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The beauty community may be abuzz right now over the latest in K-beauty, but Japan (not to pit two queens against each other) is just as much a hub of skin-care innovation as its neighbor. The best Japanese sunscreen, in particular, shines, with many travelers stocking up on their trips to the island—or going as far as asking friends to bring these coveted cosmetic staples back to the States for them.
Our Top Picks
Japan has strict sunscreen regulations to ensure high standards and qualities for safety and effectiveness. “Many brands in Japan use advanced UV filters and innovative technology to make sunscreen hypoallergenic and multifunctional, meaning it can nourish your skin, moisturize, protect your skin from pollution, and even work like a primer,” explains licensed esthetician Kyoko Getz.
Japanese sunscreens also offer a sensorial experience, often featuring a milky, lightweight texture that effortlessly melts into the skin. Similar to Korean sunscreens, they frequently incorporate skin-nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and antioxidants. “These additives bolster sun protection and contribute to overall skin health, providing hydration and combating signs of aging,” says Superegg founder and licensed esthetician Erica Choi. (I really wanted to gate-keep these picks, but alas, my editor said that went against the Hippocratic oath of editorial.) Below, ten of our favorite Japanese sunscreens.
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Best Overall: Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free SPF 42
- Why We Love It: Shiseido has long been a pioneer in the sunscreen market and continues to lead today. “I remember my mom using Shiseido sunscreen when I was young, and I’ve loved it ever since,” says Choi. The current version has a thin, watery consistency infused with hyaluronic acid for added hydration. It’s gentle around the eyes, and oil-free, making it perfect for those who prefer a lighter feel and a matte finish on their skin.
- SPF Level: SPF 42
- Texture: Lightweight liquid
- Chemical or Physical: Physical and chemical
Best Hybrid: Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen
- Why We Love It: There’s nothing more refreshing than this milky-smooth sunscreen in the mornings, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outside. Getz is also a fan, “I use it for my décolleté, arms, etc., during outdoor activities because it’s easy to spread and has a non-sticky texture.” The brand has self-described it as perfect, and they’re right—no notes!
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Milky smooth
- Chemical or Physical: Physical and chemical
Best For Layering: Addiction Tokyo Skin Protector SPF 50+
- Why We Love It: “This one is amazingly lightweight, transparent, hydrating, and can layer with other products, my absolute favorite,” says Getz. We echo her sentiments—there’s no stickiness or white cast upon application. If you’re planning to wear a lot of makeup, this sunscreen layers wonderfully and gives your skin a radiance that oftentimes only therapy and dealing with your inner demons can provide.
- SPF Level: SPF 50+
- Texture: Light and non-sticky
- Chemical or Physical: Chemical
Best Chemical: Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunscreen SPF
- Why We Love It: One of Getz’s favorites—she always has extras at home—this is a water-based, gel-type formulation with its innovative “micro defense” technology that spreads easily and evenly onto the skin for superior protection.
- SPF Level: SPF 50+
- Texture: Light texture with a smooth finish
- Chemical or Physical: Chemical
Best Waterproof: Kose Suncut UV Perfect Essence SPF 50+
- Why We Love It: For those with summer plans far more exciting than my own, this waterproof sunscreen will definitely come in handy. Choi agrees, “I prefer using this sunscreen in the summer when I’m active or near water because it’s waterproof.” It also has an SPF of 50, so you don’t have to worry about constantly reapplying it. “It’s not something I use daily, but I appreciate that it still feels lightweight on the skin.”
- SPF Level: SPF 50+
- Texture: Lightweight yet potent
- Chemical or Physical: Chemical
Best Primer: Isehan Kiss Me Sunkiller Perfect Water Essence
- Why We Love It: This weightless sunscreen gel contains not one, but three different types of hyaluronic acid. It melts into the skin and layers well with makeup, doubling as a foundation primer. Plus, at the end of the day, it comes off easily—no need to tug at your skin to remove it.
- SPF Level: SPF 50+
- Texture: Gel
- Chemical or Physical: Physical and chemical
Best Lightweight: Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Why We Love It: Another gel formulation that Getz adores: “It is very lightweight and works well as a primer, too.” And at under $12, you can use it generously (as you always should with sunscreen) without worrying about breaking the bank.
- SPF Level: SPF 50+
- Texture: Smooth gel
- Chemical or Physical: Chemical
Best Splurge: Tatcha The Silk Sunscreen SPF 50
- Why We Love It: This mineral sunscreen is so airy you’ll forget you ever applied it, except for the fact that your skin will look more radiant. It’s a broad-spectrum mineral option, so you’re protected from pesky environmental stressors. Plus, with continued use, you’ll notice that your skin tone may appear more even over time.
- SPF Level: 50
- Texture: Cream
- Chemical or Physical: Physical and chemical
Best Hydrating: Koh Gen Do Watery Spa UV SPF 50+
- Why We Love It: This sunscreen gel is waterproof and has a lovely silky texture. Choi raves, “It belongs to the spa series, which includes other favorites of mine, like their cleansing water and wipes.” The spa series features a blend of hot spring water and herbal extracts that quench parched skin with much-needed hydration.
- SPF Level: SPF 50+
- Texture: Fresh and light gel
- Chemical or Physical: Physical
Best Gel: Nivea Sun Protect Super Water Gel SPF 50
- Why We Love It: Getz recommends this product not only for the face but also for the body. It doesn’t leave any sticky feel and gives the skin a beautiful sheen. “Since it is formulated without mineral oil, synthetic fragrance, and synthetic color, and contains hyaluronic acid, it should be great for people with sensitive or reactive skin.”
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Gel
- Chemical or Physical: Chemical
Why are Japanese sunscreens better?
Japanese sunscreens are renowned globally for their efficacy and user-friendly formulations. Choi explains that they typically offer SPF 50, ensuring robust protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, they use the PA rating system, with many achieving the highest grade of PA++++, indicating strong defense against UVA rays that cause skin aging and long-term damage. Plus, these sunscreens utilize advanced filters that have not yet been approved by the FDA.
“Their lightweight textures absorb quickly into the skin, making them ideal for everyday use, whether under makeup or alone, especially in extremely hot summer weather. This enhances comfort and encourages consistent use,” Choi says.
What to Look for in Japanese sunscreens
SPF Level
Unlike American sunscreens, Japanese sunscreens include both SPF (Sun Protection Factor) and PA (Protection Grade of UVA) information on the product label. While it might seem redundant, Choi explains that PA is a rating system used on Japanese sunscreens to indicate the level of protection against UVA rays. SPF measures protection against UVB rays, so you can find perfect protection against both UVA and UVB by checking the SPF and PA info on the label. The PA scale ranges from PA+ (some UVA protection) to PA++++ (extremely high UVA protection).
