Sourcy
Sourcy
Updated: 01/02/2026Trend: growing

Lightweight Serum & Gel Sunscreens

  • -The Australian beauty market is seeing a significant shift towards lightweight serum and gel sunscreens.
  • -Consumers are actively seeking cosmetically elegant formulas that offer high SPF protection without the common drawbacks of greasiness, eye-stinging, or pilling under makeup.
  • -This trend presents a prime opportunity for brands to capture market share by sourcing products that deliver a superior user experience.
  • -Partnering with the right sunscreen manufacturers to quickly launch a well-formulated product is key to capitalizing on this demand for high-performance, daily-use sun protection.
Lightweight Serum & Gel Sunscreens 1
Lightweight Serum & Gel Sunscreens 2
Lightweight Serum & Gel Sunscreens 3
Lightweight Serum & Gel Sunscreens 4
Lightweight Serum & Gel Sunscreens 5
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Choose your target segment

Pick either Value or Premium positioning. This determines your price point, materials, and target customer.

Value Segment

Value Lightweight Serum & Gel Sunscreens

A$5 - A$8/unit

To win the value segment, this product will be positioned as the ultimate daily-use SPF 50+ facial sunscreen that solves...

Premium Segment

Premium Lightweight Serum & Gel Sunscreens

A$11 - A$20/unit

This premium product will be the definitive 'skincare-first' daily facial sunscreen, justifying its price with a superio...

Strategic Narrative

To win the value segment, this product will be positioned as the ultimate daily-use SPF 50+ facial sunscreen that solves the category's biggest frustrations.

It will deliver a lightweight, non-greasy, soft-matte finish that's perfect under makeup, addressing key customer demands.

Crucially, it will feature a 'no-sting' eye-safe formula and be fragrance-free, directly targeting the most severe negative feedback in reviews.

By providing a reliable, comfortable, and irritation-free experience at an accessible price, this product will build strong loyalty among users with normal, combination, oily, and sensitive skin.

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Recommended Specifications

The blueprint for your value product.

ParameterRecommendationRationale
Protection LevelSPF 50+ Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB)This is the standard for high protection in the category and a non-negotiable customer expectation for a daily facial sunscreen.
TextureLightweight Invisible Gel-CreamAddresses the primary positive insight for a 'lightweight, non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly' while avoiding the 'runny' texture complaint seen in some serums. The gel-cream format implies hydration without stickiness.
FinishSoft Matte, Shine-Control FinishDirectly targets the positive feedback for matte finishes, making it a key selling point for users with oily or combination skin. This counters the negative insight of products leaving a greasy or tacky feel.
Key Formulation FeatureNo-Sting Eye Safe FormulaThis is a major differentiator that directly solves one of the most frequent and severe complaints ('eye irritation and stinging'). This feature will be a primary driver of loyalty and positive reviews.
Skincare IngredientsHyaluronic Acid and NiacinamideIncludes Hyaluronic Acid for hydration (a known value-add) and Niacinamide to support the shine-control finish and appeal to skincare-savvy consumers. This combination offers multi-benefit appeal.
Appearance on SkinZero White Cast FormulaCrucial for success. Addresses the universal praise for sunscreens that leave no white cast, ensuring suitability for all skin tones and avoiding a key purchase barrier.
SensitivitiesFragrance-Free, Non-Comedogenic, Dermatologist-TestedTargets users with sensitive skin and acne concerns by being fragrance-free (a major complaint when present) and non-comedogenic. 'Dermatologist-Tested' adds a layer of trust.
Makeup CompatibilityPill-Proof Makeup Primer BaseCapitalizes on the strong positive feedback for sunscreens that layer well under makeup. Phrasing it as a 'primer base' elevates its function and value.
Value Engineer

Skincare Ingredients: Glycerin and Vitamin E

Swap Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide for more cost-effective, standard hydrating and antioxidant ingredients like Glycerin and Vitamin E to reduce formulation cost.

Texture: Simple Lightweight Fluid

Using a standard fluid or lotion base instead of a more complex gel-cream can lower manufacturing costs, though it may feel less sophisticated.

Speed to Market

Formula Base: Stock SPF 50 Gel-Cream Base

Partner with sunscreen manufacturers who offer a pre-approved, stable SPF 50 gel-cream base. This reduces R&D and stability testing time significantly.

Packaging: Standard 50ml Squeeze Tube with Screw Cap

Utilizing readily available, stock packaging components eliminates custom mold lead times and simplifies the supply chain for faster production.

Differentiation

Product Line Extension: Offer a 'Hydra-Glow' version alongside the 'Soft-Matte'

Cater to both oily/combo (matte) and dry/normal (glow) skin types within the same product family, capturing a wider audience by addressing different finish preferences.

Size Variation: Introduce a 100ml 'Value Size' or 'Bulk Sunscreen' option

A larger size offers better cost-per-ml, appealing to budget-conscious shoppers and loyal users. This taps into search interest for 'bulk sunscreen spf 50' and enhances value perception.

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Sourcy recommended suppliers and products

Verified suppliers and product samples we recommend for this category.

Verified Suppliers

Guangzhou Jiali Ya Biotechnology Co., Ltd.

Guangdong Guangzhou Baiyun District Jiahe Wanggang Er Ma Lu Huihe Tiandi 203
Good QualityGood Dispute ResolutionGood Returns
Guangzhou Jiali Ya Biotechnology Co., Ltd. product 1Guangzhou Jiali Ya Biotechnology Co., Ltd. product 2Guangzhou Jiali Ya Biotechnology Co., Ltd. product 3Guangzhou Jiali Ya Biotechnology Co., Ltd. product 4
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Guangzhou Qingchen Cosmetics Co., Ltd.

Guangdong Guangzhou Baiyun District Zhongluotan Town Guangcong Wu Lu Hexin Commercial Building 302
Excellent QualityExcellent Dispute ResolutionGood Overall Service
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Guangzhou Meihao Biotechnology Co., Ltd.

Guangdong Guangzhou Baiyun District Junhe Street Wangfa Street Self-numbered No. 20
Good Dispute ResolutionGood Overall Service
Guangzhou Meihao Biotechnology Co., Ltd. product 1Guangzhou Meihao Biotechnology Co., Ltd. product 2Guangzhou Meihao Biotechnology Co., Ltd. product 3Guangzhou Meihao Biotechnology Co., Ltd. product 4
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Guangzhou Yuqi Cosmetics Co., Ltd.

Guangdong Guangzhou Baiyun District Liangsha Er Lu No. 671 Room 201
Good Dispute ResolutionGood ReturnsGood Consultation
Guangzhou Yuqi Cosmetics Co., Ltd. product 1Guangzhou Yuqi Cosmetics Co., Ltd. product 2Guangzhou Yuqi Cosmetics Co., Ltd. product 3Guangzhou Yuqi Cosmetics Co., Ltd. product 4
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Guangzhou Yimei Cosmetics Technology Co., Ltd.

Guangdong Guangzhou Xialiang Lu No. 344
Excellent Dispute ResolutionGood ReturnsExcellent Consultation
Guangzhou Yimei Cosmetics Technology Co., Ltd. product 1Guangzhou Yimei Cosmetics Technology Co., Ltd. product 2Guangzhou Yimei Cosmetics Technology Co., Ltd. product 3
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Product Samples

Fuchiting Niacinamide Gel Arbutin Brightens Skin, Moisturizes, Diminishes Acne Marks, Spots and Dark Yellow Cream

Fuchiting Niacinamide Gel Arbutin Brightens Skin, Moisturizes, Diminishes Acne Marks, Spots and Dark Yellow Cream

Value

AUD $0.22

MOQ: 1 | Orders: 90,902

Nha Curacao Aloe Vera Gel Soothing Repair Hydrating Moisturizing Lightening Acne Marks Aloe Vera Gel Large Bottle Skin Care Products Wholesale

Nha Curacao Aloe Vera Gel Soothing Repair Hydrating Moisturizing Lightening Acne Marks Aloe Vera Gel Large Bottle Skin Care Products Wholesale

Value

AUD $1.20

MOQ: 1 | Orders: 7,206

377 Whitening Sunscreen for Men and Women, Facial Sunscreen, Small Yellow Hat Sunscreen, Sunscreen Spray Sunscreen, Best-Selling List

377 Whitening Sunscreen for Men and Women, Facial Sunscreen, Small Yellow Hat Sunscreen, Sunscreen Spray Sunscreen, Best-Selling List

