The Best Sunscreens for Your Face to Protect Your Skin All Year Round

Regardless of the season that you’re living ATM, whether it’s deadly cold winter or summertime, applying sunscreens to your face is a non-negotiable routine. The sunlight may seem like an open invitation for a dip in the pool, but it is not all sunshine and rainbows when it comes to these harmful rays. As we are exposed to UV rays emanating from the sun and even electronic blue light, incorporating sunscreens for the face is the best bet that you can ever have.

It is futile to debate its efficacy as face sunscreen is known to shield the skin from signs of premature ageing, dark spots and even minimise the risk of cancer. As the adage goes, prevention is better than cure. So, if you have been sinfully skipping sunblock, it is certainly a time to start religiously slathering these best sunscreens on your face. 

How to Select the Best Sunscreens for Your Face?

Although the majority of people prefer to splurge on the most highly rated products, some of them might not suit your skin type or concerns. Hence, it is important that you consider these few factors beforehand.

SPF Level

The sun protection factor (SPF) indicates the level of protection that the product provides against UVB rays. Thereby, the higher amount signifies comprehensive protection that minimises the risk of you getting sunburn. The rule of thumb is to look for the best sunscreens for the face that offer SPF between 30 and 50. However, the amount that exceeds 50 does not necessarily mean that it is more effective. Since the SPF level is not correlated to the time that you spent outdoors, reapplication is the key to ensuring continuous protection.

Skin Type 

The formulation of the sunscreen is without a doubt the important aspect to truly ensure that it caters to your skin types. For those with oily prone skin, make sure to prioritise oil-free and non-comedogenic formulations. On the contrary, if you have dry skin, we recommend that you opt for a sunscreen that features hydrating properties yet a lightweight texture. People who have sensitive skin should steer away from products that have irritating ingredients including fragrances and dyes. If you have combination skin, select a physical sunscreen as it is packed with soothing properties. 

Broad-Spectrum Protection

As we have mentioned earlier, SPF only protects the skin from UVB rays which makes the skin susceptible to damage due to UVA rays. Therefore, if you want to get your hands on the ultimate sunscreen for your face, go for a product that is labelled with broad-spectrum protection. The ingredients that you should look out for are zinc oxide, titanium dioxide and avobenzone. Primarily avobenzone is unstable as it tends to break down on its own, hence it needs to be mixed with other ingredients to enhance its effectiveness. 

The Best Face Sunscreens that are Perfect for Everyday Use 

1. Sunplay Skin Aqua UV Brightening Moisture Gel 

Step out worry-free with the highly coveted Sunplay Skin Aqua UV Brightening Moisture Gel which provides SPF 50 defence. It is packed with skin-loving ingredients including hyaluronic acid to prevent moisture loss and cocoa seed extract to protect the skin from harmful UV rays and blue light. Whereas, brightenyl is rich in antioxidant properties that can brighten and even out the skin tone, revealing a radiant complexion. 

Thanks to its double anti-pollution formula, this sunscreen can shield the skin against micro pollutants like PM2.5. It has an ultra-lightweight texture that seamlessly blends on the skin without leaving any greasy residue and white cast. With its formulation that packs a punch and efficacy, the Sunplay Skin Aqua UV Brightening Moisture Gel is one of the best sunscreens for the face.

Why we love it:

• Free from irritants including alcohol, parabens, colourant, fragrance, mineral oil, and MIT
• Brightens and even out the skin tone
• Features anti-blue light and anti pollutant 
• Suitable for makeup base

Price: RM40.90

Where to buy: Shopee 

2. AXIS-Y Complete No-Stress Physical Sunscreen Ver 3

Officially OTC-certified, AXIS-Y Complete No-Stress Physical Sunscreen is a mugwort-based sunscreen that contains 2% Niacinamide and Squalane. The improved V3 formula has been enhanced based on insightful feedback from the Axis-Y community. It is designed to protect the skin from harmful UVA and UVB damage while delivering the healing benefits of its skin-loving ingredients.

