7 Best Korean Mineral Sunscreens: Tested & Reviewed (2023)
Discover the top 7 Korean mineral sunscreens perfect for every skin type! Here are are my favorite sunscreens for oily, dry, and sensitive skin.
Last year, I found myself in a skincare predicament. My skin, usually calm and cooperative, started reacting to my favorite Korean sunscreen, The Round Lab Birch Sunscreen.
This Korean sunscreen had been my go-to, protecting my skin from the sun’s harmful rays. But our partnership took a tragic turn. My once calm and happy skin began protesting with redness, irritation, and discomfort. It was heartbreaking to set aside my favorite sunscreen, but my skin desperately needed a break.
That’s when I turned to Korean mineral sunscreens. Unlike chemical sunscreens, these gentle alternatives sit on the skin’s surface and reflect UV rays. Finding the perfect mineral sunscreen is like playing a dating game. Some make these big promises, but end up disappointing. And then some leave a white cast or dry out my skin.
So, after trying out several different Korean mineral sunscreens, I finally struck gold. I discovered these sunscreens that not only provide excellent sun protection but also soothe my skin. Curious about these Korean sunscreens that have become my skin’s new BFFs?
Stick around!
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.
What Are The Best Korean Mineral Korean Sunscreens?
Here are the best Korean mineral sunscreens, ranked from my absolute favorites to the ones I like the least.
My Top 3 Korean Mineral Sunscreens
BEST FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
ISNTREE HYALURONIC ACID NATURAL SUN CREAM
SPF: 50+ PA++++
BENEFITS: Hydrates, protects, and soothes your skin.
PROS: Creamy texture, hydrating, minimal white cast, fragrance-free.
CONS: Initial white cast may be off-putting
BEST FOR DRY SKIN
BENTON SKIN FIT MINERAL SUNCREAM
SPF: 50+ PA++++
BENEFITS: Lightweight, hydrating, reduces inflammation.
PROS: Lightweight, hydrating, minimal white cast, matte finish.
CONS: Herbal scent may be strong, can settle into pores in humidity
BEST FOR OILY SKIN
MAKE P:REM UV DEFENSE ME
CALM SUN CREAM
SPF: 50+ PA++++
BENEFITS: Gentle, hydrating and soothing sunscreen.
PROS: Smooth and creamy, no pilling, subtle brightening effect.
CONS: Noticeable white cast, not the best for darker skin tones.
QUICK SUMMARY: BEST KOREAN MINERAL SUNSCREENS
| Name | Price | Who I Would Recommend This Sunscreen For | What I Like | What I Don’t Like |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Round Lab 365 Derma Relief Sun Cream | ~$20 | Skin type: Any skin type, especially sensitive skin. Calms, hydrates, and brightens your skin. | Lightweight, easy to blend, comfortable, works well under makeup | Takes time to blend in completely |
| Rovectin Deep Moisture UV Protector | ~$31 | Skin type: Dry & Sensitive Skin Hydrates and repairs your skin barrier | Nourishing, minimal white cast, lightweight. | Leaves slight white cast, but then disappears. Not as hydrating as other sunscreens. |
| Haruharu Black Rice Pure Mineral Relief Daily Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++ | ~$12 | Skin type: Dry & Sensitive Skin Hydrates, reduces hyperpigmentation and protects your skin. | Creamy texture, hydrating, minimal white cast, vegan-certified | May not be suitable for those preferring a completely transparent finish |
| Etude House Airy Sunscreen | ~$14 | Skin type: All skin type (except for sensitive skin) Mineral sunscreen that that nourishes and protects your skin. | Serum-like texture, matte finish, no white cast | Strong scent, contains alcohol and fragrances |
Here are the best Korean sunscreens, ranked from my absolute favorites to the ones I like the least. Read my in-depth reviews and experience to find the sunscreen that is best for your 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
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.
Did you know that Niacinamide is a skincare superhero? It works wonders by increasing the lipid levels in your stratum corneum, which means less water lost from your skin and more hydration overall.
Not only that, but it’s also a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that beats commonly used antibiotics when it comes to treating acne.
In fact, a clinical study showed that applying niacinamide twice a day for four weeks improved skin barrier function, reduced water loss, and boosted skin hydration.
And guess what? It even worked wonders in reducing facial redness.
