Daily exposure to the sun is indeed worrisome as it may damage the skin, including sunburns, wrinkles, and age spots. Thankfully, ensuring protection against these don’t need to be expensive, as there are affordable options available in the market.
To help make your pick, we listed the 10 best affordable sunscreens that offer protection and value for money. They are also accessible as they can be purchased online through trusted platforms like Shopee and Lazada.
Quick List - Top Affordable sunscreens
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.
Table of Contents
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Affordable sunscreen for the face can generally be also used on the body, but it is essential to check the label to ensure suitability. Facial sunscreens are often formulated differently, usually lighter and less greasy, while body sunscreens are thicker.
If you wish to use one sunscreen for both, look for options with a “For Face and Body” label. It also helps to read through the product’s ingredients to ensure the sunscreen meets your coverage needs.
Physical sunscreens, also called mineral sunscreens, use ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that sit on the skin’s surface, deflecting UV rays. They’re recommended for sensitive or acne-prone skin since they’re less likely to cause irritation or clog pores. Physical sunscreens also provide instant protection but may leave a white cast, especially on deeper skin tones.
Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. They blend seamlessly into the skin without a white cast but may cause irritation due to active ingredients like avobenzone and oxybenzone.
When looking for sunscreen, it is essential to consider factors that would ensure you are making the right pick for your needs and budget.
To ensure you’re getting the most out of your sunscreen, we’ve listed properties you should be on the lookout for depending on your needs.
SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays, which can cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer. A PA+ rating provides basic protection from UVA rays, which are linked to premature skin aging.
A combination of the two is suitable for daily use and low to medium sun exposure, including a brief outdoor walk or simply staying indoors where rays could peep through entry points.
A sunscreen with SPF 50 and a PA+++ rating blocks 98% of UVB rays and offers higher protection from UVA rays, making it ideal for activities under the sun.
La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios Shaka Fluid and Belo’s SunExpert offer such properties, ensuring reliability and safety during outdoor activities like beach trips or hiking. Remember to also pair your sunscreen with sun-protective clothing to ensure robust protection against the Philippines’ scorching heat.
Just like with any skin care product, it is important to match the sunscreen with your skin type to prevent risks such as irritations caused by incompatibility.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, gel sunscreens are an excellent choice. Their water-based formulation is lighter and absorbs faster than creams, leaving your skin feeling fresh and non-greasy. This is particularly beneficial in a humid climate like the Philippines, where heavier sunscreens can feel uncomfortable.
To prevent clogged pores and breakouts, opt for non-comedogenic formulas. Ingredients like silica gel absorb excess oil throughout the day, providing a matte finish to control shine. Niacinamide is another excellent addition, as it helps regulate sebum production and soothe inflammation. For lightweight hydration, look for hyaluronic acid, which keeps your skin moisturized without contributing to excess oil.
For those with sensitive skin, it’s essential to choose sunscreens that avoid potential irritants such as fragrances, alcohol, parabens, sulfates, and chemical filters like oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, and octocrylene. These ingredients can cause redness, stinging, or breakouts.
Instead, look for mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they sit on the skin’s surface and reflect UV rays, reducing the risk of irritation. Formulas with soothing ingredients like niacinamide, aloe vera, centella asiatica, or bisabolol are also beneficial, as they help calm inflammation and support the skin barrier.
Sunscreens with moisturizing agents, such as shea butter, jojoba oil, or mineral oil, help lock in hydration while protecting the skin. These are especially helpful for dry skin, as sun exposure can deplete natural oils.
Cream-based sunscreens often provide a more hydrating experience, leaving the skin feeling soft and comfortable throughout the day.
Spray or stick sunscreens are a game changer for those who are both on the go and committed to keeping their skin protected throughout the day. Spray variants like Y.O.U’s Sunbrella Sunscreen Spray are designed to make applying sunscreen over large areas easier. They are also known to leave a non-greasy layer, making them ideal for outdoor use.
Stick sunscreens like Belo’s Ultra Sheer Sunscreen Stick, meanwhile, allow for precise application on small areas like the face. This variant also does not spill, making it the perfect choice for travel.
