One thing we all know for certain is that the Sun isn’t our friend. Making people boil and sweat buckets in the heat of its rays is one thing, but making them age visibly is an entirely different issue altogether. This isn’t another kooky conspiracy theory, take it from Dr. Barnett S. Kramer, a cancer prevention expert at NIH. Dr. Barnett said that, “The more sun exposure you have, the earlier your skin ages.” So it’s safe to say that the beef we have with the Sun will never end.

Applying sunscreen every day goes a long way to prevent premature ageing — trust us, your skin will thank you profusely when you reach middle age. Instead of reaching for overhyped Western sunscreens, our Insiders recommend opting for Japanese brands instead. Keep reading to find out why, alongside our list of the best Japanese sunscreens in Malaysia.

Why You Should Choose Japanese Sunscreens

There are plenty of reasons why Japanese sunscreens are among the best on the market, including:

  • Japanese sunscreens offer superior protection with high SPF and PA ratings which defend against both UVB and UVA rays whereas western sunscreen focuses more on defence against UVB rays
  • Japanese sunscreens often contain skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid, collagen, and botanical extracts
  • Japanese sunscreens are perfect for hot and humid environments like Malaysia, as they are often water-resistant and sweat-resistant
  • The texture of Japanese sunscreens is unnoticeable, lightweight, and doesn’t leave behind a white cast

The Best Japanese Sunscreens in Malaysia

1. Hada Labo UV Perfect Gel

Hada Labo’s UV Perfect Gel is a 5-in-1 product that combines the benefits of an essence, moisturiser, mask, makeup base, and facial primer in one application. Infused with two types of hyaluronic acid —Medium and Nano — this sunscreen delivers deep and lasting hydration to the skin. It also contains a vitamin C derivative which further enhances the skin’s natural radiance while combating dullness induced by UV damage. With 90 grammes in each product, you won’t have to restock on sunscreen for a long time.

Why we love it:

  • A 5-in-1 sunscreen
  • Contains hyaluronic acid and Vitamin C derivative
  • 90grams of product

Cons: 

  • May not be suitable for oily skin

Price: RM83.90

Where to buy: Lazada

2. Sekkisei Skincare UV Defense Essence Gel

Just like its name suggests, Sekkisei’s Skincare UV Defense Essence Gel blends skincare and sun protection into one amazing must-have product. This sunscreen has a fast-absorbing formula that also deeply hydrates, leaving your skin devoid of any dry sensation thanks to the fermented Job’s tears extract that makes up 80% of the product. This sunscreen also soaks up sebum and acts as a barrier between your skin and environmental stressors like UV rays, dust, dirt, and pollen.

Why we love it:

  • Deeply hydrating gel texture
  • 80% fermented Job’s tears extract
  • Can be used as base makeup

Cons: 

  • Contains fragrance

Price: RM70.00

Where to buy: KOSÉ

3. Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence

Malaysians are in love with any sunscreen product from Biore and for good reason — they’re highly effective while also being super affordable. Biore’s UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence contains Aqua Micro Capsules which offer enduring dual protection against UV rays. This sunscreen doesn’t have “watery” in its name for no reason, as it boasts a water-like formula that isn’t sticky or greasy. Enriched with hyaluronic acid and Mix Citrus Essence, rest assured that your skin will feel hydrated all day long.

Why we love it:

  • Contains Aqua Micro Capsules
  • Watery formula for quick and comfortable absorption
  • Affordable price

Cons: 

  •  May not be suitable for oily skin
  • Often sold out

Price: RM29.75

Where to buy: Guardian

4. Senka Perfect UV Milk

Best Japanese Sunscreens In Malaysia


Senka’s adorable Perfect UV Milk has a water and sweat-resistant milky texture, perfect for sporty peeps who spend their days perspiring. Its UV and anti-pollution powder absorbs PM2.5 fine dust pollutants, protecting your skin against more than just the Sun. 87% of users also report immediate hydration after applying this sunscreen. Its Uji Green Tea extract provides antioxidant benefits which help with dehydration and pore-clogging without the need for cyclic silicone and microplastic beads.

Why we love it:

  • Water and sweat resistant
  • UV and anti-pollution powder
  • Contains 40% skincare ingredients

Cons: 

  • Only 40ml per product

Price: RM45.90

Where to buy: SaSa

5. Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk

Best Japanese Sunscreens In Malaysia

Shiseido’s Anessa series contains this sunscreen gem, their Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk. Having held the title of Japan’s Number One sunscreen for 20 years, this sunblock has Triple Defense Technology against heat, sweat, and water, ensuring UV protection that lasts throughout the day. Its Auto Repair Technology automatically repairs microlevel creases and uncovered spots on the skin due to natural facial movements. Thanks to this cutting-edge technology, who needs to constantly reapply sunscreen anymore?

Why we love it:

  • Triple Defense Technology
  • Auto Repair Technology
  • The packaging is made from eco-friendly materials

Cons: 

  • Higher price point

Price: RM114.75

Where to buy: Watsons

6. Sunplay Skin Aqua UV Moisture Gel

If you prefer your beauty products, including your sunscreen, to have a gel-like texture, try Sunplay’s Skin Aqua UV Moisture Gel. It has an ultra-lightweight water gel texture that absorbs beautifully into the skin with a weightless sensation and a shine-free finish. For extra moisturising benefits, the formula contains super hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid, amino acid, and hydrolysed collagen. This sunscreen is super gentle on the skin as it has no fragrance, colourant, mineral oil, or paraben.

Why we love it:

  • Water gel texture
  • Contains four different moisturising ingredients
  • Free from harmful substances

Cons: 

  • Only provides SPF30

Price: RM35.01

Where to buy: Watsons

7. Curél UV Protection Face Milk SPF50 Sunscreen

Best Japanese Sunscreens In Malaysia

Folks with sensitive skin can put their trust in Curél’s hands, Japan’s leading brand catering to sensitive Asian skin. Curél’s UV Protection Face Milk SPF50 Sunscreen doesn’t just offer total protection against UVA and UVB rays with SPF50+ PA+++, it also defends against dryness, redness, and skin pigmentation. The ceramide and eucalyptus extracts present will repair your skin’s moisture barrier, while the Rohan cypress extracts prevent redness caused by UV rays. No more walking around looking like a tomato!

Why we love it:

  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Gets rid of dryness and skin pigmentation
  • Repair skin’s moisture barrier

Cons: 

  • May not be suitable for other skin types

Price: RM74.88

Where to buy: Watsons

Make sure to follow Beauty Insider on Instagram and Facebook for the latest news updates.