13 Best Japanese Sunscreens 2023 - Shiseido Anessa Waterproof Sunscreen, Sofina, Reef-Safe & Infant Formula!

by Katherine Chan June 22, 2023

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When it comes to sun protection, choosing the right sunscreen is crucial for maintaining healthy and radiant skin. In this article, we will compare two popular Japanese sunscreens - Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen and Sofina iP UV Resister.

We will also select other sunscreens for your needs. Some of them are multifunctional moisturizers, designed for baby and sensitive skin, or in an eco-friendly formulation that is coral-reef safe.

Table of Content:

Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen: The Ultimate Sun Protection

Sofina iP UV Resister: A Moisturizer and Sunscreen in One

Texture and Finish: Finding the Perfect Fit

Video for the Details of the Comparison

Features of Shiseido Anessa and Sofina iP Sunscreens

Makeup on These Sunscreens

What Do I Like the Most About These Sunscreens?

Other Waterproof Sunscreens for Outdoor Sports

1) FDA Approved 80mins Protection: Sofina Alblanc Medicated Whitening UV Protect SPF50+

2) Strong Protection: Kao Bioré UV Athlizm Skin Protect Milk Sunscreen SPF50+

3) For Oily & Combo Skin: Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Gel N SPF50+

4) Purple Shade Sunscreen for Whitening and Correct Dull Complexion: Shiseido Anessa Skin Brightening UV Sunscreen Gel N SPF50+

5) Reef-Friendly Sunscreen: Kanebo Allie Gel Sunscreen UV EX

6) Low-Cost Sunscreen with Hyaluronic Acid: Kao Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel Sunscreen SPF50+

7) Infant Sunscreen Formula: Pigeon Baby Sunscreen UV Baby Milk Waterproof SPF50+

Other Sunscreens for Daily Use

1) Used as Moisturizer & Makeup Base for All Skin Types: Kose Sekkisei White UV Gel SPF50+

2) Used as Moisturizer & Makeup Base for Oily & Combo Skin: Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV Sunscreen SPF50+

3) Used as Whitening Makeup Base: Shiseido Anessa Day Serum Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF50+

4) 5-in-1 Whitening Sunscreen: Transino Whitening UV Protector Makeup Base SPF50+

Shop Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen SPF50+

Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen: The Ultimate Sun Protection

Designed for all skin types, Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen is a top choice for those who prioritize sun protection without compromising on texture and finish.

With its waterproof formula boasting SPF50 and PA++++ ratings, this sunscreen is perfect for outdoor activities and water sports.

One of the standout features of Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen is its milky texture, which allows for easy blending without leaving a white cast or residue.

However, individuals with oily and acne-prone skin may find this sunscreen a bit too rich for their liking. It is worth noting that using a makeup remover is necessary to effectively cleanse the skin after applying this product.

Shop Sofina iP UV Resister Sunscreens

Sofina iP UV Resister: A Moisturizer and Sunscreen in One

For those looking for a multi-purpose product, Sofina iP UV Resister is a 2-in-1 moisturizer and sunscreen that simplifies your skincare routine.

This sunscreen comes in two formulations, each catering to specific skin types - oily and dry.

In this article, I will focus on the Sofina iP UV Resister Smooth Milk formula, specifically designed for oily and combination skin.

Sofina iP UV Resister offers SPF50 and PA++++ protection, making it a reliable choice for daily sun protection. Its lightweight texture is perfect for summer, ensuring a shine-free finish.

Unlike Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen, Sofina iP UV Resister is not waterproof, so it may not be the best option for water activities. However, it can be easily removed with a regular face cleanser, eliminating the need for a separate makeup remover.

Texture and Finish: Finding the Perfect Fit

The texture and finish of a sunscreen play a significant role in determining its suitability for different skin types.

Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen has a rich, milky texture that requires minimal product for maximum coverage. It leaves a glowing and dewy finish, making it ideal for those who desire a luminous complexion.

On the other hand, Sofina iP UV Resister has a lighter and watery texture, providing a non-greasy and semi-dewy finish that is perfect for oily and combination skin.

Shiseido Anessa vs Sofina iP

Features of Shiseido Anessa and Sofina iP Sunscreens

Features of Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen:

✅ Designed for all skin types
✅ Waterproof with SPF50 and PA++++
✅ Can be used on the face and body
✅ Designed for outdoor activities and water sports
😐 Product is in lightweight texture but thicker than Sofina iP. Some people who have oily and acne-prone skin may find that Anessa is too rich for them.
😐 Need a makeup remover to clean it.

Features of Sofina iP UV Resister:

✅ 2-in-1 moisturizer and sunscreen product
✅ Can be used daily after toner with SPF50 and PA++++
✅ Product is in lightweight texture, which is perfect for summer
✅ No need to use makeup remover. A regular face cleanser can clean the sunscreen.
😐 It is NOT waterproof.

Makeup on These Sunscreens

I use an old triangle method to apply concealer UNDER my eye bags (NOT on the eye bags) to balance the shadow that my eye bags create (see the above video). It helps to highlight my cheekbone areas and creates an illusion that makes my eye bags look smaller.

For a large pores area, such as the sides of my nose, I press my concealer into the pores so that they look less visible and finally, press the loose powder to seal and set the makeup.

No residue comes from my skin even though I use a foundation brush and a loose powder puff to finish my base makeup.

✅ In conclusion, both sunscreens stay on the skin very well. ✅

Products I used in the video - Tarte Shape Tape Concealer in Light Medium Sand and Excel Clear Lucent Loose Powder from Japan.

