โœ–๏ธ Pricey
โœ–๏ธ Can have a slightly noticeable residue when not blended in properly

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Do you hate that waiting time after applying your sunscreen, wishing it would sink in quickly? Well then, La Roche Posay Antheliosโ€™s fast-absorbing sunscreen might be for you!

This sunscreen provides SPF-50 protection and also gives a healthy glow with its tint. The sunscreen has a fast-absorbing and non-greasy formula that dries with a matte finish. 

Blended in it is its Cell-Ox Shield technology, which is, according to the brand, a 100% mineral UV filter made of titanium dioxide. It also has Senna Alata in its ingredients, a tropical leaf extract that can defend skin cells against damaging free radicals.

As this sunscreen is tinted, itโ€™s available in a range of three shades, with 01 as the lightest and 03 as the darkest. When you use this product, though, you will realize that protection from sun damage can be pricey.

PROS AND CONS OF THE LA ROCHE-POSAY ANTHELIOS TINTED MINERAL ULTRA-LIGHT FLUID

ProsCons
โœ”๏ธ Available in 3 shades
โœ”๏ธ Fast-absorbing texture
โœ”๏ธ Non-greasy
โœ–๏ธ Pricey
โœ–๏ธ Shade range is limited

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The CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen is a 100% mineral, oil-free sunscreen with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

It can protect you from both UVA and UV sun damage thanks to its broad-spectrum protection and mineral sunscreen SPF 50 rating. 

CeraVe is a brand known for its inclusion of ceramides in its products, and this sunscreen isnโ€™t an exception. Its ingredients include three essential ceramides to restore the skinโ€™s barrier and lock in moisture.

Moreover, it also has hyaluronic acids to retain the skinโ€™s moisture and niacinamide to help calm the skin as well. This moisturizing sunscreen is also allergy-free, fragrance-free, and paraben-free.

PROS AND CONS OF THE CERAVE HYDRATING MINERAL SUNSCREEN SPF 50

ProsCons
โœ”๏ธ Hydrating
โœ”๏ธ Has ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide
โœ”๏ธ Non-greasy
โœ–๏ธ Can be pricey
โœ–๏ธ Leaves a white cast

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Japanese sunscreens are highly popular thanks to their incredible quality and formula. When it comes to the most popular and highly-raved one, the answer is always Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen.

This sun lotion comes with a technology that turns water, sweat, and heat into a UV exposure protection veil, strengthening its UV-defense properties. 

Shiseido, the manufacturer of Anessa, claims that 50% of their sunscreen lotion is made up of skincare ingredients. Itโ€™s also highly resistant to water and able to survive underwater for about 80 minutes.

While itโ€™s resistant to water, it can be easily washed away with soap, so thereโ€™s no need to use an oil cleanser or micellar water with it.

Anessa Perfect UV can also be used as a makeup primer and has a radiant finish that makes its wearerโ€™s skin glow. No wonder itโ€™s an absolute favorite sunscreen series in Japan.

PROS AND CONS OF THE ANESSA PERFECT UV

ProsCons
โœ”๏ธ Lightweight
โœ”๏ธ Water-resistant for 80 minutes
โœ”๏ธ Easy to remove
โœ–๏ธ Can be pricey
โœ–๏ธ Citrus scent may be off-putting for some

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While the majority of our sunscreens on the list cater to most skin tones, this one is best to use for those with darker skin.

Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 is a highly effective everyday sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection against harmful UV rays without leaving a white cast.

Its formula contains active ingredients like avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene, ensuring adequate sun protection while being gentle on the skin.

Infused with nourishing ingredients such as avocado, jojoba, and sunflower oil, it doubles as a body lotion, keeping the skin moisturized and hydrated throughout the day. Compared with other mineral sunscreens, this one is lightweight, absorbs quickly, and is fragrance-free, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin.

While this facial sunscreen excels at hydration, it may feel too rich for those with oily or combination skin, potentially leading to a slightly greasy feel.

This UV protection is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a reliable choice for light outdoor activities. However, frequent reapplication is necessary for prolonged sun exposure or intense physical activities.

Overall, itโ€™s a great choice for those looking for an effective and moisturizing formula that provides sun protection while keeping the skin nourished and irritation-free.

PROS AND CONS OF THE BLACK GIRL SUNSCREEN

ProsCons
โœ”๏ธ Leaves no white cast
โœ”๏ธ Lightweight and blends well
โœ”๏ธ Hydrating formula
โœ–๏ธ May feel too heavy for oily or combination skin types

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If your skin is sensitive, youโ€™ll know all too well that one wrong ingredient can spell danger to your face. The best face sunscreen, Cetaphil Sun SPF 50+, offers high protection in the form of a light, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free sun gel that is fit for anyone looking for a mild sunscreen formula.

