Best And Top Rated Korean Sunscreens of 2024 To Use Daily

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Finding a sunscreen that offers robust protection, feels good on the skin, and complements your skincare routine can be like searching for a needle in a haystack. Many products either lack sufficient protection, leave a white cast, or feel too heavy and greasy.

The struggle intensifies with the overwhelming array of options available. You spend hours researching, reading reviews, and testing products, only to be disappointed. The quest for a sunscreen that ticks all the boxes can feel endless and frustrating.

This is where Korean sunscreens shine, merging cutting-edge sun protection with skin-nourishing benefits.

The following list of Korean sunscreens has been crafted based on how much they are loved according to online ratings and rave reviews from stores. These sunscreens promise not just to protect but elevate your skincare experience, offering solutions tailored to every skin type and concern.

COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 (PA+++)

I use it every day, all year because of its harmonious blend of sun protection and skin nourishment, making it a standout choice for those seeking both safety and comfort in their skincare routine. This sunscreen offers broad-spectrum SPF50 (PA+++) protection, efficiently guarding the skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays, thereby reducing the risk of sunburn and premature aging. What sets this product apart is its aloe vera leaf extract content, known for its soothing and hydrating properties, which ensures the skin remains moisturized and calm, even under the sun. Its creamy texture absorbs quickly without leaving a white cast, making it suitable for all skin tones. The COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream is gentle enough for sensitive skin types, yet effective for anyone looking for reliable sun protection coupled with additional skincare benefits. This product is a testament to COSRX’s commitment to creating multifunctional skincare solutions that cater to the needs of diverse skin types.

• Who is this for: Ideal for individuals seeking a high SPF sunscreen that not only protects but also moisturizes and soothes the skin, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
• Why it’s good: It combines effective UV protection with the healing and hydrating benefits of aloe vera, offering a soothing sensation and preventing the dryness often associated with sun exposure.
• Main strengths: Broad-spectrum SPF50 (PA+++) protection, aloe vera for hydration and soothing, quick absorption without a white cast, and suitable for sensitive skin.
• Price Range: This sunscreen is priced affordably, making it accessible for those looking to integrate high-quality sun protection into their daily skincare regimen without breaking the bank.

MISSHA All Around Safe Block Aqua Sun

MISSHA All Around Safe Block Aqua Sun Gel is an innovative sunscreen that offers superior sun protection while hydrating and soothing the skin. Formulated with a unique water-based formula, it provides a lightweight, non-greasy finish that feels refreshing upon application. The gel texture allows for quick absorption, delivering broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Enriched with natural plant extracts, it helps calm irritated skin, reduce redness, and improve skin health. This sunscreen also boasts a double-layer UV-blocking system that ensures long-lasting protection, even in humid conditions. Its hydrating properties make it an excellent choice for moisturizing skin without contributing to oiliness. Perfect for daily use, MISSHA All Around Safe Block Aqua Sun Gel stands out as one of the best Korean sunscreens and a skincare essential that protects, soothes, and hydrates, all while maintaining a light and comfortable feel on the skin.

• Who is this for: Ideal for individuals looking for a high-performance sunscreen with hydrating benefits, suitable for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin.
• Why it’s good: It combines effective sun protection with skin-soothing and hydrating properties, providing a comfortable wear without the heavy or sticky feel often associated with sunscreens.
• Main strengths: High SPF/PA rating for superior protection, water-based formula for hydration, quick absorption, and a lightweight feel.
• Price Range: Generally falls into the mid-range price category, offering great value for its quality and efficacy.

Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish Sun Milk

Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish Sun Milk is a lightweight, mineral-based sunscreen that provides exceptional UV protection with a matte and airy finish. This sunscreen stands out for its sebum-control capabilities, making it perfect for those with oily or combination skin types. Formulated with SPF50+ PA+++, it offers robust defense against both UVA and UVB rays, minimizing the risk of sun damage and premature aging. Its unique milky texture is enriched with natural extracts, such as aloe vera and hydrangea leaf, which soothe and moisturize the skin without leaving a white cast or greasy residue. The Sunprise Mild Airy Finish Sun Milk also contains mineral filters, making it less likely to irritate sensitive skin while providing a comfortable, lightweight feeling throughout the day. Its quick-absorbing formula ensures a non-sticky, smooth finish, making it an excellent base for makeup.

• Who is this for: Ideal for individuals with oily, combination, or sensitive skin looking for a high-protection, non-greasy sunscreen with a matte finish.
• Why it’s good: It combines high SPF protection with a lightweight formula that controls oil, minimizes shine, and maintains a matte appearance, all without causing irritation.
• Main strengths: High SPF/PA rating, mineral-based formulation, sebum-control properties, and a lightweight, matte finish.
• Price Range: This sunscreen is generally affordable, offering excellent sun protection and skincare benefits at a budget-friendly price point.

NEOGEN Dermalogy Day-Light Protection Airy Sunscreen

NEOGEN Dermalogy Day-Light Protection Airy Sunscreen has hight review and it’s been considered one of the unmissable Korean sunscreens because of its cutting-edge formulation that provides broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ protection, ensuring your skin is shielded from both UVA and UVB rays. This sunscreen is distinguished by its incredibly lightweight and airy texture, which absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving any white cast or greasy residue. Perfect for all skin types, including sensitive skin, its gentle formula is enriched with natural ingredients like rose and raspberry extracts, which nourish the skin and offer antioxidant benefits to combat environmental damage. The NEOGEN Dermalogy Day-Light Protection Airy Sunscreen not only protects the skin from sun exposure but also improves its overall health, hydration, and vitality. Its airy texture makes it an ideal choice for daily use, providing a comfortable feel and a matte finish that works well under makeup. This sunscreen is a testament to NEOGEN’s commitment to combining effective sun protection with skincare benefits, making it a must-have in your skincare routine.

• Who is this for: Suitable for anyone seeking a high-level SPF protection with a lightweight, non-greasy formula, especially those with sensitive or combination skin.
• Why it’s good: It offers strong sun protection while being gentle on the skin, with natural extracts that provide additional skincare benefits. Its airy texture ensures a comfortable wear throughout the day.
• Main strengths: Broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ protection, lightweight and quick-absorbing formula, and enriched with antioxidant-rich natural ingredients.
• Price Range: Positioned in the mid to high price range, reflecting its premium formulation and the combination of high SPF protection with significant skincare benefits.

Nature Republic California Aloe Fresh Powdery Sun Stick 

Nature Republic California Aloe Fresh Powdery Sun Stick offers a unique and innovative approach to sun protection, combining convenience with effective SPF50+ PA++++ defense against harmful UVA and UVB rays. This sun stick stands out for its effortless application and portable design, making reapplication throughout the day both easy and hygienic. Formulated with aloe vera extract from California, it provides immediate soothing and cooling effects to the skin, ideal for those hot and sunny days. Its powdery finish minimizes shine and oiliness, leaving the skin feeling soft, matte, and refreshed without any sticky residue. Suitable for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin, the Nature Republic sun stick is free from parabens and artificial fragrances, ensuring a gentle yet effective protection. This product is a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone looking for a hassle-free sunscreen solution that keeps the skin protected, soothed, and matte.

• Who is this for: Perfect for people of all skin types who seek a convenient, on-the-go sunscreen option that provides high protection with a matte finish.
• Why it’s good: Its unique stick format allows for easy application, the aloe vera content soothes and hydrates the skin, and its powdery finish controls oil and shine.
• Main strengths: High SPF/PA protection, convenient stick format for easy application, soothing aloe vera formulation, and a non-greasy, powdery finish.
• Price Range: This product is generally in the affordable price range, offering great value for its innovative design and effective sun protection.

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is a modern tribute to traditional Korean skincare philosophies, offering a unique sunscreen solution that combines historical wisdom with contemporary needs. This chemical sunscreen provides an SPF of 50+ PA++++, ensuring high-level protection against the full spectrum of harmful UV rays, while its lightweight, creamy texture absorbs seamlessly into the skin without any white cast or greasiness. Formulated with nourishing Korean herbal ingredients such as rice bran water and green tea extract, it not only shields the skin from sun damage but also hydrates and calms, making it especially beneficial for those with dry or sensitive skin. The inclusion of niacinamide and centella asiatica extract aids in brightening the complexion and improving the skin barrier, enhancing the skin’s overall health and resilience against environmental stressors. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is a testament to the brand’s commitment to creating products that nurture the skin, drawing on the rich heritage of Joseon beauty rituals.

