Face Sunscreen Guide 2023, Part 2: Japanese Sunscreens

Face Sunscreen Guide 2023, Part 2: Japanese sunscreens

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My 2023 face sunscreen guide, part 2: I tell you all about my tests for this year’s Japanese sunscreen products!

I’m continuing my sunscreen journey, and this time, we’re jetting off to the land of the rising sun. Today, I’m discussing Japanese sunscreens. If you’re looking for products that are both pleasurable and long-lasting, and don’t melt off your face when it’s hot and humid, then you’re in the right place! 🙂

If you haven’t read the first part yet, let me remind you that you can find it here: Face Sunscreen Guide 2023, Part 1: European sunscreens. However, today’s article will be dedicated to the Japanese sunscreens I’ve tested this year!

Living in a hot country with a humid summer (yes, there’s humidity when you live by the sea, even if it’s in the desert!), I find these sunscreens are very suitable, and I particularly appreciate them when the warm weather comes around.

Japanese sunscreens are a true godsend for those who, like me, have combination skin, live in a hot and humid environment during the warm season, and enjoy wearing makeup. Their texture is often lightweight and unnoticeable, making them perfectly compatible with makeup. This undoubtedly reflects the Japanese culture that values daily sun protection, which helps us understand why Japanese sunscreens are also ultra-popular across Southeast Asia! 😉

However, the sunscreens I’ll discuss in this guide aren’t only designed for urban use. Several of them are designed to withstand outdoor activities; they’re highly durable and waterproof. So, if you’re in search of versatile sunscreens for both the city and the beach, you’re likely to find your match in this article! 😉

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As you’ll discover, many of the sunscreens I’m introducing here are hybrid sunscreens (combining both mineral and chemical filters). These types of sunscreens usually offer high protection, but might occasionally leave a white cast. This isn’t always the case, and these formulas are typically well-designed to be unnoticeable once applied, but I wanted to give you a heads up, and I’ll mention it in the product description if it’s the case.

It’s worth noting that Japanese sunscreens often contain alcohol. Alcohol in a sunscreen formula is useful to lighten the texture. While it’s often criticized and deemed as a sensitizing or dehydrating ingredient, it’s crucial to remember that a product is, first and foremost, a formula. And in the case of the products I’m introducing here, the rest of the formula plays a significant role in counterbalancing this effect. Personally, I find most of them very comfortable.

On my skin, alcohol typically doesn’t cause issues, unless my skin is sensitized. This is likely due to the fact that I rotate constantly between types of sunscreens (mineral, chemical, or hybrid), as I explained in a previous article, which potentially limits irritation.

Much like many Korean brands, Japanese brands often reformulate their products to incorporate the latest innovations, or to remain appealing from a marketing standpoint. Therefore, popular formulas are frequently improved each year or every other year. This is especially true for Bioré sunscreens, mentioned in this article. The formulas presented in this guide are the most recent on the market, with the majority dating from 2023. 🙂

If you want to learn more about my criteria for choosing the sunscreens I use, I refer you back to my first part Face Sunscreen Guide 2023, Part 1: European sunscreens. And as in my other sunscreen articles, you can go directly to the product that interests you from the “Direct Access” menu at the top of the page. 😉

So, here are the 6 Japanese sunscreens I tried in 2023!

Face Sunscreen Guide 2023: European sunscreens Skincare Face Sunscreen Guide 2023: European sunscreens Let the dance of the “Face Sunscreen Guides” articles on BTY ALY begin! As usual, we’re kicking things off with European sunscreens. Admittedly, some have pleasantly surprised me. Yes, and in the best way. This year shows marked improvement, I assure you! 🙂 Read more

100% mineral sunscreen:

Mineral sunscreens are my favorites in the summer because they generally leave a more matte finish than those based on chemical filters, and I find them very comfortable to wear daily, especially for sensitive skin! However, beware if you have darker skin than mine (which is not difficult, given my sink-like paleness!), they can tend to leave a white cast.

Kose Sekkisei Clear Wellness UV Sunscreen Mild Milk SPF 50+ PA+++:

∎ Price:
Between $20 and $35 for 50ml.

∎ Protection:
SPF 50+, PA++++

∎ Made in:
Japan

∎ Texture:
A very watery fluid cream, which you need to shake well before applying, and that absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving a slightly satiny finish.

∎ UV Filters:
– Zinc Oxide: a mineral filter for UVA and UVB.
– Titanium Dioxide: a mineral filter for UVA and UVB.

∎ Full ingredients list:
Cetyl ethylhexanoate, zinc oxide, cyclomethicone, dimethicone, titanium dioxide, hydrogenated polyisobutene, tripropylene glycol, water, HDI/PPG/polycaprolactone crosspolymer, PEG-9 polydimethylsiloxyethyl dimethicone, dipropylene glycol, aluminum hydroxide, glycerin, cetyl dimethicone, ectoin, glycogen, alpinia speciosa leaf extract, oryza sativa (rice) bran extract, paeonia albiflora flower extract, tocopherol, coix lacryma-jobi ma-yuen seed extract, morinda citrifolia fruit juice, butylene glycol, acrylates/ethyl hexyl acrylate/dimethicone methacrylate copolymer, silica, squalane, sorbitan sesquiisostearate, triethoxycaprylylsilane, hydrogen dimethicone, sodium metaphosphate, hydrated silica, phenoxyethanol.

∎ Alcohol?
No.

∎ Fragrance?
No.

∎ Antioxidants?
Yes, it includes tripropylene glycol, ectoine, and vitamin E. It also contains an exclusive blend of plants unique to the brand, ITOWA (based on Alpinia Speciosa leaf extract, peony extract, Noni juice, rice extract, and glycerin), which has antioxidant and anti-pollution properties.

∎ Other skincare ingredients in the formula:
Hydrating glycerin, comforting squalane, and soothing ectoine.

∎ White cast?
Yes, slightly. On my fair skin, this white cast fades when massaged in well, but on darker skin than mine, it may be more noticeable.

∎ Irritating? Comedogenic?
No, on the contrary, I find it soothing.

∎ Mattifying?
Not really. Its finish is quite satiny at first, but it stays natural and doesn’t look greasy. I do need to blot some shine throughout the day, though. So if you have drier skin than mine, it should suit you better.

∎ Drying?
No, on the contrary, I find it quite hydrating.

∎ How does it look with makeup?
It’s a good makeup base. It helps blur the pores and smooth the skin. And since it’s quite hydrating, it doesn’t emphasize dry patches. But if you have oily skin, you’ll need to powder it well to improve makeup longevity.

∎ Would I repurchase?
Probably not. While I appreciate its suitability for sensitive skin (no fragrance, no alcohol, mineral filters, several skincare ingredients), for me, its finish is a bit too satiny for my personal taste. Generally, I’m a fan of mineral sunscreens as they are more mattifying than chemical ones, and that’s not the case here. Additionally, it’s not cheap. There are better mineral sunscreens on the market, in my opinion. (The Korean ones are much better, you’ll see 😉)

∎ Shop for this product:

Kose Sekkisei Clear Wellness UV Sunscreen Mild Milk SPF 50+ PA+++

100% chemical sunscreens:

The textures of these are generally delightful, nearly imperceptible, and very lightweight on the skin. A majority of them are sheer, a characteristic that is greatly appreciated. Some of them have a satin-like finish, so keep that in mind if you’re prone to excessive shine throughout the day. However, if you have a drier skin type, you will probably fancy them! 🙂

Rohto Mentholatum Skin Aqua UV Super Moisture Gel SPF 50+ PA++++:

∎ Price:
Between $6 and $21 for 110ml.

∎ Protection:
SPF 50+, PA++++

∎ Made in:
Japan

∎ Texture:
A really pleasant texture, probably my favorite of the selection. At first, it looks like a fluid, but in reality it’s a kind of fluid gel-cream, super melting and fresh, both very comfortable and quick to absorb, without leaving a greasy finish on the skin. The skin is moisturized and plumped, but without feeling “heavy”.

∎ UV filters:
– Uvinul A Plus: chemical filter for UVA.
– Octinoxate: chemical filter for UVB.
– Uvinul T 150: chemical filter for UVB.
– Tinosorb S: chemical filter for UVA and UVB.

The new system of silica-encapsulated UV filters, featuring Rohto’s UV Light Durability Technology, offers the skin more uniform protection against UV rays while reducing the risk of irritation.

