15 Best Korean Sunscreens for Your Ultimate Sun Protection
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Looking for the best Korean sunscreen for ultimate sun protection? You’ll find your perfect match in this list of the top 15 Korean sunscreens.
Sunscreen is the ultimate skincare must-have, and when it comes to the best protection, Korean sunscreens lead the pack. In this guide, we’ll explore why sunscreen is non-negotiable in any skincare routine and delve into the top 15 best Korean sunscreens. Plus, don’t forget to check out our dedicated post on the best Korean sunscreen sticks for easy reapplication throughout the day. Let’s uncover the secrets to healthy, glowing skin!
The Best Korean Sunscreen of 2024
Our Top Picks
- Best Korean Sunscreen Overall: COSRX – Aloe Soothing Sun Cream
- Best Korean Sunscreen for Face: Beauty of Joseon – Relief Sun
- Best Korean Sunscreen for Oily Skin: ROUND LAB – Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen
- Best Korean Sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin: Isntree – Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel
- Best Korean Sunscreen Stick: Abib – Quick Sunstick Protection Bar
- Best Korean Sunscreen for Dry Skin: Torriden – DIVE-IN Watery Moisture Sun Cream
- Best Korean Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin: Haruharu WONDER – Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Sunscreen
Best Korean SUNSCREEN
1. COSRX – Aloe Soothing Sun Cream
COSRX – Aloe Soothing Sun Cream
This hybrid sunscreen offers SPF50+ PA+++ protection with a blend of chemical and physical sunscreens. Enriched with aloe leaf extract and glycerin, it provides hydration and soothing benefits. Its lightweight cream texture absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy or white cast finish. Suitable for both face and body use.
Pros: No white cast, Lightweight
Cons: None
Type: Chemical/Physical Hybrid | Key Ingredients: Aloe Leaf Extract, Glycerin | SPF: 50+ | Size: 50ml | Water-Resistant: Not specified | Finish: Moisturizing | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Customer Review: “I have tried La Roche Posay, Colorscience, Cerave AM facial moisturizing lotion, and Aveeno sunblock. They all leave a white cast on my face and since my skin is medium to dark tone it’s very noticeable. This is the only sunblock that I have tried that absorbs quickly and leaves no cast. So far this has been my favorite.”
Best Korean SUNSCREEN for face
2. Beauty of Joseon – Relief Sun
Beauty of Joseon – Relief Sun
This organic sunscreen offers broad-spectrum SPF 50+ PA++++ protection against UVA and UVB rays. Its lightweight cream texture absorbs quickly without leaving a white cast. Infused with niacinamide for a glowing complexion and enriched with rice extract and grain-derived probiotics for hydration and suppleness. Formulated without oxybenzone, octinoxate, and animal-derived ingredients, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
Pros: Silky, moisturizing finish
Cons: Shiny initially
Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, Rice Extract, Grain-Derived Probiotics | SPF: 50+ | Size: 50ml | Water-Resistant: No | Finish: Moisturizing | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Customer Review: “l love this sunscreen it doesn’t leave any white casting and it feels like there’s nothing in you’re skin!!! Recommend”
Best Korean SUNSCREEN for oily skin
3. ROUND LAB – Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen
ROUND LAB – Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen
This chemical sunscreen provides SPF50+ PA++++ protection against UV rays while offering skincare benefits. Enriched with 1,425ppm of birch juice and hyaluronic acid for moisturization and niacinamide for glowing skin. Adenosine provides anti-aging care. Its soft cream texture leaves a white cast-free finish without a sticky feel.
Pros: Moisturizing, No white cast
Cons: Pricey for size
Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, Rice Extract, Grain-Derived Probiotics | SPF: 50+ | Size: 50ml | Water-Resistant: No | Finish: Moisturizing | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Customer Review: “I tried this sunscreen after a friend recommended it and I’m in love with it! I have combination skin that can get quite reactive to sun products (mineral or chemical) but I didn’t have any issue with this one. No white cast, a fresh smell, and the texture is quite light so my face doesn’t feel heavy afterwards. My favorite so far!!”
Best Korean SUNSCREEN for acne-prone skin
4. Isntree – Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel
Isntree – Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel
This sun gel combines chemical and physical sunscreens to provide broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ protection while hydrating and soothing the skin. Enriched with eight types of hyaluronic acid for varying molecular weights to replenish moisture, along with astaxanthin, ceramide, and centella asiatica extract for additional benefits. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Suitable for various skin types, including sensitive skin.
