At this point, you probably know exactly how important it is to apply SPF every day—yes, even in the winter. But just to make sure we're on the same page: it's necessary to keep your skin healthy and prevent sun damage, which can lead to fine lines, discoloration, dark spots, and even skin cancer. “A good sunscreen is one that people are willing to apply generously every day and reapply as needed,” confirms Claudia Christin, MBBS, Ph.D. Picky's Dr. Dermatologist and Medical Consultant.
As you probably already know, Korean skincare is taking the Western beauty world by storm. While Korean beauty dominates many categories, it really shines when it comes to sunscreen. Whether you haven't found the right product yet or you're a sunscreen fanatic looking to expand your horizons, we're sure there's a Korean beauty product you'll love. From multi-purpose products with soothing and hydrating ingredients to gels, sticks and creams, there's something for everyone.
To put together this list, we spent a few hours researching the best Korean sunscreens on the market and evaluating their active ingredients, sunscreen type, and SPF. We also combed through customer reviews and asked experts for their recommendations. After considering dozens of formulas and consulting with board-certified dermatologists, we selected these top-rated formulas.
Best Overall: COSRX Aloe Vera Soothing Sunscreen SPF50 PA+++
For complete sun protection suitable for most skin types, choose COSRX Soothing Aloe Vera Sunscreen. The creamy, hydrating and lightweight texture absorbs quickly into the skin - without leaving a cast or greasy feel. Christin is a fan of COSRX sunscreen, and we know why. The hydrating formula provides SPF 50 protection and can be used alone or under makeup. Thanks to its high amount of aloe vera, it soothes irritations and ensures a more even skin tone.
We love that this formula doesn't contain oxybenzone, a controversial ingredient commonly found on sunscreen lists but proven to have negative effects on our health and the environment.
who is it for
This is a top-notch formula that works for just about everyone, but the fact that it leaves no cast behind makes it a winner for darker skin tones. We love its consistency, hydration, and high SPF.
Best Budget: Missha Soft Finish Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ PA+++
Korean sunscreens usually aren't too expensive, but Missha's Soft Finish Sun Milk is $10 to $20 cheaper than most of the other products we tested. As the name suggests, this SPF 50 formula has a creamy texture and a lightweight texture, making it perfect for people who live in hot and humid environments, where sweat can make thicker formulas uncomfortable. Oily skin types are also suitable for this formula as it does not add shine throughout the day. Another plus: Water- and sweat-proof. Our only criticism is that some reviewers of this color noted that it left a white cast on their skin.
who is it for
If you're looking for a cheap yet effective Korean sunscreen, you're going to love this product. Plus, it has a milky consistency that will appeal to anyone who likes lightweight sunscreen formulas.
Best for Oily Skin: Suntique IM PURE Perfect Cica Sunscreen
People with oily skin may be frustrated by how many oil-based sunscreens are on the market today. But Suntique's I'm Pure is different - it's non-sticky, absorbs quickly, and provides a matte finish. It also contains Cica (short for Centella Asiatica), a natural ingredient with antibacterial, healing and anti-inflammatory properties. The only drawback? Some reviewers were not impressed with the smell of this product.
who is it for
If you have oily skin and have been looking for oil control products, this fast-absorbing formula will help you control unwanted shine.
Best for Sensitive Skin: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
This soothing, protective sunscreen is specially designed for sensitive skin types. The broad-spectrum SPF 50 formula contains rice extract (a popular ingredient...that reduces UV damage) and fermented grains (great for delivering probiotics to the skin). These ingredients are also rich in antioxidants that soothe and further protect your skin. Reviewers love that it has no white spots at all, and many note that their skin feels soothed and hydrated after using it.
who is it for
If your skin is prone to reactions, this gentle formula designed for sensitive skin will help soothe your skin while protecting it.