If you have acne prone skin and want your skin to look super glowy, include both Niacinamide and salicylic acid in your skincare routine for clear, even toned, and hydrated skin.
Make P:rem UV Defense Me Calming Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA++++
The Make P:rem UV Defense Me Calming Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA++++ is a great physical sunscreen with a 100% zinc oxide formula.
It gives exceptional UV protection while being super gentle on the skin. Plus, it’s got bamboo water and madecassoside to give your skin a soothing and hydrating boost.
Key Ingredients
- Bamboo water: Famous for its hydrating and soothing properties. It keeps the skin’s moisture balance in check, leaving it feeling refreshed and calm.
- Madecassoside: Made from Centella Asiatica, it’s well-known for its calming and healing perks. It calms redness, irritation, and helps the skin repair itself.
My Experience
The Make P:rem UV Defense Me Calming Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA++++ has been such a pleasant surprise! This sunscreen feels so smooth and creamy on my skin.
At first, I was a little freaked out by the white cast, but it disappeared after a few minutes. It gave my skin a little brightening effect, which I liked. I also noticed this k beauty sunscreen has a pleasant, powdery floral scent, but wasn’t over powering.
This sunscreen didn’t pill, which is a common issue with other physical sunscreens. The best part is that the sunscreen didn’t irritate my skin at all. Although, I did notice that my skin felt a tad tight and dry a few hours later.
If you’ve got oily skin and you’re looking for a physical sunscreen with some calming effects, I’d recommend giving this one a try. It’s not completely transparent, so it might not be the best choice for darker skin tones.
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 protection against UVA and UVB rays while offering anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties.
- Witch Hazel tightens pores, reduces oil production, and calms inflammation, making it effective in treating acne and soothing irritated skin.
- Niacinamide offers multiple skincare benefits, including minimizing pores, regulating sebum production, and improving skin tone and texture. It also strengthens the skin’s barrier function, reducing water loss and increasing resilience to environmental stressors.
My Experience
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.
If you’re dealing with dryness, dehydration, sensitivity, or redness, I recommend giving this sunscreen a try.
Not only does it hydrate and cool your skin, but it also leaves a minimal white cast with a stunning matte finish.
4. Round Lab 365 Derma Relief Sun Cream
Ever found a product that just feels right?
That’s the vibe I got from the Round Lab 365 Derma Relief Sun Cream. This mineral sunscreen, with Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide as key ingredients, shields your skin from harmful UV rays while calming, healing, hydrating, and brightening it with Panthenol, Centella, Ceramide, and Vitamin E.
Key Ingredients
- Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide: Mineral filters for strong UV protection without irritation.
- Panthenol and Centella: Reduce redness and irritation with inflammation and wound-healing properties.
- Ceramide and Vitamin E: Strengthen your skin barrier, lock in moisture, and brighten your skin.
My Experience
The Round Lab 365 Derma Relief Sun Cream has a lightweight, velvety, soft texture that made my skin feel soft. It felt super lightweight, as if I was wearing no sunscreen at all.
After applying it during my morning Korean skincare routine, it gave me a soft, natural glow that made me want to touch my face all day long. It layered great under my makeup and didn’t pill. However, one thing didn’t like about this sunscreen was that it took a while to blend it.
ROVECTIN Intense Moisture Sun Cream
The Rovectin Deep Moisture UV Protector is a Korean mineral sunscreen that doubles as a luxurious moisturizer. It’s ideal for dry or combination skin, focusing on hydration and barrier repair.
Key Ingredients
- Blueweed Seed Oil: Revitalizes and soothes damaged skin.
- Panthenol: Retains moisture and protects skin barrier.
- Vitamin E: Known for its powerful antioxidant availability and moisturizes and strengthens skin barrier.
My Experience
This Korean mineral sunscreen was rich and creamy, but didn’t feel too heavy on my skin. It does take a little coaxing to get it to spread smoothly over my skin. It absorbs quickly and gave my skin a nice sheen, without looking greasy.
I noticed it left a slight white cast, but disappeared as the sunscreen sunk into my skin. This sunscreen is hydrating, but not as hydrating as others. There is no scent, which I love since I prefer unscented products since they irritate my sensitive skin. I also found that this sunscreen didn’t break me out, which is also a huge plus.
