- Korean
- Japanese
Skincare
Oil & balm cleansers
First-step cleansers that melt sunscreen and makeup without stripping.
- Everyday
- Sensitive
- Sun protection
Skin concern guide
Sun protection in Thailand: choosing and using sunscreen
Thailand sits in the tropics, so UV stays strong all year — including on grey, rainy-season days. Sunscreen is the single most effective step in any routine here, for comfort today and skin health later.
UV in the tropics, in plain English
UVB rays cause burning; UVA rays penetrate deeper and are linked to pigmentation and skin ageing. SPF mostly tells you about UVB protection. PA ratings — common on Japanese and Korean sunscreens — tell you about UVA protection, from PA+ up to PA++++.
In Bangkok, the UV index often reaches very high or extreme levels around the middle of the day. Cloud cover reduces UV less than people expect, and UVA passes through windows. Daily sunscreen, shade and hats work best together.
The routine
A routine for sun protection
Morning
- 1
Moisturise
Your usual light moisturiser — let it sink in.
- 2
Apply sunscreen
Two finger-lengths for face and neck. Don't forget ears and the back of the neck.
- 3
Wait
Give it a few minutes before makeup.
Evening
- 1
Remove it properly
An oil or balm cleanser, then a gentle foam.
- 2
Soothe if needed
Aloe or a calming serum after a day outdoors.
Extra
- 1
Reapply
Every two hours outdoors, after swimming or heavy sweating — sticks, sprays and cushions make it easier.
Look for
Ingredients that help
Avoid
Common mistakes we see
Using too little
Most people apply around a quarter to half the tested amount.
Relying on SPF in makeup
You'd need far more foundation than anyone wears.
Forgetting to reapply
Sunscreen breaks down with sun, sweat and touching your face.
Skipping it indoors near windows
UVA passes through glass.
From the edit
Product types for sun protection
Message us to check what's on the shelf this weekend.
Category
Origin
Showing 5 of 5 product types
- Japanese
- Korean
SkincareSunscreens
High-protection, cosmetically elegant sunscreens — milks, gels and essences.
- Sun protection
- Everyday
- Anti-ageing
- Korean
MakeupCushion foundations
Buildable, skin-like coverage in a compact you can touch up anywhere.
- Everyday
- Sun protection
- Korean
- Japanese
HaircareLeave-in mists
Detangling, heat-protecting sprays for everyday styling.
- Everyday
- Sun protection
- Japanese
- Korean
Body CareBody sunscreens
Sprays and lotions for arms, legs and shoulders.
- Sun protection
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FAQ
Sun protection: questions
SPF 30 blocks most UVB if applied properly, but most people under-apply. SPF 50 gives you more margin for error in strong tropical sun.
It's a rating for UVA protection used mainly in Asia. PA++++ is the highest level — look for it if you're concerned about pigmentation or ageing.
Sunscreen sticks, sprays held at arm's length, or a cushion compact with SPF are the easiest options. Blot oil first, then apply.
Yes. UV is still strong on cloudy days in the tropics.
More concerns
Other skin concerns
Oily skin
Shine by noon, makeup sliding off, enlarged-looking pores.
Acne-prone skin
Breakouts, clogged pores and marks that linger.
Sensitive skin
Stinging, redness and skin that reacts to everything.
Dehydrated skin
Tight, dull and flaky — often from air-con, even if you're oily.
Dark spots & uneven tone
Post-acne marks, sun spots and dullness.
Early signs of ageing
Fine lines, loss of bounce and sun-related changes.
Your first routine
Starting from zero? Three steps, done properly.
This guide is general skincare information, not medical advice. If you have a skin condition that worries you, please see a doctor or dermatologist.
Not sure where to start? Just ask.
Message us with your skin type and what you're looking for. We'll tell you what's on the shelf this weekend and help you choose — then pick up at Chatuchak Weekend Market.
Sat–Sun, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM