It’s an understatement to say that I have an obsession with sun care. I always always use sunscreen, and my personal preference is physical sunscreens (as opposed to chemical sunscreens).

However, most Japanese sunscreens are either chemical or a mix of chemical and physical filters :( It took quite a bit of searching before I finally located a physical sunscreen in Shigaisen Yohou!

Shigaisen Yohou UV Cream

Shigaisen Yohou’s most appealing aspect to me is the fact that it’s a physical sunscreen with high protection; not only is it SPF50+, it is also PA++++!!!

UV filters: Zinc oxide, Titanium dioxide

This sunscreen is formulated for dry, sensitive skin, and contains collagen, hyaluronic acid, and 7 herbal extracts to help keep the skin moisturized. It is also free of:

• Dyes
• Fragrance
• Mineral oil
• Parabens
• Alcohol
• Chemical UV filters

As the name implies, it’s a cream and it shows in both the texture and lasting power (it’s waterproof!) This sunscreen will require the use of a makeup remover to remove it cleanly.

A look at the swatch:

Although it’s pretty thick, it has enough slip and applies a lot more smoothly than I initially expected it to!

Of all the claims made by the company, the only one that I found to be inaccurate is their claim about it leaving no white cast. I’m pretty fair, but I still found that it left a hint of white. Unless you’re extremely fair, I’m fairly certain (pun is deliberate lol) it will leave a white cast.

After I apply my foundation over it, it conceals whatever little white that was showing through, so it’s not a major issue for me. It holds well under my makeup for the entire day, although I read that for some people, their makeup basically turns to goop with this sunscreen. Not sure why. Maybe a combination of skin type and makeup products?

Verdict

I find this to be a pretty satisfactory physical sunscreen. Some factors that would make this an even more perfect sunscreen for me are price and texture.

It is rather pricey for the small tube that it comes in (40g), and when warmer weather rolls around, I don’t think I would want to use such a thick sunscreen (although it would be good for sports, particularly water sports!)

Repurchase? Possibly, during the cooler seasons. The creamy texture also helps to protect against the harsh cold!

Rating: 4/5

Price

This is not as easily available as other Japanese brands. It is not sold in drugstores, and only in speciality stores. I bought this from Tokyu Hands at 1,800 yen before tax. For people who don’t live in Japan, eBay is your friend.