∎ Full ingredients list:
Water, ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, alcohol, butylene glycol, isononyl isononanoate, sodium hyaluronate, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, hydroxypropyltrimonium hyaluronate, bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, silica, diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, diethoxyethyl succinate, acrylates/C10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, polyglyceryl-10 pentaisostearate, ethylhexyl triazone, triethanolamine, bis-PEG-18 methyl ether dimethyl silane, disodium ED’ xanthan gum, phenoxyethanol.

∎ Antioxidants?
No.

∎ Other skincare ingredients in the formula:
Yes, hyaluronic acid of three different molecular weights, providing multi-level skin hydration.

∎ White cast?
No, not on me, it’s completely transparent.

∎ Irritating? Comedogenic?
No, not on me.

∎ Mattifying?
Not particularly, the finish is rather satiny. Throughout the day, I am a bit more “glowy” than usual, but not oily or greasy.

∎ Drying?
No, it’s comfortable. The skin feels fresh and hydrated.

∎ How does it look with makeup?
It’s a good makeup base. Foundation applies very well over it. Considering that my skin is rather combination, I just need to ensure I apply powder to avoid looking shiny too quickly, but it’s something I have to do anyway. This sunscreen doesn’t particularly enhance my shine throughout the day.

∎ Would I repurchase?
Yes, why not? I really like this sunscreen! The texture is really super pleasant and fresh. I also like the fact that it’s available in a larger size than average (there are several sizes, I have the intermediate one which is already 110ml). In Japan, it’s sold as a face and body sunscreen. I really enjoy using it on my décolleté and arms. Another advantage, it’s very resistant, and even withstands sweat and water (for 80 minutes). So, it’s a sunscreen that works for both the city and the beach! It’s designed to resist pollution particles, which is always an advantage. Last, considering its generous size, I find it really affordable. 🙂

∎ Shop for this product:

Rohto Mentholatum Skin Aqua UV Super Moisture Gel SPF 50+ PA++++

Kao Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++ (2023 version):

∎ Price:
Between $6 and $16 for 70ml.

∎ Protection:
SPF 50+, PA++++

∎ Made in:
Japan

∎ Texture:
A very pleasant, refreshing gel-cream that absorbs very well and leaves the skin comfortable, plumped and hydrated.

∎ UV filters:
– Uvinul A Plus: chemical filter for UVA.
– Octinoxate: chemical filter for UVB.
– Uvinul T 150: chemical filter for UVB.
– Tinosorb S: chemical filter for UVA and UVB.

∎ Full ingredients list:
Water, alcohol, ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, ethylhexyl triazone, isopropyl palmitate, methacrylate/sodium methacrylate crosspolymer, dlethylamlno hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, hydrogenated polyisobutene, bis- ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl trlazlne, dextrin palmitate, butylene glycol, xylitol, acrylates/C 10-30 acrylate crosspolymer, dimethicone, C12-15 alkyl benzoate, glycerin, glyceryl stearate, propanediol, glyceryl behenate, vinyl dimethicone/methicone silsesquioxane crosspolymer, cetyl alcohol, agar, sorbitan isostearate, isoceteth-20, polyvinyl alcohol, dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymer, stearoyl glutamic acid, arginine, potassium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, royal jelly extract, sodium hyaluronate, phenoxyethanol, disodium EDTA, BHT, fragrance.

∎ Antioxidants?
No, but the formula protects from pollution and micro-particles such as pollen that can irritate the skin thanks to an exclusive technology “UV Cut & Anti-Dust Outer Skin” which allows it to form a film on the skin’s surface to limit the absorption of these irritating particles. It’s also a technology that protects the skin from mask friction.

∎ Other skincare ingredients in the formula:
Yes, hyaluronic acid, glycerin and royal jelly, all of which are hydrating. It also contains arginine, an anti-aging ingredient.

∎ White cast?
No, not on me, it’s transparent.

∎ Irritating? Comedogenic?
It contains a lot of alcohol, so beware if you have skin sensitive to alcohol, or sensitized skin. For me, it doesn’t cause any problems, and it isn’t irritating.

∎ Mattifying?
Not particularly, the finish is rather satin-glowy. Throughout the day, I am indeed a bit more “glowy” than usual, but not oily or greasy either.