Pros: Lightweight, No white cast
Cons: Not waterproof
Type: Chemical/Physical Hybrid | Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Astaxanthin, Ceramide, Centella Asiatica Extract | SPF: 50+ | Size: 50ml | Water-Resistant: No | Finish: Dewy | Cruelty-Free: Not specified
Customer Review: “I just wash my face and apply sunscreen without even toner. I don’t need to apply moisturizer underneath. It does not leave any whiteness due to its structure. It definitely does not burn the eye area (a very important factor for me). It is a product that I normally love to use, but now it is a bit expensive, it was almost half the price when I bought it.”
Best Korean SUNSCREEN Stick
5. Abib – Quick Sunstick Protection Bar
Abib – Quick Sunstick Protection Bar
A convenient sunscreen stick providing SPF50+ PA++++ protection. Glides onto skin smoothly, leaving a clear coat without a white cast. Contains acacia peptide and ceramide to strengthen the skin barrier, and natural soothing ingredients like aloe and cucumber extracts.
Pros: Glides on smoothly, Works well under makeup, Non-greasy, No white cast
Cons: None
Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Acacia Peptide, Ceramide, Aloe Extract, Cucumber Extract | SPF: 50+ | Size: 22g | Finish: Clear, Non-sticky | Fragrance: None
Customer Review: “I’ve been using this product for a while and love this product so much!! I have oily combination and acne-prone skin and this product works really well with my skin. The applicator is so comfortable because of its shape. Absorbs really quickly and overall amazing formula. Doesn’t move or rub off my makeup at all. Great product for traveling, carrying in a bag, and really easy to use.”
Related: 15 Best Korean Sunscreen Sticks for long-lasting sun protection
Best Korean SUNSCREEN for dry skin
6. Torriden – DIVE-IN Watery Moisture Sun Cream
Torriden – DIVE-IN Watery Moisture Sun Cream
An organic sunscreen with SPF 50+ PA++++ featuring Hyaluronic Acid for UV protection and hydration. Contains niacinamide, panthenol, adenosine, allantoin, and glycerin. Lightweight, fast-absorbing, and non-sticky, leaving no white cast.
Pros: Hydrating, Lightweight, Fast-absorbing, No white cast, Non-sticky
Cons: None
Type: Organic | Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Adenosine, Allantoin, Glycerin | SPF: 50+ | Size: 60ml | Finish: Moisturized, Dewy | Fragrance: None
Customer Review: “This suncream really does provide a lot of moisture to the skin and it works amazingly under makeup. It leaves a moisturised dewy finish.”
Best Korean SUNSCREEN for sensitive skin
7. Haruharu WONDER – Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Sunscreen
Haruharu WONDER – Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Sunscreen
Haruharu WONDER’s chemical sunscreen offers broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ protection with a lightweight formula infused with black rice extract for added hydration. Enriched with ceramide NP, heartleaf extract, adenosine, and niacinamide for skin-reliefing, plumping, and brightening benefits.
Pros: Lightweight, No white cast, Moisturizing
Cons: None
Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Black Rice Extract, Ceramide NP, Heartleaf Extract, Adenosine, Niacinamide | SPF: 50+ | Size: 50ml | Water-Resistant: Not specified | Finish: Matt | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Customer Review: “I used to be a Beauty of Joseon sunscreen lover and don’t get me wrong it’s a fantastic sunscreen but it makes my oily skin a little too greasy looking. this sunscreen has me matte. it’s almost like I never put on sunscreen and sticks even if I’m sweaty. I have also noticed some brightening and pore control and my skin just feels better.”
Best Korean SUNSCREEN for combination skin
8. TOCOBO – Bio Watery Sun Cream
TOCOBO – Bio Watery Sun Cream
TOCOBO’s chemical sunscreen offers SPF50+ PA++++ protection with a lightweight formula containing mung bean extract and bio-hyaluronic acid to soothe irritation, tackle blemishes, and boost skin moisture. Vegan and cruelty-free, it works well under makeup.
Pros: Lightweight, No white cast, Moisturizing
Cons: None
Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Mung Bean Extract, Bio-Hyaluronic Acid | SPF: 50+ | Size: 50ml | Water-Resistant: Not specified | Finish: Dewy | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Customer Review: “I love this sunscreen, feels nice on and it’s a pleasure to put it on, works well with foundations, I even put it under my sensitive eyes.”