Water-resistant sunscreens retain their SPF for 40 to 80 minutes when exposed to water or sweat, making them essential for outdoor activities like swimming or jogging. Look for products labeled "water-resistant" or "very water-resistant" to ensure longer-lasting protection during these activities.
However, re-application is still necessary, as sunscreen can wear off over time. Be sure to reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating to maintain effective coverage.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
SPF | PA Level | Suitable Skin Types | Formulation | Net Content | Hydrating/Moisturizing Ingredients | Water-Resistant | |||||
1 | Face Republic Purity Sun Essence | ![]() | Lightweight, Non-sticky Sunscreen for Everyday Use | SPF50 | PA++++ | Dry、Oily、Acne-Prone、Sensitive | Cream | 10ml | Ceramide NP, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract, Carrot Root Extract, Rosa Canina Fruit Extract, Apple Fruit Extract, Aloe Ferox Leaf Extract, Artemisia Capillaris Extract, Artemisia Vulgaris Oil, Apricot Juice | ||
2 | Luxe Organix Aqua Daily Sunscreen | ![]() | Hydrating, Soothing Sun Protection in a Quick Spray | SPF50 | PA+++ | Normal、Combination、Sensitive | Spray | 50ml | Butylene Glycol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Glycerin, Panthenol, Sodium Polyacrylate, Escin, Ruscus Aculeatus Root Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract | ||
3 | Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence | ![]() | A Water-Based Sunscreen for Your Face and Body | SPF50 | PA++++ | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive、Acne-Prone | Essence | 15g | Butylene Glycol, Xylitol, Glycerol, Propanediol, Cetyl Alcohol, Agar, Arginine, Vitamin E, Royal Jelly Extract, Hyaluronic Acid | ||
4 | Dr. Sensitive Super Sunscreen | ![]() | Non-Greasy Sunscreen That Leaves a Matte Finish | SPF 50 | PA++++ | Sensitive | Cream | 50ml | Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol, Allantoin, Vitamin B3, Vitamin E, Vitamin B5, Glutathione | ||
5 | QuickFX Sunscreen | ![]() | Prevent Sun Spots and Freckles With This Hydrating Sunscreen | SPF 50 | PA+++ | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive、Acne-Prone | Gel | 30g | Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Water, Butylene Glycol, Capric Triglyceride, Centella Asiatica Extract, Matricaria Flower Extract, Licorice Root Extract, Green Tea, Blueberry Fruit Extract, Lavender Extract | unknown | |
6 | Garnier Light Complete Super UV Matte Spot Proof Sunscreen | ![]() | A Sunscreen That Brightens and Prevents Dark Spots | SPF 50 | PA++++ | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive、Acne-Prone | Cream | 30ml | Glycerin, Dimethicone, Tocopherol, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Dipropylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Lemon Fruit Extract | ||
7 | Belo SunExpert Dewy Essence Sunscreen | ![]() | Keeps Skin Moisturized While Providing UV Protection | 50 | PA++++ | Dry Skin | Cream | 50mL x 2 | Shea Butter, Pro-Vitamin B5, Saccharide Isomerate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Vitamin E | ||
8 | Oxecure Daily Sunscreen | ![]() | Achieve a Healthy Glow With This Hydrating Sunscreen | SPF50 | PA++++ | Oily、Sensitive、Acne-Prone | Gel | 6g | C12-15 alkyl benzoate, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Sorbitan Olivate, Saccharide Isomerate, Shea Butter, Buddleja Officinalis Flower Extract, Hydrolyzed Algin | ||
9 | The Originote Ceramella Sunscreen | ![]() | Help Fight the Adverse Effects of the Sun With This Hybrid Sunscreen | SPF50 | PA++++ | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive、Acne-Prone | Cream | 50g | Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Provitamin B5, Tremella Fuciformis Polysaccharide, Butylene Glycol, Capric Triglycerid, Oat Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramide NP, Hydrogenated Lecithin | ||
10 | Human Nature SafeProtect SPF 30 Sunscreen | ![]() | An All-Natural Product That Is Safe on the Skin and the Environment | SPF30 | PA++++ | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive、Acne-Prone | Cream | 50g | Coconut Oil, Castor Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Capric Triglyceride, Soybean Oil, Glyceryl Caprylate, Vitramin E |
If you are looking for a lightweight, non-sticky sunscreen for daily use, this sunscreen from Face Republic is worth considering. Infused with calming ingredients, it offers SPF 50+ PA++++ protection, guarding against harmful UV rays while keeping skin soft and soothed. Its essence-like texture also glides effortlessly, leaving no white cast — just a fresh, dewy finish.
