Last Updated on 2026-08-12 by Teni Wada
Ready for another sweltering summer in Japan? One thing we’ll all need in our arsenal is some serious SPF. So, I’m introducing 10 Japanese sunscreens to try this summer. (Well, all year-round!) Ever since I moved to Japan, I’ve been a fan of the sunscreens available on the domestic market. I love that the formulas are lightweight and allow my skin to BREATHE. Plus, Japanese sunscreens do a fantastic job of working double duty as primers and moisturizers while keeping the sun’s harmful rays at bay.
A Quick Intro To Japanese Sunscreens
You might have noticed that Japanese sunscreens have a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating, usually between 35 to 50, and they use a PA (Protection Factor A) rating, too. SPF measures how well a product protects against UVB (UltraViolet B) rays that penetrate the upper layer of your skin.
But Japanese sunscreens also measure PA, the strength of protection from UVA (UltraViolet A) rays. This is why you’ll see products measured from PA+ (the lowest level of protection) to PA++++ (the highest level of protection). UVA rays penetrate the deeper layers of skin and cause prematuring aging, which is why sunscreen is one of the biggest Japanese anti-aging beauty secrets!
I use several kinds of sunscreen according to the day’s activities, heat/humidity levels, and makeup. Some sunscreens I only apply to my face, while others are more suitable for my arms and legs. My list of Japanese sunscreens to try this summer are based on the products that are currently in rotation. For a list of sunscreens to try based on skin type, read this post: Japanese Sunscreens for Every Skin Type
(PS check out the K-beauty sequel: Top Korean Sunscreens)
Japanese Sunscreens To Try This Summer
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1. Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk
Type: Milk
Rating: SPF 50+ PA++++
Scent: Citrus Soap(?)
I’m kicking off my list of Japanese sunscreens to try with my Holy Grail, Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk. This sunscreen makes frequent appearances on The Wagamama Diaries, as well as beauty lists that I write for clients. This is my tried and true favorite that I absolutely swear allegiance to!
Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk has a dual layer milky formula that leaves my skin with a soft powdery finish — without leaving an unsightly white cast. It provides great coverage and does wonders for my oily skin, even on the most humid and active days, thanks to its “Aqua Booster Technology.” However, it’s rather pricey, so I only use it on my face, neck, and chest. As a primer, it gives my makeup a nice matte finish. The trick is to give it a real good shake and apply sparingly, then go back and apply another layer. Another thing worth mentioning is that you will need to double cleanse in order to get this stuff off your face! Check out my list of Top Japanese Cleansing Oils!
Available on Amazon | Amazon Japan
2. Nivea Sun Super Water Gel Sunscreen
Type: Gel
Rating: SPF 50 PA+++
Scent: Unscented
Anessa is what I use on my face, chest and neck, and Nivea Sun Super Water Gel is what I use on the rest of my body. It’s a lightweight formula that glides onto the skin and is easily absorbed. Though the product has “super water” in its name, it’s unfortunately not waterproof. But, it’s a great product to have on family beach days because it comes in a pump bottle (with a cap!) and applies easily with minimal effort. I’ve mentioned my daughter’s skin troubles before and this is one of the few sunscreens that she can wear without suffering any inflammation, redness, or itchiness. For the family pack which includes Nivea Kids UV Water Gel (SPF 28 PA++(, check out this Amazon Japan listing.
Available on Amazon | Amazon Japan
3. Nivea UV Deep Protect & Care
Type: Milk
Rating: SPF 50+ PA++++
Scent: Light
On pool and park days when I go makeup free, I wear Nivea UV Deep Protect & Care, which is part of my anti-aging skincare arsenal. This sunscreen offers robust protection with a moisturizing formula that’s perfect for everyday use. It absorbs quickly, leaving no sticky residue, and has a subtle floral scent that isn’t overpowering. The lightweight milk texture feels comfortable on the skin, making it ideal for those with dry or sensitive skin. Its compact size makes it perfect for on-the-go application. The tinted version, by the way, has a “tone up effect” that brightens the complexion.
Available on Amazon | Amazon Japan
4. Rafra UV Milk
Type: Lotion
Rating: SPF50+ PA+++
Scent: Citrus
I don’t know where I’d be without beauty boxes, because they’ve introduced me to many products that I now genuinely love, like Rafra UV Milk. I tried Rafra Essence UV Gel in a Raxy Beauty Box and remain a fan of this brand.
This one is a water-based lotion with a pleasant citrus scent and loaded with moisturizing ingredients like collagen, hyaluronic acid, ceramides and royal jelly. Though it is scented, it uses no artificial fragrances (or colors) and it’s gentle enough that I can apply all over my daughter’s sensitive skin. Rafra UV Milk is formulated with vitamin C derivatives and has 10 different kinds of ingredients that keep skin moisturized.
