8 best Korean sunscreens of 2023, per a dermatologist

Apr 21, 2024

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Whether you live in a hot-tropic location or a frigid hideaway, wearing SPF daily is important. And, that’s the case whether you prefer a convenient spray sunscreen or a smooth, lightweight mineral one.

“Sunscreen is one of the most important skincare practices to prevent signs of photoaging and hyperpigmentation,” Gloria Lin, MD, board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical, cosmetic and surgical dermatology at Schweiger Dermatology Group in NYC, told the New York Post. “The double-cleanse is another popular practice that starts with an oil based cleanser to remove products, followed by a hydrating facial cleanser to clean the pores. Facial massage is also recommended to improve circulation and stimulate the muscles to help with anti-aging.”

Just as prized as loading up on SPF is the cultural-hailing realm of Korean skincare. Namely, Korean sunscreen. (Related: Best sunscreens for melanated skin).

“Korean skincare is known for its high standards and innovation while still being affordable,” Dr. Lin adds. “Many products target specific concerns like acne, dullness, redness and dryness. It differs from traditional skincare practices because it focuses on prevention and long-term results through the use of more gentle ingredients.”

More, Korean culture emphasizes a consistent skincare routine starting from a young age, which has been passed down through generations — highlighting their focus on prevention instead of retroactive treatment like in Western culture.

Ahead, Lin hand-picks the 8 best Korean sunscreens and outlines more on how they’re formulated and what to look for when shopping in our in-depth FAQ section.

“Innisfree is focused on eco-friendly sustainable practices and ingredients,” Lin says. “The brand has different formulations depending on your skin type, but notably its Daily UV Defense (SPF 36) is quite popular.”

Impressively, this product goes on easily but doesn’t leave the skin feeling greasy. It also contains green tea, vitamin E, and centella asiatica extract for antioxidant and soothing properties. It’s one of our favorites here at New York Post Shopping, is budget-friendly and is one of the best Amazon beauty products we rounded up.

“COSRX is best known for its Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence that’s designed to hydrate the skin with hyaluronic acid, stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture,” Lin describes. “Although currently sold out, the brand also has a Vitamin E Vitalizing Sunscreen SPF 50+ that has antioxidants to help prevent against free radicals cause by UV radiation.”

More, it helps to control oil and sebum, doesn’t leave a white cast and is said to be great on sensitive skin.

“The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics (SPF 50+/PA++++) has the maximum UVA and UVB protection rating,” Lin touts, recommending the product. “It contains rice extract and probiotics that soothe the skin and decreases inflammation.”

Simultaneously, it remains lightweight and moisturizing — a feat to beat among many sunscreens on the market.

“The Good Molecules Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 contains 13.3% zinc oxide that is fast absorbing, lightweight and dries with minimal white cast,” Lin highlights. ” It contains ingredients like grapeseed oil and hyaluronic acid for hydration.

Not to mention, if you’re looking to support a Korean brand for less, look no further than this less-than-$15 option.

“The Sulwhasoo Perfecting Cushion SPF 50+ Foundation is an excellent chemical sunscreen option for reapplication over makeup throughout the day,” Lin shares, recommending an option that provides sun protection with some tinted coverage. “It comes in six different shades and has light reflecting particles to enhance the ‘glass skin’ look.”

Unfortunately, the brand’s shade range isn’t that varied, so it’s better for light to light-medium skin tones.

“The Neogen Day-Light Protection Airy Sunscreen is a cult favorite because of its lightweight and hydrating chemical sunscreen formula,’ Lin notes. ” There’s no white cast and it’s infused with tea tree oil and aloe.”

In addition — and according to Lin — it doesn’t pill under or over make-up (#score)!

“The Tocobo Cotton Soft Sun Stick (SPF 50+/PA++++) is quite popular on TikTok for reapplication to prevent the smudging of makeup without adding shine or grease,” Lin highlights. “It’s both cruelty free and vegan with the highest rating for UVA and UVB protection.

Not to mention, with an even swipe, you’ll be good to go — making it a fantastic option for reapplying.

Meet one of our favorite sunscreens, by far (seriously, we wear it on repeat).

“The Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 50+) contains both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide and has a matte finish without leaving a white cast,” Lin shares, also recommending the product. “It contains a citrus scent, which may not be suitable for everyone.”

Ahead, Lin shares what differentiates Korean sunscreens from the rest, how they’re formulated and why they’re on the rise — and then some.

“‘Glass skin’ is one of the most popular Korean skincare trends, with the goal of giving the skin a smooth glow and minimizing the appearance of pores,” Lin tells The Post. “In addition to Korean skincare products, certain skincare practices can help to promote skin health to achieve this look.”

For more, check out our review of the best Korean skincare brands.

Social media has really helped expand Korean skincare by introducing these products to a broader audience.

“Their adorable packaging also helps to entice consumers,” Lin notes, analyzing the latest beauty trends. “With their focus on prevention and daily skincare routine, many people find this holistic approach to be more appealing.”

Above all else, Korean skincare products are typically more gentle and hydrating.

“Since they’re usually safe for more sensitive skin, they can be used by a broader audience,” Lin explains. “Many of the ingredients are seen in traditional Korean medicine (hanbang), like green tea and ginseng.”

According to Lin, the Korean skincare brands can have a PA (Protection Grade of UVA Rays) rating in addition to the standard SPF system (specific to UVB).

“Their SPF maximum will say 50+ on their products instead of a more specific number,” Lin elaborates. “The PA rating system uses plus signs for their grading (ranges from PA+ to PA++++) with PA++++ marked as extremely high UVA protection. Mineral sunscreens physically block the sun in comparison to chemical sunscreens, so they may be more effective.”

Korean sunscreens are focused on prevention and gentle ingredients and, as a result, they are meant to be used as part of the daily skincare routine and not just marketed for use on a beach day.

“They tend to be lightweight without leaving an unsightly white cast and can be worn under makeup,” Lin says. “Their hydrating ingredients help to nourish the skin but not leave a greasy feeling or clog the pores.”

In addition, sunscreen in the United States is regulated by the FDA, so the American products do not contain the latest technology for UV filters that are available in Asia. “Korean sunscreens focus on ease of reapplication, which is incredibly important since the protection only lasts for two hours,” she highlights.

Below, Lin offers her expertise across each skin type:

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