Best Korean Sunscreens: A Global Craze

A number of years ago, Korean sunscreens emerge have caught the beauty world by surprise with their innovative formulations and unmatched finishes. The allure of Korean sunscreens extends beyond traditional sun protection. Today we will look at why Korean formulations why they stand out for numerous beauty lovers.

Korean sunscreens have claimed the spotlight on the global beauty stage, making a lasting impression with their unique features and revolutionary advancements. While the U.S. FDA enforces strict regulations on sunscreen ingredients, Korean brands embrace flexibility, boasting quicker approval times that empower them to explore cutting-edge formulations, surpassing their Western counterparts. It’s not just about shielding your skin from UV rays; it’s about a transformative experience that blends protection, skincare, and an aesthetic that goes beyond the ordinary.


More from Glowing Gorgeous: Find out here the Best Silicone-Free Moisturizers And Why Do You Care

We’ll run through 12 Korean sunscreens and I promise you at least one of them will land in your makeup drawer.

Background

The Koreans are really committed to research and development and that has led to formulations that not only protect but also provide additional skincare benefits. The quest for the perfect sunscreen has resulted in lightweight, translucent finishes that embrace our skin like second nature.

Korean brands likes to use a diverse range of ingredients, from time-honored botanical extracts to state-of-the-art chemical filters. This combination creates a wide palette of formulations suitable for various skin types. The focus on texture, finish, and added skincare benefits has elevated Korean sunscreens to a cult status, with everyone globally pursuing the coveted “glassy skin” effect.

12 Marvels of Korean Sunscreens on Amazon

Do you think you would have to order these sunscreens all the way from Korea? No no no, they are all effortlessly within easy reach on Amazon. These 12 have been carefully chosen for their exceptional qualities. Let’s start.

1. Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 36

innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 36 Face Lotion, 1.69 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 36 Face Lotion, 1.69 Fl... @ Amazon Amazon Prime

Cost: $16

Celebrate affordability without compromising quality with Innisfree’s Daily UV Defense Sunscreen. Acknowledged with the Allure Best of Beauty award, this lightweight, hydrating cream refreshes your skin. While its emollient nature may take an extra moment to fully rub in, its effectiveness in shielding against UV rays and its refreshing feel make it a standout choice for normal to dry skin.

2. Missha All Around Safe Block Soft Finish Sun Milk SPF 50+ PA+++

MISSHA All Around Safe Block Soft Finish Sun Milk SPF 50+ / PA+++ 70ml I No White Cast Skin Smoothening Sunscreen Double Layer Blocking System MISSHA All Around Safe Block Soft Finish Sun Milk SPF 50+ / PA+++ 70ml I No... @ Amazon Amazon Prime

Cost: $19

Embrace the soft-matte allure of Missha’s All Around Safe Block Soft Finish Sun Milk. A globally acclaimed choice, its mineral formula resists sweat and water, drying down to a barely-there, non-greasy finish. Helichrysum flower water soothes redness, while glycerin fortifies your skin barrier. This versatile sunscreen caters to those with active or busy lifestyles, ensuring a comfortable and protective experience.

3. Neogen Day-Light Protection Airy Sunscreen SPF 50/PA+++

DERMALOGY by NEOGENLAB UVA/UVB SPF50 Day-Light Protection Airy Sunscreen - Essence-type Moisturizing Weightless Sunscreen with No White Cast - 1.69 oz / 50 ml DERMALOGY by NEOGENLAB UVA/UVB SPF50 Day-Light Protection Airy Sunscreen -... @ Amazon Amazon Prime

Cost: $32

Witness the evolution of a fan-favorite formula with Neogen’s Day-Light Protection Airy Sunscreen. This chemical-only variant boasts an elegant, cast-free finish that spreads effortlessly and absorbs quickly. Infused with evening primrose, giant pine leaf, ulmus davidiana, and pueraria lobata root extracts, it leaves a silky finish that minimizes excess sebum and shine.


