Home About Contact Terms Privacy Facebook Twitter Pinterest

SimplySunSafe

Enjoy the sun safely!

  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Tanning
  • After Sun
  • Clothing
  • Hats
  • Umbrellas
  • Surfaces

Best Sunscreen for Asian Skin in 2022

Last updated on January 8, 2022 by Meg Leave a Comment

As an Amazon affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Best Sunscreen for Asian Skin

Asian skin has a glowing quality that sets it apart. Making sure that radiance is taken care of is essential.

Asian skin is often more sensitive, in general, making it more vulnerable to sun damage. It also tends to be oily so certain specifications are necessary when searching for the right products for Asian skin.

Due to its higher sensitivity, it is vital that you ensure your Asian skin is sufficiently protected against the sun’s UV rays at all times. It’s a good idea to follow the guidelines set out by the Skin Cancer Foundation, and wear UV protective clothing, hats and sunglasses, and seek shade when possible.

Even if you are able to take these precautions, you cannot afford to skip the broad spectrum sunscreen! There are certain features that you will need in your sunscreen in order for it to be ideal for your Asian skin.

Let me help you begin your search!

After thorough research into what Asian skin needs to be properly protected from the sun, SimplySunSafe recommends BurnOut Eco-Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 35 as the best sunscreen for Asian skin. keep reading for a detailed buyer’s guide, comparison table, and in-depth comparisons of the top 5 sunscreens for Asian skin.

BurnOut Eco-sensitive Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 35 3OZ.

 
Buyer’s Guide
Comparison Table
5 Best Sunscreens
 

Table of Contents show
Buyer’s Guide
Broad spectrum protection
Best SPF for Asian skin
Physical is better than chemical
Non-oily formula
Suitable for daily use
Best Sunscreen for Asian Skin Comparison
5 Best Sunscreens for Asian Skin
1. BurnOut Eco-Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 35
2. Exuviance Sheer Daily Protector SPF 50
3. EltaMD UV Pure Broad Spectrum SPF 47
4. Badger Baby Sunscreen Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 30
5. Oasis Sun Sensitive Skin Family Sunscreen SPF 30
Conclusion

Buyer’s Guide

 

To be sure that your Asian skin is properly protected, there are a few must-have features that you want to search for in your sunscreen:

Broad spectrum protection

The most important thing to remember when you’re searching for a sunscreen is that you want it to provide broad spectrum protection.

This means that you will receive balanced protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This is vital because each ray type works differently:

  • UVB rays damage the outer layer of your skin and cause you to burn or tan
  • UVA rays penetrate the deepest layer of your skin (the dermis) and cause premature aging

Exposure to both types of rays increases your risk of skin cancer. This is why it’s especially important to ensure your extra-sensitive Asian skin is sufficiently protected.

Luckily, finding sunscreens which provide broad spectrum protection is fairly easy. They are available everywhere and very easy to identify. All you need to do is check the sunscreen’s label and its ingredients list.

The label will often have words like ‘broad spectrum’ or ‘UVA/B’ indicating the proper protection.

You can also search the ingredients list for zinc oxide. Sunscreens with zinc oxide are always a safe and effective choice as they protect against the full range of UVA/B rays!

Best SPF for Asian skin

The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is one of those things that you know is important, but it’s not exactly clear what it is and why it’s so important.

Understanding what SPF really means will help you in your search for the best sunscreen for South Asian skin.

Let me give you a simple explanation:

The SPF rating tells you what fraction of the sun’s rays will reach your skin if you have properly applied the product.

This means that if you’re wearing a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30, then only 1/30th of the sun’s rays will reach your skin. The importance is clearer now, right?

Just be sure not to get too carried away.

Wearing a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30 does not mean that you can stay in the sun 30 times longer than if you weren’t wearing sunscreen. Asian skin is especially sensitive so that is not something that you should risk!

There are many factors which influence the effectiveness of SPF including the time of day, the amount of properly applied sunscreen, and even reflections for surfaces like water and sand.

Take a look at the table below to better understand the protection you get from different SPF ratings:

SPF Rating UVB Protection
None 0%
2 50%
15 93%
30 97%
50 98%
100 99%

As you can see, there is very little difference between and SPF rating of 30 and one of 100. So how do you know which to choose to properly protect sensitive Asian skin?

SimplySunSafe with the opinion of SPF experts and suggests that you always choose sunscreens with SPF ratings no lower than 30 and no higher than 50.

And remember, no matter what SPF rating you choose, be sure to reapply at least every two hours!

