10 Best Korean Sunscreens: Reviews & Guide 2021
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No matter what the season be, dermatologists and skin care experts suggest that wearing sunscreen is the most important way to avoid sun damage and to keep your skin healthy and youthful. Johnson & Johnson, in its latest study, found that applying a broad-spectrum SPF 30 plus sunscreen to your face daily improves the aging signs and skin tone.
While most Western cosmetic manufacturers follow the SPF system, Korean sunscreen uses the Persistent Pigment Darkening system (PA System). This designation is more accurate while determining UV protection.
So, with Korean sunscreen, you get UVA and UVB rays protection. Koreans are very much keen on protecting their skin from UV light and sunscreens are almost like breathing to them. The K beauty sunscreens are skin-friendly for daily wear and work brilliantly as a moisturizer, primer, and anti-aging serum.
But not all sunscreens are created equal and shopping for the best sunscreen is extremely overwhelming. With the Korean FDA pushing for more approved SPF filters with its texture innovation, choosing the best Korean sunscreen has become a monotonous task.
Here this article brings you the 10 best Korean Sunscreens that you can check out and be ready to pick your daily UV defense sunscreen.
10 Best Korean Sunscreen Products
1. ETUDE HOUSE Sunprise Mild Airy Finish Sun Milk SPF50+
Our Pick
Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish Sun Milk is a 100% mineral-based sunscreen with skin-loving ingredients. This Korean sunscreen is perfect for sensitive skin. Its oil-free formula is perfectly suited for people with oily skin, as it is non-sticky and gives that smooth finish. The sunblock is high on SPF and, the non-opaque UV milk gives, the skin long-lasting sun protection.
Vegetarian ingredients like dwarf ground sedge extract, sunflower seeds are great for sun protection. While aloe vera and cactus keep your skin hydrated. This matte finish physical sunscreen offers your skin both UVA and UVB rays protection and is strong enough for normal daily activities.
The mild airy finish sun milk comes in a light pastel green plastic squeezy tube that is quite handy and easy to carry. The sunscreen comes with a fresh green lemon scent.
Key Features
- SPF50 pa
- Offers UVA and UVB protection
- 100% mineral-based
- Skin-friendly formula
Pros
- Easy to spread
- Matte finish
- Ideal for Sensitive and Oily skin
- Long-lasting UV protection
- Non-Sticky and non-greasy
Cons
- Strong Fragrance
2. COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream
For Dry Skin
If you are looking for an all-around and amazing sunscreen that works well on all skin types, then reach out for COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream. To give a serious boost of hydration to your skin, this cream is a perfect choice. The hydrating formula of SPF 50+ offers high UV protection and can be used even under makeup.
The sun cream is fully moisturizing and is lightweight on the skin. And thanks to the easy absorption, it evens out on the skin without leaving any white cast or greasy residue. I love the classic presence of soothing aloe vera that calms your skin irritation and enhances the complexion.
Key Features
- Aloe Soothing Sun Cream
- SPF50 pa
- PA+++
Pros
- Lightweight
- Quick absorption
- Intense Moisturising
- Works best on dry skin
- Contains organic extract
Cons
- Can be a bit greasy on oily skin
3. A'PIEU Pure Block Daily Sun Cream
For Dull Skin
Got a tired and dull-looking skin? Then the A’PIEU Pure Block Daily Sun Cream can be the cure you are looking for. The sunscreen comes enriched with a whole lot of botanicals such as apple flower, peach flower, and of course the lime flower extract that brightens your skin complexion. The sunblock contains rice bran extract, an antioxidant that prevents premature aging and helps in brightening your skin as well.
The cream has a slight citrus smell and causes no skin irritation.
This day light protection sun screen is quite gentle on the skin and offers complete skin protection from harmful UV rays including the UVA rays. The satin finish on the skin makes you look gorgeous. This cream has anti-inflammatory properties and comes highly recommended for those who are struggling with any skin irritation.
Key Features
- SPF 45+
- PA +++
- Natural Ingredients
Pros
- Soft and creamy consistency
- Leaves no white residue
- Quick absorption
- Non-Sticky
- Moisturises dry skin
Cons
- Less quantity
4. ESPOIR Water Splash Sun Cream
Provides Deep Hydration
This Korean sun cream comes as a real gift for those wanting to keep their skin hydrated. The water-like consistency sinks into the skin instantly and maintains the moisture level throughout the day. The sunblock glides off effortlessly and spreads evenly.