This sunscreen offers SPF 50 protection and is perfect for those sunny days. I apply it as the last step in my morning Korean skincare routine, and reapply as needed throughout the day. It doesn’t feel heavy or suffocating, and it hasn’t caused any irritation or breakouts. It works well under makeup and also looks great on its own.
Overall, I highly recommend this sunscreen for those looking for a lightweight and moisturizing option, especially for those with sensitive skin.
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
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.
If you’re searching for the perfect sunscreen for sensitive or dry skin, give this one a try.
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.
Etude House Airy Sunscreen
The Etude House Airy Sunscreen is a high-performance UV milk sunscreen with SPF 50 protection. Its non-sticky, non-greasy formula glides smoothly onto the skin for comfortable application.
Key Ingredients
Made with 100% mineral-based ingredients, it’s enriched with 20 nourishing vegetable extracts including aloe vera, acai berry, and acerola.
These extracts work together to nourish and protect the skin. This sunscreen contains alcohol and fragrances, which may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin.
My Experience
I was pleasantly surprised by the lightweight, serum-like texture of this sunscreen.
It effortlessly blended into my skin, leaving a smooth, matte finish that felt incredibly weightless. There was no sticky residue or white cast left behind. Initially, it felt slightly greasy, but to my surprise, it didn’t weigh down my skin.
Instead, it provided nourishment and protection. This sunscreen worked like magic under my makeup, making my morning routine a breeze.
However, I must mention that the scent is quite strong, which personally, I didn’t appreciate.
This is a great Korean mineral sunscreen for all skin types, except for sensitive skin, that will nourish and protect your skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, work by using inorganic compounds like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to create a physical barrier on the skin’s surface. This barrier reflects and scatters the harmful UV rays away from your skin, keeping it safe.
Unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb UV rays, mineral sunscreens make sure that the UV radiation doesn’t get through, preventing skin damage and reducing the risk of skin cancers.
Mineral sunscreens are often recommended for people with sensitive or reactive skin because they are less likely to cause irritations or allergic reactions. They are also great Korean skincare products for acne because they don’t your clog pores leading to breakouts.
Korean sunscreens from South Korea stand out for their unique blends of natural ingredients. Enriched with essential oils and hyaluronic acid, these sunscreens not only protect your skin from harmful UVA light but also provide deep hydration.
Often they are formulated with ingredients like aloe vera and green tea offer soothing and antioxidant properties, making them ideal for calming the skin after sun exposure. Also, Vitamin E and evening primrose oil in these formulations help to nourish and rejuvenate the skin, enhancing its natural barrier.
Mainly, you’ll find zinc oxide and titanium dioxide in these sunscreens. These act as physical sun blockers, reflecting and scattering harmful UV rays away from the skin.
Zinc oxide protects your skin against a broad spectrum. of UVA and UVB rays, while titanium dioxide focuses on the ones that burn your skin. Plus, they’re super skin-friendly, especially if you’ve got sensitive skin.
Korean mineral sunscreens are highly effective in offering broad-spectrum protection.
With SPF ratings usually ranging from 30 to 50, they provide a strong defense against UVB rays, responsible for sunburn and skin cancer, and UVA rays, linked to premature aging and skin damage.
Their effectiveness is immediate upon application, unlike chemical sunscreens that need time to absorb into the skin.
One of the main benefits of Korean mineral sunscreens is their broad spectrum protection. They typically contain zinc oxide, which shields the skin from both UVA and UVB rays, ensuring comprehensive coverage from the sun’s harmful effects.
Another significant benefit is their photostability. Unlike some chemical sunscreens, these sunscreens remain effective and don’t degrade when exposed to sunlight, providing consistent protection. Korean mineral sunscreens offer immediate protection upon application. Unlike chemical sunscreens, which typically require about 20 minutes to become effective after application.
Korean mineral sunscreens are fantastic for those with sensitive skin. Their gentle formulation is less likely to cause irritations or allergic reactions, making them a safe option for reactive skin types. They are also great for acne-prone skin because they are non-comedogenic, meaning they won’t clog your pores
While Korean mineral sunscreens have their perks, they come with a few downsides too. One common issue is the white cast they can leave behind, which can be particularly noticeable on darker skin tones, giving a chalky appearance.
