Sunscreen prevents sun damage, which includes sunburns, wrinkles, and age spots. If you’re still looking for which sunscreen to buy, then check out our very own local sunscreens. Local brand sunscreens have stepped up their game and produced formulas that are on par with international brands.
Nowadays, you can find local sunscreen that’s reef-safe and even tinted ones! To help you with your shopping, take a look at the best local sunblocks that made it to our top 10 list. If you are still having trouble making up your mind, be sure to read through our buying guide to know what to consider—we also included tips and insights from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan!
Graduated Dermatology Residency from University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan is a diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society. She is also a consultant and the Section Head of the Dermatology Section in Amai Pakpak Medical Center.
Dr. Aznaida is also a part-time faculty of Xavier University-JPRSM. Aside from that, she is also the co-founder of Pandapatan Dermatology Clinic in Marawi City. She is passionate about skin health and skincare and dreams of world peace. Like and follow her on her Instagram and Facebook page to know more about her practice!
The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide. For ranks 1 to 3, in addition to the buying guide, we also referred to more than 100 reviews in Lazada to come up with their respective rankings.
**Prices may vary depending on the website and their campaign period**
From ₱282
mybest Rating | 4.9 ★★★★ |
---|---|
Volume | 50 mL |
Best for | All including Sensitive Skin |
Broad Spectrum | Yes |
SPF Rating | 60 |
PA Level | PA ++++ |
Type | Mineral |
Formulation | Not Indicated |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
For Face or Body | Both |
Other Features | Reef-Friendly |
From ₱440
mybest Rating | 4.8 ★★★★ |
---|---|
Volume | 150 mL |
Best for | All including Sensitive Skin |
Broad Spectrum | Yes |
SPF Rating | 100 |
PA Level | PA ++ |
Type | Chemical |
Formulation | Spray |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
For Face or Body | Both |
Other Features | Ultra-sensitive, Hypoallergenic, Sweatproof, Waterproof |
From ₱279.75
mybest Rating | 4.8 ★★★★ |
---|---|
Volume | 50 g |
Best for | Sensitive Skin |
Broad Spectrum | Yes |
SPF Rating | 30 |
PA Level | PA ++++ |
Type | Mineral |
Formulation | Not Indicated |
Water-Resistant | No |
For Face or Body | Both |
Other Features | Reef-Friendly, All-Natural |
Image | 1 Belo | 2 Beach Hut | 3 Human Nature |
---|---|---|---|
Name | SunExpert Reef-Friendly Sunscreen SPF60 | Sunblock MAX SPF100++ | SafeProtect SPF30 |
Features | A Strong Sunscreen and Reef-Friendly Sunscreen With SPF 60 and PA++++ | High SPF Rating and Sweat-Resistance for Total Sun Protection | A Beach-Friendly and All-Natural Sunscreen Recommended for Sensitive Skin |
Price Starts at | ₱282 | ₱440 | ₱279.75 |
mybest Rating | 4.9 ★★★★ | 4.8 ★★★★ | 4.8 ★★★★ |
Volume | 50 mL | 150 mL | 50 g |
Best for | All including Sensitive Skin | All including Sensitive Skin | Sensitive Skin |
Broad Spectrum | Yes | Yes | Yes |
SPF Rating | 60 | 100 | 30 |
PA Level | PA ++++ | PA ++ | PA ++++ |
Type | Mineral | Chemical | Mineral |
Formulation | Not Indicated | Spray | Not Indicated |
Water-Resistant | Yes | Yes | No |
For Face or Body | Both | Both | Both |
Other Features | Reef-Friendly | Ultra-sensitive, Hypoallergenic, Sweatproof, Waterproof | Reef-Friendly, All-Natural |
Link |
We have more product recommendations in store for you! Listed in no particular order, here are seven more of our recommended products carefully chosen by the mybest team.
