In the United States, sunscreen is considered a drug, which means that its formulations and the chemicals used in them must undergo extensive drug approval processes with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Due to these processes, there are limitations on ingredients, and as a result, no new chemicals or minerals have been approved for use in sunscreens in the US since 1999, according to Ko.
In contrast, in Japan, sunscreens are classified as cosmetics. Dr. Mori explains that wearing sunscreen daily in the form of moisturizer, BB cream, or on its own is a common part of the daily skincare routine for many women in Japan. This explains the wide variety of sunscreen options available in Japan, including lotions, serums, facial mists, sticks, and lip balms.
During my time in Japan, I discovered the updated Shiseido Future Solution LX Day SPF 30, which impressed me with its lightweight texture, hydrating properties, and the beautiful glow it gave my skin. The formula includes antioxidant-rich green tea and vitamin C, collagen-building cherry blossom leaf extract, healing enmei herb, and skingenecell 1P, an amino acid that strengthens the skin barrier. The sunscreen blends in smoothly without leaving a white cast, which truly embodies the concept of “cosmetically elegant.”
In addition to the Shiseido day cream, I also stocked up on other sunscreen essentials while in Japan. I found myself purchasing numerous tubes of sunscreen, including the award-winning Shiseido Urban Environment Vita-Clear Sunscreen SPF 42 and the Bioré UV Aqua Rich Sunscreen SPF 50.
I also fell in love with the Anessa Perfect UV Skincare Milk SPF50+, the Nivea UV Deep Protect & Care Gel SPF 50+ PA++++, and the Rohto Mentholatum Skin Aqua Super Moisture UV Mist SPF 50+ PA++++. Unfortunately, these products are not easily accessible in the US.
Since my trip, I have been diligent about applying sunscreen generously and have even started wearing a hat during my daily commute. Dr. Kim recommended wearing UPF gloves while driving to protect the hands from sun damage, which is an easy habit to adopt.
Fashion trends have also influenced my sun protection choices, with the recent popularity of opera-length gloves on red carpets sparking inspiration for new ways to protect against the sun’s harmful rays. sentence: “The cat lazily napped in the sun all afternoon.”
Rewritten sentence: “All afternoon, the cat lazily napped in the sun.” sentence: Please make sure to turn off the lights before leaving the room. Please rephrase the
