Sunscreen is one of the most important skincare you can invest in; and if you’re too lazy to use anything else, at least use sunscreen. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends one with an SPF of at least 30, which filters out about 97% of UVB rays. If you get an SPF of 50, it’ll block out 98% of these rays. You’ll also need to look for a sunscreen that has a broad-spectrum formula (look for the PA sign on the packaging), as this also protects the skin against UVA rays. The more + signs you see behind the PA, the higher the protection against UVA rays.

These are some of the best broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF 50 that you can wear under (or even over) makeup.

DIORSNOW UV SHIELD TONE UP
SPF 50+ PA+++

Dior’s UV Shield is delightful; it feels beautifully light and fresh on the skin, and this tinted version envelops it in a rosy veil that makes the complexion more even and radiant. The key ingredient in the formula is Edelweiss, which Dior science has discovered could help diminish, correct and prevent the appearance of dark spots. There’s also Vitamin C, known for its brightening and antioxidant properties.

Diorsnow UV Shield Tone Up UV Protection for Face – Tinted Skin, $105 (30ML).

CHANEL UV ESSENTIEL
SPF 50/PA++++

This has a “skin strengthening” complex made with ginger extract from the CHANEL open-sky laboratory in Madagascar (this boosts the skin’s natural defenses) and Tahitian gardenia extract (which strengthens the skin barrier, helping to prevent premature ageing).

The formula was also designed to withstand hot and humid conditions (like Singapore’s climate) and to improve the look of makeup when used as a base.

CHANEL UV Essentiel, $94 (30ML).

LANCÔME UV EXPERT AQUA GEL
SPF 50 PA++++

We like the gel texture of this product that feels cooling on the skin, plus the brand hails this as a good primer as it can “grip makeup”. Similar to the Dior sunscreen, this formula includes the Edelweiss Flower that strengthens the skin’s barrier, with the addition of Rosa Gallica to calm skin and Moringa Seeds to protect against pollution.

LANCÔME UV EXPERT AQUA GEL, $88 (30ML).

TATCHA THE SILK SUNSCREEN
SPF 50 UVA

Everything about Tatcha’s fully mineral formula is lovely; it feels silky on skin, creates a smooth, even and semi-matte finish, and has a hydrating formula that includes hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.

TATCHA THE SILK SUNSCREEN, $105 (50ML).

ULTRA VIOLETTE PREEN SCREEN
SPF 50 BROAD SPECTRUM

Ultra Violette is famous for their Queen Screen Luminishing Sun Serum, which is always sold out; but the Preen Screen Mist is the product that we keep in our bags. It comes in two sizes (featured is the portable 30ml bottle), and has a spray that comes out light and even. And since we’re told to reapply sunscreen every few hours (especially if you’re out in the sun), this mist is as handy as it gets.

ULTRA VIOLETTE Preen Screen™ SPF 50 Reapplication Mist, $21 (30ML) / $45 (75ML).

CAUDALIE VINOSUN SPF 50 INVISIBLE HIGH PROTECTION STICK

Sunscreen in stick form is convenient to apply and bring around, especially when travelling; and Caudelie’s formula is water-resistant, invisible and fragrance-free, which makes it suitable for children and those with sensitive skin. Toss this one in the bag and bring it everywhere.

CAUDALIE VINOSUN SPF 50 INVISIBLE HIGH PROTECTION STICK, $34 for 15g, launching 18 April at sephora.