Using sunscreen is arguably the most important step in a skincare routine. More than expensive creams and serums, an effective sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor of at least 30 is one of the most efficient ways to maintain youthful, glowing, and healthy skin. After all, prevention is better than a cure.
No matter the time of year, our skin remains vulnerable to the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation (UV) from the sun. UV rays also penetrate clouds and glass, meaning SPF is important even on cloudy days or indoors near windows—contrary to the popular belief that sunscreen is just a product you need at the beach or outside.
Sunburn, no matter how intense, can cause lasting damage to the outer layers of the skin, making it both painful in the days following prolonged exposure, and harmful for the body in the long run. Long-term exposure to UV radiation increases the risk of skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.
UV rays also penetrate deep into the skin and break down collagen and elastin, leading to premature skin aging. Wrinkles, fine lines, sagging, age spots, as well as dark spots, and an uneven skin tone are just some of the signs that your skin is suffering from sun damage. SPF helps reduce this risk by minimizing DNA damage to skin cells and adding a protective layer against the rays that try to penetrate the skin.
Generally speaking, you should choose a broad-spectrum SPF that protects against both UVA and UVB (two types of UV radiation that are both linked to skin cancer) with at least SPF 30 for optimal skin support. Slather on and reapply every 2 hours when outdoors, or after swimming or sweating. But, do recall to wait at least around 15 minutes after application before going out. Make sure to cover areas that are often overlooked, like your neck and your chest—basically any part of your skin that gets exposed and is not hidden by the clothing you wear. But more than that, also consider other factors and ingredients that may affect you depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and climate.
Here are some affordable options to explore and add to your roster of everyday suncare essentials.
READ: 7 summer beauty products to cool you down in the Manila heat
Sunnies Face Sunsafe
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This sunscreen is a lightweight and invisible SPF 50+ PA+++ serum gel with a transparent formula that absorbs quickly without leaving a white cast. It is especially fit for our humid climate, making it suitable for all skin tones and ideal as a makeup primer.
Enriched with skin-loving ingredients like niacinamide, peptides, vitamin E, and photoceramides, it hydrates, smooths, and strengthens the skin barrier while providing broad-spectrum sun protection. Dermatologically tested, fragrance-free, and vegan, Sunsafe is a clean and effective suncare choice for daily sun defense.
Dermorepubliq DermoSun Mattifying Sunscreen
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This TikTok-famous suncare product is a refreshing and broad-spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ sunscreen designed for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin, working well under makeup without clogging pores. It provides effective UVA/UVB protection while controlling excess oil and shine for a smooth, matte finish.
The formula is fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and enriched with skin-friendly ingredients like Majestem™, Acnacidol™ BG, Alpha-Arbutin, Evermat™, vitamin E, and titanium dioxide to brighten skin, reduce pores, regulate sebum, and protect against environmental damage.
Pond’s UV Miracle Sunscreens
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This dynamic duo is designed to provide high sun protection with SPF 50 PA++++ while delivering moisturizing and repairing solutions for your skin at the same time. The sunscreen has a creamy texture and is fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and contains no parabens, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
For intense hydration, the hyaluronic acid variant offers triple hydration for a fresh, dewy finish. For addressing uneven skin tone, the brightening variant with Niasorcinol™—a revolutionary ingredient from Pond’s Skin Institute—is clinically proven to fade and remove sun spots and dark spots when used daily.
Human Nature’s Natural Mineral Sunscreen SPF30 PA++++
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While being gentle on the environment, this 100 percent natural, reef-safe sunscreen is a conscientious choice for those seeking effective sun protection with organic ingredients. It utilizes zinc oxide as its primary active ingredient, but it is also enriched with natural emollients like coconut oil, sunflower seed oil, and beeswax, offering hydration and a smooth application.
Free from harmful chemicals such as parabens, synthetic fragrances, and oxybenzone, it is suitable for sensitive skin and children over six months old. The suncare product is also water-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Dewha AquaBoost 2-In-1 Sunscreen Serum
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This hybrid skincare product, formulated with SPF50 PA+++, offers sun protection with hydrating and brightening benefits with its unique two-in-one approach. The lightweight, non-greasy serum is enriched with vitamin C and niacinamide, which help brighten the skin and even out skin tone. Its water- and sweat-resistant formula makes it suitable for daily use, providing a clear, natural finish with or without makeup.
Ideal for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, it is gentle and delicate on the complexion. The product is vegan and alcohol-free, aligning with Dewha’s commitment to clean beauty.
+ful Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
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Formulated with four UV filters, it offers SPF 50+ and PA++++ ratings, ensuring effective defense against sun damage. The inclusion of niacinamide helps brighten skin and even out skin tone, while centella asiatica (Cica) soothes and repairs the skin barrier. Additionally, the product is enriched with vitamin E, known for its antioxidant properties.
This sunscreen is free from alcohol, parabens, fragrances, and silicones, making it suitable for users with sensitive skin. Its non-comedogenic formula ensures it won’t clog pores, and its lightweight texture absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue.
SOLA Cushion Ultra Matte SPF50+ PA+++
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This is a versatile, lightweight foundation that combines sun protection, coverage, and skincare benefits in one product. The cushion foundation provides medium to full coverage, effectively concealing blemishes and imperfections without a heavy or cakey feel. Enriched with four types of algae, it helps hydrate and nourish the skin, promoting a healthy glow. The formula is designed to be non-greasy, sweat-proof, and transfer-proof, ensuring long-lasting wear for up to 18 hours.
Available in two shades—Light Beige and Sand Beige—it caters to a range of skin tones. The suncare product is suitable for daily use, offering a convenient and effective solution for those seeking versatile makeup essentials with added sun protection.
