Finding the right sunscreen isn’t always easy. Some feel heavy, others leave a white cast, and a lot just don’t sit well under makeup. Not to mention, very expensive. That’s where Japanese sunscreens come in. Known for their lightweight, skin-loving formulas, they offer everyday sun protection without the greasy or sticky feel. They absorb fast, feel like skincare, and actually make you want to apply SPF.
In this guide, we’re sharing 10 of the best Japanese sunscreens you can buy online. So, if you need hydration, oil control, or something gentle for sensitive skin, there’s one that fits your needs. And yes, you’ll find them all on Lazada or Shopee, so your next holy grail is just a few clicks away.
Quick List - Top Japanese Sunscreen
Anessa
Provides UV Protection That Becomes Even Stronger With Heat, Sweat, and Water
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.
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Unlike many Western sunscreens that feel thick, greasy, or leave a white cast, Japanese sunscreens are made for daily comfort. They’re ultra-lightweight, absorb quickly, and often feel more like skincare than sunscreen. You’ll find formulas that hydrate, control oil, or brighten—without clogging pores or irritating sensitive skin. Designed to withstand Japan’s hot and humid summers, these sunscreens stay comfortable on the skin all day without feeling heavy, making them a favorite for both beginners and longtime sunscreen users.
What makes Japanese sunscreens even better? They’re easy to work into your routine. Sometimes it’s not the formula that holds us back—it’s the extra step. Japanese sunscreens feel effortless to use. Some double as a primer or skin-smoothing base, while others give a natural glow. If you’ve ever skipped sunscreen because it felt uncomfortable, Japanese formulas may just change your mind.
Picking the right sunscreen shouldn’t feel like a science project, but with all the options out there, it kinda does. Don’t worry, we'll walk you through what to look for so you can find the Japanese sunscreen that actually works for your skin and feels good to use every day.
PA++++ is the highest level of UVA protection; these rays go deeper and cause dark spots, wrinkles, and skin aging. Most Japanese sunscreens offer both, so double-check the label to make sure you’re getting strong, broad-spectrum coverage every day.
Most of them also have a matte or semi-matte finish, which helps control oil throughout the day. Plus, they’re breathable and won’t clog pores—perfect for humid weather or active days. Your skin stays protected and fresh, without feeling heavy or sticky.
These textures absorb nicely, layer well with makeup, and give your skin a natural, healthy-looking finish. You also get a little moisture boost, which is always a plus. If you want something that just works without fuss, this type is a great everyday option.
If you wear makeup often, this texture keeps your base from looking cakey and helps your makeup last longer throughout the day.
This is where spray and stick formats come in handy. Sprays let you refresh your SPF without touching your face, while sticks are ideal for quick, targeted touch-ups. Both are portable, mess-free, and perfect for reapplying sun protection without ruining your makeup.
If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, finding the right sunscreen can feel like a frustrating (and pricey) guessing game. To avoid skin issues like acne or flare-ups, go for mineral formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they’re less likely to cause irritation and are often better tolerated by the skin.
Also, look for sunscreens labeled fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and alcohol-free. If nothing seems to work, it’s best to consult a dermatologist. Mention that you’re curious about Japanese sunscreens and you’re open to testing them out. They might help you find the perfect fit.
If you want something that feels invisible on the skin, chemical sunscreens are the way to go. They absorb quickly, leave no white cast, and sit well under makeup or on bare skin.
Japanese formulas often use filters like Uvinul A Plus or Tinosorb S, which offer strong protection without the heavy, greasy feel. The only downside? Some of them really smell like chemicals. They might work great for your skin, but the scent can be a dealbreaker if you’re sensitive to strong smells.
Can your favorite sunscreen protect and improve your skin? Even better. Many Japanese sunscreens are packed with extra skincare ingredients, like hyaluronic acid for hydration, niacinamide for brightening, or green tea and sebum-control powders to help manage oil.
These multitasking formulas are perfect if you want to simplify your daily routine without skipping steps. You get sun protection plus that little extra boost your skin needs. Just make sure to choose a formula that matches your top concern—moisture, glow, or shine control.