∎ Drying?
No, it’s comfortable and hydrating.

∎ How does it look with makeup?
It’s a good makeup base. The foundation applies very well on top and if I apply enough powder; it doesn’t make me look shiny more throughout the day.

∎ Would I repurchase?
Yes, why not! It’s very refreshing, super pleasant to use, and my skin tolerates it well. Its texture is fresh and pleasant, and it works very well under makeup. This sunscreen is equipped with Bioré’s “Micro Defense” formula which, according to the brand’s communication, uses “Micro UV-Cut Capsules” and the exclusive “Ultra-Light Outer Skin” technology, thus creating a thin and uniform UV-blocking film that adheres evenly like a second skin. It offers the skin daily uniform protection against UV damage. It provides good protection, and it resists water and sweat, so it’s a sunscreen that works for both the city and the beach!
It comes in a 70g format and is quite affordable in terms of price, so it’s really interesting because you can totally use it on the body if you want to! 🙂

∎ Shop for this product:

Kao Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++

Combo sunscreens (with both mineral and chemical filters):

The “heavy-duty” formulas. I use them when I want to be sure I’m very well protected, and if I know I’m going to be out in the sun for a bit.

Kao Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel SPF 50+ PA++++ (2023 version):

∎ Price:
Between $6 and $14 for 70ml.

∎ Protection:
SPF 50+, PA++++

∎ Made in:
Japan

∎ Texture:
A fluid texture that absorbs very quickly, leaving a “dry touch”, almost powdery finish on the skin.

∎ UV filters:
– Titanium Dioxide: mineral filter for UVA and UVB.
– Uvinul A Plus: chemical filter for UVA.
– Octinoxate: chemical filter for UVB.
– Uvinul T 150: chemical filter for UVB.
– Tinosorb S: chemical filter for UVA and UVB.

∎ Full ingredients list:
Water, alcohol, ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, methacrylate/sodium methacrylate crosspolymer, ethylhexyl trlazone, dimethicone, C12-15 alkyl benzoate, titanium dioxide, diethylamino hydroxy benzoyl hexyl benzoate, bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymer, butylene glycol, xylitol, dextrin palmitate, dipropylene glycol, hydrated silica, hydroxyethylcellulose, glycerin, glyceryl stearate, cetyl alcohol, polymethylsilsesquioxane, vinyl dimethicone/methicone silsesquioxane crosspolymer, triethoxycaprylylsilane, propanediol, acrylates/C 10-30 acrylate crosspolymer, glyceryl behenate, polysorbate 60, aluminum hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, stearic acid, stearyl alcohol, sorbitan isostearate, agar, polyvinyl alcohol, isoceteth-20, sodium methyl stearoyl taurate, stearoyl glutamic acid, aminomethyl propanol, sodium stearoxy PG- hydroxyethylcellulose sulfonate, arginine, glutamic acid, ceratonia siliqua (carob) gum, maltose, sodium hyaluronate, royal jelly extract, phenoxyethanol, disodium EDTA, BHT, fragrance.

∎ Antioxidants?
No, but the formula protects from pollution and micro-particles such as pollen that can irritate the skin, thanks to an exclusive technology “UV Cut & Anti-Dust Outer Skin” that allows it to form a film on the skin’s surface to limit the absorption of these irritating particles. This is also a technology that protects the skin from mask friction.

∎ Other skincare ingredients in the formula:
Hydrating hyaluronic acid and royal jelly.

∎ White cast?
Slightly on me, and my fair skin. It contains a mineral filter, so if your skin is darker than mine (which is quite easy), it may be more noticeable on you.

∎ Irritating? Comedogenic?
No, not on me. But it contains a lot of alcohol, so be careful if your skin is sensitive to alcohol or sensitized. However, I’ll repeat, for me, it doesn’t pose any issues, and it’s not irritating.

∎ Mattifying?
I was surprised because of the “dry touch” effect. I expected a matte finish and some sebum-regulating property throughout the day. But in reality, it’s not particularly matte, it leaves a rather “skin-like” finish. It doesn’t make me excessively shiny, but it doesn’t regulate my shine either.

∎ Drying?
Not particularly, but it’s also not super comfortable.