More from Glowing Gorgeous: Find out here Hyram’s Recommended Face Sunscreens For The Summer

4. Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA++++

Sale ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen (SPF50+ PA++++) | A moisturizing sunscreen, No White Cast, Strong UV Protection, Moist Essence Type, Ocean Friendly-Reef Safe (1.69fl.oz) ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen (SPF50+ PA++++) | A moisturizing... @ Amazon Amazon Prime

Cost: $28

Streamline your morning routine with Round Lab’s Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream. This chemical sunscreen doubles as a moisturizer, featuring hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, amino acids, and birch tree sap. Experience deep hydration, moisture retention, and inflammation reduction in a formula that feels more like a lightweight moisturizer than a traditional sunscreen.

5. Thank You Farmer Sun Project Light Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++

Sale THANKYOU FARMER Sun Project Light Sun Essence 4.22 Fl Oz (120ml) THANKYOU FARMER Sun Project Light Sun Essence 4.22 Fl Oz (120ml) @ Amazon Amazon Prime

Cost: $23

If this is your first journey into the Korean sunscreen world, then do it with Thank You Farmer’s Sun Project Light Sun Cream. This unique formulation seamlessly merges mineral and chemical filters (hybrid), incorporating soothing aloe leaf and hydrating sunflower seed extracts. Tailored for normal to dry skin, it promises a pearlescent finish akin to a lightweight moisturizer, establishing itself as a coveted gem in the realm of Korean sunscreens.

6. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotic SPF 50+ PA++++

Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ Rice Sunscreen Korean PA++++,Korean Sunscreen SPF 50+ for All Skin Type and UV Defense(50ml) Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ Rice Sunscreen Korean PA++++,Korean... @ Amazon Amazon Prime

Cost: $18

Immerse yourself in the viral sensation that is Beauty of Joseon’s Relief Sun. This chemical, cast-free formula has taken the beauty community by storm, gaining popularity on TikTok. Enriched with nourishing ingredients like niacinamide, rice extract, and grain-derived probiotics, it not only shields but imparts a healthy, radiant finish. A favorite on TikTok, this sunscreen invites you to anticipate your daily sun protection ritual.

7. Suntique I’m Safe For Sensitive Skin SPF 35 PA+++

Suntique I’m Safe For Sensitive Skin, SPF35, 1.69 fl.oz. Suntique I’m Safe For Sensitive Skin, SPF35, 1.69 fl.oz. @ Amazon

Cost: $24

For those with easily-irritated skin, Suntique’s I’m Safe For Sensitive Skin is a fragrance-free mineral sunscreen that doesn’t compromise on effectiveness. This is one of the few mineral sunscreens featured on our list here.  Its 100% mineral-based filters create a UV barrier and physically blocks sun’s rays more certainly. Featuring titanium dioxide, cica, aloe leaf extract, and jojoba seed oil, this sunscreen provides gentle yet robust protection. Redness stands no chance as it soothes your skin with a harmonious blend of cica and aloe vera.

8. Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF 50+ PA++++

SKIN1004 Hyalu-CICA Water-fit Sun Serum SKIN1004 Hyalu-CICA Water-fit Sun Serum @ Amazon Amazon Prime

Cost: $10

Join the TikTok hype train with Skin1004’s Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum. Its remarkably lightweight, serum-like formula leaves your skin dewy and fresh. Boasting next-generation chemical UV filters, including Tinosorb M, Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150, and Iscotrizinol, this sunscreen is a testament to innovation in sun care.

9. A’pieu Soo Boo Ji Sun Cotton SPF 50+ PA+++

A'PIEU Pure Block Daily Sunscreen Cream SPF50/PA++++ New Formula Large Size 3.38 Fl oz | Korean Sunscreen for Daily Use A'PIEU Pure Block Daily Sunscreen Cream SPF50/PA++++ New Formula Large Size 3.38... @ Amazon

Cost: $13

Immerse yourself in the cottony goodness of A’pieu’s Soo Boo Ji Sun Cotton. This chemical sunscreen boasts a breathable, cotton-like texture that offers a refreshing feel. Infused with bamboo water, witch hazel, and centella asiatica, it provides a calming effect while protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. The lightweight finish makes it perfect for everyday wear.

10. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF 50+ PA+++

Sale [Isntree] Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel 50 ml [Isntree] Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel 50 ml @ Amazon Amazon Prime

Cost: $27

Indulge in the must-try Isntree’s Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel, recommended by dermatologist Jenny Liu. This chemical sunscreen is super lightweight, elegant, and leaves a velvety finish. Infused with hyaluronic acid, centella asiatica extract, and allantoin, it enhances hydration and supports skin barrier repair, ensuring your skin feels as good as it looks.

11. A’pieu Soo Boo Ji Sun Cotton SPF 50+ PA+++

Cost: $13

Immerse yourself in the cottony goodness of A’pieu’s Soo Boo Ji Sun Cotton. This chemical sunscreen boasts a breathable, cotton-like texture that offers a refreshing feel. Infused with bamboo water, witch hazel, and centella asiatica, it provides a calming effect while protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. The lightweight finish makes it perfect for everyday wear.

12. Purito Centella Green Level Unscented Sun SPF50+ PA++++

Cost: $20

Conclude your exploration with Purito’s Centella Green Level Unscented Sun. A cult-favorite, this fragrance-free, chemical sunscreen is a gentle giant. Centella asiatica extract, hyaluronic acid, and tocopherol team up to provide not just sun protection, but also a soothing experience. The absence of essential oils and artificial fragrance makes it an excellent choice for sensitive skin.

Embark on a radiant journey with these 12 Korean sunscreens, all conveniently available on Amazon.

FAQ’s

1. What key ingredients should I look for in a quality Korean sunscreen?

Look for Korean sunscreens with a blend of botanical extracts and advanced filters for comprehensive sun protection. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or vitamin C can also provide additional skincare benefits.

2. Can I use Korean sunscreens on sensitive skin, and are there specific formulations for sensitive skin types?

Korean sunscreens often offer formulations suitable for sensitive skin. Opt for sunscreens labeled as “gentle” or “sensitive skin-friendly,” and check for hypoallergenic ingredients to ensure a soothing and protective experience for delicate skin.

1. How do Korean sunscreens differ from Western counterparts?

Korean sunscreens often differ from Western counterparts due to their innovative formulations and faster approval times. While the U.S. FDA imposes strict regulations, Korean brands embrace agility, leading to avant-garde products that seamlessly blend sun protection with skincare and aesthetic appeal.

3. Are there specific skincare benefits associated with Korean sunscreens?

Yes, Korean sunscreens go beyond sun protection by incorporating additional skincare benefits. The unwavering commitment of the Korean beauty industry to research and development has resulted in formulations that not only shield from UV rays but also nourish and enhance the skin.

3. How do Korean sunscreens differ from Western counterparts?

Korean sunscreens often differ from Western counterparts due to their innovative formulations and faster approval times. While the U.S. FDA imposes strict regulations, Korean brands embrace agility, leading to avant-garde products that seamlessly blend sun protection with skincare and aesthetic appeal.

4. What makes the Glow Essence Shield SPF 50 a standout choice among Korean sunscreens?

The Glow Essence Shield SPF 50 stands out for its multifaceted approach to skincare. Crafted by a leading Korean brand, it combines nourishing botanical extracts and cutting-edge filters, offering a feather-light texture with a luminous finish. This sunscreen goes beyond conventional protection, providing a transformative experience for radiant skin.

5. Are there specific skincare benefits associated with Korean sunscreens?

Yes, Korean sunscreens go beyond sun protection by incorporating additional skincare benefits. The unwavering commitment of the Korean beauty industry to research and development has resulted in formulations that not only shield from UV rays but also nourish and enhance the skin.

4. How can I choose the right Korean sunscreen for my skin type?

Choosing the right Korean sunscreen involves considering your skin type and preferences. With a diverse range of formulations, from lightweight to translucent finishes, Korean sunscreens cater to various skin types. Assess your needs, whether it’s hydration, mattifying effects, or specific ingredients, to find the perfect match.

Jen Roberts Glowing Gorgeous

Jen Roberts

Follow me

About our Chief Editor


Jen Roberts, is a passionate beauty specialist and blogger with a deep love for skincare and wellness. More about me here.

Comments

Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments