The cost of sunscreens and sunblocks in Singapore can vary depending on the brand, SPF rating, formulation (e.g., lotion, spray, gel), and size of the product. Here is a general price range you might expect:
- Drugstore Brands (e.g., Nivea, Banana Boat): SGD 10 to SGD 25 for a standard-sized bottle (100-200 ml)
- Mid-Range Brands (e.g., Neutrogena, La Roche-Posay): SGD 25 to SGD 50 for a standard-sized bottle (50-100 ml)
- High-End or Premium Brands (e.g., Shiseido, Clinique): SGD 50 to SGD 100 or more for a standard-sized bottle (30-50 ml)
For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, it's best to check local pharmacies, beauty stores, or online retail platforms.
Key Takeaways:
- In Singapore's hot and humid climate, a sunscreen with high SPF, broad-spectrum protection, and water resistance is essential.
- Sunscreens should be lightweight, non-greasy, and suitable for daily use to encourage consistent application.
- Options include formulas designed for sensitive skin, tinted versions for a touch of color, and eco-friendly choices.
Which Sunscreen is Best for Singapore's Hot and Humid Weather?
In the relentless heat and humidity of Singapore, a robust sunscreen is not just a recommendation—it's a necessity. The ideal sunscreen for this climate offers high SPF and broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays while remaining water-resistant to withstand perspiration. It should be a lightweight formula to avoid a greasy feel, ensuring comfort and ease of use every day. Whether for sensitive skin, a preference for a tinted glow, or an environmentally conscious choice, the best sunscreen is the one that meets your specific needs while providing effective protection.
Difference Between Sunscreen and Sunblocks
Well, the difference between sunscreen and sunblock lies in how each of them protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Sunscreen filters the sunrays, allowing some to penetrate the skin while blocking others. Whereas sunblock uses reflection to block away the sun rays.
Here's a comparison table that outlines the differences between sunscreen and sunblock:
| Feature | Sunscreen | Sunblock |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredients | Chemical compounds like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, etc. | Physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide |
| Protection Mechanism | Absorbs UV radiation and converts it into a small amount of heat | Reflects or scatters UV radiation away from the skin |
| Consistency | Typically lighter, spreads easily on the skin | Thicker, may leave a white residue on the skin |
| Visibility on Skin | Less visible once absorbed | More visible, can leave a white cast |
| Protection Spectrum | Broad-spectrum options available, protecting against UVA and UVB | Naturally broad-spectrum, protecting against both UVA and UVB rays |
| Onset of Protection | May need about 20-30 minutes after application to start working | Begins protecting immediately upon application |
| Reapplication | Needs to be reapplied every 2 hours or after swimming/sweating | Also requires reapplication, but may be more water-resistant |
| Suitability | Preferred for daily use due to lighter texture | Often used for high-exposure scenarios like swimming or sports |
| Cosmetic Appearance | Generally more cosmetically elegant | May not blend as well with skin, especially in tinted formulations |
| Sensitivity Issues | Some chemical ingredients may cause irritation for sensitive skin | Less likely to cause skin irritation due to inert minerals |
| Water Resistance | Water-resistant options available, but not inherently water-resistant | Generally more water-resistant due to physical barrier |
| Environmental Impact | Some ingredients may have negative effects on marine life | Considered safer for marine ecosystems |
| Application | Easier to apply in spray and lotion forms | May require more effort to rub in thoroughly |
Both sunscreen and sunblock are essential for protecting the skin from harmful UV rays, but they do so through different mechanisms and have different physical properties. The choice between the two may depend on factors such as skin type, activity level, and environmental considerations. It's also worth noting that the term "sunblock" is now less commonly used, with many products being labeled as "mineral sunscreen" to indicate the use of physical blocking agents like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Top 10 Sunscreens and Sunblocks in Singapore to Reduce Sunburn
| 10 Best Sunscreens and Sunblocks in Singapore to Reduce UV | Best Deal |
|---|---|
| MAYCREATE Moisturizing and Whitening Sunscreen | $8.00 |
| Mamonde Everyday Sun Stick | $16.87 |
| Laneige Light Sun Fluid | $17.90 |
| Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Milk | $32.30 |
| Cetaphil Sun Light Gel Sunscreen | $35.90 |
| 3W Clinic Intensive UV Sunblock Cream | $11.49 |
| MKUP® 100% Mineral Sunscreen | $14.90 |
| Heliocare 360° Gel Oil-free Sunblock | $37.00 - $48.00 |
| Cocomo Aloe Soothing Sun Cream | $13.90 |
| Neogen Dermalogy Day-Light Protection Airy Sunsreen Spf50+ / Broadspectrum 50ml | $38.00 |
1. MAYCREATE Moisturizing and Whitening Sunscreen
MAYCREATE Moisturizing and Whitening Sunscreen - Sunscreens and Sunblocks Singapore
How amazing is it to have a sunscreen that also whitens your skin?