Best Korean SUNSCREEN (Waterproof)
9. MISSHA – All-around Safe Block Waterproof Sun Milk SPF50+ PA++++
MISSHA – All-around Safe Block Waterproof Sun Milk SPF50+ PA++++
A physical and chemical hybrid sunscreen providing SPF50+ PA+++ protection. Infused with aloe extract, butylene glycol, and eucalyptus extract for nourishment and hydration. Waterproof and sweat-resistant formula with a lightweight lotion texture.
Pros: Lightweight, Moisturizing, Waterproof, Sweat-resistant
Cons: Slight white cast initially
Type: Physical and Chemical Hybrid | Key Ingredients: Aloe Extract, Butylene Glycol, Eucalyptus Extract | SPF: 50+ | Size: 70ml | Finish: Satin-like, Hydrating | Water-Resistant: Yes
Customer Review: “I really like how hydrating and lightweight this sunscreen is. It has a slight baby powder scent however, it isn’t too overwhelming. The sunscreen is definitely waterproof as I have tried swimming with it on. Overall, I would buy this again.”
Best Korean SUNSCREEN serum
10. SKIN 1004 – Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum
SKIN 1004 – Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum
SKIN 1004’s organic sunscreen offers SPF50+ PA++++ protection with a serum-like texture containing hyaluronic acid and centella asiatica extract. Additional ingredients like arugula leaf, green tea, and broccoli extracts provide antioxidant benefits. Fast-absorbing formula leaves skin plump and glowing.
Pros: Lightweight, Moisturizing, No white cast, Fragrance-free
Cons: None
Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Centella Asiatica Extract, Arugula Leaf Extract, Green Tea Extract, Broccoli Extract | SPF: 50+ | Size: 50ml | Water-Resistant: Not specified | Finish: Natural-matte | Cruelty-Free: Not specified
Customer Review: “Very lightweight, super moisturizing, would buy it again 10/10. Def would recommend it to anyone who asks for recommendations. Super worth the money and considering buying a second one!!”
Best Korean SUNSCREEN for all skin types
11. Purito SEOUL – Daily Go-To Sunscreen
Purito SEOUL – Daily Go-To Sunscreen
Purito’s hybrid sunscreen combines chemical and physical filters to offer broad-spectrum sun protection of SPF 50+ PA++++. Formulated with centella asiatica extract and madecassoside, it soothes and protects sun-irritated skin. Lightweight, blendable texture with no white cast. Unscented and free of parabens, fragrance, and mineral oil. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Pros: Lightweight, Moisturizing, No white cast, Unscented, Broad-spectrum protection
Cons: Slightly shiny finish
Type: Hybrid (Chemical & Physical) | Key Ingredients: Centella Asiatica Extract, Madecassoside, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid | SPF: 50+ | Size: 60ml | Water-Resistant: Not specified | Finish: Slightly dewy | Cruelty-Free: Not specified
Customer Review: “Everyday easy sunscreen to apply. Goes well under makeup and reapplication won’t cause pilling. Doesn’t irritate my skin or sting around the eyes. No white cast. Holy grail!”
Best Korean SUNSCREEN (no white cast)
12. Dr. Ceuracle – Hyal Reyouth Moist Sun
Dr. Ceuracle – Hyal Reyouth Moist Sun
A one-step daily sunscreen with SPF50+ PA++++ that hydrates and provides powerful sun protection. Enriched with fructan and ten types of hyaluronic acid to boost skin moisture while strengthening the skin barrier. Contains panthenol and niacinamide to form a moisture barrier and protect against external aggressors. Essence-like texture for lightweight application without white cast or stickiness. Dermatologically tested.
Pros: Lightweight, Hydrating, No white cast, Pleasant scent, Moisturizing, Absorbs quickly
Cons: None
Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Fructan, Panthenol, Niacinamide | SPF: 50+ | Size: 50ml | Water-Resistant: Not specified | Finish: Radiant, Moisturized | Cruelty-Free: Not specified
Customer Review: “Hands down my most favourite sunscreen!! So easy to apply! Zero white cast! And very hydrating! I have sensitive skin and my skin loves this sunscreen!”
Best Korean SUNSCREEN (Lightweight)
13. NEOGEN – Dermalogy Day-Light Protection Airy Sunscreen
NEOGEN – Dermalogy Day-Light Protection Airy Sunscreen
An organic sunscreen with SPF50 that uses chemical filters for broad-spectrum protection. Features a lightweight gel texture that absorbs quickly without leaving a white cast or greasy residue. Enriched with 20 plant-based ingredients including aloe vera and Damask rose extracts to soothe and moisturize the skin, leaving a soft natural finish.
