Applying sunscreen or sunblock to your face is one of the best anti-aging measures you can do for your skin. No matter how expensive your serums are and how much moisturizer you apply, it will all go to waste if you don't incorporate sunscreen into your skincare routine. Choosing the right face sunscreen for your skin can be quite stressful, so we've made choosing easier for you!
We asked the guidance of dermatologist Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang regarding the important points to consider when picking the best sunblock for your face. We also have a list of the best sunscreens for every skin type that you can buy from Lazada and Shopee!
Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang, MD, DPDS is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila, and achieving healthy skin is her goal in every skin journey she has with her patients. She also aims to raise awareness on healthy skin facts and skincare habits. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and is currently offering online consults for any skin, hair, and nail concerns. You can follow her on her Instagram and Facebook page to know more details about her practice!
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Some parts of your face are more delicate than the other parts of your body. Thus, using sunscreen that's specifically made for the face is ideal. Face sunscreen is often made with more gentle ingredients on the skin, making them ideal for the sensitive areas of your face, like the skin under your eyes. Moreover, some have lighter textures than body sunscreens, making them more easily absorbed.
Picking the right sunscreen that you can use for your face can be challenging. Your best pick is one that can provide you with ample sun protection without irritating your skin. To ensure that you choose a suitable sunscreen, here are some factors to consider:
There are various types of sunscreen formulations. In order to get the best one for you, consider your skin type or skin concerns. This way, you can get a specific formula that will not aggravate your skin concerns and is suitable for your skin type.
Oily and acne-prone skin tend to go together. They are characterized by the excess production of sebum. If you have this skin type, look for lightweight, gel-based sunscreens, which tend to be lighter and do not feel too heavy on the skin. This will also come in handy if you often wear makeup.
You may also consider mineral sunscreens, as these sit on top of your face as opposed to being absorbed by the pores. With that said, they are less likely to irritate the skin or trigger breakouts, making them a relatively safer option for acne-prone and sensitive skin types.
For oily acne-prone skin, a lightweight gel-based sunscreen is recommended to prevent the possibility of clogging the pores. Also, a light-textured sunscreen suits people with oily skin as this has less risk of being heavy throughout the day.
A cream-based sunscreen is recommended for dry skin. Some sunscreens also have hydrating ingredients like glycerin and ceramides that benefit people with dry skin. This lessens the pilling of sunscreen (appearance of flakes) when applied.
These features lower the risk of irritating sensitive skin types. But remember that each sunscreen differs in terms of formulation. So, trying out each helps determine if the formulation suits one's skin. The mentioned features are just rough guides on whether that particular sunscreen is for you. But, the best practice is to try and apply.
Mineral sunscreens or physical sunscreen contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These have less risk of skin reactions, unlike those of chemical sunscreens. But nonetheless, both mineral and chemical sunscreens can be used for those with oily and acne-prone skin. It's a matter of finding the right one for you.
Broad-spectrum means that it protects from the sun's UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays aid in the darkening of existing pigment and aging of the skin (wrinkles and dark spots), while UVB rays aid in the burning of the skin and melanin production (darkening and sunburn).
When it comes to SPF or "Sun Protection Factor," it is recommended to use an SPF of 30 for daily use. Meanwhile, go for the highest possible SPF rating for prolonged sun exposure. You may also look for one with a PA level. PA is the Japanese measuring system for protection against UVA rays. More plus signs mean better protection against UVA rays.
A sunscreen is preferred to have at least SPF 30 to offer around 97% protection against UV rays.
If you're an active type, you'll benefit from water-resistant as well as sweat-proof sunscreens. These formulations will help ensure that the sunscreen won't easily sweat off as you go about your day. These can also come in handy if you're going to the beach or doing water sports.
Brands usually add a note that says how long the sunscreens last. This can go anywhere between 40 to 80 minutes. However, note that after the elapsed time, it is still recommended to reapply sunscreen to get optimal sun protection.
Water-resistant sunscreen means that the sunscreen stays effective for 40 minutes in the water. After 40 minutes, it is recommended to reapply. As for "very water-resistant," the sunscreen is effective for 80 minutes in the water.
Disclaimer: These products are recommendations made by our team at mybest Philippines. Our expert, Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang, is not affiliated with, nor is she endorsing any of the brands we mention below.
Scroll down or click the link to learn more about the best sunscreens for oily skin!
Supergoop!'s Unseen Sunscreen is a holy grail product for those with oily skin. It's the original weightless and invisible sunscreen. It was developed to be an antioxidant-rich multitasker that is scentless and oil-free. It leaves a velvet finish that can even replace your makeup primer and feels non-greasy & soothing for oilier skin.