Best for Combination Skin: Thank You Farmer Sun Project Water Sunscreen
If you have combination skin (i.e. oily in your T-zone but dry on your cheeks), a water-based sunscreen like this one will help prevent clogged pores and breakouts. It contains African Walnut Oil and Bamboo Extract to lightly moisturize skin, while soothing Aloe Vera and Malva Root help reduce inflammation. The formula applies smoothly and doesn't leave a sticky feel or white cast, making for a great base.
who is it for
If your skin is a little dry and a little oily, this sunscreen formula can help. It is easily absorbed and provides light moisture without being greasy.
Best Stick: AHC Natural Perfection Double Shield Sun Stick SPF50+ PA++++
SPF sticks are great for tattoos, touch-ups, and on-the-go application, and this little guy from ACH doesn't disappoint. It's enriched with white willow bark extract (a natural anti-inflammatory ingredient) and skullcap (a Chinese plant known as a multi-purpose skin protectant and natural sunscreen). A big plus is that reviewers say it can be used over or under makeup. Small things have a big impact. Simply turn the knob to release a few millimeters of product, then gently apply to face, neck, chest and other areas as needed.
who is it for
If you prefer targeted application of a sunscreen stick rather than cream or spray, this cream formula will become your new favorite.
The best chemical formula is: Ntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sunscreen Gel
If you didn't know, chemical sunscreens contain UV filters that safely absorb the sun's rays and convert them into heat. Unlike mineral sunscreens, which adhere to the skin and block UV rays, chemical sunscreens tend to be sheer and lighter.
Korean beauty expert and YouTube personality Kelly Driscoll recommends IsNtree Watery Sun Gel for those who prefer chemical formulas. "The texture is easy to apply and dries quickly, so you can easily put makeup on it in the morning without leaving a white streak on your skin," Driscoll told Birdie.
However, some reviewers say this sunscreen leaves behind a shiny finish. Therefore, if you have oily skin, you may want to choose a more oil-controlling formula.
Best for Face: NEOGEN Dermalogy Day-Light Protection Sunscreen SPF 50/PA+++
When it comes to facial sunscreen, NEOGEN's sun protection products can't be beat. The extra lightweight, silicone-free formula hydrates dry skin without clogging pores or causing breakouts. The formula contains 20 botanical extracts, including hydrating aloe vera, soothing hibiscus and evening primrose oil, to help control sebum production (skin's natural oil). Use alone, layered over your favorite daily moisturizer, or layered under makeup for seamless UV protection.
who is it for
This nourishing sunscreen controls skin's sebum levels while hydrating, making it our favorite daily facial formula.
Best for Body: Make p:rem UV Defense Me Daily Sun Fluid
If you're looking for a sunscreen that hydrates your entire body, UV Defense Me is the right choice for you. This Korean hybrid sunscreen contains chemical and mineral ingredients to provide broad-spectrum protection with SPF 50, creating a moisture-rich UV barrier without being sticky. Each bottle contains nearly 7 ounces of product, which you can apply to your arms, legs, feet, hands, stomach, chest, neck, and even your face. However, some reviewers note that this formula has a white component.
who is it for
This sunscreen is suitable for all skin types and is gentle enough for children. We love its full-body sun protection because you get a ton of product at an affordable price
Best for Anti-Aging: IsNtree Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Sunscreen Gel
If you're concerned about aging, it's important to choose a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection. This means it not only protects against UVB rays that cause sunburn, but also the deeper penetrating UVA rays that cause skin aging. In addition to broad-spectrum protection, this formula from ISNTREE contains ceramides (lipids that help maintain a healthy skin barrier) and a high dose of hyaluronic acid to keep your skin looking hydrated and smooth. Warning: Some reviewers with sensitive skin said they had negative reactions to this formula, including stinging and stinging.
who is it for
If your goal is to prevent skin aging, this broad spectrum sunscreen is for you. Other moisturizing ingredients, including ceramides and hyaluronic acid, also help promote a more youthful appearance.
Post a Comment