Here are our favorite Japanese sunscreens – Whether your kids are headed to the beach, or just out and about, sunscreen is a must. Sunscreen is recommended year-round for children 6 months and older. Infants under six months should not be in direct sunlight, and application of sunscreen is not recommended as their skin is highly sensitive making them more susceptible to sun damage. Since our kids are out an about all day we stock-up on many of these top Japanese drugstore sunscreen for kids. Here is a quick reference list of the new 2020 drugstore sunscreens. The products on this list can be found at most Japanese Drugstores or on Amazon.co.jp. We also recommend you dress your children in sun hats, UV cut clothes and sunglasses to prevent skin damage. Also check out our guides on Japan mosquito protection, and surviving the rain and heat in Japan.
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Top Japanese Sunscreens for Baby & Kids
Note the `PA` Abbreviation on sunscreen is for the Protection Grade of UVA established by the Japanese. Since UVA causes long term skin damage, it is advisable to purchase sunscreens with the highest PA rating. How does SPF and PA compare? SPF indicates the level of protection from UVB rays (UVB rays usually burns the superficial layers of your skin) while PA indicates the level of protection from UVA rays (UVA rays penetrate deep into the dermis). To achieve protection from both UVA and UVB, look for a broad spectrum sunscreen that contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
PA+ = protection against UVA rays.
PA++ = moderate protection
PA+++ = great protection
Here is also some Japanese to know when purchasing sunscreen/sunblock
Sunscreen/sunblock | 日焼け止め | ひやけどめ | hiyakedome |
ultraviolet rays | 紫外線 | しがいせん | shigaisen |
water resistant | 耐水性 | たいすいせい | taisuisei |
waterproof | ウォータープルーフ | wa-ta-puru-fu | |
unscented | 無香料 | むこうりょう | mukouryou |
no coloring | 無着色 | むちゃくしょく | muchakushoku |
Japanese Sunscreens for Baby & Kids Available at the Local Drug Store
Alobaby is an easy spray mist type sunscreen and insect repellent with a rosemary and lemongrass scent. * Also available in a cream with moisturizing ingredients. Low in SPF so we recommend wearing with a hat and UV protected clothing.
◆ Mist SPF 15 / PA- ; Cream SPF 20 / PA+~++
◆ Washes off with warm water
◆ Does not contain chemicals.
Price: 2350 JPY / Amazon 2585 JPY
Great for walks with baby, moisturizing and easy to apply. It`s compact so easy to carry however the SPF is low so we recommend wearing with a hat and UV protected clothing.
◆ SPF21 / PA ++
◆ Washes off with soap
◆ Does not contain chemicals. Moisturizing.
Price: 350 JPY / Amazon 537 JPY
UV Cream PAX BABY UV Cream SPF 17 / PA +
Pax baby UV cream is colorless and without fragrance, so it`s safe for delicate skin and for babies. It contains macadamia nut oil, keeping the skin moisturized. It`s compact so easy to carry however the SPF is low so we recommend wearing with a hat and UV protected clothing.
◆ SPF 17 / PA +
◆ No fragrance, no coloring
Price: 648JPY / Amazon 606 JPY
Natural Science UV Light Veil
A suncream used for daily protection and makeup base. It is made with a UV shield prescription so the UV rays never touch the skin. Safe for babies and those with sensitive skin. Wash off with soap and water.
◆ SPF23 PA ++
◆ Does not contain fragrance, coloring or parabens.
◆ Uses Edelweiss extract (UV damage prevention)
Price: 2400 JPY @ Natural Science / Amazon Japan: 3000 JPY
Mama & Kids Perfect Sunscreen
Has a gentle, moisturising formula that is free of chemicals. It leaves skin moisturised and smooth without a white residue. Suitable for both outdoor activities and everyday wear. Cleanse thoroughly when removing.
◆ SPF50+・PA++++
◆ Does not contain chemicals
◆ Waterproof & Moisturizing
Price: Amazon Japan: 3550 JPY
SebaMed Baby UV Milk (SPF 16 PA ++)
Baby SebaMed is a skin care brand that protects your baby’s skin. This UV milk is hypoallergenic, fragrance free and colorless. contains natural moisturizing ingredients. Easy to carry size.
◆ SPF 16 PA ++
◆ No fragrance, Alcohol Free
◆ Hypoallergenic; pH 5. 5
Price: 1,080 JPY / Amazon 916 JPY
Shisedo Branded Sunscreen for babies – Anessa Baby Care Sunscreen
A Mild Sunscreen For Baby & Sensitive Skin Formulated With Non-Skin Irritating Zinc Oxide Blended with hydrating agents.
◆ SPF 34 / PA +++
◆ alcohol free, non-paraben, no mineral oils
◆ Hypoallergenic
Price: Amazon JP 2980 JPY
Yusekin S UV milk SPF 25 PA ++
A sunscreen for children and for those with sensitive skin. Non-drying and moisturizing. Can be used from babies to the elderly.
◆ SPF 25 / PA ++
◆ Fragrance free, color free, and alcohol free
◆ Moisturizing Ingredients (hyaluronic acid, amino acid component , shiso leaf extract)
Price: 1,008 JPY / Amazon 719 JPY
Japanese Sunscreens for Kids Available at the Local Drug Store
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Top 2020 Japanese Drugstore Sunscreen for Kids
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