Pros: Lightweight, Fast-absorbing, No white cast, Moisturizing, Suitable for under makeup
Cons: None
Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Aloe Vera Extract, Damask Rose Extract, Coptis Chinensis Root Extract | SPF: 50 | Size: 50ml | Water-Resistant: Not specified | Finish: Soft natural finish | Cruelty-Free: Not specified
Customer Review: “This is a really nice sunscreen, it’s quite creamy but not sticky on the skin or extremely dewy. It looks healthy on the skin and mixes well with my other skincare products! It also doesn’t sting around my eyes. A nice sunscreen overall!”
Best Korean SUNSCREEN (Long Lasting)
14. innisfree – Intensive Long Lasting Sunscreen EX
innisfree – Intensive Long Lasting Sunscreen EX
A hybrid sunscreen with SPF 50+ PA++++ offering long-lasting sun protection during outdoor activities. Contains witch hazel leaf extract, sunflower seed oil, Jeju Island-sourced green tea extract, and centella asiatica extract for soothing and moisturizing effects. Provides a comfortable and natural matte finish without stickiness.
Pros: High UV protection, Long-lasting, Waterproof, Reef-friendly, Vegan, No white cast, Absorbs quickly, Matte finish
Cons: Strong scent
Type: Hybrid (Physical and Chemical) | Key Ingredients: Witch Hazel Leaf Extract, Sunflower Seed Oil, Green Tea Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract | SPF: 50+ | Size: 60ml | Water-Resistant: Yes | Finish: Natural matte | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Customer Review: “Long lasting sunscreen, easy to apply, no tackiness, has a slight white look but disappears very quickly. sits well under makeup. Personally found it a bit drying to my skin, needs to use a stronger moisturiser beforehand, but overall a very nice sunscreen!”
Best Korean Tinted SUNSCREEN
15. heimish – Artless Glow Tinted Sunscreen
heimish – Artless Glow Tinted Sunscreen
A chemical sunscreen with SPF 50+ PA+++ infused with pearl extract for UV protection, brightening, hydration, and anti-aging benefits. The beige-tinted cream texture can be used as a makeup base, providing a subtle tone-up effect and a natural glow without a white cast or glittery finish.
Pros: Lightweight, Moisturizing, Subtle radiance, Suitable for all skin tones, No white cast, Can blur uneven texture, Fresh sensation, Can be used as a primer
Cons: Color may be slightly greyish for some
Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Pearl Extract, Niacinamide, Rosehip Fruit Extract, Peppermint Leaf Extract | SPF: 50+ | Size: 40ml | Water-Resistant: Not specified | Finish: Subtle radiance | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Customer Review: “This gives a healthy glow upon application, but it can become greasy after about 3 hours, especially for those with oily skin. A quick fix is to blot with a powder or oil absorbing sheet. Additionally, it has a subtle shimmer, adding a nice touch to the skn appearance.”
Best Korean SUNSCREEN cushion
16. VT – Essence Sun Pact SPF50+ PA+++
VT – Essence Sun Pact SPF50+ PA+++
A multifunctional sun pact with mineral and chemical filters for UV protection and skin care. Enriched with peptides, hydrolyzed elastin, and brightening essence. Leaves a natural finish with no white cast.
Pros: Cooling sensation, Moisturizing, No white cast, Non-oily, Suitable for reapplication over makeup, Elegant packaging
Cons: Slight initial white cast
Type: Multifunctional | Key Ingredients: Peptides, Hydrolyzed Elastin | SPF: 50+ | Size: 11g | Finish: Natural, Dewy | Fragrance: None
Customer Review: “I use this cushion for reapply only, for me is the best so far, the only one protected my skin from get new pigment spots, applied over make up very easy.”
What to Look For:
- High SPF: Opt for sunscreens with SPF 50+ for maximum protection against harmful UV rays.
- Broad Spectrum: Ensure the sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Lightweight Texture: Look for lightweight formulas that absorb easily into the skin without leaving a greasy or heavy residue.
- Water Resistance: Choose water-resistant sunscreens, especially for outdoor activities or hot, humid weather.
Best Practices:
- Apply Generously: Don’t skimp on sunscreen—apply a sufficient amount to cover all exposed areas of the skin.
- Reapply Often: Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
- Layer Correctly: Apply sunscreen as the final step in your skincare routine, before makeup if applicable.
- Be Consistent: Make sunscreen application a daily habit, regardless of the weather or season. Your skin will thank you for the consistent protection!