If you’re an avid AXIS-Y sunscreen user, there’s a high chance you’ll love this new formula! The V3 formula features an improved essence-gel texture that provides a clear finish with reduced white cast. It offers a much lighter and more moisturising texture that feels gentle on the skin with an airy finish. Its impressive absorption properties ensure a smooth and refreshing feel, leaving no greasy residue. 

There’s more to this improved formula! With the new Hydro-Fit formula, this sunscreen features Hyaluronic Acid, a well-loved ingredient for skin hydration. It promotes a healthy glow while preventing any sticky feeling, even after reapplication. The bonus? This formula excludes essential oils that give off herbal scents. Definitely good news for those who loved the previous formula but weren’t a fan of the scent. Now, you can enjoy the benefits of this sunscreen without the fragrance!

Thanks to its gentle skin-conditioning properties, it provides long-lasting protection while soothing and revitalising skin exposed to UV rays. Enriched with plant-derived extracts and the patented wrinkle-care ingredient SYN-Coll, this sunscreen enhances skin vitality and promotes a healthier complexion.

This sunscreen is suitable for acne-prone, sensitive, normal, combination, oily, and dry skin types. However, please note that it is not recommended for children under the age of three.

How to use the AXIS-Y Complete No-Stress Physical Sunscreen Ver 3: 

1. Start your morning routine by prepping the skin with a cleanser and toner
2. Then, apply a generous amount of sunscreen (about two fingers’ worth) to your face and neck
3. Gradually apply it bit by bit, building it up and patting it in for full absorption
4. Remember to reapply the sunscreen every two to three hours to ensure all-day protection from harmful UV rays

Why we love it: 

• Contains skin-loving ingredients
• Lighter and more moisturising texture
• Protects the skin from UV rays
• No sticky feeling, even after reapplication
• No herbal scent

Cons: 

• Though reduced, the sunscreen may still leave a slight residue

Price: RM18.00 (10ml), RM46.28 (50ml)

Where to buy: Shopee

3. Hanasui Collagen Water Sunscreen SPF30

Revel in sun-proof confidence with Hanasui Collagen Water Sunscreen SPF 30 — your all-in-one shield for a youthful, radiant, and even-toned complexion. With triple-power protection, this sunscreen packs a punch, combining SPF 30, collagen water, and Pollustop™. Dermatologically tested, it provides comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays, reducing the risk of sun-induced damage. Why settle for just sunscreen when you can enjoy a full spectrum of skin-loving benefits in one easy step? 

Hanasui Collagen Water Sunscreen harnesses the power of fermented collagen water to deliver three times the hydration, leaving skin supple and plump. Mugwort extract fortifies the skin’s protective barrier, while antioxidant-rich vitamin E and hyaluronic acid keep skin hydrated and soft. With proprietary Pollustop™, it adds an extra layer of defence against environmental aggressors that can impact skin health. 

The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula leaves no white cast or greasy residue — just smooth, glowing skin. Best of all, this clean formula is free from alcohol and fragrance, halal-certified, and crafted to give you only the best in sun care. To use, dispense an appropriate amount and spread evenly over your face. Remember to reapply every few hours to maintain optimal protection.

Why we love it:

• Lightweight formula that leaves no white cast
• Affordable price tag
• Protects skin from pollution
• Free from alcohol and fragrance

Cons:

• The new reformulation offers SPF 30 instead of the original SPF 50

Price: RM13.90

Where to buy: Guardian and Shopee

4. Kyut Skin Sunscreen Stick SPF50+

The Kyut Sunscreen Stick SPF50+ is a revolutionary sunscreen stick that is compact and convenient to apply everyday and reapply on the run. It features beneficial ingredients and provides total coverage, and even soothes sunburn from sun damage without the use of harsh chemicals. Furthermore, the result of healthy skin is seen immediately! However, applying it for 20 minutes is advised before going out in the sun. Each application is weightless, leaves no white cast, and is non-sticky, providing all-day protection.

The sun can cause wrinkles and fine lines, inflammatory acne, freckles, and even cancer. The KyutSkin Sunscreen Stick is a sunscreen infused with natural oil components that give you the best sun protection while keeping your skin moisturised. Star ingredients like jojoba oil, sunflower seed oil, and rosehip oil assist in maintaining skin hydration by trapping in water to retain moisture, leaving skin soft and supple. This potent sunscreen stick is also high in Vitamins A and E, which help to improve collagen development, reduce inflammation, and prevent breakouts.

Why we love it:

• For all skin types
• No stickiness or white cast
• Easy and hydrating with every application
• Protects the skin from UVA & UVB 
• Antioxidant for anti-ageing effect

Price: RM 79.90

Where to buy: Kyut Skin

5. Face Republic Purity Sun Essence

Face Republic Purity Sun Essence features SPF 50, delivering intensive protection from harmful UV rays. Aside from its vegan formulation, it is free from artificial fragrance and is certified reef safe. It has a super lightweight texture that does not leave any white cast upon application. With its gentle yet effective formula, it is ideal for all skin types including those with sensitive skin too.  

Why we love it:

• Waterproof
• Vegan formulation
• Dermatologically tested

Price: RM54.90

6. Y.O.U Beauty Tone Up UV Elixir SPF 50+ PA++++

Y.O.U Beauty Tone Up UV Elixir SPF 50+ PA++++ provides five benefits of protect, soothe, smooth, hydrate to brighten the skin. This dermatologist-tested sunscreen features a concoction of nourishing and hydrating ingredients like bisabolol extract, sunflower seed oil and hyaluronic acid. It also imparts a tone-up effect with a natural radiance finish. It is suitable for those with oily, dry and combination skin types. 

Why we love it:

• Provides UVB and UVA protection
• Improves skin radiance
• Features SPF 50

Price: RM34.90

7. Claire Organics Sunscreen Face/Body Cream

If you’re looking for the best sunscreens for the face and body, the Claire Organics Sunscreen Face/Body Cream should be on your wishlist. This two-in-one product which serves as a moisturiser and sunscreen harnesses the power of natural ingredients like vitamins, shea butter and therapeutic zinc oxide to nourish and protect the skin. It has a clean formulation without any harmful ingredients, which makes it a perfect option for people with sensitive skin.

Why we love it:

• Ideal for all skin types
• Free from harmful ingredients
• Multipurpose benefits

Price: RM59.00

8. EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 46

EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 46 is lauded as the best sunblock for the face recommended by dermatologists. This mineral-based sunscreen encapsulates essential ingredients like vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and lactic acid to tackle different skin issues. As the name indicates, it offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB. Although it comes with a hefty price tag, the formulation is just a chef’s kiss. 

Why we love it:

• Delivers silky and lightweight texture
• Soothes irritation and redness
• Suitable for sensitive and oily skin

Price: RM 202.00

Where to buy: Zalora 

9. Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen

Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen works double duty as sunscreen and moisturizer. This refillable product is enriched with niacinamide and kalahari melon to keep dryness, dark spots and discolouration at bay. It has a pink-tinted hue that complements all skin tones for that extra glow finish. Plus, it is also perfect to be worn under makeup. 

Why we love it:

• Clean formulation
• Refillable packaging
• Brightens the skin tone 

Price: RM165.00

Where to buy: Sephora 

10. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++

Meet Supergoop! Best Selling product, Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++.  This cult favourite product has high antioxidant properties which function to protect the skin from harmful UV rays including blue light. It has a lightweight, invisible and oil-free formula that easily glides on the skin with a radiant finish. Aside from regulating excess shine, it preps the skin for makeup applications.

Why we love it:

• Makeup gripping finish
• Weightless 
• Water and sweat resistant 

Price: RM205 (73.9ml), RM150 (50ml) and RM95 (20ml)

Where to buy: Sephora 

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