∎ How does it look with makeup?
It’s a good makeup base. But if you want a very matte result, you’ll need to use powder! 😉

∎ Would I repurchase?
Perhaps, but more likely to use on the body (arms and décolleté in my case). It’s not bad, but I don’t find it as pleasant as other sunscreens that I’ve tried on the face. On the plus side, the formula is sweat and water-resistant (for 80 minutes). So, it’s a sunscreen that works for both the city and the beach, and it will be very practical for outdoor strolls, and to feel protected without having sticky arms!
And it’s affordable, too, so it remains an interesting option to use! 🙂

∎ Shop for this product:

Kao Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel SPF 50+ PA++++

Rohto Mentholatum Melano CC Deep Day Care UV Lotion SPF 50+ PA++++:

∎ Price:
Between $12 and $19 for 50ml.

∎ Protection:
SPF 50+, PA++++

∎ Made in:
Japan

∎ Texture:
A fresh, melting gel-cream texture that absorbs quickly into the skin.

∎ UV filters:
– Titanium Dioxide: mineral filter for UVA and UVB.
– Uvinul A Plus: chemical filter for UVA.
– Octinoxate: chemical filter for UVB.
– Tinosorb M: chemical filter for UVA and UVB.
– Tinosorb S: chemical filter for UVA and UVB.

∎ Full ingredients list:
Water, ethanol, ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, butylene glycol, triethylhexanoin, titanium oxide, diethylaminohydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, ascorbyl glucoside (vitamin C derivative), ascorbyl magnesium phosphate (vitamin C derivative), tocopherol acetate (vitamin E derivative), hyaluronic acid Na, kudamono passiflora fruit extract (passion fruit extract), methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol, glycol dimethacrylate crosspolymer, bisethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyltriazine, PEG-40 stearate, polysilicone -13, acrylates/alkyl acrylate (C10-30) crosspolymer, triethanolamine, ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP copolymer, silica, polystyrene, polyvinyl alcohol, disodium EDTA, decyl glucoside, xanthan gum, alumina, propylene glycol, synthetic fluorophlogopite, tin oxide, fragrance.

∎ Antioxidants?
Yes, several derivatives of Vitamin C and Vitamin E.

∎ Other skincare ingredients in the formula:
Hydrating hyaluronic acid.

∎ White cast?
Yes, there is a white cast. On my fair skin, it’s light but still noticeable. If your skin is darker than mine, this white cast will probably be even more prominent.

∎ Irritating? Comedogenic?
Not on me. My skin handles it with no issues.

∎ Mattifying?
Yes, quite. It’s not the most mattifying sunscreen I’ve tried, but it manages my shine pretty well during the day.

∎ Drying?
I don’t necessarily find it drying, but it tends to highlight my dry skin areas. And if you have dry skin, I think it may be a bit inadequate in terms of comfort.

∎ How does it look with makeup?
According to the brand’s description, this product is meant to behave like a primer, smoothing skin texture and providing a flattering “soft focus glow” that brightens the complexion without making it shiny. Unfortunately, that’s not the experience I had at all. On me, it emphasizes the texture of my skin, as well as the dry areas on my face, and it also has a slight tendency to cling to the foundation, even making it peel sometimes. In short, it was not a dream combination with makeup…

∎ Would I repurchase?
No, probably not. On paper, it had everything to please me, but each time I used it, I was rather disappointed by its appearance. It leaves a white cast and emphasizes my skin’s imperfections. Perhaps it would be more suitable for skin that is lighter and less dehydrated than mine? It’s a shame because the 2 in 1 brightening skincare/sunscreen aspect was interesting. A good point though, it’s also a versatile product that works for the beach and the city. Its formula resists sweat, water, and sebum (for 80 minutes). It also protects the skin against pollution particles. In short, a great product on paper, but that did not convince me in person…

∎ Shop for this product:

Rohto Mentholatum Melano CC Deep Day Care UV Lotion SPF 50+ PA++++

Country & Stream Honey UV Water Gel SPF 50+ PA++++ (2023 version):

∎ Price:
Approximately $17 for 45ml.

∎ Protection:
SPF 50+, PA++++

∎ Made in:
Japan

∎ Texture:
A very melting, pleasant gel-cream texture that absorbs quickly.