The Water splash sun cream is weightless and gives that immediate shine to your skin. I quite liked the packing design and, it feels like a moisturizer with high UV protection. The cream strips off all the dryness from your skin and does not smudge or leave any white residue.
This K-beauty sunscreen is made with vegan extracts like marshmallow root extract, lavender extract, and even aloe vera leaf extract make it a choice for those looking for an organic sun protection factor.
Key Features
- SPF50 pa
- PA +++
- Moisture Bound
- Tone up Sun Cream
- Water-based formula
Pros
- Protection against UVB and UVA rays
- Non-Sticky
- Deep Moisturiser
- Leaves skin glossy and smooth
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- Strong fragrance
5. All Around Safe Block Soft Finish Sun Milk
Double layer UV blocking
This K-Beauty sun milk from Missha is truly an all-rounder as it offers double-layer UV protection for a longer time. This cream comes with a distinguished silky porous powder formula that gives a pure milky texture. It has a runny texture and flows off just like milk.
The sunblock gives a nice feeling to the skin and does not feel heavy. The bottle looks quite classy and elegant with a shiny pastel pink lid. Like other Missha products, sun milk is strongly fragranced with a sweet floral scent.
It doesn’t feel sticky or greasy and leaves the skin soft and smooth. Make sure to shake it well before use and apply it onto the face as the last step of your basic skincare.
Key Features
- Double layer UV blocking
- SPF50 pa
- Silky Porous Powder Formula
Pros
- Non-Greasy
- Lightweight
- Value for Money
- High SPF and PA rating
- Easy and smooth application
Cons
- Contains alcohol, which can cause dryness
- Leaves a pink cast if applied generously
6. MAKEP: REM UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Gel
With Anti-Aging Properties
This rich mineral-based cream comes enriched with numerous hydrating ingredients that make it a good pick. The ingredients like dimethicone, cottonseed extract, and bitter almond kernel oil give skin a perfect moisturizing boost. If you are looking for a cream that would revitalize your aging skin, then this is the one for you.
It works wonders on your skin as it improves your complexion and makes it more radiant and healthier. The sun gel does not cause any irritation or breakouts even on sensitive skin and does not leave any residue. It offers a superior UV protection grade. It has a cooling effect which makes your feel refreshed.
Key Feature
- SPF 50+
- PA+++++
- 100% Safe ingredients
- Multifunction Skin Care
- Triple Function
Pros
- Strong UV protection
- No residue
- Anti-Aging Cream
- Fragrance-Free
- Watery Textured
Cons
- Feel a bit greasy on oily skin
- Slightly expensive
7. [IOPE] UV Shield Sun Protector
Strengthens Skin Barrier
It is a triple function sun cream that comes with a micro-filter system to give that extra protection from UV rays and fine dust. The cream is feather-light and gives a cool refreshing feeling to your skin. The sun cream smells great and is super absorbent.
A small amount goes a long way and does not leave any residue. The UV shield works perfectly on sensitive as well as dry skin giving no allergic reactions. The formula includes emollient ingredients with chemical filters.
The cream comes loaded with VD boosters that help in treating the signs of aging like dark spots and fine lines. It also strengthens your skin barrier to keep your skin healthy. I can say that the packaging is quite standard with a squeeze tube and a small opening to dispense out the cream as per requirement.
Key Features
- SPF 50+
- PA +++
- Micro Filter System for increased protection
- VD boosters for improving the skin strength
Pros
- Lightweight
- Hypoallergenic
- Not greasy
- Non -Sticky
- No residue
Cons
- Contains alcohol
- Bit expensive
8. THANKYOU FARMER Sun Project Light Sun Essence
High SPF protection
If you are on the lookout for real beach day protection, then Thankyou Farmer Sun Project Light Sun Essence is one of the best that the Korean beauty industry has to offer.
The watery texture sinks into the skin super quickly and gives that weightless feel to your skin. It has a high SPF rating. The silky sun cream combines both chemical and mineral-based filters that are great for UVB and UVA protection.
The lightweight cream is infused with bamboo water and African walnut oil, which keeps your skin intensely hydrated and soothes irritation. The cream also comes with some skin-friendly ingredients that prevent aging and improves the oil control efficacy.
The cute sunscreen bottle can be carried around everywhere easily, even inside your pocket. It smells like apricot but not overwhelming.