This is possible with the Maycreate Moisturizing and Whitening Sunscreen! This is breathable spray sunscreen protects you from sunburn and also signs of aging.
This has a fully transparent formulation that provides a refreshing feeling on your skin.
If you’re enjoying swimming, you can easily reapply this product on your wet skin without any hassle!
Key Features:
- SPF 45+ PA+++
- Waterproof and sweat-proof
- Net Weight: 150 mL
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2. Mamonde Everyday Sun Stick
Mamonde Everyday Sun Stick - Sunscreens and Sunblocks Singapore
Not a fan of traditional sunscreens? We got you! You can get an extreme protection from the sun in just one stick! Yes, a stick!
The Mamonde Everyday Sun Stick gives you 4 times sun protection to block UVA and UVB rays with its SPF 50+ formulation.
It is very easy to use and you can apply it as a finishing touch for your skincare routine.
In addition to that, it has cotton flower extracts that is known to prevent skin damage from fine dust.
Also, the calendula flower and madecassoside it enhances your skin health and moisturization even if you are exposed to UV rays.
It is applicable for the face and body so you don’t need to purchase different sunscreens anymore.
Key Features:
- Net Weight: 20g
- SPF 50+ and PA++++ protection
- Has a curved shape to cover large areas
- Soft, light, non-greasy
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3. Laneige Light Sun Fluid
Laneige Light Sun Fluid - Sunscreens and Sunblocks Singapore
Get your skin an ultimate protection against the sun with the Laneige Light Sun Fluid. This offers a seamless adhesive texture without any sticky feeling.
Even if you have had a long day under the sun or just working on your tan during summers, this sunscreen keeps your moisture barrier for long periods.
Other great things about this product is it works for all skin types. If you’re always sweaty, you no longer need to worry because this sunscreen is resistant to sweat and water.
Also, you’ll get a fresh and cool feeling with the mint water it contains.
Its important to apply the sunblock correctly otherwise nasty burns occur and you might think the product isn't working effectively.
Always shake the container before use so that the ingredients can mix together. Usually people do not apply sufficient sunscreen to cover their bodies, thus sun burn occurs.
Key Features:
- SPF 50+ PA+++
- Laneige Water Screen ™: an optimal technology that keeps tired and dry skin moisturized and healthy
- 6-Free formula: free from harmful ingredients
- Net Weight: 50 mL
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4. Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Milk
Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Milk - Sunscreens and Sunblocks Singapore
Some sunscreens give that greasy look when you apply it but with the Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen, that is never a worry.
This Japan-brand sunscreen has been at the top list for 17 years! It’s because of its Improved Aqua Booster EX Technology to effectively protect your skin and strengthen it even after prolonged exposure to the sun.
This amazing sunscreen is not only waterproof and sweat-proof, but also friction proof! You read it right!
The cream stays on your skin even with friction so you have everything in one sunscreen. Aside from that, it also protects your skin from aging.
