The 5 Sunscreens That You’ll Never Forget to Apply

Underneath the relentless Southeast Asian heat, sunscreen becomes less of a beach essential and more of an everyday ritual. 

And it’s not just enough that you slap it on once before heading out—with how intense the sun is like here, applying twice or thrice within the day is imperative.

You’d also want a product that’s easy to use and apply, gets absorbed quickly, and doesn’t become sticky or leave a white cast. And with how hot it gets, not only should they protect you, but they should also hydrate your skin.

That said, here are some VMAN-approved sunscreens for your consideration:

Standard Procedure SPF 50+ Sunscreen

Best for intense heat 

The name says it all, reminding you that sunscreen should be a regular habit. And Standard Procedure knows what they’re talking about, because they’re already 40 years in the business. 

Made in Australia, where sun safety is mandated from a young age, Standard Procedure is formulated with antioxidants and vitamins A, B, and C. With SPF 50+, it is designed to protect you from the harshest elements.

Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick

Best for a clean finish

Sun sticks are mess-free and convenient to use, and Shiseido’s Clear Sunscreen Stick doesn’t leave that white residue that’s hard to clean up. Reapplying it is as easy as making a few swipes. 

The product’s protective veil becomes stronger when it senses water and heat. Infused with skincare ingredients, the Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick also prevents dark spots, dullness, and other signs of skin aging. 

Innisfree Green Tea Hyaluronic Sun Serum

Best in delivering multiple benefits

This product combines the protective properties of sunscreen with the boosting benefits of a serum. Innisfree’s Green Tea Hyaluronic Sun Serum hydrates your skin and shields it from the sun, absorbed quickly without leaving a white cast. 

Packed with green tea extract and hyaluronic acid, this mild sunscreen-serum hybrid is fragrance-free and safe for sensitive skin.

POND’S Hyaluron Sunscreen

Best for hydration and protection

Now here’s a practical option that does a lot for less. POND’s Hyaluron Sunscreen is protective, lightweight, and hydrating, leaving no residue on your skin and making you look chipper throughout the day.

Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk

Best in texture

Quickly absorbed by skin and water-resistant, this sunscreen strengthens its UV protection properties when exposed to swear, water, heat, and humidity. It also applies evenly on skin, keeping a smooth, protective surface that doesn’t get tacky.

It’s considered one of the ‘gold’ standards for sunscreens, and that goes beyond the packaging’s color—for over two decades, Anessa has been Japan’s top sunscreen brand.

Photos courtesy Standard Procedure, Shiseido, Innisfree, POND’S, Anessa