Key Features
- UVA & UVB protection
- Strong against water and sweat
- SPF 50+
Pros
- Lightweight
- Does not leave any white cast
- Attractive packaging
- Natural ingredients
- Safe on sensitive skin
- Ideal for different skin tones
Cons
- Too dewy for oily skin
- Can cause eye irritation
9. PAPA RECIPE Bombee Honey Moist Sun Essence
For All Skin Types
This sun essence is a new and improved formulation of the previous Papa Recipe Bombee Moist Sun essence. The Papa Recipe Sun Essence is not like other facial sunscreens. It is thin and airy and doesn’t feel like you have applied some SPF to your face.
What I liked the most in this essence is the ingredient list. The real essence of honey, propolis, and royal jelly extract do an amazing job of nourishing the skin. The sunblock provides a broad spectrum and hence gives your skin dual UVB and UVA protection. The violet and red flower complex promotes a healthier moisture barrier of the skin.
It is not heavy or greasy on your skin and soothes the skin with all the royal ingredients. The essence is super hydrating and leaves that shiny look on the face. Recommend using this as the last step of your daily skincare for those who are not into the matte look.
Key Features
- SPF 50+
- PA +++
- Gives both UVA and UVB protection
Pros
- Thin consistency
- Instant hydration
- Effective SPF moisturizer
- Natural Ingredients
- Non-Sticky
Cons
- Leaves a slightly shiny texture on the skin
- Bit Expensive
10. Dr.Oracle 21; stay A-thera Sun Block
For Acne Prone Skin
Have acne-prone skin, then try out this mineral-based sunscreen from Dr.Oracle. This cream has been specially designed to suit those who fear that applying sunscreen will clog their pores. It not only protects the skin, with its SPF properties but, also creates a moisture cover on the skin.
The key ingredients like Celtic water and Bamboo water give that relaxing and hydrating effect to your skin. The lightweight formula gets easily absorbed into the skin without leaving any white cast.
Infused with Centella Asiatica extract and maca peptide calms down and helps to keep the skin balanced. The sunblock also offers high protection against external irritants. It is a little mattifying and if you want that natural finish on your skin, then go for it.
Key Features
- SPF 50+
- PA +++
- Powerful Ingredients
- Does not clog pores
Pros
- Weightless
- Hydrating
- Pore Care
- Skin Balance control
- Scentless
- Zero White cast
Cons
- Bit expensive
FAQ
Can Korean sunscreens be used on sensitive skin?
Yes. Most Korean sunscreens use natural and mild ingredients that do not cause any irritation and can be used on sensitive skin.
Do Korean sunscreens brightens skin tone?
Yes. Many Korean sunscreens contain brightening components in their formula that effectively brightens the skin tone.
Conclusion
So, that was the list of the best and top-rated Korean sunscreens that you can buy. However, there are many factors that one should consider while buying good sunscreen. Always try to choose the ones that have broad-spectrum protection. Korean Sunscreens come with SPF 50, which is adequate to protect skin completely.
Korean sunscreens are definitely popular and have a thin and lightweight consistency. Many of the K-beauty sunscreens are stellar multitaskers that offer hydration, evens the skin tone, and also provide the skin with antioxidants. As they do not leave any white residue, they are often the most preferred brands by many.
In this article, we have reviewed, the best Korean sunscreen based on expert reviews. So, if you are new to the world of Korean sunscreens, then ETUDE HOUSE Sunprise Mild Airy Finish Sun Milk SPF50+ is a great one to start with. Its formula is widely soothing and lightweight that gives the perfect glowing skin. This Korean sunscreen is at the top of the list due to its superior performance and results.
The next one that I would recommend from the list is COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream. This sunblock has really impressed me with its Aloe leaf extract that soothes and moisturizes the skin at the same time. This travel-friendly cream is a great choice for those with dry skin.
If, you are further looking to enhance your skin to the next level then, you might choose A’PIEU Pure Block Daily Sun Cream. This budget-friendly sunscreen is a promising product with a mild floral scent, that is lightweight and gives a cooling sensation to your skin.
Remember an unprotected skin is at risk of developing early signs of aging like dark spots. It may even lead to skin cancer. For having healthy skin it is advised to use physical sunscreens every time you step out in the sun. The Korean sunscreens offer perfect daily protection with their skin-soothing ingredients.
We hope this article has been helpful for you in choosing your best Korean sunscreen. Do let us know which one you choose! Also check out articles on Korean skincare
Emma Smith
I love staying healthy by doing working out and yoga. I am mother of a beautiful baby girl, I spend most of my time caring for her while still managing work obligations.
