29 Best Japanese Sunscreens For Every Skin Type

by Tabitha Wilders | LIFESTYLE

It's that time of the year again! Whether you’re ready to catch some serious rays, or struggling to cover up, there’s no denying the importance of an all-season must-have: sunscreen.

Japanese sunscreen, in particular, has become something of a cult favorite among beautyholics and skincare aficionados worldwide, thanks to their high SPF rating, weightlessness, moisturizing ingredients, and versatility as a makeup primer.

You’ll notice that in addition to SPF factor, Japanese sunblock also uses PA (Protection Grade of UVA), a four level rating to measure protection from the sun’s UVA rays.

With so many choices on the market, there’s bound to be confusion. But don’t worry: we’ve selected 40 of the best Japanese sunscreens that you can buy online, and divided them by skin type. So whether you have acne-prone skin, oily skin, dry skin or sensitive skin; light or dark complextion; or if you want to know where to buy Japanese sunscreen for kids or mature skin, we’ve got you covered!

Our editors independently researched and recommend the best products. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links at no additional cost to you.

- Acne-prone Skin -

1. Watery Essence by Bioré (SPF 50 + / PA++++)

True to its name, Bioré Watery Essence Sunscreen is so weightless and hydrating, it’s as if you’re splashing water onto your face whenever you apply it. The high water content of this milky formula keeps oil at bay, ideal if you have oily or acne-prone skin.

Bioré Watery Essence – Available at Amazon

2. UV Perfect Gel by Hada Labo (SPF50+ PA++++)

This acne-prone skin-friendly sunscreen is light, non-drying, and non-irritating for all-day comfort. It won't cause breakouts, leaving no white cast while keeping skin moisturized. Enjoy the sensation of applying a luxurious gel moisturizer for a truly delightful skincare routine.

UV Perfect Gel - Available on Amazon

3. Perfect UV Skin Care Spray by Anessa (SPF 50 + / PA++++)

Ideal for acne-prone skin, this sunscreen spray offers a delightful floral scent and effective UV protection. Its air-light aerosol design ensures effortless reapplication. Try this sunscreen and you might just never go back to using gel or cream formulas!

Perfect UV Skin Care Spray - Available on Amazon

4. Super Moisture UV Gel by Skin Aqua (SPF50+ PA++++)

Finding a sunscreen that won't irritate acne-prone skin can be challenging. But your search ends here! The Super Moisture UV Gel is a waterproof, gentle sunscreen ideal for acne-prone skin, as it won't cause breakouts. Its lightweight texture will make you feel like you're not wearing anything at all!

Super Moisture UV Gel – Available at Amazon

5. UV Face Protector by RMK (SPF 50 + / PA++++)

If clogged pores are a concern of yours but you still want to protect your skin from the harsh sunlight, the UV Face Protector might just be the sunscreen you were looking for. A great sunscreen that goes on like silk and dries immediately, this one will protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays and will not clog up your pores.

UV Face Protector – Available at Amazon

6. Shikulime Oil-Free Moisturizer by Shiseido (SPF 30)

What’s better than a 2-in-1 product? This Color Control Oil-Free Moisturizer SPF 30 offers UVA/UVB protection and 8-hour hydration. This oil-free tinted moisturizer hydrates, perfects, and protects skin. Its color-transforming formula provides a sheer tint that blurs imperfections, absorbs excess sebum, and adapts to each skin tone for a luminous, even complexion.

Shikulime Oil-Free Moisturizer – Available at Amazon

- Oily Skin -

7. Perfect UV Skin Care Milk by Anessa (SPF 50 + / PA++++)

If you have oily skin and can’t stand how most sunscreens make you look like a literal hot mess, then Anessa’s Perfect UV Skin Care Milk might live up to its name for you. What’s not to love about this sunscreen? Well, for starters, it’s a mattifying dual-layer formula that's lightweight, non-greasy, waterproof, and it won't leave you with embarrassing oil slicks across your forehead and cheeks. Perfect UV Skin Care Milk a is SPF 50 + / PA++++.

Perfect UV Skin Care Milk – Available at Amazon

8. Sun Dual Care by Shiseido (SPF 42)

Ideal for oily skin, Shiseido’s Oil-Free Sunscreen, protects, hydrates, and mattifies while doubling as a face primer. Water-resistant for 40 minutes, non-comedogenic, it shields from UVA/UVB rays and pollution, enhancing hydration for soft, matte skin.