Physical is better than chemical

An important thing to know is that sunscreens can be divided into two main groups – chemical and physical.

The differences between these groups are based on their active ingredients and in the ways they work to protect your skin:

  • Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays as they reach your skin
  • Physical sunscreens reflect UV rays before they reach your skin

There are many reasons to choose physical sunscreens over chemical ones.

The most important reason is that on the whole they work more effectively. Studies show that physical active ingredients stop more sunlight across a broader spectrum.

If you need further convincing, physical sunscreens:

  • Work immediately upon application
  • Last longer
  • Are less likely to cause irritation
  • Have a longer shelf life

On top of these reasons, there are negatives to choosing and using chemical sunscreens.

Chemical sunscreens often contain ingredients that mess with your hormones. That is not something you want!

The worst of these ingredients is called oxybenzone, and despite FDA concerns, it is still legal. I suggest that you take a minute to check any potential sunscreen for this ingredient, and avoid it at all costs!

The safest sunscreen for Asian skin will be a physical one!

Non-oily formula

Asian skin tends to be oily. But it’s not always oily in the same way.

Some people have excess oil production BECAUSE they have used products that have stripped their skin of all its oil, which increases sebum production.

Then there are people who have larger oil glands in their skin due to genetics.

In both of these situations, you can easily find a suitable product as long as you spend time searching for products that will not make your type of oiliness worse.

To help you with this, I’m going to cut through the marketing mumbo-jumbo and get straight to the point.

There are many buzzwords marketers use to convince people with oily skin to use their products including ‘oil-free’, ‘non-comedogenic’, and ‘non-oily’. However, there are no rules around the use of these terms.

This means you have to understand the ingredients before you make a purchase.

For an in-depth look at pore-clogging and oily ingredients that contribute to oily skin (regardless of what the bottle is branded as), check out this guide from the Face Reality Acne Clinic.

This awesome resource lets you know which ingredients to definite avoid and which ones you can use in moderation. It’s a good idea to take a look at this list and keep in mind the ingredients you want to check for in potential sunscreens.

Alternatively, you can check out the recommended sunscreens below. I’ve done the hard work for you by checking the sunscreens for oily ingredients and have simplified each product’s ‘oiliness’ into ‘minimal’ and ‘moderate’.

This makes it easy for you to find your perfect sunscreen that’ll prevent you from making oily skin worse.

Suitable for daily use

Asian skin is usually extra sensitive, including in its vulnerability to the sun. So you need to be sure that you wear sufficient sunscreen every day in order to avoid damage.

When you’re considering what to look for in a daily sunscreen, ask yourself these questions:

  • Do you want to use one sunscreen daily for both your face and body?
  • What skin conditions and sensitivities do you need to account for?
  • Will you wear makeup on top of your sunscreen?

Answering these questions for yourself beforehand will streamline your search process.

Any sunscreen that is to be used on your skin every day must be effective yet gentle enough that it will not cause irritation.

SimplySunSafe has recommended products that will provide you with sufficient yet tender protection.

Best Sunscreen for Asian Skin Comparison

 

  BurnOut Eco-sensitive Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 35 3OZ. BurnOut Eco-Sensitive Exuviance Sheer Daily Protector SPF 50, 1.7 Fluid Ounce Exuviance Sheer Daily Protector EltaMD UV Pure Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 47, 4.0 oz EltaMD UV Pure Badger - Baby Sunscreen Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Protection, Chamomile and Calendula Formula  Tube- 2.9 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)Badger Baby Sunscreen OASIS SUN Sensitive Skin Family Sunscreen SPF30-1.69 fl ozOasis Sun Sensitive
SPF 35 50 47 30 30
Broad-spectrum Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Active ingredients Zinc Oxide (18.9%) Titanium Dioxide (7%) & Zinc Oxide (6%) Zinc Oxide (10%) & Titanium Dioxide (5.5%) Zinc Oxide      (18.75%)  Zinc oxide (31%)
Oily ingredients Minimal Minimal Minimal Moderate Minimal
Price See it at Amazon See it at Amazon See it at Amazon See it at Amazon See it at Amazon

5 Best Sunscreens for Asian Skin

 

After extensive research into what is needed in sun protection for Asian skin which included discussing issues with customers, reviewing customer feedback, examining manufacturer specifications, and participating in skincare forums, SimplySunSafe has compiled a list of the 5 best sunscreens for Asian skin.

Each sunscreen provides physical, broad spectrum protection with an SPF rating of 30 or greater. All the sunscreens are suitable for daily use on sensitive skin!

1. BurnOut Eco-Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 35

BurnOut Eco-sensitive Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 35 3OZ.
BurnOut Eco-sensitive Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 35 3OZ.
  • UVA/ UVB broad-spectrum protection.
  • Water resistant.
  • Goes on clean and clear, no chalky whitening.
  • Paraben-free, petroleum-free, paba-free.
  • Biodegradeable, ocean-safe, eco-sensitive.
Check Price on Amazon

Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2023-03-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


SinplySunSafe’s choice for the best sunscreen for Asian oily skin is BurnOut Eco-Sensitive SPF 35. This formula provides broad spectrum protection with its sole active ingredient zinc oxide (18.9%).

BurnOut Eco-Sensitive is designed, as its name suggests, for daily use on sensitive skin of the face and body. This formula will not cause irritation, and if you have oily skin, this product will work well for you as it has minimal oily ingredients.

BurnOut Eco-Sensitive is biodegradable and petroleum and paraben-free. The high concentration of zinc oxide may leave a slight white cast on your skin (remember to rub it in well to prevent this).

If the white cast remains after you applied this product properly, don’t be afraid to use a bit of makeup to blend it more effectively with your skin tone as BurnOut Eco-Sensitive is compatible with cosmetics.

Pros
  • High concentration of zinc oxide
  • Designed for daily use
  • Minimal oily ingredients
Cons
  • May leave white cast
Get BurnOut Eco-Sensitive Now!

2. Exuviance Sheer Daily Protector SPF 50

No products found.


Exuviance Sheer Daily Protector is another product that will work well for Asian skin.

It was developed by dermatologists and provides broad spectrum protection with a combination of active ingredients – titanium dioxide (7%) and zinc oxide (6%).

Exuviance Sheer Daily Protector is meant to be used daily on the face, even if you have sensitive skin. There are minimal oily ingredients in this formula, and irritation is not something you need to worry about!

This is by far the best face sunscreen for Asian skin!

Exuviance Sheer Daily Protector will not leave a visible cast on your skin as long as you apply it well. You can even apply this sunscreen with a makeup brush, as it makes the process easier and the application more even.

The high SPF rating is a bonus for those with especially pale or sensitive Asian skin and it works very well under makeup, what more could you want!?

Well, one thing could be that this product is a little cheaper. It is the most expensive product on this list and could easily be considered too expensive for most.

If you still want this amazing sunscreen’s benefits, get Exuviance Sheer Daily Protector for your face and choose another product on this list for your body. That way you get the biggest bang for your buck and each bottle will last a lot longer.

We love Exuviance Sheer Daily Protector so much it’s also listed as one of the best sunscreens for tan skin!

Pros
  • High SPF rating
  • Minimal oily ingredients
  • Made for daily use on sensitive skin
Cons
  • Expensive
Get Exuviance Sheer Daily Protector Now!

3. EltaMD UV Pure Broad Spectrum SPF 47

EltaMD UV Pure SPF 47 Kids Sunscreen, Broad Spectrum Sunscreen for Kids Face and Body, Oil Free, Water Resistant up to 80 Minutes, Mineral Kids Sunscreen Lotion with Zinc Oxide, 4.0 oz Tube
EltaMD UV Pure SPF 47 Kids Sunscreen, Broad Spectrum Sunscreen for Kids Face and Body, Oil Free, Water Resistant up to 80 Minutes, Mineral Kids Sunscreen Lotion with Zinc Oxide, 4.0 oz Tube
  • EltaMD UV Pure SPF 47 kids sunscreen lotion is made with chemical-free active ingredients for kids and adults who want effective, long lasting sun protection
  • This product is non-sealed
  • This kids mineral sunscreen with Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide reflects and scatters harsh UVA and UVB rays to help prevent sunburns and offer better sun protection for families
  • Gentle kids sunscreen formula glides over wet or dry skin, rubs in quickly and is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, making this a great water resistant sunscreen for kids and adults
  • Lightly rub in this oil free sunscreen for kids face and body and reapply often for all-around sun protection
Check Price on Amazon

Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2023-03-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


Another good option for Asian skin is EltaMD UV Pure Broad Spectrum SPF 47.

This formula provides broad spectrum protection through its active ingredients zinc oxide (10%) and titanium dioxide (5.5%).

EltaMD UV Pure is great for sensitive and oily skin as it has minimal oily ingredients and will not cause irritation. The lightweight formula will seamlessly fit into your daily skincare routine as it will blend to a transparent finish when applied properly and rubbed in effectively.