From ₱499
Volume | 30 mL |
---|---|
Best for | All Skin Types |
Broad Spectrum | Yes |
SPF Rating | 30 |
PA Level | Not Indicated |
Type | Not Indicated |
Formulation | Cream |
Water-Resistant | No |
For Face or Body | Face |
Other Features | Hypoallergenic, Cruelty-Free, Paraben-Free, Vegan |
From ₱360
Volume | 100 mL |
---|---|
Best for | Dry Skin |
Broad Spectrum | Yes |
SPF Rating | 75 |
PA Level | Not Indicated |
Type | Mineral |
Formulation | Spray |
Water-Resistant | No |
For Face or Body | Face |
Other Features | Reef-Friendly, Baby Friendly |
From ₱799
Volume | 40 mL |
---|---|
Best for | All Skin Types |
Broad Spectrum | Yes |
SPF Rating | 50 |
PA Level | PA +++ |
Type | Mineral |
Formulation | Gel |
Water-Resistant | No |
For Face or Body | Face and Neck |
Other Features | Anti-Blue Light Technology |
From ₱270
Volume | 50 mL |
---|---|
Best for | All Skin Types |
Broad Spectrum | Yes |
SPF Rating | 80 |
PA Level | PA ++++ |
Type | Mineral |
Formulation | Cream |
Water-Resistant | No |
For Face or Body | Face |
Other Features | Cruelty-Free |
From ₱198
Volume | 100 mL |
---|---|
Best for | All Skin Types |
Broad Spectrum | Yes |
SPF Rating | 35 |
PA Level | Not Indicated |
Type | Not Indicated |
Formulation | Cream |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
For Face or Body | Both |
Other Features | Dermatologist-Tested, Scented |
From ₱349
Volume | 50 mL |
---|---|
Best for | Oily, Combination Skin |
Broad Spectrum | Yes |
SPF Rating | 50 |
PA Level | PA +++ |
Type | Not Indicated |
Formulation | Gel |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
For Face or Body | Both |
Other Features | Cruelty, Alcohol, and Paraben-Free |
From ₱349.3
Volume | 100 mL |
---|---|
Best for | Combination and Normal Skin |
Broad Spectrum | Yes |
SPF Rating | 50 |
PA Level | Not Indicated |
Type | Not Indicated |
Formulation | Spray |
Water-Resistant | No |
For Face or Body | Both |
Other Features | Helps Even Out Skin Tone With Papain |
Image | ![]() Luxe Organix | ![]() Zenutrients | ![]() Blk | Dermplus | ![]() RRAW | ![]() Lana | ![]() Happy Skin |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Name | Aqua Daily Sunscreen | Papaya Sunscreen SPF50 | Cosmetics Universal Skin Tint Sun Shield SPF 30 | Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 35 Scented | Skin Care Watermelon Liquid Sunblock SPF75 | Skin Protect Brightening Sunblock SPF 80 PA++++ UVA/UVB | Rescue Me Sun Gel Primer SPF 50 PA+++ with Anti-Blue Light Technology |
Features | A Lightweight and Fast-Absorbing Sunscreen That’s Great for Oily Skin | Broad Spectrum Protection With Papaya Extract for an Even Skin Tone | A Tinted Sunscreen for a Quicker Beauty Routine | A Lightly Scented Water-Resistant Sunscreen to Keep You Smelling Fresh | An Eco-Friendly and Refillable Option for People With Dry Skin | A Sunblock That Can Double as a Makeup Primer | Protects Skin From Harmful Rays and Harsh Blue Light |
Price Starts at | ₱349 | ₱349.3 | ₱499 | ₱198 | ₱360 | ₱270 | ₱799 |
Volume | 50 mL | 100 mL | 30 mL | 100 mL | 100 mL | 50 mL | 40 mL |
Best for | Oily, Combination Skin | Combination and Normal Skin | All Skin Types | All Skin Types | Dry Skin | All Skin Types | All Skin Types |
Broad Spectrum | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
SPF Rating | 50 | 50 | 30 | 35 | 75 | 80 | 50 |
PA Level | PA +++ | Not Indicated | Not Indicated | Not Indicated | Not Indicated | PA ++++ | PA +++ |
Type | Not Indicated | Not Indicated | Not Indicated | Not Indicated | Mineral | Mineral | Mineral |
Formulation | Gel | Spray | Cream | Cream | Spray | Cream | Gel |
Water-Resistant | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | No | No |
For Face or Body | Both | Both | Face | Both | Face | Face | Face and Neck |
Other Features | Cruelty, Alcohol, and Paraben-Free | Helps Even Out Skin Tone With Papain | Hypoallergenic, Cruelty-Free, Paraben-Free, Vegan | Dermatologist-Tested, Scented | Reef-Friendly, Baby Friendly | Cruelty-Free | Anti-Blue Light Technology |
Link |
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Sun protection factor, also known as SPF, is the rating used to tell how well a sunscreen can shield your skin. Note that these levels only apply to UVB rays. Experts recommend using products that have a minimum of SPF 30. This means it can block up to 97% of the sun’s rays.