Planning a beach day, a sweaty commute, or just running errands under the sun? A water-resistant sunscreen is your best bet. These formulas are made to stick through sweat, heat, and humidity without sliding off your face. Japanese sunscreens have some great options that stay lightweight but still hang on when things get extra. Just a heads-up: water-resistant doesn’t mean water-proof.
No matter how good Japanese sunscreens are, they’re not made to last all day. Therefore, you’ll still need to reapply. That’s why it’s totally worth having one in your bag.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
SPF Level | Formulation | Sunscreen Type | Other Skincare Benefits | Fragrance-Free | Water-Resistant | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Biore UV Protection Aqua Rich Watery Essence | ![]() | Get Maximum Protection From Harmful UV Rays | SPF 50+ PA++++ | Essence | Chemical | Moisturizing | 70g | |||
2 | Canmake Tokyo Mermaid Skin Gel UV |Clear Type | ![]() | Refreshing Hydration with Powerful SPF Protection | SPF 50+ PA++++ | Gel | Chemical and Mineral Hybrid | Moisturizing | 40g | |||
3 | Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk | ![]() | Provides UV Protection That Becomes Even Stronger With Heat, Sweat, and Water | SPF 50+ PA++++ | Milk | Chemical | Moisturizing | 20g | |||
4 | Kose Suncut Perfect UV Gel | ![]() | Long-Lasting Formula That Withstands Sweat, Water, and Humidity | SPF 50+ PA++++ | Gel | Chemical | Hydration、Oil Control | 120g | |||
5 | Shiseido Perfect Sun Protector Clear Stick | ![]() | No-Mess Stick Sunscreen You Can Swipe Over Makeup | SPF50+ PA+++ | Stick | Chemical | Hydration | unknown | 20g | ||
6 | OMI Menturm Sun Bears Active Protect Milk | ![]() | Water-Resistant Matte Sunscreen for Outdoor and Sports Activities | SPF50+ PA+++ | Milk | Chemical and Mineral Hybrid | Oil Control | 30g | |||
7 | SENKA Perfect UV Essence | ![]() | Provides Powerful UV Defense and Enriched With Mount Fuji Water for Hydration | SPF 50+ PA++++ | Essence | Chemical and Mineral Hybrid | Moisturizing、Tone Up | 50g | |||
8 | Melano CC Deep Day Care UV Emulsion | ![]() | Get Daily Radiance With Invisible Protection From This Emulsion Sunscreen | SPF 50+ PA++++ | Emulsion | Chemical and Mineral Hybrid | Oil Control、Brightening、Moisturizing | 50g | |||
9 | OMI Mentrum Verdio UV Moisture Gel Sunscreen | ![]() | Hydrates and Protects the Skin from the Sun Even in the Hottest Days | SPF 50+ PA++++ | Gel | Chemical | Moisturizing | 80g | |||
10 | Nivea Sun Protect Water Gel | ![]() | Get Water-Light Hydration With This Face and Body Sunscreen | SPF50 PA+++ | Gel | Chemical | Hydration、 Allergy-Tested | 140g |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Many users say this sunscreen feels light and refreshing, even after hours outdoors. It’s often described as non-greasy and quick to absorb, with no white cast—something people with oily skin especially appreciate in humid weather. Some also mention they keep coming back to it because it’s reliable and comfortable to wear all day.
SPF Level | SPF 50+ PA++++ |
---|---|
Formulation | Essence |
Sunscreen Type | Chemical |
Other Skincare Benefits | Moisturizing |
Fragrance-Free | |
Water-Resistant | |
Net Weight | 70g |
Users like the smooth, watery gel texture that sinks in fast and leaves a subtle dewy finish. Many say it feels moisturizing but not oily, and some even use it as a primer under makeup. While it offers solid UV protection, a few note that frequent reapplication is needed on very sunny days to maintain coverage.
SPF Level | SPF 50+ PA++++ |
---|---|
Formulation | Gel |
Sunscreen Type | Chemical and Mineral Hybrid |
Other Skincare Benefits | Moisturizing |
Fragrance-Free | |
Water-Resistant | |
Net Weight | 40g |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
What people really appreciate about this sunscreen is how lightweight it feels. Many users mention that it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin and doesn’t sting the eyes. It’s also praised for its water- and sweat-resistant formula making it ideal for hot days.
