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, or are searching for one specially formulated for dark skin tones.
“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 Post Wanted. “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.
“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 best Korean sunscreens and outlines more on how they’re formulated and what to look for when shopping in our in-depth FAQ section.
Pros:
- Doesn’t deliver a white cast, making it a great facial sunscreen for darker skin tones, especially
- Broad-spectrum formulation to protect against both UVA and UVB rays
- Hydrating and especially suitable for dry, sensitive and combination skin types
Cons:
- Doesn’t leave the most dewy result, but not a dealbreaker
First things first: facial sunscreen is a class of products you don’t have to encourage me to use. If you can see my bathroom vanity drawer, it’s like a beach bag exploded — in the best way possible.
But, you shouldn’t only use a facial sunscreen before your treks to the sand and ocean. Dermatologists recommend using a facial SPF every day (yes, really) as it has been studied to help prevent skin cancer and also slow down the speed of aging, sagging skin.
I found this Korean sunscreen to be the one I can’t stop using. There’s no greasy look, no white finish and certainly no clogged pores, the latter a tipping point for me (I’m just a girl who wants sun protection, not visible pores).
It’s a hydrating formula, contains a lofty SPF 50+, which receives a stamp of approval among dermatologists who recommend slathering on at least SPF 30. Not only did it address dryness but it also went on baby-smooth and helped create a pleasing blurring effect. When I’m out in the sunshine or otherwise, I don’t find it streaking off, either. It also layers beautifully underneath makeup.
Size: 1.6 ounces | Key ingredients: Mineral water, Centella aslatica (for soothing)
Pros:
- Doesn’t leave a white cast
- Easily absorbs into the skin
- Doesn’t clog pores
Cons:
- A bit thicker than some other Korean sunscreens listed
Meet one of my favorite sunscreens, by far (seriously, I wear it on repeat). The Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day Mineral Face Sunscreen SPF 50+ is formulated with zinc oxide as the primary active ingredient, providing a physical barrier against both UVA and UVB rays. This is ideal for sensitive skin types that may react to chemical sunscreens.
This sunscreen also contains calming ingredients like centella asiatica, which helps to soothe and heal the skin while reducing redness and inflammation. Its mineral-based formula ensures that it is noncomedogenic (which my pores love) and doesn’t leave a white cast.
“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 shared, also recommending the product. “It contains a citrus scent, which may not be suitable for everyone.”
I find my skin well-hydrated throughout the day, all while offering the protection I need. It’s a bit expensive compared to other formulations on the market, but wholly worth it.
Size: 1.69 ounces | Key ingredients: Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide
Pros:
- Helps cover imperfections
- Doesn’t cake on
- Layers beautifully with the rest of your makeup, if you choose to apply
Cons:
- Not a true “sunscreen,” yet applies like one
- Price point may be unreachable for some
The Sulwhasoo Perfecting Cushion SPF 50+ Foundation is an excellent choice for those looking for both sun protection and makeup coverage in one product. With its high SPF of 50+, it offers protection for both UVA and UVB rays, and is incredibly hydrating on the skin.
The formula is infused with soothing and hydrating ingredients like ginseng, which not only offers sun protection but also nourishes the skin, making it perfect for those with dry or sensitive skin (aka, me). Its lightweight texture blends smoothly into my skin, and it’s surprising that it’s actually sunscreen and not a foundation! It provides a natural, dewy finish to my skin while ensuring that your complexion is protected throughout the day.
“The Sulwhasoo Perfecting Cushion SPF 50+ Foundation is an excellent chemical sunscreen option for reapplication over makeup throughout the day,” Lin shared, 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.”
In addition to its SPF benefits, this cushion foundation delivers buildable coverage that helps to even out skin tone and conceal imperfections. The lightweight formula offers a fresh, breathable feel, offering a radiant finish without feeling heavy or cake-y. I love how its cushion compact design makes it easy to apply on the go, offering quick touch-ups while maintaining coverage and sun protection. So, if you want a balanced complexion and sun protection, this is the product to use.
Unfortunately, the brand’s shade range isn’t that varied, so it’s better for light to light-medium skin tones.
