Our ultimate guide for the best Korean Sunscreen for 2023 highlights the best product for dry, oil and combination skin types.
The best part?
An in-depth guide as to the benefits of each product, how the sunscreen feels when applied and how often it should be applied.
That’s not all…
We have included the ingredients list for each product, highlighting the best ingredients and the ones to avoid. Also, whether the products have a fragrance and have the possibility to cause irritation.
Best Korean Sunscreen 2023 For Different Skin Types
Product | Purpose | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | For Combination Skin | ||
 | For Dry Skin | ||
 | For Oily Skin | ||
 | For sweaty activities | ||
 | For Multiple Functions | ||
 | For Acne Prone |
The Best Korean Sunscreen 2023 depends on the user, as everyone’s skin is different. As are their needs and skin tolerances. To choose the best product for you, we have compiled a list of the Best Korean Sunscreen 2023.
With their most important features and ingredients. So that you may do the research and discover what products may work best for your skin type and concerns.
Read on to find out more about the best, most popular sunscreens and the pros and cons of each!
Determining your skin type and any possible ingredient irritants is paramount to choosing the best sunscreen for your face.
Some sunscreens are more suited for oily skin types, others for dry skin, and others work well for many people with normal or combination skin.
Knowing your skin type sets you on the way to finding the perfect sunscreen! We have categorized the following best Korean sunscreens according to type to aid you in your search.
A’PIEU PURE BLOCK Natural Sun Cream SPF45/PA+++
#1 Best Korean Sunscreen for Combination Skin 2023
Source: Amazon
This sunscreen from the Korean brand A’Pieu utilizes fantastic, natural ingredients not commonly found in sunscreens. Which provides nutrients and hydration to your skin.
Ingredients such as aloe extract, fruit extracts (including peach, pomegranate , apple blossom, lime flower, damson flower, orange flower) and desert watermelon extract.
The ingredients give the sun cream a light and pleasant vaguely floral scent. Which does not linger long for those who may be more sensitive to fragrances.
It absorbs quickly and leaves no noticeable cast on fairer skin tones.
However, those with darker skin tones may do better with a different sunscreen that won’t leave the face looking ghostly!
A’pieu sun cream is a great product to prevent your skin from darkening during pregnancy.
The texture is a bit heavier than other Korean sunscreens, but understandable as the A’pieu sun cream is a physical sunscreen.
Resulting in this being the Best Korean Sunscreen for combination skin and normal types.
How to Use?
Suggested application is to apply a small, adequate amount onto face after moisturizer and before makeup (if applicable) at least 15 minutes before sun exposure.
Reapplication may be necessary depending on the climate, season, skin types, and daily activities.
Easily and simply remove at the end of the day with makeup remover or face wash.
Ingredients
Water, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Butylene Glycol, Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Glyceryl Stearate, Cirtus Aurantifolia, Cetearyl Olivate, Adansonia Digitata Seed Extract, Prunus Persica Flower Extract, Cetearyl Alcohol, Nylon-12, Sorbitan Olivate, Sodium Hydroxide, Pyrus Malus, Dimethicone, Polyacrylate-13, Panthenol, Polyisobutene, PEG-100 Stearate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Punica Granatum Flower Extract, Sorbitan Stearate, Oryza Sativa, Malpighia Emarginata, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Extract, Rosa Centifolia Flower Water, Prunus Avium, Citurs Aurantium Dulcis, Citrullus Lanatus Fruit Extract, Sorbitan Isostearate, Polysorbate 20, BHT, Disodium EDTA, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Flavor/Fragrance.
Features
Pros
- Absorbs quickly
- Non-greasy
- Pleasant scent
Cons
- Physical sunscreen, so perhaps not suitable for darker skin tones
- Not waterproof
Corsx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 PA+++ 50ml
#2 Best Korean Sunscreen for Dry Skin 2023
Source: Amazon
The Aloe Soothing Sun Cream by the Korean cosmetics brand Cosrx offers a unique blend of UVA and UVB ray protection. Along with creamy skin moisturizing and soothing.
It contains 5,500ppm of Aloe Vera leaf extract which works to protect the skin while hydrating.
All in a non-sticky and long-lasting sun cream.
Due to the creamy and extra moisturizing texture of this sunscreen it best suited for those with combination or dry skin.
Which makes it the best Korean sunscreen for dry skin. It may be worn alone or under makeup.
How to Use?
Suggested usage is to apply 30 minutes prior to sun exposure, dispensing an adequate amount of cream and applying evenly onto the face until fully absorbed.
Avoid sensitive areas around the eyes and mouth. Easily and simply remove at the end of the day with makeup remover or face wash!
Ingredients
Water, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Isoamyl P-Methoxycinnamate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Alcohol, Dimethicone, Glyceryl Stearate, Butylene Glycol, Titanium Dioxide, C14-22 Alcohols, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Tocopheryl Acetate, PEG-100 Stearate, Silica, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Aluminum Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Triethanolamine Sodium Hydroxide, Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA
Features
Pros
- Dries down to a matte finish
- Moisturizing
Cons
- Thick texture
- Not waterproof
Missha All Around Safe Block Soft Finish Sun Milk SPF50+/PA+++
#3 Best Korean Sunscreen for Oily Skin 2023
Source: Amazon
Missha is known for a wide range of sunscreens, all catering to different needs and skin types. The Soft Finish Sun Milk is best suited for combination and/or oily skin types.
It works like a makeup primer and sunscreen all in one to even skin tone, reduce sebum production and smooth pores and fine lines.
A few minutes after application it dries down to a silky, almost powdery finish. Which is why it is the best Korean sunscreen for oily skin.
How to Use?
Recommended application is 30 minutes prior to sun exposure.
With reapplications as necessary, depending on the activities occurring (for example, swimming or physical exertion).
Easily and simply remove at the end of the day with makeup remover or face wash.
Ingredients
Dimethicone, Myrciaria Dubia Fruit Extract, Everlasting Flower Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Zinc Oxide, Ethanol, Cyclohexasiloxane, Isoamyl P-Methoxycinnamate, Silica, Titanium Oxide, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Hexyl laurate, PEG-10Dimethicone, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, Methicone, Aloe Vera Leaf Extract, Butylene Glycol, C12-14 Pareth-12, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Alumina, Stearic Acid, Triethoxy Caprylylsilane, Disodium EDTA, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben, Phenoxy Ethanol, Fragrance, Iron Oxides, Althaea Rosea Flower Root Extract, Piper Methysticum Leaf/Root/Stem Extract, Rosa Davurica Bud Extract, Limonia Acidissima Extract, Abronia Villosa Leaf Extract, Cinchona Succirubra Bark Extract, Psidium Guajava Leaf Extract, Rhodiola Rosea Root Extract
Features
Pros
- Controls excess sebum production
- Excellent UV protection
- Leaves no white cast
Cons
- Not suitable for dry skin types
- Not waterproof
Missha All Around Safe Block Waterproof Sun Milk SPF50+PA+++
#4 Best Korean Sunscreen for Sports in 2023
Source: Amazon
Though the Korean brand Missha is known for its wide line of various sunscreens. The new waterproof “sun milk” has drawn praise for an updated formula that is sweat, water and sebum proof!
This is the best Korean sunscreen for water sports or sweaty activities.
It won’t dissolve in water and provides extended sun protection.
While also controlling oil production, thanks the additional ingredient of Eucalyptus plant extract.
The formula is lightweight and comfortable to wear and doesn’t leave any white or gray cast. It is suitable for wear under makeup or alone, and has only a minor scent that dissipates quickly.
How to Use?
Recommended application is 30 minutes prior to sun exposure.
With reapplications as necessary, depending on the activities occurring (for example, swimming or physical exertion).
Easily and simply remove at the end of the day with makeup remover or face wash.
Ingredients
Helichrysum Italicum Flower Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclohexasiloxane, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Zinc Oxide, Isoamyl p-Methoxycinnamate, Butylene Glycol, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Dimethicone, Titanium Dioxide, Alcohol Denat., PEG-10 Dimethicone, Hexyl Laurate, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Stearic Acid, Methicone, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Methylparaben, Phenoxyethanol, Alumina, Propylparaben, Butylparaben, Fragrance(Parfum), Disodium EDTA, Rhodiola Rosea Root Extract, Psidium Guajava Leaf Extract, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Extract, Cinchona Succirubra Bark Extract, Althaea Rosea Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Abronia Villosa Leaf Extract, Iron Oxides
Features
Pros
- Waterproof
- Sweat-resistant
- Large product quantity
Cons
- Reapplication recommended during prolonged sun exposure
The Face Shop Natural Sun Eco Sebum Control Moisture Sun SPF 40 PA+++
#5 Best Korean Sunscreen 2023
Source: Amazon
The Natural Sun Eco Sebum Control Moisture Sun from The Face Shop is another sunscreen that has multi-functions.
Providing adequate UVA and UVB protection and a makeup primer. It is a versatile, smooth cream that works to mattify and smooth pores under makeup.
Special ingredients of note include Cotton Seed oil and Chia Seed Extracts.
Both ingredients which are known for absorbing 10 times their weight in moisture.
So they work to absorb excess shine and oil while keeping your skin feeling and looking fresh.
How to Use?
Suggested application is to apply a small, adequate amount onto face after moisturizer and before makeup.
If applicable at least 15 minutes before sun exposure.
Reapplication may be necessary depending on the climate, season, skin types, and daily activities. Easily and simply remove at the end of the day with makeup remover or face wash.