What Do I Like the Most About These Sunscreens?

❤️ Easy to blend

❤️ No white cast

❤️ No white residue
❤️ Will not mess up my makeup

❤️ Gives me a healthy and brighter complexion
❤️ Price-friendly

Other Waterproof Sunscreens for Outdoor Sports

1) Sofina Alblanc Medicated Whitening UV Protect SPF50+ PA++++

A waterproof and sweatproof sunscreen for 80 minutes. Ideal for outdoor activities and sports.

It provides high sun protection, yet is comfortable and gentle on the skin. Has passed the U.S. FDA's resistant (80mins) test.

Shop Alblanc Medicated Whitening UV Protect SPF50+

2) Kao Bioré UV Athlizm Skin Protect Milk Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++

Bioré UV Athlizm Skin Protect Milk incorporates Kao's new and unique technology "tough boost" to protect the skin under the harshest environments. The formula of Bioré UV is strong resistance against perspiration and chafing. Can be used on the face and body.

Shop Kao Bioré UV Athlizm Skin Protect Milk Sunscreen SPF50+

3) Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Gel N SPF50+ PA++++

Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Gel N is a highly protective and super waterproof Japanese sunscreen yet light, comfortable, and non-sticky.

It is NOT in transparent gel texture but it is in between milky emulsion and lotion texture, which is a bit lighter than Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen. I also LOVE using this sunscreen as my daily sun protection.

Shop Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Gel N SPF50+

4) Shiseido Anessa Skin Brightening UV Sunscreen Gel N SPF50+

Shiseido Anessa Whitening UV Gel is in between milky and gel texture with UV protection, whitening, skin moisturization, and makeup base function. Thanks for the ingredient Tranexamic Acid, which helps to prevent dark spots and freckles.

The sunscreen is in light purple shade that helps brighten the yellowish and dull skin tone. Perfect for makeup base or used solely on the skin for a better complexion. It's waterproof and suitable for swimming and other outdoor activities.

Shop Shiseido Anessa Skin Brightening UV Sunscreen Gel N SPF50+

5) Kanebo Allie Gel Sunscreen UV EX (Coral Reef Safe Sunscreen) SPF50+ PA++++

Most sunscreens contain an ultraviolet absorber called ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate (also known as OMC), which causes heavy damage to a coral reef.

Kanebo Allie Gel Sunscreen UV EX renewed its formula, a non-OMC and coral reef-safe sunscreen with SPF50 protection. It is gentle on the skin yet provides powerful protection from UVA and UVB. It becomes one of my favorite sunscreens as it brightens my skin tone instantly without leaving a white residue. It gives me a natural sheer, dewy look but it is not sticky. I will use it after toning and moisturizing.

Beach Friendly Prescription: non-OMC and coral reef-safe sunscreen that can satisfy a legal requirement and the like.
Powerful UV protection of SPF 50+ and PA++++
It will not easily thin out in water, sebum, and friction against towel, clothes, and face mask.
Contains Hyaluronic Acid which hydrates your skin and make your skin look dewy.
Less sticky and greasy yet can easily rinse off with a normal hand soap.
The gel prevents your skin from sticking with pollen, dust, and PM2.5.
This sunscreen can be used as a makeup base.

Shop Kanebo Allie Gel Sunscreen UV EX

6) Kao Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel Sunscreen SPF50+

Contains moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, royal jelly, and butylene glycol with SPF50 protection and a waterproof feature. Can be used on the face and body.

Did I mention that it's also price-friendly? It's only $15.99 for 150ml!

Shop Kao Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel Sunscreen SPF50+

7) Pigeon Baby Sunscreen UV Baby Milk Waterproof SPF50+

Pigeon UV Baby Milk is a Japanese waterproof sunscreen that protects babies and kids from strong ultraviolet rays while keeping the skin moisturized.

It is suitable for sensitive skin too, and the sunscreen can be easily removed by regular or baby shower gel.

Shop Pigeon Baby Sunscreen UV Baby Milk Waterproof SPF50+

Other Sunscreens for Daily Use

1) Kose Sekkisei White UV Gel SPF50+ PA++++

Kose Sekkisei White UV Gel SPF50+ PA++++ is a new lightweight water-based sunscreen perfect for daily use.

This lightweight sunscreen glides over the skin without becoming sticky, giving a moisturizing and comfortable finish.

Shop Kose Sekkisei White UV Gel SPF50+

Kose Sekkisei White UV Gel SPF50+ PA++++ 80ml

2) Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++

This is a powerful, protective Japanese sunscreen that moisturizes skin as well as provides UV protection of SPF 50+.

A versatile sunscreen that can also be used as a makeup base, the smooth, watery gel glides onto the skin without feeling sticky.

Shop Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV Sunscreen SPF50+

3) Shiseido Anessa Day Serum Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++

Experience innovative suncare technology developed by Shiseido with this UV day serum. You can use this product as a makeup base. It also makes your skin look one tone brighter than your natural skin tone.

Shop Shiseido Anessa Day Serum Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF50+

5) Transino Whitening UV Protector Makeup Base SPF50+ PA++++ -

This is a hybrid of sunscreen and makeup base for those who seek a non-colored sun protector with powerful UV protection without chemical materials.

This 5-in-1 multifunctional skincare product acts as a whitening cream, milky lotion, sunscreen, makeup foundation, and pore cover.

Shop Transino Whitening UV Protector Makeup Base SPF50+