• Who is this for: Ideal for individuals who appreciate a sunscreen that offers both high-level protection and skincare benefits, especially suitable for those with dry or sensitive skin.
• Why it’s good: It blends traditional Korean ingredients with modern sun protection technology, providing a soothing, hydrating, and effective shield against UV damage while improving skin health.
• Main strengths: SPF 50+ PA++++ for comprehensive UV protection, nourishing herbal ingredients for hydration and skin soothing, and a lightweight formula that leaves no white cast.
• Price Range: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is positioned in the mid-price range, offering a good balance between quality, effectiveness, and affordability for a product that combines sunscreen and skincare.

PURITO Daily Go-To Sunscreen

PURITO Daily Go-To Sunscreen is designed to be the ultimate everyday sun protection solution, offering a comfortable and gentle experience without compromising on effectiveness. This sunscreen boasts broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ protection, shielding your skin from the damaging effects of both UVA and UVB rays. What sets the PURITO Daily Go-To Sunscreen apart is its commitment to a clean, minimal ingredient list that is free from essential oils, fragrance, and alcohol, making it ideal for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin. Its lightweight, non-sticky formula absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving no white cast, ensuring a smooth and natural finish. Enriched with hyaluronic acid and centella asiatica extract, it also offers hydrating and soothing benefits, keeping the skin moisturized and calm throughout the day. This product embodies PURITO’s philosophy of simple, effective, and environmentally conscious skincare.

• Who is this for: Perfect for anyone seeking a high-protection, gentle sunscreen suitable for daily use on all skin types, including sensitive skin.
• Why it’s good: It provides strong sun protection while being mindful of skin sensitivity and environmental impact, featuring a clean formula that hydrates and soothes the skin.
• Main strengths: Broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++, suitable for sensitive skin with its clean ingredient list, lightweight and hydrating formula, and no white cast.
• Price Range: PURITO Daily Go-To Sunscreen is priced in the mid-range, reflecting its high-quality formulation and commitment to skin health and environmental sustainability.

Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel

Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel is a standout sunscreen that marries high-efficiency sun protection with intense hydration, making it a superior choice for those looking to safeguard their skin while boosting its moisture levels. Offering broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ protection, it effectively blocks harmful UVA and UVB rays, preventing sunburn and premature aging. The star of this sunscreen is its hyaluronic acid content, a powerhouse ingredient known for its ability to hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, ensuring your skin stays deeply hydrated and plump throughout the day. The lightweight, watery gel texture of the sunscreen is a dream to apply, absorbing quickly without leaving any residue or white cast, making it perfect for all skin tones. Its formulation is also enriched with centella asiatica and various plant extracts to soothe and nourish the skin, enhancing its barrier function and overall health. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel is an ideal choice for those seeking a hydrating sunscreen that feels as good as it performs.

• Who is this for: This sunscreen is perfect for anyone, particularly those with dry or dehydrated skin, looking for a sun protection product that also offers significant hydration benefits.
• Why it’s good: It combines superior sun protection with deep hydration, thanks to the hyaluronic acid, making it an excellent two-in-one product for daily use.
• Main strengths: Broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ protection, high hyaluronic acid content for unparalleled hydration, and a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula suitable for all skin types.
• Price Range: Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel is in the mid-range price category, offering excellent value for its dual functionality and high-quality ingredients.

Abib Quick Sunstick Protection Bar

Abib Quick Sunstick Protection Bar is a revolutionary sunscreen product designed for those who value convenience and efficiency in their skincare routine. Offering broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ protection, this sunstick ensures your skin is well-protected against harmful UVA and UVB rays, minimizing the risk of sunburn and long-term sun damage. Its solid stick form allows for quick, mess-free application, making it perfect for on-the-go touch-ups and ensuring that no spot is missed. The formula is incredibly lightweight and transparent, leaving no white cast or sticky residue, making it suitable for all skin tones and types. Enriched with soothing and moisturizing ingredients, the Abib Quick Sunstick Protection Bar glides smoothly over the skin, providing hydration without clogging pores or feeling heavy. Its compact size fits easily into any bag, making it a must-have for daily use, outdoor activities, and travel.