EltaMD UV Pure is a sunscreen that can be used throughout the year, including during the hot months, as it provides 80 minutes of water resistance for when you sweat or swim.

This sunscreen is so great for Asian skin and conditions that it made the top of the SimplySunSafe list of best sunscreens for Japan.

Consider giving this flexible product a try!

Pros
  • Suitable for daily use
  • Lightweight formula
  • 80 minutes of water resistance
Cons
  • May leave slight white cast
Get EltaMD UV Pure Now!

4. Badger Baby Sunscreen Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Badger - SPF 30 Baby Sunscreen Cream with Zinc Oxide - Broad Spectrum & Water Resistant, Reef Safe Sunscreen, Natural Mineral Sunscreen with Organic Ingredients 2.9 fl oz
Badger - SPF 30 Baby Sunscreen Cream with Zinc Oxide - Broad Spectrum & Water Resistant, Reef Safe Sunscreen, Natural Mineral Sunscreen with Organic Ingredients 2.9 fl oz
  • SIMPLY THE SAFEST SUNSCREEN FOR BABIES - Badger sets the standard for simple safe baby sunscreens that protect your infants and toddlers. This broad spectrum mineral sunscreen has only 7 simple ingredients: non-nano zinc oxide, organic sunflower oil, organic beeswax, sunflower vitamin E, organic chamomile, organic calendula, and organic seabuckthorn. Pediatrician tested, gluten-free & hypoallergenic this all-natural baby sunscreen is perfect for your babies delicate skin.
  • PROTECTS WITH THE MINERAL ZINC OXIDE - Badger’s SPF 30 Baby Sunscreen Cream uses our original non-nano, large particle zinc oxide. This mineral stays on top of your baby's skin, scattering and absorbing UVA & UVB rays, and won’t absorb into their bloodstream. Naturally water and sweat resistant for at least 40 minutes it's perfect for the beach, pool, and light activities. The light chamomile & calendula scent is calming and relaxing.
  • REEF SAFE SUNSCREEN - Safe for coral means safe for your baby too! Badger sunscreens are made without oxybenzone or any chemicals shown to harm coral or humans. All Badger sunscreen lotions and creams are top rated for safety and efficacy by the EWG sunscreen guide. This eco-friendly biodegradable mineral sunscreen protects you without endangering marine life.
  • 98% ORGANIC INGREDIENTS FOR HEALTHY BABY SKIN - The certified organic sunscreen base ingredients are antioxidant rich, ultra-moisturizing, and great for your babies skin. Non-GMO and contains no dyes, parabens, or other artificial ingredients. Healthy botanical ingredients promote healthy skin for your baby.
  • A BRAND YOU CAN TRUST - Badger is a family owned, women run B Corporation (Benefit Corp) making mineral baby sunscreens and other organic skin care products that we use on our own families in rural New Hampshire since 1995. We are the leaders in safe natural sunscreens. Don't just take our word for it, read our ingredients, see what others say about Badger sunscreens, and try them for yourself.
Check Price on Amazon

Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2023-03-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This is a broad-spectrum sunscreen designed using non-nano mineral Zinc Oxide to protect against the harmful UVA and UVB rays. The zinc sits above the skin and it lets the moisture flow well through the skin. The sunscreen moisturizes and reinvigorates the skin and the ingredients that do not irritate the skin. Made with organic ingredients like sunflower oil, beeswax, and vitamin E, the product consists of 98%natural and organic ingredients. It is gluten-free, reef-friendly, biodegradable, and certified cruelty-free. With just 7 ingredients, this is as close as you get to simplicity. For the ingredients, it has no oxybenzone, octinoxate, and other chemical active ingredients.

For the Asian, this is a product you can use when your skin is sensitive and you are unsure of the other products available. It is reef-friendly and coral safe can be used in nature parks.

The base is made of certified organic Sunflower oil makes for easy application. It can be used by the entire family With a mild scent of chamomile and calendula, its effects are immediately visible. It is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes and you are to reapply every two hours.

On the other hand, it is thick and that makes it difficult to spread. It also leaves a white cast on the skin. These minor flaws are the only speckles on a great product!

Pros
  • Suitable for daily use
  • All organic
  • Will not worsen oiliness
Cons
  • Thick formula
  • Leaves white cast on the skin
Get Badger Baby Sunscreen Now!

