Sunscreen is a crucial aspect of skincare many young people often overlook. After all, we can’t really see the damage that UV rays cause to our skin until it’s too late so it’s imperative that we start the habit of wearing sunscreen.
Even so, buying sunscreen can also be very overwhelming, especially when you see the countless brands and products displayed in your local drugstore.
So how exactly does sunscreen work? What does SPF mean? More importantly, how do you choose what sunscreen is best for you?
Don’t worry, we’re here to explain. Let’s start with a brief overview on what sunscreen actually does and guide you through picking what’s best for you.
What Does Sunscreen Do?
Sunscreens work primarily to block and absorb UV rays depending on the type of sunscreen you choose.
Sunscreens have two different classifications: physical and chemical. Neither are objectively better than the other, only depending on your own preference and skin type.
What are UV Rays and SPF?
UV rays are divided into two: UVA and UVB. UVB rays are the main cause for sunburn.
SPF or Sun Protection Factor is a measure of how well the sunscreen protects your skin against UV rays. The higher the number, the more protection it grants you.
However, this doesn’t mean that a 130 SPF sunscreen blocks 100% of UV rays. In fact, most sunscreens only give protection to UVB rays unless specified otherwise.
Therefore, we should opt for a broad spectrum protection sunscreen. Ideally, a 50 SPF sunscreen that blocks UVA and UVB rays is considered good enough for daily use.
Now that you know the difference, we’ve compiled a list of sunscreens from the iconic brand Sunplay, who offers a broad range of products that are tailor-made to suit YOUR preferences. Let’s check them out!
- Sunplay Skin Aqua UV Tinted Base SPF 50
@ni.sya__ on Instagram
The Sunplay Skin Aqua SPF50 is a sunscreen that provides both UVA and UVB protection. Not only that, it brightens, moisturises and is anti-pollutant, making it perfect for daily wear when you’re on the go. It has a weightless feel, gliding smoothly over your skin from its gel-like consistency.
- Suitable for: people constantly on the go, city-dwellers, busy business people, daily, casual wear.
- Can be used on face and body
- Not water resistant
- Alcohol-free
Buy HERE!
- Sunplay Skin Aqua UV WATERY ESSENCE SPF50/PA++++
For friends with dry skin or combination skin, we got you. The Sunplay Skin Aqua UV Watery Essence is perfect for anyone who’s skin runs on the temperamental side. It is specially formulated to provide a cooling feeling upon application – perfectly suitable for humid countries (like Malaysia) and is super gentle on the skin. Furthermore, it contains hyaluronic acid – an ingredient that moisturises and hydrates the skin, preventing it from drying up or overproducing oil.
- Suitable for: People with sensitive, dry or combination skin. People who prefer water-based products.
- Has hyaluronic acid for hydration
- Provides cooling sensation on application
- Not water-resistant
Buy HERE!
- Ultra Shield SPF 130 Lotion
Perpetually tied to the outdoors? Love sweating it out in the open sun? Then the Sunplay Ultra Shield SPF 130 lotion is for you. Equipped with the wet skin technology, it penetrates through sweat and water on your skin and forms a protective barrier. In addition, it’s also light in texture, fast-absorbing and non-greasy for comfortable all-day wear.
- Suitable for: Outdoor sports activities, long hours under the sun.
- Infused with aloe vera and vitamin E to keep skin hydrated and healthy
- Soothing sensation on skin
- Lightweight and non-greasy
- Also comes in body mist / spray
- Portable packaging
Buy HERE!
- Sunplay Sport SPF 120
For the inner Sporty Spice in all of us – especially those who like to get wet and wild. Similar to the Ultra Shield SPF 130, the Sport SPF 120 is specially formulated to penetrate any existing water on your skin and form a protective barrier on your skin. Say goodbye to sunburn when practicing for that swimming marathon.
- Suitable for: Water sports enthusiasts, outdoor sports
- Light & fast absorbing
- Non-greasy
- Instant cooling & drying
- Slight mint sent & dry to the touch
- Portable packaging
- Used on face and body
- Also comes in body mist / spray
Buy HERE!
- Sunplay Skin Aqua Tone Up UV Essence SPF50++++
right: @rishmsd on Instagram
For those who appreciate an all-in-one sunscreen, the Sunplay Skin Aqua Tone Up UV Essence SPF 50++++ is perfect for you. You might remember that this was all the rage in Japanese skincare trends a while ago, not only because it’s super functional but also because the packaging itself is Instagram-worthy! The Skin Aqua Tone Up UV Essence doubles as a sunscreen and a colour-corrector that brightens the skin for a more photogenic look. When applied evenly, the result is beautifully airbrushed and even-toned skin that discards the necessity of foundation or any powder.
- Suitable for: Instagram-ready pictures, looking put together without extra effort, going out for day functions, daily wear
- Water resistant and ultra lightweight
- Non-sticky, quick absorption
- Fast colour-correction and brightening of skin
- No overpowering fragrances and gentle formula
Buy HERE!
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We hope that this little guide and recommendation will help you choose what sunscreen works for YOU. Life is way too short and complicated to be plagued with the consequences of not protecting your skin. Good luck!