Sun Dual Care – Available at Amazon

9. Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen by Tatcha (SPF35/PA+++)

For those who get super oily around the T-zone area, you need a sunscreen that will control the oil and keep your makeup in place without it melting away. Behold the UV Aqua Rich Light Up Essence. Simply use this brightening, waterproof sunscreen. Then, apply setting powder all over your face and just see the difference for yourself!

Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscree – Available at Amazon

10. Super Water Gel by Nivea (SPF 50 / PA +++)

While milky sunscreen formulas have great mattifying properfires, those of us with oily skin shouldn’t overlook a quality gel sunscreen. Unlike milky formulas, gel sunscreens tend to wash off easily with soap and water, like Nivea Super Water Gel. Its formula is 75% water-based and it uses 2 forms of hyaluronic acid to keep the skin moisturized all day long. Nivea Super Water Gel is rated SPF 50 PA +++ and goes on clear, leaving a fresh, dewy finish.

Super Water Gel – Available at Amazon

11. UV CUT Sunscreen On Face Moist by Orbis (SPF 34/PA +++)

Perfect for oily skin, this sunscreen is resistant to sweat and sebum. It doubles as a makeup base, is easily removable with a face wash, and spreads smoothly without being oily.

UV CUT Sunscreen On Face Moist – Available at Amazon

- Dry Skin -

12. Allie Extra Gel UV Sunscreen by Kanebo (SPF 50+ / PA++++)

Nourish dry, parched skin with Kanebo Allie Extra UV Gel Sunscreen, one of Japan’s best-selling sunscreens. This gel-like lotion leaves skin with a healthy, dewy finish. This is also a great sunscreen for everyday use in colder climates to protect and moisturize dry skin, thanks to hyaluronic acid and collagen in its formula.

Allie Extra Gel UV Sunscreen – Available at Amazon

13. Sun Shelter Multi Protection Sunscreen by Decorte (SPF 50+ / PA++++)

Decorte is a premium brand who uses both natural and synthetic ingredients in a responsible way. This sunscreen with zinc oxide blocks ultraviolet rays and locks in the moisture. Especially suitable for dry skin, the lightweight sunscreen will leave a subtle radiance to your skin.

Sun Shelter Multi Protection Sunscreen – Available at Amazon

14. Sunkiller Perfect Water Essence Sunscreen Gel by Isehan (SPF 50+ / PA++++)

The aptly named Sunkiller Perfect Water Essence Sunscreen Gel is rated SPF50+ PA++++ and blocks both UVA and UVB rays which can accelerate skin damage through overexposure. It is an alcohol-free gel-based formula that contains 3 kinds of hyaluronic acid to nourish dry, parched skin.

Sunkiller Sunscreen Gel – Available at Amazon

15. Super Moisture Milk by Skin Aqua (SPF50+ / PA ++++)

Skin Aqua’s Super Moisture Milk is ideal for active types with dry skin. Ithas a “super waterproof” and hydrating milk-based formula which contains two kinds of hyaluronic acids, amino acids, and collagen. Super Moisture Milk offers the highest form of sun protection and can be used on both the face and body to keep harmful UV rays at bay.

Super Moisture Milk – Available at Amazon

16. UV Perfect Essence by Suncut Kose (SPF 50+/PA ++++)

This unscented, waterproof sunscreen offers superior moisture with a thicker formula. It provides a radiant glow and reliable sun protection, preventing burns. Ideal for daily use, it layers smoothly under makeup without any issues.

Ultra Perfect Essence – Available at Amazon

17. Super Moisture Essence by Skin Aqua (SPF 50+ / PA++++)

Skin Aqua Rohto New Sunscreen Super Moisture Essence is a hydrating, lightly scented tinted makeup base that brightens the complexion as it protects from the sun’s rays. Use as a BB cream or tinted moisturizer to simplify your makeup routine.

Super Moisture Essence – Available at Amazon

- Sensitive Skin -

18. UV Milk by Curel (SPF30 / PA++)

Perfect for sensitive skin, this lightweight, preservative-free sunscreen offers superior UV protection. It's ideal for wearing under makeup, providing a moisturizing, non-irritating formula. Worth every penny for its gentle and effective care, ensuring your skin stays protected and comfortable all day.

