If youโre looking for the 4-1-1 on sunscreen, hereโs the first thing to know: you shouldโve started wearing it yesterday. While you mightโve grown up thinking SPF (sun protection factor) is only for sunny beach days or poolside lounging, itโs time to bring sunscreen into your daily skincare lineup โ rain or shine. Most reputable sunscreen brands offer solid protection against harmful UVB rays, but even the so-called โbest sunscreenโ might not be the best fit for your skin type or lifestyle. Like the rest of your skincare routine, SPF should be personal โ and consistent.
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The Best Sunscreens For Every Skin Type
The Lowdown On Broad-Spectrum
The main three things to scan for on any sunscreen label are the SPF rating ย (ideally between 30 and 50 for at least 97% UVB protection), the phrase โbroad-spectrum,โย and whether it’s chemical or mineral.ย The magic words broad-spectrum indicate that the sunscreen in your hands will provide protection against both UVB and UVA rays, both of which contribute to skin cancer risks as well as premature skin ageing. The biggest differences between a chemical or a mineral sunscreen is that a chemical one absorbs UV rays while a mineral one reflects them. Those with more sensitive skin are usually better off with a mineral sunscreen, although they are usually less water-resistant and prone to leave a slightly white cast. With that in mind, here are some of our top picks for different skin types, goals, and on-the-go needs.
The Best Sunscreens For Every Skin Type
Supergoop!, Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50 (50ml), HKD$345
A go-to sun protection product for many around the world, the Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen now comes in SPF 50 with an improved formula designedย for sensitive and acne-prone skin. An ultra-light chemical sunscreen (though itโs also available in a mineral version), this bestselling product blends in on all skin tones without leaving a white cast. Offering broad-spectrum protection while helping to prevent signs of premature ageing, Unseen Sunscreenโs non-greasy finish also makes it an ideal makeup primer โ earning its cult-favourite status for good reason.
SHISEIDO, Clear Suncare Stick SPF50+ (20g), HKD$280
If you prefer your sunscreen in stick form, SHISEIDOโs Clear Suncare Stick is an excellent choice. A chemical formula that glides across your skin without feeling sticky or chalky, the Clear Suncare Stick provides invisible broad-spectrum protection thatโs also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Additionally, this formula also comes equipped with WetForce and HeatForce Technology โ meaning that it activates a strengthened barrier when it senses water or heat โ offering optimal defence in all conditions. Compact and ultra-convenient, the Clear Suncare Stick is perfect for reapplication throughout the day and works beautifully both under and over makeup.
Ultra Violette, Future Fluid Superlight Mineral Skin Screen SPF50+ (50ml), HKD$345
An excellent mineral face sunscreen for those with oily, combination, or sensitive skin, Ultra Violetteโs Future Fluid Skin Screen is a lightweight formula that’s compatible with a variety of skin tones. With a smooth and hydrating fluid texture, Future Fluid’s natural finish when applied and blended leaves your skin protected without feeling greasy or oily. This fragrance-free, zinc SPF never feels heavy and fights against UV rays while helping to prevent pigmentation.
Supergoop!, Lipscreen SPF 40 (10ml), HKD$171.10
Designed for one of the most overlooked areas in sun protection, Supergoop! Lipscreen shields the delicate skin on your lips from UVA and UVB rays with a lightweight, non-sticky gloss. Free from both flavour and colour, it can be worn alone or layered over your favourite lip colour โ ensuring your entire face stays protected from sun damage.
Soleil Toujours, Clean Conscious Set + Protect Micro Mist SPF 30 (50ml), HKD$326.60
Searching for extra sun protection thatโs easily applicable and suited for a face full of makeup? Soleil Toujourโs SPF 30 makeup setting spray, the Clean Conscious Set + Protect Micro Mist, is a very handy chemical formula designed for easy application โ or reapplication โ without disrupting your makeup. Packed with antioxidant-rich skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid and cucumber+green tea leaf extract blend, this mist spray is also sweat and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Blue Lizard, Mineral Sunscreen Sensitive SPF 50+ Spray (5oz), HKD$342.20
The perfect option for those who prefer mineral sun protection, Blue Lizardโs sensitive mineral sunscreen offers broad-spectrum coverage that comes infused with soothing, moisturising organic aloe vera. A hypoallergenic formula, made with Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, this Blue Lizard spray (that also comes in a non-spray form) is free from harsh chemical actives and fragrances that can cause irritation. Itโs water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, reef-friendly, and dermatologist-recommended.
Ultrasun, Extreme SPF50+ (150ml), HKD$290
As the name suggests, Ultrasunโs Extreme formula is a cream-gel body sunscreen designed for those seeking very high sun protection. Using full-sun spectrum technology, it shields against UVA, UVB, infrared (IRA), and even bluelight โ making it an excellent choice for those prone to sun allergies. Dermatologically tested and reef-friendly, this waterproof formula doesnโt contain any hormonally active ingredients, silicones, and fragrances, and wonโt clog your pores.ย Does all this sun protection sound heavy? Fear not! Ultrasun Extreme remains lightweight and fast-absorbing, leaving no sticky or greasy residue behind.
Banana Boat, Light As Air Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ (177 ml), HKD$113.18
One of the most recognisable names in the world of sun protection, Banana Boatโs Light As Air Sunscreen Lotion is a grown-up upgrade of the bottle your parents chased you around with during childhood summer days. A chemical lotion that’s non-greasy, lightweight, and fast-absorbing, Light As Air also blends in smoothly into a wide range of skin tones. As the name suggests, this sunscreen lotion wonโt feel heavy or wet on the skin โ although it carries a mild sweet scent โ yet still provides broad-spectrum protection and remains water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Bonus: Light As Air comes in either face or body formulas!
Born in Korea and raised in Hong Kong, Min Ji has combined her degree in anthropology and creative writing with her passion for going on unsolicited tangents as an editor at Friday Club. In between watching an endless amount of movies, she enjoys trying new cocktails and pastas while occasionally snapping a few pictures.