If you hate the feeling of sunscreen, this is a highly recommended product. With how light the formula is, you wouldn't even remember that it was there! Its weightlessness is also why it's recommended for those with oily skin. It's a great everyday sunscreen that can effectively protect you from harmful UV rays.
Oil Control Ingredients | Silica, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dimethicone/Bis-Isobutyl PPG-20 Crosspolymer |
---|---|
Type | Gel |
Oil-free | Yes |
Mattifying | No |
SPF | 40 |
PA Rating | PA+++ |
Other Notable Features | Doubles as a primer, Fragrance-free, Paraben-free |
Net Weight | 1.7 oz |
Worry less about the sun's damaging rays with the Eucerin Oil Control Sun Gel-Cream. This sunscreen claims to be non-sticky, fast-absorbing, and can provide 8 to 12 hours of long-lasting anti-shine effect, making it suitable for sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin. It is equipped with Advanced Spectral Technology that provides both UVA and UVB protection.
This sunscreen contains sebum-regulating Oil Control technology with L-Carnitine and absorbing micro-particles that give skin an immediate dry touch finish and oil control. Reviewers like that it absorbs rapidly and has no white cast. However, some users noticed it doesn't really hold up well if you use it under the hot sun for several hours. It is also recommended to reapply the sunscreen every 2 hours.
Oil Control Ingredients | L-Carnitine, Silica Dimethyl Silylate |
---|---|
Type | Gel-Cream |
Oil-free | Yes |
Mattifying | Yes |
SPF | 50+ |
PA Rating | unknown |
Other Notable Features | Has Advanced Spectral Technology, Oil Control Technology |
Net Weight | 1.7 oz |
For people who are sensitive to strong fragrance, try this product from La-Roche Posay! The Anthelios XL Non-Perfumed Dry Touch Gel-Cream is formulated for people with oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. It contains Mexoplex, which is the brand's new generation filtering system composed of different UV filters to protect the skin.
This product guarantees that the skin would not be greasy with its dry touch finish and anti-shine ingredients. Even though it is oil-free, your skin won't dry out because it contains glycerin for skin hydration. It is also dermatologically tested to cater to all skin types.
Oil Control Ingredients | Silica |
---|---|
Type | Gel-Cream |
Oil-free | Yes |
Mattifying | Yes |
SPF | 50+ |
PA Rating | unknown |
Other Notable Features | Contains glycerin and thermal spring water for hydrating, soothing, and antioxidant properties |
Net Weight | 1.7 oz |
Scroll down or click the link to learn more about the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin!
EltaMD's UV Clear Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen is heaven-sent for acne-prone skin types. This mineral-based sunscreen has niacinamide (vitamin B3), which minimizes redness and inflammation commonly associated with acne. It also regulates sebum production, reducing the formation of clogged pores and breakouts.
Moreover, it has hyaluronic and lactic acid to provide hydration, gently exfoliate the skin, and reveal a smoother complexion. This sunscreen is also oil-free, non-comedogenic, and lightweight, so it won't clog your pores or feel greasy on the skin. And the best thing is that it offers broad-spectrum protection and SPF 46, perfect for those who go out often.
Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Lactic Acid |
---|---|
Broad-Spectrum Protection | unknown |
SPF/PA | SPF 46 |
Chemical/Mineral | Mineral |
Other Features | Oil-free, Non-Comedogenic, Fragrance-free |
Volume | 48 ml |
Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Avobenzone |
---|---|
Broad-Spectrum Protection | unknown |
SPF/PA | SPF60 |
Chemical/Mineral | Chemical |
Other Features | Oil-free, Non-Comedogenic |
Volume | 50 ml |
This particular sunscreen by Cerave has broad-spectrum SPF30 protection that can shield your skin from harmful UVB and UVA rays. But what sets it apart is its combination of essential ceramides that restore the skin's natural barrier and lock in moisture to prevent drying, which can also trigger acne.
Aside from that, it has hyaluronic acid that provides lightweight hydration without clogging pores and niacinamide that soothes and calms the skin, reducing redness and irritation caused by acne. With its oil-free, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and paraben-free formulation, this sunscreen also ensures a non-irritating experience for acne-prone skin.
Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Zinc Oxide, Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid |
---|---|
Broad-Spectrum Protection | unknown |
SPF/PA | SPF30 |
Chemical/Mineral | Mineral |
Other Features | Oil-free, Non-comedogenic, Allergy-tested |
Volume | 50 ml |
Scroll down or click the link to learn more about the best sunscreens for dry skin!