If youโ€™re anticipating a day out, the formula guarantees that it can resist water and that the sunscreen stays on even during rigorous activity. Itโ€™s also okay to use both on the face and body, eliminating the need to pack two different sun protection products when youโ€™re out and about.

The Cetaphil Sun Gel was formulated with sensitive skin in mind, so one doesnโ€™t need to worry about irritation, redness, or potential breakouts while using the product.

The non-comedogenic formula means it wonโ€™t clog the pores, while the SPF fights both types of harmful UV rays, ensuring maximum protection.

Retailing at around Php 800, the product can be considered pricey, considering there are cheaper options on the market. But if youโ€™re willing to invest a little into your skinโ€™s protection, then this product is worth it.

PROS AND CONS OF THE CETAPHIL SUN

ProsCons
โœ”๏ธ Widely accessible
โœ”๏ธ Perfectly suited for sensitive skin
โœ”๏ธ Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
โœ”๏ธ Can be used for the face and body
โœ–๏ธ Costly

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Murad’s Oil and Pore Control Mattifier is a facial sunscreen designed to provide broad-spectrum UV protection while addressing common concerns associated with combination, oily, and dry skin.

The lotion SPF includes active ingredients such as avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene, which work together to shield the skin from harmful sun rays, offering adequate sun protection.

Notably, this product is formulated to minimize the appearance of pores and control excess oil, delivering a matte finish that lasts throughout the day. Users have reported that it absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a white cast, making it suitable for daily use under makeup.

In addition to its mattifying properties, the Oil and Pore Control Mattifier contains oil-trapping microspheres that not only reduce shine but also blur imperfections, contributing to a smoother skin appearance.

Despite its oil-controlling capabilities, the formula manages to keep the skin hydrated, preventing the dryness that some mattifying products can cause. However, experiences with this product can vary.

Many users appreciate its lightweight feel and effectiveness in reducing oiliness. Some have reported skin irritation or breakouts, particularly those with sensitive skin.

As with any skincare product, it’s advisable to conduct a patch test before incorporating it fully into your routine to ensure it aligns with your skin’s specific needs. 

PROS AND CONS OF THE MURAD OIL AND PORE CONTROL MATTIFIER

ProsCons
โœ”๏ธ Excellent pore control
โœ”๏ธ Soothing and hydrating
โœ”๏ธ Lightweight and quick-absorbing
โœ–๏ธ May cause breakouts on first use

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If youโ€™re tired of traditional protectants, this water-based one may just be what youโ€™re looking for.

As its name implies, Bioreโ€™s UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence is a water-based sun lotion SPF 50 that has a transparent texture, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the skin.

This drugstore sunscreen is lightweight and has a silky gel-serum look to it, almost feeling like jelly upon the first touch and like a splash of water upon application.

Biore claims that the UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence provides even coverage for the skin, including fine lines and uneven surfaces. This face sunscreen contains moisturizing ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and royal jelly extract.

Its watery formula makes it perfect for those with dry skin. It absorbs quickly and smoothly, making the skin feel fresh and dewy while offering UV protection.

PROS AND CONS OF THE BIORE UV AQUA RICH WATERY ESSENCE

ProsCons
โœ”๏ธ Affordable
โœ”๏ธ Watery formula
โœ”๏ธ Easy to absorb
โœ–๏ธ Not for people with alcohol sensitivity
โœ–๏ธ Citrus scent may not be for everyone

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If youโ€™re looking for the best mineral sunscreen, then look no further than the MDSolarSciences Mineral Moisture Defense.

Its active ingredients are titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, and it has additional ingredients such as vitamin C, pomegranate, green tea, cranberry, and ceramides. Such active ingredients and mineral formulas make this the best mineral sunscreen to add to your skincare routine.

Not only does it protect skin from UV light and rays, but this broad-spectrum sunscreen can also soothe skin because of its hydrating formula. Plus, itโ€™s also one of the few body sunscreens that can also act as face sunscreens because of the active ingredients.

Additionally, the MDSolarSciences Mineral Moisture Defense sunscreen can act as a sheer tinted moisturizer while leaving no white cast. You can also count on this sunscreen to absorb excess oil thanks to its ceramides and active ingredients.

PROS AND CONS OF THE MDSOLARSCIENCES MINERAL MOISTURE DEFENSE SPF 50

ProsCons
โœ”๏ธ Lightweight consistency
โœ”๏ธ Mineral sunscreen suitable for the face and body
โœ”๏ธ Soothes and protects skin
โœ”๏ธ Leaves no white cast
โœ–๏ธ Expensive

WHICH IS BETTER: SUNSCREEN OR SUNBLOCK?

We usually hear sunblock and sunscreen used interchangeably. But actually, the two words refer to two different types of protection. Sunscreen is a chemical-based defense that absorbs rays penetrating the skin before it can damage the dermal layers. 

