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.
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Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
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!
Features and benefits:
Oil Control Ingredients | Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice Powder, Centella Asiatica Extract |
---|---|
Type | Gel |
Oil-free | Yes |
Mattifying | unknown |
SPF | 50 |
PA Rating | PA+++ |
Other Notable Features | Does not leave a white cast. |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
Features and benefits:
Oil Control Ingredients | Lauryl Methacrylate/Sodium Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Dimethicone, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Hydroxyethylcellulose |
---|---|
Type | Gel |
Oil-free | unknown |
Mattifying | unknown |
SPF | 50+ |
PA Rating | PA++++ |
Other Notable Features | Water resistant, Sweat resistant, Can be used as a makeup base |
Net Weight | 70 mL |
Oil Control Ingredients | Aqua, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Alcohol |
---|---|
Type | Gel |
Oil-free | Yes |
Mattifying | unknown |
SPF | 50+ |
PA Rating | unknown |
Other Notable Features | Paraben-free, Fragrance-free, Water-resistant, Ideal for daily use on face and body. |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
Scroll down or click the link to learn more about the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin!
Features and benefits:
Those with oily or acne-prone skin often describe this sunscreen as refreshing, non-greasy, and perfect for humid weather. Many love its water-like texture and say it layers smoothly under makeup. Some mention a slight alcohol scent, but most agree it doesn’t break them out.
Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin |
---|---|
Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
SPF/PA | SPF50+ PA++++ |
Chemical/Mineral | Chemical |
Other Features | Oil-free, Non-Comedogenic, Lightweight |
Volume | 70 mL |
Many users with combo, dry, or sensitive skin find it soothing and easy to wear daily without clogging pores. Some love that it feels like a moisturizer and layers well. However, others note it can pill or feel heavy and greasy, especially in humid weather or when layered over rich moisturizers . A few with acne-prone or rosacea skin report breakouts or stinging around the eyes.
Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Aloe Arborescens Extract, Fatty Alcohols (Non-Comedogenic) |
---|---|
Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
SPF/PA | SPF50+ PA+++ |
Chemical/Mineral | Hybrid (Chemical and Mineral) |
Other Features | Lightweight, Non-Comedogenic, Moisturizing |
Volume | 50 mL |
Features and benefits:
Users frequently say it’s refreshing, non-greasy, and ideal for humid weather. Many highlight that it leaves a dewy finish without clogging pores and works well under makeup. Some note it may feel slightly shiny on oily skin and contains essential oils and t butyl alcohol, but overall report no breakouts.
Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Niacinamide, Aloe Extract, Carrot Extract |
---|---|
Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
SPF/PA | SPF50+ PA++++ |
Chemical/Mineral | Hybrid (Chemical and Mineral) |
Other Features | Lightweight, No White Cast, Waterproof, Vegan |
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 |
Features and benefits:
Those with oily or acne-prone skin often say it feels light and non-greasy, making it ideal for daily wear. Some like that it doesn’t clog pores or sting the eyes. A few users note a slight white cast or tackiness upon application, especially in humid weather.
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 | Niacinamide, Plant Extracts, Ceramides. |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
Sunscreen Type | Lotion |
---|---|
SPF | 50+ |
PA | PA+++ |
Fragrance-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Dye-free | |
Water-resistant | |
Notable Ingredients | Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Water, Aoe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Glycerin. |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
Many users with combo, dry, or sensitive skin find it soothing and easy to wear daily without clogging pores. Some love that it feels like a moisturizer and layers well. However, others note it can pill or feel heavy and greasy, especially in humid weather or when layered over rich moisturizers . A few with acne-prone or rosacea skin report breakouts or stinging around the eyes.
Sunscreen Type | Cream |
---|---|
SPF | 50 |
PA | PA+++ |
Fragrance-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Dye-free | |
Water-resistant | |
Notable Ingredients | Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract, Water, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Glycerin. |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
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.
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