5 Must-Have Japanese Sunscreens to Protect Your Skin From the Sun
Recently in Japan, the scent of summer has begun to fill the air as the days are getting hotter. With that in mind, it’s now time to prepare ourselves against ultraviolet rays during the scorching summer days! Below are five of the most popular sunscreens in Japan today that you might want to consider trying to protect yourself from the sun's harsh rays.
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1. Perfect UV Series by Anessa
Anessa’s Perfect UV Series is a line of sunscreens that boast enormous popularity in Japan! It is a hot series that has grabbed the attention of many people, so expect to find tourists binge-shopping these sunscreens in drugstores throughout the country. As a result, this series of sunscreens has found a growing fan base overseas, earning it impressive word-of-mouth reviews from people telling each other that “Anessa is very good!” The reason it has captivated so many people is that it was developed with a surprising concept that is completely different from conventional sunscreens on the market. Sunscreens usually lose their effectiveness when you sweat in the heat of summer or come into contact with water such as swimming in the sea or pool.
However, Anessa\'s Perfect UV Series\' (prices start at 980 JPY (excl. tax)) sunscreens\' protection intensifies when sweat, water, and heat is added into the mix. It is definitely a sunscreen the world hasn’t seen before! This sunscreen comes in different types including milk, gel, and spray.
When I tried the milk-type sunscreen, I was impressed by how easily it adhered to my skin and its smooth texture! Its refreshing citrus fragrance was also perfect for hot summer days. It can also be used as a makeup base, so it can definitely shorten your makeup application time!
Where to buy: Matsumoto Kiyoshi branches
2. Non Chemical UV Gel F by Shigaisen yohou
Non Chemical UV Gel F (2,530 JPY (incl. tax)) is a sunscreen recommended for people with sensitive skin. As its name suggests, it contains no chemicals at all and only uses mild ingredients that are gentle on the skin. It has been generating a lot of buzz among parents throughout the country as it is also safe to use on children (as young as 1 year old). It can easily be washed off with soap and water, so no residue is left on the skin.
When applied, it feels light and smooth on the skin. What I found great about this product was that it is blended with collagen, hyaluronic acid, and seven kinds of plant extracts! I’m glad that there is a product such as this that can take care of my skin while protecting me from the rays of the sun.
Where to buy: PLAZA
3. Dry-Touch UV Stick by Shigaisen Yohou
The Dry-Touch UV Stick (1,870 JPY (incl. tax)) is a stick-type sunscreen that can easily be applied on the skin without getting the hands dirty. It’s very convenient for those times when you want to reapply only a little bit of sunscreen, or when you want to put sunscreen on spots you missed! This product can also be used for children (at least 1-year-old children).
When I tried it, my skin felt smooth after application. It clings to the skin to keep it moisturized. If you wear makeup, you do not need to worry about this sunscreen ruining your look, as it will not make your skin look shiny.
Where to buy: PLAZA
4. UV Hat by Precious
The UV Hat (prices start at 1,280 JPY (excl. tax)) looks and works great, giving you superb protection against UV rays while also helping you look fashionable. Its wide brim blocks about 99% of UV rays. The UV Hat series comes with various types of hats, such as water-repellent hats for sudden rainfall, hats that are adjustable in size, and ones that offer superior breathability. These hats are available in a wide array of colors such as black, gray, and beige, so you can choose the one that matches your outfit.
For me, the main selling point of these hats is the wide brim that makes your face look smaller. Go ahead, try and find the hat that suits you!
Where to buy: PLAZA
5. Sunglasses by Zoff
Zoff is a brand of trendy yet affordable eyeglasses. It is an extremely popular brand in Japan that has branches throughout the country. Zoff has an extensive lineup of sunglasses. In 2020 alone, it will release a total of 200 different types (prices start at 3,500 JPY (excl. tax))! Its sunglasses offer a 99.9% reduction in UV absorption rate, as well as adopt various innovations such as water repellent and dirt resistant coatings, and the use of lightweight materials makes them comfortable when worn. Zoff also sells prescription sunglasses as well as eyeglasses and sunglasses in a set.
Customers love that Zoff offers fashionable designs that reflect the latest trends! When I visited one of its branches, I was shocked by the numerous designs they had in store. They even have glasses with vintage designs that you might only expect to find in fashionable secondhand clothes shops, so fashion lovers will surely be hooked! I’m sure you would be glad to wear Zoff sunglasses, as you can be protected against UV rays while looking fancy.
Where to buy: Zoff branches in Japan
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Did you find a sunscreen you liked? Let’s beat the summer heat with the right sun protection!
The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.
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