Value

AUD $0.50

MOQ: 1 | Orders: 6,440

Genuine Products Whitening Sunscreen SPF50 UV Protection Sunscreen Spray Concealer Body Sunscreen

Genuine Products Whitening Sunscreen SPF50 UV Protection Sunscreen Spray Concealer Body Sunscreen

Value

AUD $0.43

MOQ: 2 | Orders: 5,600

Aloe vera gel 300g moisturizing essence gel after sun moisturizing cream aloe vera gel wholesale dropshipping

Aloe vera gel 300g moisturizing essence gel after sun moisturizing cream aloe vera gel wholesale dropshipping

Value

AUD $0.27

MOQ: 1 | Orders: 40,576

Curaçao Aloe Vera Gel Moisturizing Hydrating After-Sun Repair Face Cream Mask Unisex Skincare Wholesale Dropshipping

Curaçao Aloe Vera Gel Moisturizing Hydrating After-Sun Repair Face Cream Mask Unisex Skincare Wholesale Dropshipping

Value

AUD $0.40

MOQ: 1 | Orders: 12

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Things to note when sourcing this product

Quality risks, pricing levers, and key specifications to keep in mind.

Guangdong Dominates Sunscreen Manufacturing with Diverse OEM/ODM Hubs

Guangdong province is the core manufacturing hub for lightweight serum and gel sunscreens, with Guangzhou, Shantou, and Foshan leading in supplier concentration. Guangzhou, known as China's 'Cosmetics Capital,' provides extensive OEM/ODM capabilities for custom formulations, while Zhejiang's Jinhua (Yiwu) serves as a major wholesale and distribution center.

Strategic Advantages
  • Guangdong province is the primary sourcing region, with Guangzhou offering advanced OEM/ODM services and Shantou and Foshan providing cost-competitive, mass-market options.
  • Guangzhou, the 'Cosmetics Capital,' is the top choice for buyers seeking custom formulations, private labeling, and access to a diverse range of quality tiers.
  • The clusters in Shantou and Foshan are ideal for high-volume orders where achieving a competitive price point for standard serum or gel sunscreens is the main goal.
  • Zhejiang's Jinhua (Yiwu) serves as a crucial wholesale hub, perfect for buyers looking for a wide variety of ready-to-ship products and flexible private label options.
  • Buyers should align their sourcing strategy with regional strengths: Guangzhou for innovation, Shantou/Foshan for cost, and Jinhua for variety and wholesale.
Guangdong, Guangzhou
Cluster Strength

As China's 'Cosmetics Capital,' Guangzhou has the highest concentration of suppliers and a mature ecosystem for OEM/ODM services. The wide price variation indicated in data suggests capabilities ranging from mass-market to premium formulations, supported by strong R&D and a complete supply chain.

Watch-Outs

⚠️ The large number of suppliers requires careful vetting. MOQs and development costs can be higher for more advanced or custom projects compared to standard formulations.

Guangdong, Shantou
Cluster Strength

This cluster offers a significant number of suppliers with a focus on cost-effective production, as suggested by its competitive average price point. It benefits from the broader Guangdong cosmetics supply chain while specializing in more accessible product tiers.

Watch-Outs

⚠️ May offer fewer options for cutting-edge ingredients or premium, innovative formulations compared to Guangzhou. Emphasis is on volume and cost efficiency.

Guangdong, Foshan
Cluster Strength

Located within the dominant Guangdong manufacturing belt, Foshan stands out for its highly competitive pricing. This indicates a specialization in high-volume, low-cost production for basic sunscreen products.

Watch-Outs

⚠️ Product and packaging options are likely to be basic. Less focus on R&D and customization; suppliers are geared towards production efficiency.

Zhejiang, Jinhua
Cluster Strength

This cluster, which includes the city of Yiwu, is China's largest distribution and wholesale hub for cosmetics. It provides access to a vast variety of products from numerous factories and offers extensive OEM/ODM services, often with flexible MOQs.

Watch-Outs

⚠️ Many listings may be from trading companies rather than direct manufacturers. Buyers should verify the supplier's role to ensure supply chain transparency and control.

Ready to source your Sunscreen?

Submit your design with target specs, and we'll connect you with vetted manufacturers.

Start Sourcing