The best sunscreens in Kenya, and what they cost

Sunscreen is the one product that protects everything else you do for your skin. In Kenya the sun is strong all year, close to the equator and high above sea level in Nairobi, so daily SPF is not only for the beach. Here are the sunscreens we stock, what each one is like to wear, and what they cost today.

What to look for

• SPF 50 and a high PA rating. SPF measures protection from UVB, which burns. PA++++ is the highest rating for UVA, the rays that cause dark spots and ageing.
• No white cast. On deeper skin tones, many mineral sunscreens leave a grey or purple film. Modern Korean sunscreens are made to disappear on the skin.
• A texture you will actually wear. The best sunscreen is the one you put on every morning. Oily skin usually prefers a gel or serum; dry skin likes a creamier finish.

Our picks

Best all-rounder: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ feels like a light moisturiser, gives SPF50+ PA++++ and leaves no white cast on deeper skin. It suits most skin types and sits well under makeup. If you only buy one sunscreen, start here.

Best for oily skin and hot days: Beauty of Joseon Aqua-Fresh

Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 is the lighter, fresher sister of Relief Sun Rice, with panthenol to keep skin calm. A good choice if you shine by midday.

Lightest texture: SKIN1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum

SKIN1004 Water-Fit Sun Serum is a watery serum with centella and hyaluronic acid. It is the easiest to wear in Nairobi heat and good for skin that turns red or sensitive.

Best for dry or irritated skin: COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream

COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream is a moisturising sunscreen with aloe vera. It is a gentle pick if your skin feels hot, tight or irritated.

How much to use and when

Use about two finger lengths for your face and neck, as the last step of your morning routine, after moisturiser. Reapply every two to three hours if you are outdoors, and after sweating. Indoors by a window, one generous morning layer is usually enough.

Questions we get asked

Do I need sunscreen if I have dark skin?

Yes. Deeper skin burns less easily, but it is more likely to get dark spots and uneven tone from the sun. Daily sunscreen is the most effective way to prevent marks and to stop existing ones from getting darker.

Which sunscreen has no white cast?

All four sunscreens in this guide are chosen because they leave no white cast on deeper skin tones. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice and SKIN1004 Water-Fit Sun Serum are the most invisible.

How much does a good sunscreen cost in Kenya?

The sunscreens we recommend cost roughly KSh 1,800 to KSh 2,500 for 50ml, which lasts about one to two months with daily use. The live prices are in the list above.

Will sunscreen make my skin oily or cause pimples?

A light gel or serum sunscreen should not. If your skin is oily or acne-prone, choose the Aqua-Fresh or the SKIN1004 sun serum, and wash it off properly at night, ideally with a cleansing oil first.

Are your Korean sunscreens original?

Yes. We sell original stock only, and you can see and buy everything at our shop at Moon Palace, Shop B8, Eastleigh. Read how to spot fake skincare in Nairobi before buying elsewhere.

---

See every sunscreen we stock on our sunscreen in Kenya page, or read more about sunscreen for deeper skin tones. Same-day delivery in Nairobi before 5pm, and pay on delivery.