UV Rays Are on the Rise?

Indeed, the Japan Meteorological Agency reports an upward trend in UV radiation, and I personally feel the sun's intensity growing stronger year by year.

This isn't just a Japanese phenomenon; in Australia, where UV levels are high, it's common practice for children to apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses to protect their eyes from UV rays from a young age.

Aging Rays Sneak Through Windows!

It's widely known that prolonged UV exposure can induce skin cancer and accelerate skin aging through everyday sun exposure.

UV-A, which causes wrinkles and sagging, penetrates window glass, damaging skin even indoors. UV-B, responsible for sunspots and freckles, is present not only in midsummer but also in autumn and winter, just like UV-A.

This means it's best to practice sun protection year-round, every single day.

Multi-Tasking UV Protectors Are Now the Norm

To combat the increasing UV levels, the SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of UV protectors released by cosmetic brands has steadily risen over the past decade, with SPF50 now being commonplace.

Similarly, the PA rating, an indicator of protection against UV-A, has evolved from PA+++ ('very effective') to PA++++ ('extremely effective').

However, some express concern that high SPF/PA ratings might be harsh on the skin. Fortunately, recent formulations are gentler, often enriched with skincare ingredients alongside protective benefits, and some even offer makeup effects. In essence, multi-functional sunscreens have become the standard.

This time, I've selected products that offer high UV protection combined with skincare or makeup benefits.



SK-II ATMOSPHERE AIRY LIGHT UV CREAM SPF50+/PA++++(Sunscreen Beauty Cream)
This is the ultimate treatment UV, protecting against the three major environmental aggressors—UV rays, infrared rays, and air pollution—while delivering superior skincare for a beautiful complexion. What's more, it's easily spreadable, doesn't leave a white cast, and feels refreshingly moist. After all, no matter how effective a UV product is, it shouldn't be difficult to apply, nor should it create an unnatural matte finish that detracts from makeup. Its transparent formula is also a bonus, allowing for application on the neck and hands.

LANCÔME UV EXPERT TONE UP SPF50+ PA++++(Sunscreen Emulsion)
This is an advanced evolution from Lancôme, a leader in the global UV market. It offers robust protection against various environmental factors like UVA, UVB, long UVA, and blue light, along with technology to shield skin from pollution and oxidative stress. It also features a tone-up technology that brightens the complexion. Simply applying it enhances your skin tone for a fresh, radiant look. This kind of bright, luminous skin is perfect for the summer sun.

GUERLAIN ORCHIDÉE IMPÉRIALE THE PROTECTOR SPF50 PA+++(Sunscreen / Makeup Base)
From Guerlain's most luxurious and high-end skincare line, Orchidée Impériale, comes this exceptional product. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, it shields the skin from all forms of damage, including UV rays, air pollution, and blue light, while its potent anti-aging and brightening properties nurture the skin to a luminous finish. Its subtle tint also helps to even out skin tone for a flawless appearance. It doubles as an excellent makeup base, ensuring your foundation stays put.