They also tend to have a thicker consistency, meaning you might need to put in a bit more effort to spread and blend them evenly on your skin.
On the price front, they are generally more expensive compared to their chemical counterparts. Aesthetically, not everyone is a fan of their texture and look; they lack the lightweight and transparent finish that many prefer in chemical sunscreens.
And if you’re someone who wears makeup, you might find that these thicker mineral sunscreens don’t sit as well under your foundation or concealer.
Korean skincare brands offer both types, and the choice depends on your preference, skin type, and what you’re looking for. Regardless of whether you opt for a chemical or mineral option, the most important thing is to choose a product that you enjoy using daily. The “best” sunscreen is the one you’ll wear consistently.
When you’re on the hunt for the perfect Korean mineral sunscreen, there are a couple of key things to keep in mind to ensure you’re getting the best protection for your skin.
1. UVB Protection (SPF): The SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is crucial. It’s what shields your skin from UVB rays – the main culprits behind sunburn. Aim for sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher for effective protection. This higher SPF level is really important if you want to keep your skin safe and healthy.
2. UVA Protection: But it’s not just UVB rays you need to worry about. UVA rays can age your skin prematurely and cause damage. To keep your skin looking young and fresh, pick a sunscreen that offers broad spectrum SPF protection. This means it guards against both UVA and UVB rays.
- In the United States: Look for sunscreens labeled “Broad Spectrum.” This label is your ticket to ensuring you’re covered on all fronts.
- In Asia: You might come across the PA rating system, which ranges from PA+ to PA++++. The more plus signs, the stronger the UVA protection. So, for top-notch defense, aim for those with PA++++.
- In Europe: They have a similar system to the PA rating. Look for a UVA label that offers protection comparable to the Asian PA++++ standard.
Also, remember that different skin types might react differently to various sunscreens. It’s all about finding the one that feels right for you.
Some sunscreens are better for different skin types. See the table below to see which sunscreens are best for your skin type.
| Skin Type | Sunscreen Type | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Oily Skin | Asian Chemical sunscreen | Chemical sunscreens with a lighter, thinner texture. Asian sunscreens formulate for more humid climates so you can find some nice lightweight sunscreens. |
| Dry Skin | Thicker chemical sunscreens & mineral sunscreens | Avoid “matte” sunscreens as they can make your skin feel dry mid-day due to the presence of alcohol and oil-absorbing powders. Thicker chemical sunscreens are better suited for dry skin. Certain mineral sunscreens offer moisturizing properties with a heavier texture. |
| Combination Skin | Chemical sunscreen | Find a lightweight textured sunscreen. Avoid sunscreens with alcohol or powders. |
| Sensitive | Fragrance free mineral sunscreen | Mineral sunscreens are very gentle and do not cause irritation like chemical sunscreens. |
| Normal Skin | EU or Asian chemical sunscreen | Find a lightweight textured sunscreen. Avoid sunscreens with alcohol or powders. |
Yep, they’re a great pick. Because they’re not made with harsh chemicals, they’re less likely to irritate your skin or cause breakouts.
They sit on top of your skin instead of soaking in, which means less irritation and no clogged pores.
The key difference lies in how they protect your skin from the sun.
Mineral sunscreens reflect UV rays, while chemical sunscreens absorb them and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin.
This means mineral sunscreens are usually gentler and more stable in the sun. But they can be a bit thicker, which might leave a bit of a white cast, unlike the lighter feel and invisible look of chemical sunscreens.
This used to be a big issue, but not so much anymore. Sure, some might leave a bit of a residue, but newer Korean mineral sunscreens, like the ones recommended in this article, blend pretty well, even for darker skin tones.
Definitely! Some are even made to work as a primer. Just give it a couple of minutes to settle in before you start your makeup routine, and you should be good to go.
Stick to reapplying every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating a lot. Even though they don’t break down as fast in the sun, they can still rub off or wash away.
Conclusion
Alright, that’s a wrap on our tour of the best Korean mineral sunscreens out there for every skin type. It’s pretty clear these aren’t your average sunblocks. They’re a key piece of the skincare puzzle, offering a little something extra for everyone.
Got a favorite? Or have you tried a few of these Korean sunscreens? I’d love to hear about it in the comments – your tips could be a total lifesaver for someone else.
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