Key ingredients: Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide
Pros:
- Budget-friendly, so appealing to most shoppers
- Soothes the skin without being greasy
- Doesn’t leave a white cast, so suitable for all skin tones
Cons:
- May not be the best for extremely acne-prone skin as it’s not the most noncomedogenic, though we personally didn’t experience any breakouts
The Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 36 is a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that’s formulated with a blend of natural ingredients, including green tea and sunflower oil, both of which are known for their antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from environmental stressors. My combination skin *loves* this product as it boasts a refreshing, matte finish that absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving no sticky residue behind.
It’s perfect for daily use, whether I’m heading outdoors or staying inside, as it shields the skin from harmful UV rays while offering additional hydration without feeling heavy. Consider it your all-protective moisturizer sans greasy feel.
“Innisfree is focused on eco-friendly sustainable practices and ingredients,” Lin said. “The brand has different formulations depending on your skin type, but notably its Daily UV Defense (SPF 36) is quite popular.”
For those with oily skin, this sunscreen is especially beneficial due to its oil-free, mattifying formula that controls excess shine throughout the day. This is a refreshing contrast to other options that may clog pores or leave a greasy film. By keeping the skin balanced and protected, I feel as though this face sunscreen reduces the risk of breakouts and irritation often caused by heavier sunscreens.
Size: 1.69 ounces | Key ingredients: Green Tea, Sunflower Seed Oil, Cica
Cons:
- May not be the best for extremely acne-prone skin as it’s not the most noncomedogenic, though we personally didn’t experience any breakouts
The COSRX Vitamin E Vitalizing Sunscreen SPF 50+ is an excellent choice for dry skin due to its nourishing ingredients that provide long-lasting moisture. The star ingredient in this Korean SPF is vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, that plays a key role in combating skin dryness by hydrating and soothing the skin. It helps to restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier, preventing water loss and keeping the skin feeling soft and supple.
The sunscreen’s formula is lightweight and absorbs quickly into my skin without leaving a heavy or greasy residue, which is a common concern for me with dry skin, especially near my jawline. Additionally, this sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection with SPF 50+, shielding the skin from harmful UV rays that can exacerbate dryness and cause premature aging.
“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 described. “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.”
Listen, I’m beyond obsessed with the brand (read my full COSRX review for proof), and this sunscreen is just as good as its viral snail mucin essence. It’s designed to provide long-lasting hydration while simultaneously protecting against the sun’s damaging effects, making it an essential skincare product for anyone with dry skin.
Size: 1.69 ounces | Key ingredients: Vitamin E, Cacao
Pros:
- Nourishing and hydrating, especially on flaky areas of the skin
- Lightweight and one of the most cosmetically elegant sunscreens tested
- Contains niacinamide to help balance the skin
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
The belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb Sunscreen SPF 45 is an excellent choice for dry, flaky skin due to its deeply hydrating formula that nourishes my skin every time. It’s infused with a blend of botanical ingredients like comfrey leaf and oat extract and provides intense moisture while helping to repair and strengthen my skin’s barrier. It’s terrific, and worth the Amazon pick-me-up.
The Aqua Bomb’s lightweight, gel-like texture absorbs into my skin quickly, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and nourished without a heavy or greasy residue. Its soothing properties work to calm any irritation you may experience (thanks to its niacinamide ingredient), helping to rebalance and hydrate my skin simultaneously. I love reaching for it because it doesn’t even feel like a sunscreen; it alleviates any rough, flaky patches and makes my skin feel brand-new.
In addition to its moisturizing benefits, the belif Aqua Bomb Sunscreen also delivers broad-spectrum protection with SPF 45, guarding against both UVA and UVB rays. This is extra crucial for dry skin, as sun exposure can exacerbate flakiness and sensitivity. The sunscreen forms a protective shield that prevents further moisture loss while helping to maintain the skin’s hydration levels throughout the day.
So, its combination of SPF protection and hydrating ingredients makes it a great option for anyone with dry skin who needs both sun defense and intense moisture to keep their complexion smooth and balanced. Rest assured, I’ll continue using this on repeat.
Size: 1.69 ounces | Key ingredients: Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid
Pros:
- Reef-safe
- Hydrates the skin with hyaluronic acid
- Moisturizing
Cons:
- May leave a subtle film or white cast
While I don’t have dark skin myself, the Good Molecules Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 contains properties of what to look for in a goof SPF for melanated skin types, as described by the board-certified dermatologist I turned to.