SPF Level | SPF 50+ PA++++ |
---|---|
Formulation | Milk |
Sunscreen Type | Chemical |
Other Skincare Benefits | Moisturizing |
Fragrance-Free | |
Water-Resistant | |
Net Weight | 20g |
Many users like how lightweight and comfortable this sunscreen feels on the skin. It’s often described as gentle, even for those with sensitive skin, and doesn’t sting the eyes. The water- and sweat-resistant formula is another highlight, especially for hot or active days.
SPF Level | SPF 50+ PA++++ |
---|---|
Formulation | Gel |
Sunscreen Type | Chemical |
Other Skincare Benefits | Hydration、Oil Control |
Fragrance-Free | |
Water-Resistant | |
Net Weight | 120g |
This sunscreen stick gets a lot of love for its convenient, mess-free application—perfect for people on the go. Users like its non-sticky texture and say it’s great for reapplying during the day, even over light makeup, without causing pilling or smudging.
SPF Level | SPF50+ PA+++ |
---|---|
Formulation | Stick |
Sunscreen Type | Chemical |
Other Skincare Benefits | Hydration |
Fragrance-Free | unknown |
Water-Resistant | |
Net Weight | 20g |
Those with oily skin say its matte finish keeps shine under control and feels light throughout the day. The compact packaging is praised for being cute and convenient, though some wish a larger size were available. It’s a go-to for its non-sticky feel and zero white cast.
SPF Level | SPF50+ PA+++ |
---|---|
Formulation | Milk |
Sunscreen Type | Chemical and Mineral Hybrid |
Other Skincare Benefits | Oil Control |
Fragrance-Free | |
Water-Resistant | |
Net Weight | 30g |
This sunscreen is praised for being lightweight, easy to apply, and gentle on sensitive skin. Many users say it doesn’t cause breakouts or irritation and feels comfortable even after hours of wear. It’s a favorite for those who want solid sun protection without the heavy, greasy feel.
SPF Level | SPF 50+ PA++++ |
---|---|
Formulation | Essence |
Sunscreen Type | Chemical and Mineral Hybrid |
Other Skincare Benefits | Moisturizing、Tone Up |
Fragrance-Free | |
Water-Resistant | |
Net Weight | 50g |
Many users say this sunscreen gives an instant brightening effect and helps even out their complexion while still offering solid UV protection. It feels refreshing and layers well under makeup, adding a subtle glow without making the skin look oily. Though it has a mild tone-up effect, a few with deeper skin tones report a slight white cast.
SPF Level | SPF 50+ PA++++ |
---|---|
Formulation | Emulsion |
Sunscreen Type | Chemical and Mineral Hybrid |
Other Skincare Benefits | Oil Control、Brightening、Moisturizing |
Fragrance-Free | |
Water-Resistant | |
Net Weight | 50g |
Users love the light gel texture, saying it feels refreshing and hydrating without irritating the skin. It’s especially favored by those with sensitive skin since it’s fragrance-free and leaves no white cast. While many praise its water- and sweat-resistant formula, a few note that the dewy finish may appear shiny on oily skin.
SPF Level | SPF 50+ PA++++ |
---|---|
Formulation | Gel |
Sunscreen Type | Chemical |
Other Skincare Benefits | Moisturizing |
Fragrance-Free | |
Water-Resistant | |
Net Weight | 80g |
Users appreciate how easily it spreads and how quickly it absorbs without leaving a greasy or sticky feel. The invisible finish works well for all skin tones, with no white cast. While it does contain alcohol, most say it doesn’t dry out their skin, though those with very dry skin may prefer layering it with a moisturizer.
SPF Level | SPF50 PA+++ |
---|---|
Formulation | Gel |
Sunscreen Type | Chemical |
Other Skincare Benefits | Hydration、 Allergy-Tested |
Fragrance-Free | |
Water-Resistant | |
Net Weight | 140g |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Still not convinced that Japanese sunscreen is the one for you? Check out these other guides for more tips, picks, and info to help you feel confident about what you’re putting on your skin.
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: Biore|UV Protection Aqua Rich Watery Essence
No. 2: Canmake Tokyo|Mermaid Skin Gel UV |Clear Type
No. 3: Anessa|Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk
No. 4: Kose |Suncut Perfect UV Gel
No. 5: Shiseido|Perfect Sun Protector Clear Stick
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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