Higher SPF numbers should not cause you too much of a worry. To give you an idea, products with SPF 45 shield against 98% of the UV rays, which is not much of a difference. To make the most out of your sunscreen, it is important to constantly retouch and apply the recommended amount.
Another term you may encounter is the PA system or Protection Grade of UVA. It is less common compared to SPF, but it measures the product’s protection from UVA rays. It ranges from PA+ to PA++++, with more plus signs meaning better protection. For moderate UVA protection, search for sunscreens that are PA++ or higher.
Not all radiations from the sun affect our skin the same way. These can be classified into two types - UVA and UVB. UVA goes deep into the skin has the capacity to age it. It causes wrinkle formation and age spots. Meanwhile, UVB rays can affect the skin’s upper layers and long exposure can cause skin burns that tend to peel.
To ensure your skin is well-protected, look for sunscreens labeled with ‘broad-spectrum’. This means it can effectively shield you from both types of UV rays, so keep this in mind when shopping for local sunscreens.
And if you want to take it a step further, some local sunscreens even produce formulas that protect against blue light emitted by computer and phone screens. This is particularly helpful for those attending online classes or those working from home.
Sunscreens should be a vital part of your morning skincare routine. That is why you must look for a sunscreen geared towards your skin type to make the most of it. Before you "add to cart" make sure your sunscreen contains the right ingredients.
Sunscreens are typically applied before any makeup. So, if you have dry or sensitive skin, it is important to get products with added moisturizers to keep your skin hydrated. They can also prevent any redness or irritation.
Check the ingredients list for humectants as they draw water to the skin and keep it from becoming dehydrated without being harsh on your skin. Look for ingredients like glycerin and ceramides for better moisture retention.
You could also look for natural plant moisturizers such as shea butter to boost the skin's moisture. Moreover, it is recommended to stay away from harsh ingredients that may irritate the skin such as parabens, fragrances, or alcohol. And check the label to see if it is safe for sensitive skin, hypoallergenic, or dermatologist-tested.
For people with oily or combination skin, get ones that have added oil-control ingredients. These include niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, which should help manage sebum production.
This also means staying away from ingredients that are too heavy such as coconut oil to avoid clogging your pores. And in terms of formulation, you should look for solutions that are lightweight to keep your skin from feeling greasy throughout the day.
What makes sunscreen different from regular lotion is its ability to block out the sun’s rays. There are two types of sunscreens that can do this - mineral and chemical. Read further below to see how they work.
Mineral or physical sunscreens, like those that use zinc oxide and titanium oxide, are preferable especially if you have sensitive skin as these ingredients tend to go easier on the skin, though they can leave a white cast. They're also considered reef-friendly if you plan on swimming on the beach.
When applied, these minerals sit on your skin and act as a physical barrier to bounce off the sun's rays and prevent sun damage. They work faster than chemical sunscreens since work as soon as they are slathered on. These particles, however, are too big to get deep into the skin so their protection only affects the skin’s top layers.
Examples of chemical ingredients include oxybenzone, octinoxate, homosalate, and octocrylene. They provide stronger protection for the skin by being absorbed into its deeper layers. They absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which dissipates into the skin.
For this reason, they may be more irritating for people with sensitive skin and children. They also pose the risk of entering the bloodstream. Plus, they take longer to activate, typically around 30 minutes after application. But it doesn't leave that dreaded white cast.
Sunscreens can come either in cream, gel, or spray forms. This is also where your preferences would come in whether you like sunscreens that are cruelty-free or vegan. Whichever you decide to get, the important thing is that you reapply it throughout the day. Remember that consistency is key.
Creams are known for their thick consistency, which is very beneficial for sunscreens. So, you know that they will really get into your skin and provide you with maximum coverage. Unfortunately, they tend to get greasy, which can be difficult to manage, especially on a hot day.