Its gentle, vegan formula is perfect for any skin type. Whether you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, this sunscreen provides reliable sun care without irritation. It is even reef-friendly, a product designed to be safe for coral reefs and marine life. Plus, it is water-resistant, ensuring long-lasting sun protection!
SPF | SPF50 |
---|---|
PA Level | PA++++ |
Suitable Skin Types | Dry、Oily、Acne-Prone、Sensitive |
Formulation | Cream |
Net Content | 10ml |
Hydrating/Moisturizing Ingredients | Ceramide NP, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract, Carrot Root Extract, Rosa Canina Fruit Extract, Apple Fruit Extract, Aloe Ferox Leaf Extract, Artemisia Capillaris Extract, Artemisia Vulgaris Oil, Apricot Juice |
Water-Resistant |
SPF | SPF50 |
---|---|
PA Level | PA+++ |
Suitable Skin Types | Normal、Combination、Sensitive |
Formulation | Spray |
Net Content | 50ml |
Hydrating/Moisturizing Ingredients | Butylene Glycol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Glycerin, Panthenol, Sodium Polyacrylate, Escin, Ruscus Aculeatus Root Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract |
Water-Resistant |
This water-based sunscreen from Biore provides superior sun protection for both face and body. Its innovative Aqua Micro Capsule technology locks in moisture while shielding your skin from harmful UV rays. Enriched with hyaluronic acid and royal jelly extract, it delivers a burst of hydration, leaving your skin soft, smooth, and deeply moisturized all day long.
With its refreshing texture and quick-absorbing formula, this sunscreen is perfect for daily use and layers effortlessly under makeup. Loved for its non-greasy, invisible finish, it has become a top choice for those looking for high-performance sun care that feels as light as water.
SPF | SPF50 |
---|---|
PA Level | PA++++ |
Suitable Skin Types | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive、Acne-Prone |
Formulation | Essence |
Net Content | 15g |
Hydrating/Moisturizing Ingredients | Butylene Glycol, Xylitol, Glycerol, Propanediol, Cetyl Alcohol, Agar, Arginine, Vitamin E, Royal Jelly Extract, Hyaluronic Acid |
Water-Resistant |
If you're looking for a sunscreen that pairs perfectly with your daily makeup routine, this product is a must-try. With SPF 50+ PA++++, it provides broad-spectrum protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Its lightweight, non-greasy formula also absorbs quickly, leaving a smooth, matte finish that works seamlessly under makeup or on its own.
Infused with skin-nourishing ingredients, it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin and won’t cause irritation. Many users rave about its non-sticky texture and how it keeps their skin comfortable, even in humid conditions. Many love its reliable sun protection, saying it gives them the confidence to stay under the sun all day without worry.
SPF | SPF 50 |
---|---|
PA Level | PA++++ |
Suitable Skin Types | Sensitive |
Formulation | Cream |
Net Content | 50ml |
Hydrating/Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol, Allantoin, Vitamin B3, Vitamin E, Vitamin B5, Glutathione |
Water-Resistant |
Tired of sun spots and freckles from being under the sun for too long? Protect your skin with this sunscreen from QuickFX! This is a fast-absorbing sunblock that provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB defense with SPF 50. It also has hydrating and soothing properties, you no longer have to worry about long exposure to the sun!
This sunscreen has BSASM and other soothing extracts that help calm redness and irritation after sun exposure. It is also dermatologist-tested and is suitable for all skin types. With its high sun protection and hydrating formula, it's no wonder this product has received stellar ratings from its users!