Key Features:
- SPF 50+ PA++++
- Non-sticky and super lightweight texture
- 360 Degree Protection Technology for even protection on all angles
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5. Cetaphil Sun Light Gel Sunscreen
Cetaphil Sun Light Gel Sunscreen - Sunscreens and Sunblocks Singapore
Enjoy the sun without any worries about getting your skin damages with the Cetaphil Sun Light Gel Sunscreen.
This product is tested and proven best for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
The light gel formulation gives your skin a cool feeling without compromising its protection capabilities from the harmful UV light.
You could never go wrong with Singapore’s No. 1 dermatological skincare brand!
Key Features:
- SPF50+
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Preservative-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Net Weight: 50 mL
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Related: Best Aloe Vera Gels in Singapore
6. 3W Clinic Intensive UV Sunblock Cream
3W Clinic Intensive UV Sunblock Cream - Sunscreens and Sunblocks Singapore
If you’re planning to hit the beach this summer and you need a great sunblock, you can check out the 3W Clinic Sunblock Cream.
This affordable sunblock can provide you 12 hours of protection. Plus, this can also be your make-up buddy as this can be used a moisturizer alternative as your make-up base.
The natural plant extracts it contains minimizes skin irritation due to the scorching heat of the sun.
These plant extracts are derived from aloe vera, mulberry root, and red ginseng.
Aside from lessening the irritation, these plant extracts also provide an excellent moisturizing factor to your sun-damages skin.
Key Features:
- SPF50+ PA+++
- Soft cream lightweight texture with fresh scent
- No alcohol
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7. MKUP® 100% Mineral Sunscreen
MKUP® 100% Mineral Sunscreen - Sunscreens and Sunblocks Singapore
The MKUP Mineral Sunscreen offers three beauty functions for your skin. This can of course protect your skin from the UV rays that can damage your skin.
Another way to use this product is as a color corrector. With its natural nude shade, it can conceal pimple marks and blemishes.
Lastly, it also moisturizes your skin for that soft dewy glow.
It has a 100% mineral formulation that promises not to clog your pores, absorb your excess facial oil, and leave your skin with a wonderful glow.
Plus, it can be used for kids and pregnant women too!
Key Features:
- SPF30
- Pure mineral formulation with titanium and zinc oxide
- Oil-free
- No chemicals, fragrances, and paraben
- Net Weight: 50g
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8. Heliocare 360° Gel Oil-free Sunblock
Heliocare 360° Gel Oil-free Sunblock - Sunscreens and Sunblocks Singapore
Get the best skin even under the sun with the Heliocare 360° Sunblock. It has a unique oil-free formulation so you can have that dry feeling without any stickiness.
It also has a Bioshield System that provides not only protection from UV lights but also to UVB, Visible Light and IR-A.
If you have not prevented the sun from damaging your skin, you have nothing to worry because this product is enriched with Fernblock C that is effective in repairing your sun-damaged skin with its antioxidant activity.
Apply this every 2 to 3 hours if you are under intensive heat or just enjoying the beach or pool.
Key Features:
- SPF 50
- Suitable for normal, combination and oily skin types
- Anti-bacterial, anti-microbial and sebum controlling technology
- Net Weight: 50 ml
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9. COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream - Sunscreen suitable for face
COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream - Sunscreens and Sunblocks Singapore
If you’re a fan of K-pop, why not bring the culture’s trend on your sunblock?
The COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream provides you a soft and moisturized skin even while you are under the sun through the amazing aloe vera extracts.
Aside from that, it can also stop light aging to make your skin as youthful as it can be.
Aloe vera is indeed a miracle plant on skincare!
Key Features:
- SPF 50+
- PA+++
- Broad Blockage Effect
- Net Weight: 50 ml
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10. Neogen Dermalogy Day-Light Protection Airy Sunsreen Spf50+ / Broadspectrum 50ml
Neogen Dermalogy Day-Light Protection Airy Sunsreen - Sunscreens and Sunblocks Singapore
Protect the skin that you have been taking care of for a long time with the Neogen Dermalogy Day-Light Protection Airy Sunsreen.