Don’t be fooled by sunscreens that say the formulation is waterproof. This labeling has long been banned since all sunscreens can be washed away with water. Instead, look for ones that are water-resistant as well as sweat-proof to ensure your sunscreen won’t easily sweat off as you go about your day.
Brands usually add a note that says how long the sunscreens last. This can go anywhere between 40 to 80 minutes. Consistent reapplication and taking other precautions like using an umbrella or a hat are equally important steps to prevent sun damage.
When it comes to sunscreens, there are two kinds; one for your face and one for your body. Facial sunscreens contain less oil because our face can easily develop acne or get oily. And normally, what you can use for your face is also applicable to your body. However, it is not the same for body sunscreens.
Body sunscreens are specifically formulated for other skin surfaces like the arms, legs, and back. They can be slightly oilier and more fragrant than facial ones since the skin in these areas is not as sensitive. So, for all-around protection, get ones that are good for both the face and the body.
Skin damage caused by the sun is a serious yet totally avoidable health concern. Check out these 6 simple tips from UKHealthcare on how to better protect your skin.
Learn more about local sunscreens as Dr. Aznaida answers some of the most asked questions on the internet!
Local sunscreens are better in a way because they are more affordable since there are no additional import taxes, and most are made to fit the Filipino skin.
Sunscreens are not only anti-aging—the main benefit we get from them is their ability to help us prevent skin cancer when used correctly, adequately, and regularly.
Based on studies, we need 2mg/cm² of sunscreen product to apply to our face for us to get the SPF written on the product, this translates roughly to about 1/4 teaspoon for the face. Possibly a bit less than this amount for smaller faces or a bit more for larger faces.
Sunscreens are one of the best antiaging products out there, with the added feature of protecting us from skin cancer. They say the best sunscreen for you is the one that you prefer to use. So find one that works for you and keep at it! Your skin will thank you for it.
Living in the Philippines, going to the beach is the ideal go-to to relax and unwind. Start planning your vacation today and make sure you've got all the essentials for your next trip. Check out our articles on must-haves for the whole fam!
Sunscreens are a must to protect against premature aging, sun damage, and to help you keep your skin young and healthy. And what better way to get your skincare fix than by supporting our local sunscreen brands.
We hope this article has provided you with the right tools to find the perfect local sunscreen. Make sure to add your items to your cart in time for the next big sale for better savings!
Author: Roxanne A.
Editor: J. Cuizon
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Curious to know how we chose the products on our list? Our buying guide was carefully crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, so we used it as a basis for choosing and rating. For the top 3 product recommendations, we also looked at reviews from Lazada in addition to the buying guide.
*Please note that we did not test the products and were not paid by any of the brands to include their product on the list.
Ratings and Reviews
For each product on the top 3, we looked at and referenced more than 100 reviews, as well as product ratings in Lazada.
The point of getting sunscreen is to give ample protection to your skin. In order to give it the best protection it can get, as the section says, it is better to go for a sunscreen that has a minimum of SPF 30. We only included products with SPF 30 and above and gave them higher ratings if they have higher SPF and PA levels.
Check if Your Sunscreen Is Broad-Spectrum to Fight Both UVA and UVB Rays
When rating the products using this criterion, we looked at the labels and the product listings. Sunscreens that are broad-spectrum received higher ratings.
Find a Sunscreen for Your Skin Type
There is a wide variety of sunscreens available nowadays, and they all target different skin types and skin concerns. We looked at the products' ingredients list and the brands' claims, as well as reviews from different sources, and gave a higher rating if the majority of the reviews support and back up the brands' claims.
Decide Between Mineral or Chemical Sunscreens
The choice of whether to get a mineral or a chemical sunscreen depends on the individual's skin type, skin concern, and preference. Hence we did not include this in our ratings.
Choose What Type of Formulation Works Best for You
Again, this part of the buying guide heavily relies on preference among individuals, so we did not include it in our ratings.
Look for Water-Resistant Sunscreens for More Staying Power
To get the best protection even as you sweat or get splashed with water, it is a good idea to get a water-resistant sunscreen. We looked at the labels and listings and gave water-resistant sunscreens a few extra points.
Consider Sunscreens Designed for Both Face and Body to Get Full-Body Protection
We all love a multi-use product—they save time, money, and space! However, it is also not a bad thing if the product is suggested to be used only on certain areas. We gave a few extra points to products that can be used for the face and body.
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