• Who is this for: Ideal for busy individuals seeking a convenient, effective sunscreen solution that offers high protection without the hassle of traditional creams or lotions.
• Why it’s good: It combines ease of use with comprehensive sun protection, a non-greasy formula, and suitability for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
• Main strengths: Broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ protection, convenient stick format for easy application, no white cast, and hydrating formula.
• Price Range: The Abib Quick Sunstick Protection Bar is priced in the mid to high range, reflecting its innovative format and premium formulation.

How To Choose The Best Korean Sunscreen

Choosing the best Korean sunscreen for your skin requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure you receive optimal protection while maintaining skin health and comfort. By carefully evaluating these aspects—type, SPF/PA ratings, compatibility with your skin type, and your texture and finish preferences—you can select a Korean sunscreen that not only effectively protects against the sun’s harmful rays but also feels great to use every day, enhancing your overall skincare routine.

Understand Sunscreen Types

Korean sunscreens come in two primary types—physical (mineral) and chemical. Physical sunscreens work by reflecting UV rays away from the skin, using ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They’re often recommended for sensitive skin due to their minimal irritation risk. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, absorb UV rays before they can harm the skin, and are valued for their lightweight formulations that blend easily without leaving a white cast. Your choice between physical and chemical sunscreens should be based on your skin’s sensitivity and texture preference.

Consider SPF and PA Ratings

The SPF rating indicates the level of protection against UVB rays, responsible for sunburn and skin cancer. An SPF of 30 or higher is recommended for effective protection. The PA rating, ranging from PA+ to PA++++, measures protection against UVA rays, which can cause premature aging. Opt for a sunscreen with a PA rating of +++ or ++++ for the best defense against the aging effects of the sun.

Match Sunscreen to Your Skin Type

Selecting a sunscreen that harmonizes with your skin type is crucial. For dry skin, look for products enriched with moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which help to keep skin hydrated. Oily skin types may prefer oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas that offer a matte finish, preventing the skin from looking greasy. If you have sensitive skin, seek out fragrance-free, hypoallergenic options that minimize the risk of irritation.

Texture and Finish

The feel and finish of a sunscreen on your skin play a significant role in daily wearability. Some people prefer the sheer, weightless feel of gel-based sunscreens, which disappear into the skin with no residue. Others might favor cream-based formulations that offer additional moisturizing benefits, especially beneficial during dry seasons or for those with dry skin. Consider when and how you’ll be using the sunscreen—whether under makeup or alone, and indoors or outdoors—to choose a texture and finish that suits your lifestyle.

Korean Sunscreens FAQs

Do I have to wear Korean sunscreen all day?

Yes, it’s recommended to wear sunscreen daily to protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays, especially during spring and summer. Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, reapply every two hours, or after swimming or sweating, and check the expiration date for effectiveness.

Can I use my SPF foundation or cushion without sunscreen?

Makeup with SPF provides some protection but isn’t a substitute for sunscreen. Makeup’s SPF is often lower, and it’s challenging to apply enough for full protection. Use a separate sunscreen for optimal sun protection.

When should I apply my Korean sunscreen?

Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside to allow absorption and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Ensure to cover all exposed areas adequately.

What’s the difference between physical and chemical Korean sunscreens?

Physical (mineral) sunscreens use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to block UV rays and are less likely to irritate. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat but may cause irritation. Both types offer effective protection; choice depends on skin type and preference.

Can I use Korean face sunscreens on my body?

Facial sunscreens are designed for delicate facial skin and may not provide sufficient protection for the body. Body sunscreens are more robust and water-resistant. Use separate products for face and body for best results.

Can I use Korean body sunscreens on my face?

Generally, no. Body sunscreens are thicker and more moisturizing, which can clog facial pores and cause breakouts. Use sunscreens specifically formulated for the face to avoid irritation.

Do Korean sunscreens expire?

Yes, sunscreens expire and lose effectiveness over time. Check the expiration date and store sunscreen in a cool, dark place. Discard if the sunscreen changes color, texture, or smell.