On the other hand, sunblock refers to a physical way of protecting the skin against UV. Sunblock sits on top of the skin and acts as a barrier that bounces off the UV rays. Itโ€™s often opaque and noticeable when applied to the skin. 

Both sunscreen and sunblock provide great protection from the sun, so there is no โ€œbetterโ€ one between them. However, when choosing which one to use, one should consider their skin type and the amount of SPF a product has. People whose skin is sensitive or have skin conditions like rosacea are recommended to use sunblock as their skin can tolerate titanium dioxide as well as zinc oxide better. 

If your skin isnโ€™t sensitive or you donโ€™t have underlying skin conditions, you can use either sunscreen or sunblock. As for SPF, itโ€™s best to acquire a product that has sunblock or sunscreen SPF 30 or higher and broad-spectrum protection that can protect you from UVA and UVB rays.


IS SPF 30 OR 50 BETTER?

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, a sun lotion with an SPF of at least 30 is the most ideal. Between SPF 30 and SPF 50, both are equally good as there is no added benefit in choosing a higher number. The difference between them is very minimal.

SPF 50 or a higher number can block just a little more of the sunโ€™s UVB/UVA rays, but there is no existing sun protectant that can block 100% of the sunโ€™s harmful sunlight, even if itโ€™s SPF 50 or SPF 100.


WHICH SUNSCREEN IS BEST, ACCORDING TO DERMATOLOGISTS?

When it comes to choosing sunscreens, dermatologists have provided a checklist of what your sunscreens must have.

SPF 30 OR HIGHER

Board-certified dermatologist and Curology CEO Dr. David Lortscher mentioned that a facial sunscreen must have SPF 30 or higher. This ensures your sun lotion can very well protect you from damage due to sun ray exposure.

BROAD-SPECTRUM

Always, always look for broad-spectrum sun products to have a shield up against UVA/UVB rays. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Caren Campbell of San Francisco, UVA causes premature aging, while UVB causes burning of the skin.

FORMULA

While a spray sunscreen or a sunscreen stick is easier to use for reapplication, most dermatologists prefer lotions and creams over them. Lotions and creams tend to last longer and can provide more uniform protection.

Dermatologist Lucy Chen also added that creams can help with moisturization if youโ€™re on the dry side. A spray sunscreen might be convenient but theyโ€™re inconsistent and need double or triple coating for it to apply evenly. 

Itโ€™s also good if the sunscreen has vitamins in its formula. These would often be Vitamin E or Vitamin C.

WATER-RESISTANCE

While thereโ€™s exactly no sun-defense product thatโ€™s completely waterproof, itโ€™s highly important to have a sun lotion that has water resistance and is sweat-proof. This ensures that your sun-dense products donโ€™t melt off when you sweat or get washed away while youโ€™re swimming in water.

Always look for products that are labeled water-resistant for 40 minutes or 80 minutes and reapply after the mentioned minutes are up.

CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN OR MINERAL SUNSCREEN

There are different types of sunscreen formulas; chemical and mineral sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens tend to work by absorbing rays, while mineral sunscreens work by deflecting them.

According to dermatologist Dr. Mona Gohara, mineral sunscreens are your best bet if youโ€™re sensitive or prone to acne type. Otherwise, you can go for chemical sunscreens as well. At the end of the day, though, itโ€™s still up to you if you prefer chemical sunscreen or mineral sunscreens.


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the best face sunscreen?

Which sunscreen is most effective?

What is the most effective sunscreen or sunblock to prevent skin cancer?

What is the safest, most effective sunscreen?

What is the #1 best sunscreen?

What is the best sunscreen in the Philippines?

What is the minimum sun protection factor needed for sunscreen?

What type of sunscreen is good for sensitive skin?

What type of sunscreen is good for oily skin types?


CONCLUSION

We hope that this best sunscreen guide was able to help you in narrowing down and choosing the best sunscreen suited for your face! Always remember to hit all the marks in this checklist in picking a sunscreen: 

  • Broad-spectrum, 
  • SPF of 30 and above, 
  • Water-resistant, 
  • Chemical or mineral
  • Lotion or cream-based. 

Additionally, remember to apply a shot-glass-sized amount to ensure you get full protection and reapply sunscreen as needed for the best skin barrier protection. Also, seek your board-certified dermatologist if you feel any adverse effects or if you need more advice on what suits you best. Stay safe under the sun!


Editorโ€™s Choice

Highly recommended by dermatologists, the EltaMD UV sunscreen sets itself apart from traditional sunscreens with its lightweight and non-greasy texture.

The EltaMD sunscreen formula contains a host of antioxidants, as well as common sunscreen ingredients titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, ensuring that its wearer is well-protected from any kind of sun damage.

Itโ€™s also lightweight on the skin and doesnโ€™t clog pores, making it an ideal face sunscreen for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.

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