9 Best Korean Sunscreens: Tested & Reviewed (2023)
Discover the best Korean sunscreens for 2023! Dive into the world of optimal UV protection combined with skincare benefits for protected, yet moisturized skin.
Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you if you decide to purchase. These are products I’ve personally used, as well as are recommended by other skincare experts & enthusiasts.
Ever felt overwhelmed while hunting for that perfect sunscreen? You know, the one that’s not just about protection but also feels like a treat for your skin? If you’ve nodded along, you’re in the right spot.
Navigating the maze of sunscreens can be tricky, with so many choices that leave us wondering: Will this be too greasy? Too heavy? Or, heaven forbid, will it leave that dreaded white cast? That’s where the magic of Korean sunscreens comes into play – and I’ve been on a personal quest to uncover the best of the best!
From city commutes to beach getaways, these Korean gems have got you covered (literally!). I’ve tested each one to bring you a list that’s not just about high SPF ratings, but also about that elusive perfect fit for your skin. So, whether you’re a K-beauty newbie or a sunscreen savant, join me as we dive into the world of Korean sunscreens that are about to change your skin game in 2023. Let’s find your skin’s sun-care soulmate, shall we?
In a Hurry?
Check out my top 3 Korean sunscreens!
Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA++++
The Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream holds the top spot as Korea’s best-selling sunscreen.
I use this my go-to daily sunscreen. It has a lightweight, milky texture that’s both cool and refreshing on my skin. It offers deep hydration, giving my skin a radiant, glowing look without leaving behind any white cast or greasy feel.
It’s an excellent option for all skin types, even sensitive skin, and is ideal for anyone seeking a moisturizing sunscreen that provides a dewy finish.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+ PA++++.
This sunscreen has quickly become another one of my go-to sunscreens, now on my third tube, thanks to its moisturizer-like, lightweight texture that’s a breeze to apply. Its so hydrating, leaving skin supple without any greasy feel.
It blends seamlessly into the skin with no white cast, making it ideal under makeup. Additionally, it has a subtle, pleasant floral scent, likely from plant extracts, despite being fragrance-free.
Great for oily & combination skin individuals who prefer a lightweight, hydrating sunscreen.
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF 50 PA++++
This sunscreen is my top pick, especially in the summer or when my skin leans towards the oily side. I love its convenient pump packaging and the lightweight, moisturizing formula that soaks right in without leaving any sticky residue.
It leaves a cool, dewy finish without any shine, works seamlessly under makeup without any pilling, and it’s really gentle on both my eyes and skin. Best of all, there’s no white cast or strong fragrance.
The Best Korean Sunscreens
I’ve personally tried these Korean sunscreens and I’m obsessed with each one. Not only do they protect your skin, but most of them are great for all skin types including sensitive skin. They also are packed with effective skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and Centella Asiatica that hydrate, calm, and improve your skin’s texture. Also, these sunscreens leave no white casts and most sit well under makeup.
This isn’t just a guide; it’s your shortcut to finding a Korean sunscreen that feels like it was made for you. I’ve done the legwork so you can enjoy the sun, knowing your skin is in good hands.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+ PA++++.
Relief Sun is a lightweight, creamy, vegan sunscreen that’s actually comfortable on skin. It is non-sticky with a semi-dewy finish, providing SPF50+ and PA++++ protection. Containing 30% rice extract and grain fermented extracts rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, it provides moisture, hydration, and nourishment to the skin. Zero white cast!
Benefits
- Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ PA++++: Offers high protection against both UVA and UVB rays, helping to prevent sun damage and skin aging.
- Free from Oxybenzone and Octinoxate: Avoids ingredients that are potentially harmful to coral reefs and marine life.
- No Animal-Derived Ingredients: Suitable for those looking for vegan skincare options.
- Ideal for Sensitive Skin: Formulated to be gentle, making it suitable for people with sensitive skin.
The Key Ingredients
- Rice Extract: Calms the skin and reduces irritation
- Niacinamide: Enhances skin glow and helps in managing skin tone and texture.