With its SPF 50+ and 20 types of ingredients, your skin would have the absolute protection from the harsh UV lights in Singapore especially if you have a sensitive skin.
This sunscreen gives your skin a light, soft and transparent finish without any stickiness and white cast that most sunscreens have.
So you’ll feel fresh throughout the entire sunny day. Plus, this product greatly minimizes skin irritation if you have that type of skin that gets easily irritated during harsh weather conditions.
Key Features:
- Net Weight: 50 mL
- Water-based, gel type texture
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Which sunscreen is best in Singapore?
Choosing an effective sunblock and sunscreen would depend on their SPF and PA levels.
SPF or Sun Protection Factor is the key measurement on how well your sunscreen would protect your skin from UVB rays.
These rays emit the radiation that can cause sunburns, skin damage and even skin cancer.
Do you need Sunscreen in Singapore?
In Singapore, we are known to have one of the highest UV index score all year round due to our proximity to the equator. So we are always exposed to harmful sunrays as the sun intensity peaks in mid day.
The sun rays contain UV lights radiation, namely UVA and UVB and are invisible to the naked eye.
UVA aka Tanning rays : These sunrays penetrate deep under the skin (dermis) usually leading to premature aging of the skin, pigmentation and wrinkling (photoaging), and suppression of the immune system.
UVB : These sunrays burn the outer layer of the skin and is known for playing a key role in the development of skin cancer.
How to read PA ratings
PA ratings are usually followed by + signs. These ratings have been developed in Japan to represent how much UVA protection your sunblock and sunscreen has.
UVA are known as the sun’s silent killers that causes your skin to turn your skin brown and penetrate deeply on your skin. To enlighten you further, here are what these + signs mean:
PA+ = Some UVA protection.
PA++ = Moderate UVA protection.
PA+++ = High UVA protection.
PA++++ = Extremely High UVA protection
Do you get sunburnt in Singapore?
While it is true that sunburnt skin is not a popular sight in Singapore, but yes, you can still get sunburnt here if you are out in the sun for long.
The main reason for this may be the fact that Singapore, close to the equator, has a tropical climate and high levels of humidity.
This combination means that you will usually perspire more than usual, which then leads to excessive exposure to ultra violet rays.
Additionally, not everywhere in Singapore have natural shady areas where people can take cover from the harsh sun's rays.
What SPF is enough for Singapore?
When it comes to staying protected from the sun's harmful rays in Singapore, it's recommended to opt for a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30.
This will provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, and provide the most effective sun protection regardless of your skin type.
However, if you plan to be out in the sun for long periods of time or your skin is very fair, opting for an SPF of 50 or higher is a better option.
Whichever SPF you opt for, make sure to reapply sunscreen every two hours, and after swimming or perspiring for maximum protection.
Is sun block the same as sun protection?
Sunblock and sun protection are similar but not exactly the same. Sunblock is a type of sun protection that physically blocks or reflects UV rays, while sun protection refers to any method or product that helps to prevent skin damage from the sun.
Sun protection can include using sunblock, but it can also include wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, avoiding the sun during peak hours, and staying hydrated. Sun protection can also refer to using products that contain antioxidants or other ingredients that help to protect the skin from UV damage.
So while sunblock is a type of sun protection, there are many other ways to protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays.
What are the disadvantages of sun block?
There are a few potential disadvantages of using sunblock, including:
- Skin irritation: Some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions to certain ingredients in sunblock.
- Vitamin D deficiency: Sunblock can prevent the skin from producing vitamin D, which is important for bone health.
- Environmental impact: Some sunblock ingredients can be harmful to the environment, especially to coral reefs.
- Cost: Sunblock can be expensive, especially if you use it regularly.
- Effectiveness: Sunblock is not always 100% effective at protecting against UV rays, and it can wear off or be washed off over time.
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