5. Oasis Sun Sensitive Skin Family Sunscreen SPF 30

OASIS SUN Sensitive Skin Family Sunscreen SPF30-1.69 fl oz
OASIS SUN Sensitive Skin Family Sunscreen SPF30-1.69 fl oz
  • Sensitive skin
  • Face and body
  • Babies and children
  • Non-whitening
  • Non-greasy
Check Price on Amazon

Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2023-03-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

SimplySunSafe’s final recommendation for sun protection for Asian skin is the Oasis Sun SPF 30 intended for the strong sunlight and severe UV conditions. This is the sunscreen meant to do the tough job. It provides a 30 SPF broad-spectrum protection. It has a natural mineral base made out of zinc oxide that offers Broad-Spectrum UVA and UVB ray protection. It’s packed with natural ingredients like jojoba oil, shea butter, and vitamin E to help protect and moisturizes the skin. Oasis Sun SPF 30 is very mild and can be used on delicate skin, can be applied to the entire body and used by the whole family. It is vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free and sulfate-free. It skins into the skin easily. It is non-greasy and does not irritate sensitive skin types.

Made in New Zealand, it is tested to protect against the high-intensity heat of Southeast Asia and the IndoPacific region. It has a non-greasy feel that provides an undetectable finish and stays on whether you are doing sports or having a regular day. It does not stain your clothes and it can be worn under makeup can be used during pregnancy.

It has an unorthodox method of application.  You should not rub on the skin till it disappears. Rather, you apply to your skin for ten minutes before sun exposure. After a while it becomes invisible. You have to Reapply at 2-hour intervals.  The sunscreen is not water-resistant and it stings the eyes.

The lack of water resistance coupled with the unusual application is a big turn-off. This product is winning its way into our hearts but this stops it.

This product is the product you want to try out moving about in Asia!

Pros
  • Designed for sensitive skin
  • Can be used on face and body
  • Nongreasy and doesn’t leave a white film
Cons
  • Not water resistant
  • An unusual method of application
Get Oasis Sun Sensitive Now!

Conclusion

This guide was written for those searching for the best sunscreen for Asian Skin. I hope that by reading this guide, you learned more about the unique aspects of Asian skin, and found a product that fits your specific needs.

SimplySunSafe recommends BurnOut Eco-Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 35, but all 5 products will provide sensitive and sufficient protection for your skin!

Now that you have read this guide, it is time to move on to the next step in your search process: trial runs.

It is helpful to test different sunscreens in order to learn how your skin reacts to different formulas, and to see what type of product folds into your daily skincare routine easily. After doing trial runs, you’ll be able to make the most informed decision about which sunscreen is for you!

I love learning new things and hearing about new products from other people! So if you use or know of another product that’s great for Asian skin, share it in the comments! I’ll be sure to check it out and maybe it will make it to this list!


Hi, I'm Meg :) I started SimplySunSafe to learn about sun safety and use this info to help my family and friends. Sun safety is an important part of everyone's life, so please use these articles to better protect yourself and your loved ones.

View My Blog Posts

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Most Popular Sunscreens

SaleNo. 1 Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunscreen Spray, Broad Spectrum, SPF 50, 6oz. - Twin Pack
Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunscreen Spray, Broad Spectrum, SPF 50, 6oz. - Twin Pack
Check Price on Amazon

Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

No. 2 Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion | Vegan and Reef Friendly (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA/UVB Sunscreen with Vitamin E | 8 oz
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion | Vegan and Reef Friendly (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA/UVB Sunscreen with Vitamin E | 8 oz
Check Price on Amazon

Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

SaleNo. 3 Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen Spray Broad Spectrum SPF 70, Lightweight, Non-Greasy & Water Resistant, Oil-Free & Non-Comedogenic UVA/UVB Sunscreen Mist, 5 oz (Pack of 3)
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen Spray Broad Spectrum SPF 70, Lightweight, Non-Greasy & Water Resistant, Oil-Free & Non-Comedogenic UVA/UVB Sunscreen Mist, 5 oz (Pack of 3)
Check Price on Amazon

Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2023-03-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

  • Facebook
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

RECENT

best sunscreen for melasma
best sunscreen for golfers

ABOUT

SimplySunSafe provides straight forward guides on the best sun safety products on the market. These guides inform you on what you should be looking for and the science that backs up quality suncare products.

I hope my articles will teach you something you didn’t know and help protect you and your loved ones from the sun.

SUPPORT SIMPLY SUN SAFE

You can support SimplySunSafe.com by purchasing the suncare products recommended here. It doesn't cost you any extra, but it keeps the content coming!

SimplySunSafe.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Copyright © 2023 SimplySunSafe. All rights reserved. Web design & development by On The Map Media Inc.