Probably the two most well-known sunscreens from Japan are the Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Milk and Biore Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunscreen. They are probably the two most recommended sunscreen to buy when you go to Japan. But which one is better? Which one should you buy? In this post, I will compare the two sunscreens to see which sunscreen is better.
Both sunscreens are pretty similar. They have similar objectives: protect your skin from sun damage, no white cast and ability to withstand oils from the skin. However, each brand focus on something different.
Anessa Sunscreen Milk: Sweat-proof sunscreen that is great for sensitive skin
Biore Watery Essence Sunscreen: Lightweight sunscreen that feels weightless
With different goals from each brand, you can clearly see that in the formulations
The price:
Although they are relatively the same size, the Anessa cost three times($35) more than the Biore watery sunscreen ($10).
The texture:
In the picture above you can see the Anessa sunscreen has a white milky texture. It dries down to a clear thin dry touch layer without leaving a white cast behind. Since it is like a lotion, it is also quite hydrating on the skin. However, if you don’t blend the sunscreen enough, you will have white lotion marks on your skin. Personally, I don’t like a dry touch layer, it feels like a layer of chalky powder on my face, not my favorite.
On the other hand, the Biore Watery Sunscreen has a lightweight gel texture. Even with the slightest touch, no trace of the sunscreen can be seen. Best of all, it doesn’t feel like anything on the skin. Perfect for reapplying sunscreen over makeup even when you don’t have a mirror.
The smell:
If you are very sensitive to smell you might have to be careful if you decide to buy the Anessa sunscreen. Although they both have a chemical smell, the Anessa sunscreen is by far the most pungent. So pungent that it kind of reminds of an ant repellant smell, but I’m probably just thinking too much. The Biore watery sunscreen, on the other hand, has more of an alcohol chemical smell to it. Although both sunscreens smell, both sunscreens don’t linger on the skin.
Which one do I prefer?
Although they both are cult favorites I have to say I prefer Biore Aqua Rich Watery Essence sunscreen more. First off, the Biore sunscreen is much more affordable. Anessa cost about $35 while the Biore sunscreen cost about $10 dollars for almost the same amount.
Secondly, Anesssa has a really strong chemical scent which I was a little put off by.
Thirdly and the main reason why I prefer the Biore sunscreen is that the Anessa sunscreen leaves a dry touch layer on the skin. Personally, I don’t like a dry touch formulation. It feels chalky and feels like there is something on my skin. Biore sunscreen doesn’t feel like anything. Instead, it feels almost like water and somehow just magically disappears.
Want more reviews? Check out Which Affordable Asian Sunscreen is the Best
Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored but it may contain affiliate links where I make a small commission. This means that when you make a purchase using my links I earn a small percentage. All opinions are my own regardless of affiliate links or not. You don’t have to use my links but it would really help me keep on posting the things I love 🙂 <3
A beauty lover that loves everything about beauty and skincare. She is always on the lookout to find the new “it” product. Whether it is budget friendly or high end, she plans to share with others her beauty adventures and beauty experiences on this blog.