Formulation | Cream |
---|---|
Type | Chemical |
Notable Ingredients | Beeswax, Homosalate Benzophenone-3, Octocrylene, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Octocrylene |
Alcohol-Free | Yes |
Fragrance-Free | unknown |
Broad-Spectrum | Yes |
SPF | 50+ |
PA Rating | PA+++ |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
Net Weight/Volume | 88 mL |
When it comes to choosing products for dry skin, look no further than those developed by CeraVe. Like all their other skincare items, this sunscreen is formulated with dermatologists and has moisturizing ingredients. It features niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and three types of ceramides that lock in moisture and soothe dry, irritated skin.
This product contains mineral sunscreen agents like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which provide broad-spectrum protective action that's rated at SPF 50. It's also allergy-tested, fragrance- and paraben-free, making it great for those with sensitive skin. In fact, it's even approved by both the National Eczema Association and the Skin Cancer Foundation! Customers love how smooth it feels on their skin, though it leaves a bit of white cast.
Formulation | Cream |
---|---|
Type | Physical |
Notable Ingredients | Niacinamide, Tocopherol, Glycerin, Ceramides, Sodium Hyaluronate, Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide |
Alcohol-Free | Yes |
Fragrance-Free | unknown |
Broad-Spectrum | Yes |
SPF | 50 |
PA Rating | unknown |
Water-Resistant | No |
Net Weight/Volume | 75 mL |
Cetaphil is known for its gentle yet effective skincare, and this sunscreen is no exception. Infused with antioxidant vitamin E, it nourishes the skin and protects against surface free radicals. Its broad-spectrum SPF 50 formula provides reliable defense against UVA and UVB rays, helping to prevent sunburn and early signs of aging. Despite its high protection level, the non-greasy lotion absorbs quickly and blends seamlessly without leaving a white cast.
Formulated with sensitive skin in mind, this sunscreen is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and hypoallergenic, making it both gentle and non-comedogenic. This ensures it won’t clog pores or cause irritation, even for those with reactive skin. Additionally, its water-resistant formula lasts up to 80 minutes, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Formulation | Gel |
---|---|
Type | Physical and Chemical |
Notable Ingredients | Tocopherol, Titanium Dioxide, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutyl-Phenol |
Alcohol-Free | No |
Fragrance-Free | unknown |
Broad-Spectrum | Yes |
SPF | 50+ |
PA Rating | unknown |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
Net Weight/Volume | 50 mL |
Scroll down or click the link to learn more about the best sunscreens for sensitive skin!
Sunscreen Type | Chemical |
---|---|
SPF | 50+ |
PA | PA++++ |
Fragrance-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Dye-free | |
Water-resistant | |
Notable Ingredients | Rice Extract, Probiotics Extract |
Net Weight | 50ml |
Sunscreen Type | Chemical |
---|---|
SPF | 50 |
PA | PA++++ |
Fragrance-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Dye-free | |
Water-resistant | |
Notable Ingredients | Niacinamide, Plant Extracts, Ceramides |
Net Weight | 50ml |
Sunscreen Type | Chemical |
---|---|
SPF | 50+ |
PA | PA+++ |
Fragrance-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Dye-free | |
Water-resistant | |
Notable Ingredients | Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract |
Net Weight | 50ml |
Dermatologists recommend reapplying your sunscreen at least every 2 hours. If you wear makeup, the easiest way to reapply your sunscreen is by using spray or powder sunscreen. This way, you can get all the protection you need without ruining your makeup.
We also asked Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang for some of her tips to better take care of your skin. Continue reading to find out more!
The answer is no. You can not skip your sunscreen because the SPF found in makeup doesn't offer enough protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Also, the face is not the only part that must be covered. You should also include your eyelids, neck, decolletage, and ears. When reapplying sunscreen, there's no need to wash your face before reapplying. Note that washing your face twice a day is enough, as previously mentioned.
Reapplication is still best with the use of sunscreen cream or gel. But for practicality, the next recommendation is a sunscreen stick. It is convenient for reapplication, especially for people who wear makeup. Make sure to have 4-5 passes of the sunstick and blend over the face when reapplying. As for sunscreen mist/spray, it may be used for reapplication over the body and scalp.
Now that you know some of the best face sunscreens, whether physical or mineral, in the Philippines, it's time to complete the whole routine! Here are some links to pamper yourself and help you in your skincare journey!
Author: Rie N.
Re-editor: R. Umlas
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Beauty
Health
Household goods
PCs and laptops
Home appliances and electronics
Cameras
Food and drinks
Kitchen supplies
Clothing
Shoes
Accessories
Mom and baby
Interior and furniture
Hobbies
Outdoor
DIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Books, CDs, and DVDs
Games
Cars and motorcycles
Gifts
Home improvement and tools
Smartphones and tablets
Banking and finance
Insurance
Audio
Smartphone applications
Others