∎ UV filters:
– Zinc Oxide: mineral filter for UVA and UVB.
– Titanium Dioxide: mineral filter for UVA and UVB.
– Uvinul A Plus: chemical filter for UVA.
– Octinoxate: chemical filter for UVB.
– Tinosorb S: chemical filter for UVA and UVB.

∎ Full ingredients list:
Water, ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, butylene glycol, diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, zinc oxide, methylheptyl laurate, titanium dioxide, dimethicone, hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer, cyclopentasiloxane, honey, royal jelly extract, hydrolyzed collagen, soluble collagen, sodium hyaluronate, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, sodium acetylated hyaluronate, althaea officinalis root extract, chamomilla recutita (matricaria) flower extract, dipotassium glycyrrhizate, simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) leaf extract, lavandula angustifolia (lavender) flower extract, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract, alchemilla vulgaris leaf extract, bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer, diisostearyl malate, aluminum hydroxide, PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, stearic acid, phenoxyethanol, polyglyceryl-3 polydimethylsiloxyethyl dimethicone, polyhydroxystearic acid, laureth-l phosphate, jojoba esters, fragrance, xanthan gum, arginine, phytic acid, silver oxide.

∎ Antioxidants?
Yes, it contains green tea and vitamin E.

∎ Other skincare ingredients in the formula:
The formula contains hydrating ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, collagen, honey, and jojoba esters. It also contains soothing ingredients like licorice, chamomile, and rosemary extract.

∎ White cast?
Although it contains two mineral filters, it appears completely transparent on my skin. It’s hard to believe it’s not a chemical sunscreen.

∎ Irritating? Comedogenic?
Not on me; on the contrary, I find it soothing!

∎ Mattifying?
I’d describe it as semi-matte. I find that it also helps to control my shine during the day. I’m slightly less shiny than usual.

∎ Drying?
No, quite the opposite. It’s rather comfortable and hydrating.

∎ How does it look with makeup?
I find that it helps makeup last longer. It’s a pretty good makeup base, but it can tend to cause foundation to pill slightly. It’s very light, and it completely depends on the makeup products I use, but I’ve noticed it once or twice.

∎ Would I repurchase?
People have been talking about this sunscreen for years. Apparently, it’s a true best-seller in Japan, only available for sale during the warm season. I’m glad I managed to get my hands on the latest formulation to try, as it’s one of my favorites from this Japanese selection!
It’s super pleasant to use: light, hydrating, soothing… It’s almost like a skincare-sunscreen, given all the skincare ingredients it contains! It’s ideal for everyday use. However, it’s not a waterproof or super resistant sunscreen, it’s more for city use. But for those who want good protection to wear under makeup every day, it will be perfect!

∎ Shop for this product:

Country & Stream Honey UV Water Gel SPF 50+ PA++++

In conclusion:

This was another exceptional year for the launch of Japanese sunscreens. Many of the ones I tried this year appealed to me! But in particular:

– the famous Country & Stream Honey UV Water Gel SPF 50+ PA++++ which fully deserves its good reputation! It’s an ideal sunscreen to wear daily: it is light, comfortable, and even has skincare ingredients, which is always a plus!

– I also really like the Rohto Mentholatum Skin Aqua UV Super Moisture Gel SPF 50+ PA++++ for its practicality. It works just as well as a beach or city sunscreen; it is suitable for the face and body… And I love its texture, so melting and pleasant!

– and finally, the ever-efficient Kao Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++ which is regularly reformulated (every 4-5 years, I would say). The one I tested for this article is the latest version, from 2023. Despite its reformulations, it didn’t lot in quality. It remains an excellent option for those who want an effective, versatile sunscreen (for the beach and for the city) and which does not cost an arm and a leg. Sure, there are more “refined” formulas on the market, but I find this one remains a safe bet!

That concludes the second part of my 2023 Sunscreen Guide (the first installment on European sunscreens is also available if you haven’t read it). The third and final part will be devoted to Korean sunscreens. I ask for your patience, as usual, as it is the longest article in this series to write since it’s in this one where I try the most products! 😉

Comments (6)

  1. Love it! Thanks so much for all of the detail you provide. I can’t wait to try some of these and I’m looking forward to the Korean installment!

    1

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