Living in Southeast Asia, sunblocks and sunscreens are everyday essentials that help keep our skin safe and healthy! Even if you're staying at home, did you know it's recommended to put on sun care as UV rays can still penetrate through our windows?
Summer is all year-round in many countries in Southeast Asia, so it's even more important that we remember not to skip out on sun care during our daily skin routines.
If you're thinking of changing up your products or trying something new, here are 8 Muslim-friendly sunblocks and sunscreens to help keep your skin safe!
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What's the difference between sunblock and sunscreen?
Sunblock and sunscreen are often used interchangeably, but they work differently. Sunblock 'sits' on the skin and forms a physical barrier blocking harmful UV rays. Sunscreen works by containing chemicals that absorb UV rays and prevent them from damaging the layers of the skin.
Should I use sunblock or sunscreen?
If you have sensitive skin or skin conditions, it's advisable to avoid sunscreens as they may irritate your skin during the chemical reaction. As sunblock acts as a physical barrier, it might be a safer alternative to avoid rashes or irritation.
What is halal sunblock or sunscreen?
Halal sun care products are either halal-certified or use only Muslim-friendly ingredients. Though there aren't that many products that have undergone the halal certification process, many vegan-friendly sunblocks nowadays do not contain any animal-based substances! ?
Do sunblocks or sunscreens contain alcohol?
It's common for sun care products to contain alcohol like ethyl alcohol or ethanol, but this is typically derived naturally and not through the same process as drinking alcohol. It's best to check with a company if you have any questions and to use the products at your discretion.
What should I look out for in my sun care products?
These are some key things to look out for:
- Ingredients - check for any alcohols or animal-based substances in the ingredients list
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF) - A minimum of SPF 30 is recommended. Some products have broad spectrum protection, which blocks both UV A and UV B rays.
- Eco-friendliness - Not all organic products are eco-friendly as they may include water-soluble ingredients that can harm marine life. Usually, reef- or ocean-friendly products will be marked out with a logo.
If my moisturiser/essence/serum/etc. has SPF, do I still need sun care?
Yes! Though many other skincare and beauty products now contain SPF too, they are usually not as strong as dedicated sun protectants. It's always advisable to include a proper sunblock or sunscreen in your routine to ensure maximum sun protection.
1. Wardah Beauty - Wardah Sunscreen Gel SPF30++
Wardah Beauty's products are all halal-certified, including their sunscreen gel! The gel is light and soft, avoiding that gross sticky feeling you sometimes get with sunscreen. It even has moisturisers such as Vitamin E and Vitamin B5 so your skin can stay hydrated.
Buy it here:Wardah Beauty
2. Iba Cosmetics - Iba Invisible Sunscreen SPF50
Credit: Iba Cosmetics
Containing Intense Broad Spectrum Protection, Iba's halal-certified Invisible Sunscreen provides your skin with the protection it needs on a hot day out. It even has coconut, aloe, and witch hazel, ensuring the sunscreen is light and non-greasy as well as moisturising and refreshing.
Buy it here:Iba Cosmetics
3. Solimara White Marine & Golden Sands SPF50 Face and Body
Credit: Solimara on Facebook
Halal-certified by FIANZ in New Zealand, Solimara's products are all-natural. They use ingredients such as jojoba seed oil, beeswax, and shea butter to ensure that you get superior broad-spectrum sun protection. With only zinc oxide as an active ingredient, it's suitable for sensitive skin too!
Buy it here: Solimara
4. Black Girl Sunscreen Black Girl Sunscreen SPF30
Specially formulated for dark skin, Black Girl Sunscreen is parabens- and fragrance-free, and dries clear so that it doesn't leave any whitish residue behind on the skin! Packed with moisturising ingredients like jojoba, cacao, and avocado, it's also vegan and reef-safe, so it's suitable for future seaside adventures.
Buy it here:Black Girl Sunscreen
5. Green People Scent Free Facial Sun Cream SPF30
Conde Nast Traveller has recommended this certified-organic sun cream! Green People's products are all cruelty-free and marine-friendly, perfect for your vacation makeup bag. This non-comedogenic product is great for daily use on your face, with broad-spectrum protection and antioxidant properties from Edelweiss and Rosemary flowers. They also have another version that can be used on other parts of your body.
Buy it here:Green People
6. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel
This alcohol-free sun gel is lightweight, and has a lotion-like texture! If you're planning to use makeup, its satin, semi-matte finish gives you that dewy glow
Buy it here: KSF Beauty
7. Medicube Red Moisture Real Sun Cream
Credit: Medicube
If you're looking for an alcohol-free sunblock, here's something you can consider from the popular K-beauty brand Medicube. It contains a high moisture content of 67%, which won't leave a white cast and you can keep your skin moisturised without stickiness.
Buy it here:Medicube
8. Cosrx Shield Fit All Green Comfort Sun SPF50+
If you're looking for a great sunscreen, you might want to try Cosrx's! It's free of alcohol and parabens, and has even earned an "All Green" rating from EWG. The cream is made with soothing ingredients that are perfect for sensitive skin, and it leaves a nice, matte finish that isn't greasy at all. Plus, Cosrx is a cruelty-free company and they use mostly natural ingredients. And if you're a fan of K-beauty, you'll be happy to know that Cosrx is one of the most popular brands out there!
Whether you're keeping your skin safe at home or planning for future beach resort getaways, these skincare products will keep your skin healthy and ready to take on the world!