SPF | SPF 50 |
---|---|
PA Level | PA+++ |
Suitable Skin Types | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive、Acne-Prone |
Formulation | Gel |
Net Content | 30g |
Hydrating/Moisturizing Ingredients | Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Water, Butylene Glycol, Capric Triglyceride, Centella Asiatica Extract, Matricaria Flower Extract, Licorice Root Extract, Green Tea, Blueberry Fruit Extract, Lavender Extract |
Water-Resistant | unknown |
SPF | SPF 50 |
---|---|
PA Level | PA++++ |
Suitable Skin Types | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive、Acne-Prone |
Formulation | Cream |
Net Content | 30ml |
Hydrating/Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin, Dimethicone, Tocopherol, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Dipropylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Lemon Fruit Extract |
Water-Resistant |
SPF | 50 |
---|---|
PA Level | PA++++ |
Suitable Skin Types | Dry Skin |
Formulation | Cream |
Net Content | 50mL x 2 |
Hydrating/Moisturizing Ingredients | Shea Butter, Pro-Vitamin B5, Saccharide Isomerate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Vitamin E |
Water-Resistant |
Achieving a healthy glow can be challenging for acne-prone and sensitive skin, but Oxecure’s sunscreen makes it easier. Enriched with Butterfly Bush and Dandelion extracts, it shields the skin from environmental pollutants, while Kakadu Plum and Glowing Vitamin Complex help even out skin tone. Meanwhile, cactus and organic aloe vera extracts provide soothing hydration, leaving the skin refreshed and well-protected.
Its innovative formula combines physical and clean chemical filters through Hybrid UV Protection Technology, ensuring comprehensive defense against UVA/UVB rays and blue light without leaving a white cast. The fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulation minimizes the risk of irritation, ensuring it's gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types.
SPF | SPF50 |
---|---|
PA Level | PA++++ |
Suitable Skin Types | Oily、Sensitive、Acne-Prone |
Formulation | Gel |
Net Content | 6g |
Hydrating/Moisturizing Ingredients | C12-15 alkyl benzoate, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Sorbitan Olivate, Saccharide Isomerate, Shea Butter, Buddleja Officinalis Flower Extract, Hydrolyzed Algin |
Water-Resistant |
SPF | SPF50 |
---|---|
PA Level | PA++++ |
Suitable Skin Types | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive、Acne-Prone |
Formulation | Cream |
Net Content | 50g |
Hydrating/Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Provitamin B5, Tremella Fuciformis Polysaccharide, Butylene Glycol, Capric Triglycerid, Oat Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramide NP, Hydrogenated Lecithin |
Water-Resistant |
Soak up the sun without worry with this sunscreen from Human Nature! Formulated with 100% natural ingredients, this product is hypoallergenic, paraben-free, and fragrance-free. Its SafeProtect formulation is reef-safe, and eco-friendly, too!
Moreover, this sunscreen boasts an SPF30 broad-spectrum shield that deflects 97% of UVB rays with its natural physical particles. Plus, it is water-resistant! Many users love its gentle, non-irritating formula that's perfect for all skin types, even sensitive skin.
SPF | SPF30 |
---|---|
PA Level | PA++++ |
Suitable Skin Types | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive、Acne-Prone |
Formulation | Cream |
Net Content | 50g |
Hydrating/Moisturizing Ingredients | Coconut Oil, Castor Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Capric Triglyceride, Soybean Oil, Glyceryl Caprylate, Vitramin E |
Water-Resistant |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Sunscreen should be the final step in your skincare routine, applied after moisturizer and before makeup. For the face and neck, use two fingers' length of sunscreen to ensure even and thorough coverage. When applying to the body, an ounce—or about one shot glass—is recommended. Spread the sunscreen evenly and allow it to absorb fully into the skin for maximum protection.
If you’re outdoors, reapply sunscreen every two hours to maintain protection against harmful UV rays. For those staying indoors, reapplying once during the day is typically sufficient.
For water or sweat-related activities, even with water-resistant sunscreens, reapply every 40 to 80 minutes to ensure continuous coverage.
Yes, sunscreen is essential even when indoors. UV rays can penetrate glass windows, causing skin damage such as premature aging, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
Staying safe against harmful UV rays is equally important as enjoying the outdoors. We’ve listed some sun-protective accessories to pair your sunscreen with and get the maximum protection you need.
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. 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.
No. 1: Face Republic|Purity Sun Essence
No. 2: Luxe Organix|Aqua Daily Sunscreen
No. 3: Biore|UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence
No. 4: Dr. Sensitive|Super Sunscreen
No. 5: QuickFX|Sunscreen
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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