Ingredients
Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Alcohol Denate., Isoamyl P-Methoxycinnamate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid, Dipropylene Glycol, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate, Ethylhexyl Methoxycrylene, Tromethamine, Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Panthenol, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Cetearyl Olivate, Dimethicone, Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate, Salvia Hispanica Seed Extract, Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Extract, Plankton Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Sprout Extract, Xanthan Gum, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Glyceryl Stearate, Acrylates/Vinyl Isodecanoate Crosspolymer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Trisodium EDTA, Menthyl PCA, Butylene Glycol, Silica, Sodium Polyacrylate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium PCA, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum
Features
Pros
- Smooth, matte finish
- Oil-absorbing formula
Cons
- Contains alcohol
- Not waterproof
Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish Sun Milk SPF50+/PA+++
#6 Best Korean Sunscreen for Acne Prone 2023
Source: Amazon
South Korea’s popular brand Etude House’s sunscreen featuring a comfortable and fluid formula. It works to provide long-lasting UV protection.
With 100% mineral based mild ingredients for sensitive and acne-prone skin! Best sunscreen for acne prone skin in 2023.
Containing hyaluronic acid and botanical oils (Aloe Leaf Juice, Lemon, Lime, and Orange extracts). It provides both moisture and nourishment in a lightweight formula. It absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a greasy finish or white cast.
How to Use?
Recommended application is to apply a small, appropriate amount onto face after moisturizer, but before makeup at least 15 minutes prior to sun exposure.
Reapplication may be necessary during the day depending on length of exposure, season, climate, and skin type.
Easily and simply remove at the end of the day with makeup remover or face wash.
Ingredients
Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Zinc Oxide, Alcohol, Dicaprylyl Ether, Dipropylene Glycol, Titanium Dioxide, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Viscum Album (Mistletoe) Leaf Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Extract, Carex Humilis Root Extract, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Pinus Sylvestris Leaf Oil, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract, Malpighia Emarginata (Acerola) Fruit Extract, Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract, Echium Plantagineum Seed Oil, Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Cardiospermum Halicacabum Flower/Leaf/Vine Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil Unsaponifiables, Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Peg-10 Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Magnesium Sulfate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Methicone, 1,2-Hexanediol, Aluminum Hydroxide, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Caprylyl Glycol, Octyldodecanol, Dimethicone, Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Butylene Glycol, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Cellulose Gum
Features
Pros
- Ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin
- Lightweight formula
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Contains alcohol
Why Should You Use a Facial Sunscreen?
Best Korean Sunscreen 2023
Whether you are someone just beginning a Korean skincare routine or a seasoned pro looking to add to an existing routine, sunscreen is a great place to start!
Always start with the best Korean sunscreen because your skin is not worth saving a penny for a inferior product.
The sun’s rays are extremely damaging to our skin.
Especially to our more sensitive facial skin. Especially when considering long-term effects. However, the sunlight that reaches us is composed of two different (but both harmful) sun rays. Long wave ultraviolet A (UVA) and short wave ultraviolet B (UVB).
How The Best Korean Sunscreen Will Prevent UVA And UVB Rays
UVA rays primarily penetrate into the dermis layer of our skin (the deepest layer). Prolonged exposure leads to collagen breakdown and premature skin aging and wrinkling. UVB rays are more superficial and cause sunburns to appear by burning the outer layers of skin.
However, they are no less dangerous. In addition to causing sunburns, UVB rays are also the main culprit of skin cancer melanomas. Melanomas are an increasingly prevalent form of cancer.
Clearly, neither type of ray is optimal as both cause different damage to differing degrees. While steps such as adequate clothing and staying the shade can help, the best form of sun protection for our skin is sunscreen!
The Asian beauty world and culture has long acknowledged the sun’s destructive power when it comes to our skin. While Westerners can be found lying in the sun on beaches to get that tanned glow.
They have to religiously apply sunscreen to avoid the damaging rays of the sun. The wisdom of this approach is evident in the youthful appearances of anyone who follows an Asian skincare routine faithfully!
What Do The Best Korean Sunscreens Prevent
The best Korean sunscreen will try to prevent hyper-pigmentation, discoloration, exacerbation of redness, age spots, and premature wrinkles, protection is needed!
Western sunscreens however are hardly ever pleasant to apply due to often thick, greasy formulations. They usually leave the wearer with a white or grayish tinge to the face!
As has been proven, Asian and Korean beauty and health science is up to 15 years ahead of the West in terms of new, better formulas.
With better researched ingredients that leave the user with a much better experience and results. Resulting in the more of the best Korean sunscreens are being deigned better and safer all the time.
However, sunscreens are no different and the best Korean sunscreen in particular have gained a large global following with their optimal formulas and fantastic results.
What does “PA” mean? – How Asian Companies Categorize Sunscreen Protection
The rating system that Asian companies categorize sunscreen protection levels into differs slightly from Western methods. Instead of featuring a SPF number, you can find the PA system.
With “PA” followed by some “+” signs, each one indicating an additional degree of protection.
“PA” stands for “Protection Grade of UVA” and ranges from PA+ to PA++++, with PA+ being a sunscreen with minimal protection and PA++++ standing for the maximum protection.
It is important to note that the rating of PA++++ is fairly new. Most brands will offer PA+++ as their highest protection sunscreen.