- Grain Fermented Extracts: Hydrate & nourish the skin
My Experience & Results
I totally agree with the buzz around this sunscreen; it’s become one of my favorites. I’m already on my third tube! Its texture is wonderfully light, resembling a moisturizer, and it’s incredibly hydrating. Not only does it leave my skin feeling moisturized and supple, but it also gives me a dewy, glowy finish without any greasiness
Plus, it leaves no white cast and blends seamlessly with my other skincare products, even under makeup. Although it’s fragrance-free, there’s a subtle floral hint to it, likely from the plant extracts in its formula.
What I Loved
- Go-To Sunscreen: It’s become a top choice, already on the third tube.
- Lightweight Texture: Resembles a lotion, making it easy and pleasant to apply.
- Highly Hydrating: Provides excellent hydration, leaving the skin supple.
- Non-Greasy Formula: Moisturizes without leaving any greasy residue.
- No White Cast: Blends into the skin without leaving any white traces.
- Compatible with Makeup: Layers well with other skincare products and sits nicely under makeup.
- Subtle Floral Scent: Despite being fragrance-free, it has a gentle floral scent, likely from plant extracts.
What Could Be Better
I personally haven’t had any issues with this sunscreen. However, it’s worth noting that a handful customers have reported experiencing a burning sensation on their skin and eyes.
Customer Rating
- Yesstyle: 4.37 rating (8,000+ reviews)
- Olive Young: 4.8 rating (3,000+ reviews)
Who It’s For
Ideal for oily & combination skin individuals who prefer a lightweight, hydrating sunscreen with a dewy finish.
Who It’s Not For
Individuals with dry skin or individuals that prefer a matte finish.
Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA++++
Currently the #1 selling sunscreen in Korea. It’s been winning all these beauty awards since it came out in 2020, so you know it’s good.
Benefits
- SPF 50+, PA++++
- Lightweight and hydrating formula, making it suitable for daily use.
- Cruelty-free and vegan.
The Key Ingredients
- Niacinamide is great for reducing hyperpigmentation and lightening the skin. It also helps calm down redness caused by eczema, acne, and other inflammations.
- Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice is a special ingredient that can soothe inflammation, purify, and hydrate the skin. It’s packed with 17 amino acids, minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins.
- Hyaluronic Acid is all about hydration! It makes your skin plump and smooth.
- Birch juice helps calm redness, reduce inflammation, and keep your skin hydrated.
My Experience & Results
The moment I got my hands on the Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream, I was instantly drawn to its adorable packaging. The birch tree design on the tube felt so refreshing and unique. And let me tell you, as someone who appreciates a well-designed product, it was love at first sight!
What I absolutely adored was how smoothly the product glided onto my skin, without leaving any white cast or greasy residue. As I gently massaged it in, it felt so cool and refreshing. Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Suncream has a light, milky texture that doesn’t feel heavy or greasy at all. It’s also surprisingly lightweight even after it’s fully absorbed into my skin. This product not only gives my skin a deep hydration, but it also gives it a beautiful, natural glow. It moisturizes effectively and leaves my skin looking fresh and radiant.
Plus, it has a subtle and pleasant scent that’s hard to put into words. Think of it as a gentle, fresh scent. Usually, I’m not a fan of skincare products with fragrances, but I actually enjoy the smell of this sunscreen. This product not only gives my skin a deep hydration, but it also gives it a beautiful, natural glow. It moisturizes effectively and leaves my skin looking fresh and radiant.
What I Loved
- No White Cast or Greasiness
- Dewy, natural glow
- Light and Refreshing Scent
- Hydrating
- Gentle on Sensitive Skin
- Adorable Packaging
What Could Be Better
While I love the dewy finish, if you prefer a matte finish, this might not be the sunscreen for you. It leaves a slightly glossy look, which could be a downside for those with oily skin or those who prefer a matte look.
Not the best sunscreen for active outdoor activities: Although this sunscreen offers great protection against UV rays, it may not be the ideal choice for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, or sports. It tends to wear off when exposed to sweat or water, so keep that in mind!
Customer Rating
- Yesstyle: 4.9 rating (180+ reviews)
- Olive Young: 4.9 rating (3,000+ reviews)
- Amazon: 4.5 rating (1,0000+ reviews)
Who It’s For
I’d recommend this sunscreen for anyone who loves a lightweight, moisturizing formula that provides a dewy, glowing finish. Great for all skin types including sensitive skin.
Who It’s Not For
I wouldn’t suggest it for those with very oily skin. Also I I wouldn’t recommend this to individuals who prefer a matte finish or need a sweat-resistant formula for intense outdoor activities.
Benefits
- Chemical sunscreen with an effective UVA/UVB protection of SPF 50+ and PA++++
- Reef Safe
The Key Ingredients
- Niacinamide: Reduces fine lines and evens skin tone by boosting collagen and reducing inflammation.
- Centella Asiatica: Soothes irritation, boosts collagen, and improves skin hydration and elasticity.
- Green Tea Leaf Extract: Provides antioxidants, protects against environmental damage, and reduces redness.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Attracts and retains moisture, leading to deeply hydrated and smoother skin.
- Tocopherol (Vitamin E): Protects against free radicals, supports skin healing, and enhances moisture.
My Experience & Results
This is my holy grail sunscreen during summer or when my skin feels a bit oily. Its pump packaging is a lifesaver, ensuring I get just the right amount every time. This sunscreen is incredibly lightweight and hydrating, melting into my skin swiftly without leaving any stickiness.
What I adore is its unique finish – it’s like a dewy-matte hybrid that gives me a lovely glow without any shine, perfect under makeup without any pilling. Plus, it’s gentle on my eyes, doesn’t cause breakouts, and leaves no white cast or scent. It’s the kind of product that just gets everything right.
What I Loved
- Ideal for Summer/Oily Skin: Perfect for use during hot days or when your skin is feeling oily.
- Pump Packaging: Makes dispensing the right amount easy and convenient.
- Lightweight and Moisturizing: Offers hydration without heaviness.
- Quick Absorption: Sinks into the skin swiftly without any stickiness.
- No White Cast or Fragrance: Leaves skin clear and scent-free.
- Dewy Yet Matte Finish: Provides a unique glow without looking shiny.
- Makeup-Friendly: Sits well under makeup without pilling.
- Eye and Skin Friendly: Doesn’t irritate eyes or cause breakouts.
What Could Be Better
I personally haven’t had any issues with this sunscreen. However, it’s worth noting that a handful customers have reported experiencing a burning sensation.
Customer Rating
- YesStyle: 4.8 rating (2,500+ reviews)
- Olive Young: 4.8 rating (250+ reviews)
- Amazon: 4.7 rating (2,000+ reviews)
Who It’s For
Combination + Oily skin individuals looking for a lightweight, semi-matte sunscreen.
Who It’s Not For
Dry skin individuals or those that prefer more of a dewy finish.
Benton Skin Fit Mineral Sun Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ PA++++
Unlike many Korean sunscreens that feel heavy or leave a white cast, this gem from Benton is lightweight and leaves no white residue. It’s a hydrating, creamy sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum UV protection with 100% mineral sun filters. Specially formulated for all skin types, it’s particularly beneficial for sensitive skin.
Key Ingredients
- Zinc Oxide: Provides broad-spectrum sun protection and has soothing properties for irritated skin.
- Witch Hazel: Acts as a natural astringent to reduce inflammation and tighten pores.
- Niacinamide: Improves skin texture and tone while reducing inflammation and enhancing hydration.
My Experience & Results
I love this mineral sun cream’s lightweight formula. It’s so easy to apply to my skin and never feels heavy or clogs my pores. It has a thick, creamy, and soft texture. It’s perfect as a base for my makeup and gives me a gorgeous matte finish. It did have a slight white cast, but I found that it disappeared after 10-15 minutes.
However, in some reviews I read others stated that the white cast didn’t go away. I also noticed that in humid conditions, it settled into my pores. Although I don’t usually like fragrance in my skincare, this doesn’t bother my skin at all. I’ve had no issues or breakouts.
What I Loved
- Lightweight Formula: Applies easily and feels light on the skin, without clogging pores.
- Creamy Texture: The sunscreen has a thick, creamy, and soft consistency.
- Makeup Base: Serves as an excellent base for makeup, offering a matte finish.
- Slight White Cast: Initially noticeable but fades after 10-15 minutes.
- Fragrance: Despite generally preferring fragrance-free skincare, it didn’t bother my sensitive skin.
What Could Better
- White Cast Concerns: Some users have reported that the white cast doesn’t completely disappear.
- Performance in Humidity: Tends to settle into pores in humid conditions.
- Not Completely Fragrance-Free: While not irritating, the presence of fragrance might not be preferable for all users.
Customer Rating:
- YesStyle: 4.1 rating (65 reviews)
- Amazon: 4.2 rating (75 reivews)
Who It’s For
If you’re dealing with dryness, dehydration, sensitivity, or redness, I recommend giving this sunscreen a try.
Who Isn’t It For
I wouldn’t recommend for individuals with dark skin or those sensitive to scented products.
Benefits
- SPF 50+; PA++++
- 10 hour lasting SPF protection
The Key Ingredients
- Heartleaf: Soothes skin irritation and reduces redness, great for sensitive skin.
- Centella Asiatica: Aids in skin healing, boosts collagen, and improves hydration.
- Niacinamide: Improves skin texture, reduces inflammation, and enhances hydration.
- Licorice Root Extract: Brightens skin, reduces hyperpigmentation, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
My Experience & Results
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed using this sunscreen. Its design features a long, thin dispenser, making it effortless to get just the right amount of product. The sunscreen has a gel-lotion texture with an appealing cream color that blends seamlessly into my skin. It’s very moisturizing, leavings my skin with a dewy finish without any white cast.
What I Loved
- Long, Thin Dispenser: Makes it easy to squeeze out the perfect amount of product.
- Gel-Lotion Texture: Offers a unique consistency that is both appealing and easy to apply.
- Cream Color: A lovely shade that disappears into the skin upon application.
- Moisturizing Effect: Provides excellent hydration, leaving a dewy finish.
- No White Cast: Blends into the skin without leaving any residue.
What Could Be Better
I personally have no complaints about this sunscreen. Some customers stated that it was too dewy for their oily skin.
Customer Rating
- Amazon: 4.6 rating (200+ ratings)
Who It’s For
- Great for individuals with dry skin looking for a lightweight, dewy, long-wear sunscreen.
Who It’s Not For
Individuals with very oily skin
Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Natural Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA++++
The Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Natural Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA++++is a mineral, vegan-friendly sunscreen that hydrates, strengthens, and moisturizes your skin while protecting it from UV damage.
This Korean sunscreen perfect for all skin types, particularly for sensitive skin.
Key Ingredients
- Zinc Oxide: Gives broad-spectrum sun protection and has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe irritated skin.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Attracts and locks in moisture to hydrate and plump the skin, reducing the look of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Panthenol (Provitamin B5): Provides intense moisturization and boosts the skin’s natural regeneration process, calming irritated and sensitive skin.
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Shrinks pores, evens out skin tone, improves skin texture, and strengthens the skin’s protective barrier.
My Experience & Results
The first thing I noticed about this Korean mineral sunscreen was it’s smooth and creamy texture. After applying my skin felt hydrated thanks to the hyaluronic acid.
After applying, I noticed there was a slight cast. But, after five minutes I noticed that it disappeared, leaving a dewy, glowy finish. Another perk is that this sunscreen created a “blurring” effect on my skin that helped even out my complexion. This moisturizer felt incredibly light on my skin. It spreads and blends nicely without feeling greasy or heavy.
Plus, my makeup goes on so smooth over top. There is no pilling. The best part is that it has no scent or fragrance, which is perfect for my sensitive skin.
What I Loved
- Creamy texture, no chalky residue.
- Quick absorption, satin finish.
- Hydrates and soothes.
- Barely noticeable white cast.
- Makeup-friendly, no pilling.
- Subtle glow.
- Scent-free, kind to sensitive skin.
What Could Be Better
- Leaves a slight white cast.
Who It’s For
Great for individuals with sensitive skin
Who It Isn’t For
- If you have darker skin, I would recommend another sunscreen due to the slight white cast.
Haruharu Black Rice Pure Mineral Relief Daily Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++
Ever found a product that just clicks with your skin? That’s how I felt when I tried Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Pure Mineral Relief Daily Sunscreen.