Available on Amazon Japan
5. Hato Mugi UV Milky Gel
Type: Milky Gel
Rating: SPF 50+ PA++++
Scent: Unscented
Hato mugi or coix seed, is a moisturizing Japanese skincare ingredient on the radar of many Asian beauty fans thanks to Naturie and Hanajirusi Hatomugi skin conditioners. But, not to be overlooked is Hato Mugi UV Milky Gel which protects skin damage due to sunburn. It is a fantastic option for those seeking a more natural approach to sun protection. With its milky gel texture, it provides a light and non-greasy finish that is easily absorbed by the skin.
Available on Amazon | Amazon Japan
6. Kose Suncut Perfect UV Gel
Type: Gel
Rating: SPF50+PA++++
Scent: Unscented
I’m new to this brand and actually purchased two bottles last fall when the limited edition summer designs featuring Ariel were off-season. I thought they’d be a good backup to have on hand when Anessa runs out. The formulas, however, are completely different (2-layer milky liquid vs a creamy gel) but I can’t complain.
Kose Suncut Perfect UV Gel does a fantastic job of being an affordable and effective sunscreen. And, on top of that, the formula is waterproof! My only gripe is that the gel formula doesn’t compare to Anessa when it comes to keeping my oily forehead in check. I look sweaty after applying it, but since I wear this during my morning walks, I don’t mind. I tend to use this one for my arms and legs, though, because I don’t like the way it feels on my face.
With that said, Kose Suncut Perfect UV Gel doesn’t feel heavy and my skin feels smooth after using it.
Available on Amazon | Amazon Japan
7. Biore UV Aqua Rich
Type: Watery Gel
Rating: SPF 50+ PA++++
Scent: White Floral
Biore UV Aqua Rich is a staple in the Japanese sunscreen world, and for good reason! This watery gel formula feels incredibly light and refreshing, almost like a splash of water on your skin. It’s perfect for those hot summer days when you need reliable protection without feeling weighed down. The white floral scent is pleasant and invigorating, giving you a little morning boost. Plus, it’s water-resistant, making it great for beach days or outdoor activities.
Available on Amazon Japan
8. Melano CC Deep Care UV Milk
Type: Cream — Milk
Rating: SPF 50+ PA++++
Scent: Citrus
Melano CC Deep Care UV Milk is perfect for those looking to combine sun protection with skincare benefits. This sunscreen milk not only protects your skin from harmful UV rays but also helps brighten your complexion and fade dark spots, thanks to its vitamin C content. The citrus scent is refreshing, and the lightweight milk texture absorbs quickly, leaving your skin feeling soft and hydrated. It’s perfect for daily use and works well under makeup.
Available on Amazon Japan
9. Kanebo ALLIE Nuance Change UV Gel CL (Lucent Breeze)
Type: Cream
Rating: SPF 50+ PA++++
Scent: Lemony Green Tea
A few summers ago I started using ALLIE Nuance Change UV Gel CL. ALLIE sunscreens boast a “Friction Proof” formula that’s resistant to sweat, water, and sebum/oil. It also uses hyaluronic acid and collagen to moisturize the skin. Lucent Breeze is one of 3 tints available in its Nuance Change UV Gel lineup. These new reformulations launched last year as pearlescent sunscreens to enhance the skin’s tone and luminescence.
ALLIE Nuance Change UV Gel CL Lucent Breeze uses menthol for a cooling effect, perfect for those hot humid days! However, it leaves a pearlescent/blueish tint on my skin. If “whitening”/brightening” is your thing then I’m sure it’s a good one, though! Read more about The Colorful World of Japanese Tinted Sunscreens.
Available on Amazon Japan
10. Kose Suncut Protect Spray
Type: Spray
Rating: SPF 50+ PA++++
Scent: Unscented
For those who prefer a quick and easy application, Kose Suncut Protect Spray is a game-changer. This sunscreen spray offers strong protection in a convenient, portable form. It’s unscented, making it perfect for those sensitive to fragrances. The fine mist covers your skin evenly and dries quickly without leaving any residue. It’s perfect for those last-minute touch-ups, and it’s great for covering hard-to-reach areas like your back.
Available on Amazon | Amazon Japan
Visiting Tokyo? Let’s Find the Right Sunscreen Together!
During my Tokyo Beauty Shopping Experience, we compare textures, ingredients, and finishes in person so you can choose with confidence.
Together we’ll explore some of my favorite beauty stores, compare products in person, and build a routine that fits your goals.
I’ve helped guests compare Japanese and Korean skincare in person based on their skin type, budget, and beauty goals.
→ Learn more about the Tokyo Beauty Shopping Experience