Sunguard 50+ Protect UV - Available on Amazon

19. Moisture UV Sunscreen Mild Gel by Shiseido Anessa (SPF 35 / PA+++)

The Moisture UV Sunscreen Mild Gel has a mild formula making it safe for those with sensitive skin. With an SPF 35+ PA+++, the super moisturizing gel-like consistently will coat the skin evenly without any oily or thick after-feel. It’s fragrance-free, additive-free, colorant-free and can be easily removed with face wash or soap.

Moisture UV Sunscreen Mild Gel – Available at Amazon

20. Mommy UV Aqua Milk (SPF 50+ / PA++++)

This sun lotion provides advanced protection against UVA/UVB rays, pollution, and dryness. The invisible, lightweight sunscreen is perfect for the face and body. This high SPF formula glides on smoothly for effortless application and provides superior sun protection.

Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion – Available at Amazon

21. Nuance Change UV Gel by Allie (SPF 50+ / PA++++)

It’s not uncommon to come across Japanese sunscreens that also function as color correctors and Allie Nuance Change UV Gel is an example of a tinted sunscreen that does more than protect the skin from UV Rays. This is a waterproof and “friction-proof” gel sunscreen that leaves a glowing, pearlescent finish on the skin and creates a natural rosy complexion.

Nuance Change UV Gel - Available on Amazon

22. Perfect UV Sunscreen Mild Milk by Shiseido Anessa (SPF 50+ / PA++++)

Another sunscreen by Shiseido Anessa that works equally well for sensitive skin-types. The hypoallergenic formulation of this sunscreen along with it being additive-free, fragrance-free, and colorant-free makes this a safe option for sensitive skin. This super waterproof sunscreen will leave a silky smooth finish to the skin.

Perfect UV Sunscreen Mild Milk – Available at Amazon

23. Mermaid Skin Gel UV by Canmake (SPF 50+ / PA ++++)

Say goodbye to white cast with Mermaid Skin Gel UV, the holy grail for sensitive skin. This affordable, moisturizing sunscreen blends seamlessly, won't burn skin or eyes, and leaves a beautiful glow. It can even replace your regular moisturizer.

Mermaid Skin Gel UV - Available on Amazon

- Mature Skin -

24. Tone Up Brightening UV Sunscreen Gel by Shiseido Anessa (SPF 50+ / PA++++)

Containing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, collagen, and tea extract, this lavender-scented sunscreen is both moisturizing and anti-aging. It’s also waterproof and sweatproof, but can still be removed using face wash. Tone and brighten your skin while also protecting it from the harsh UV rays using this sunscreen gel!

Tone Up Brightening UV Sunscreen Gel – Available at Amazon

25. Clear Sunscreen Stick by Shiseido (SPF 50+)

Infused with naturally-derived skincare ingredients to prevent signs of aging, this sunscreen stick is perfect for mature skin. Customers love its clear, residue-free formula. Convenient, portable, and wearable under makeup for broad-spectrum protection anytime, anywhere.

Clear Sunscreen Stick - Available on Amazon

26. The Silk Sunscreen by Tatcha (SPF 50 PA++++)

The Silk Sunscreen hydrates and visibly evens skin tone with its light-as-air formula. This mineral, reef-safe sunscreen uses zinc oxide to protect against UVA and UVB rays. Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, it's crafted with kind-to-skin ingredients.

The Silk Sunscreen- Available on Amazon

27. Mermaid Skin Gel UV by Canmake (SPF 50+ PA++++)

Dive into freshness with this mermaid princess-inspired sunscreen gel. Smooth and non-sticky, it’s perfect for a refreshing feel. Doubles as a makeup base with a powerful vitamin C derivative to correct dullness, even skin tone, and smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leaving you radiant and ready.

Mermaid Skin Gel UV - Available on Amazon

28. Herbal UV Defense Gel by Sekkisei (SPF40)

Known for being one of the best Japanese anti-aging sunscreens on the market, this powerful sunscreen creates a smooth veil on the skin and prevents dark spots and freckles caused by sun damage. It also provides excellent protection against irritation and dryness.

Herbal UV Defense Gel - Available on Amazon

29. Super Moisture UV Gel by Skin Aqua (SPF 50+ PA++++)

Highly praised, this Japanese sunscreen is enriched with hyaluronic acid and collagen to keep your skin hydrated and plump. The water-resistant formula offers UVA and UVB protection for up to 80 minutes. The convenient pump dispenser ensures a perfect, contamination-free application every time.

Super Moisture UV Gel - Available on Amazon

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