This Korean mineral sunscreen offers robust broad spectrum SPF 50+ and PA++++ UV protection, so you can step out confidently, knowing your skin is shielded from harmful rays. It’s vegan-certified, hypoallergenic, and comes in airless pump packaging to prevent oxidation.
If you’re on the hunt for a korean sunscreen for sensitive, easily irritated, or dry skin, this could be the one for you.
Key Ingredients
- Rice Bran Oil & Extract: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, rice bran oil and extract hydrate, reduce hyperpigmentation, and protect against premature aging and UV damage.
- Niacinamide: Minimizes enlarged pores, improves uneven skin tone, and strengthens the skin’s surface, enhancing resilience against environmental stressors.
- Houttuynia Cordata Extract: Soothes irritated skin, reduces skin infections, and protects against free radicals with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Daisy Flower Extract: Brightens the skin, reduces hyperpigmentation, and combats premature aging with its lightening and anti-aging properties.
My Experience & Results
From day one, Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Pure Mineral Relief Daily Sunscreen had me hooked. Its creamy texture blended seamlessly into my skin without any chalky residue.
It absorbed quickly, leaving a velvety satin finish. My skin felt so hydrated and soothed after applying. I found that it left a minimal white cast that was barely noticeable.
It layered beautifully under my makeup with no pilling. It also gave me this subtle glow that I loved. Another perk it’s scent-free and didn’t irritate my sensitive skin.
What I Loved
- Seamless blend, no chalky residue.
- Quick absorption, velvety finish.
- Hydrates and soothes skin.
- Makeup-friendly, no pilling.
- Subtle glow effect.
- Scent-free, great for sensitive skin.
What Could Be Better
- Minimal white cast. No pilling under makeup for me, though some reported pilling and dryness.
Who Is It For
- Great for individuals with sensitive or oily skin
Who Isn’t It For
- Individuals with darker or very dry skin
Science Behind Houttuynia Cordata
Did you know that preliminary studies have found that Houttuynia Cordata, a Southeast Asian medicinal plant, has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties?
This making it perfect for reducing inflammation and helping your skin heal. However, more research is needed to validate it’s true effectiveness on your skin.
Benefits
- PA+++ rating.
- Formulated without artificial fragrances and colors
- Cruelty free and vegan
- Reef Safe
The Key Ingredients
- Octocrylene: Enhances UVB and UVA protection, stabilizes other sunscreen ingredients.
- Homosalate: Absorbs UVB rays, helps prevent sunburn.
- Avobenzone: Provides broad-spectrum UVA protection, prevents long-term skin damage.
- 20 kinds of plant extracts including avocado, acai, hibiscus, and aloe to moisturize and calm skin
My Experience & Results
I’ve been using this sunscreen and honestly, I love it. It’s amazing for sun protection and it even controls the oil on my skin with its semi-matte finish. It’s super quick to absorb and doesn’t leave any white cast. Plus, it has this light citrus scent that’s really nice – doesn’t irritate my skin or cause any breakouts. It feels super light and sits well under my makeup. The only thing is, I usually go for a dewier look, so the matte finish isn’t my absolute favorite, but otherwise, it’s fantastic
What I Loved
- Great sun protection.
- Semi-matte finish for oil control.
- Fast absorption with no white cast.
- Light, non-irritating citrus scent.
- Lightweight and makeup-friendly.
- Preference for dewier finish over matte.
What Could Be Better
- Personally, I’m more into dewy finishes than matte, but that’s just my preference, not a knock on this sunscreen. A handful of customers stated it irritated their skin, causing burning and breakouts
Who It’s For
- Individuals with oily skin that prefer a lightweight sunscreen with a semi-matte finish
Who It’s Not For
- Dry skin or those that prefer a dewy finish.
Korean Sunscreen FAQs
Conclusion
Korean sunscreens really do more than just block the sun – they’re like a multi-benefit skincare treat. No matter if your skin is oily, dry, or a mix of both, there’s definitely a Korean sunscreen out there that’s just perfect for you. I’m super curious about your favorites too! Feel free to drop the name of your go-to Korean sunscreen in the comments and share why it’s your top pick. Can’t wait to hear your recommendations and maybe discover some new gems!