“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 highlighted. ” It contains ingredients like grapeseed oil and hyaluronic acid for hydration.
The Good Molecules Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 is a great option for dark skin because it is formulated with a lightweight, non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly without leaving a visible white cast. It’s important to note that many mineral sunscreens tend to leave a noticeable residue on darker skin tones due to the zinc oxide or titanium dioxide used in their formulations. However, this sunscreen is specifically designed to provide broad-spectrum protection without that common issue, ensuring that it blends seamlessly into the skin without altering its natural tone.
While melanin offers some natural protection from the sun, it doesn’t provide complete defense against harmful UV rays, and prolonged exposure can still cause hyperpigmentation or skin damage. This sunscreen helps prevent these concerns while keeping the skin hydrated and protected, making it an ideal option for dark skin tones that need a mineral sunscreen that won’t leave a residue but still offers full protection.
Size: 1.7 ounces | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Grapeseed Oil
Pros:
- Hydrates the skin
- Long-lasting
- Excellent for many skin types, especially acne-prone skin
Cons:
- Not readily available to order online
The Neogen Day-Light Protection Airy Sunscreen SPF 50 offers relief to sensitive skin like mine. Its gentle, soothing formulation feels like butter, minimizing irritation while offering high-level sun protection. It’s also free from harsh chemicals and fragrances, making it ideal for those with reactive skin.
What’s more, the sunscreen contains calming ingredients like chamomile and green tea extract, which help to reduce redness and inflammation. “The Neogen Day-Light Protection Airy Sunscreen is a cult favorite because of its lightweight and hydrating chemical sunscreen formula,” Lin noted. ” 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)!
Despite the high SPF, it is formulated to be noncomedogenic, so it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts, which can be a concern for sensitive and acne-prone skin. The combination of soothing ingredients and high sun protection makes it a reliable choice, and one that I’m going to continue using.
Size: 1.69 ounces | Key ingredients: Glycerin
Pros:
- Hydrating while offering luminosity
- Doesn’t leave a white cast
- Non-greasy finish
Cons:
- May sting if too close to the eye area, so apply with caution
The TIRTIR Hydro UV Shield Sunscreen SPF 50+ stands out as a fantastic face sunscreen due to its lightweight and hydrating formula — both of which lead to an immaculate natural glow. My skin feels radiant and well-quenched whenever I use it, and I can’t believe it’s one of the more affordable options on the market.
Its high SPF of 50+ ensures excellent protection against both UVA and UVB rays, which is a checkmark in its favor to help prevent against sun damage and premature aging. This makes it an ideal choice for daily wear, as it shields the skin from harmful sun exposure while simultaneously keeping it moisturized. The sunscreen is designed with a non-greasy finish, leaving my skin feeling fresh and smooth without any sticky residue. This makes it suitable for various skin types, including oily or combination skin.
What sets this sunscreen apart is its inclusion of key ingredients that promote skin health. It contains a blend of nourishing components such as hyaluronic acid (my favorite ingredient, BTW), which deeply hydrates the skin and plumps it up, helping to maintain a youthful, dewy complexion. The formula is also enriched with antioxidants that protect the skin from environmental stressors and help to balance the skin tone, giving me a luminous and even look. These ingredients work together to enhance my skin’s natural radiance, so I reap the benefits of sun protection while also achieving a subtle, glowing finish.
Size: 1.69 ounces | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe Vera, Phyto Collagen
Pros:
- Contains peptide to make the skin more supple
- Excellent for smoothing out texture
- Doesn’t leave a white cast and absorbs easily
If you’re looking to splurge on a sunscreen but are also in need of a great moisturizer, the Sulwhasoo UV Daily Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 40 Sunscreen is a two-in-one product that deserves a spot on your bathroom shelf. It feels like a facial in a bottle. Though $75, I’d argue that it’s worth it for anyone, especially for its ability to smooth out my skin tone and make my skin feel replenished and simply healthy.
I love how its nourishing formula boils down to it containing peptides: what to look for to make your skin feel as supple as ever. It seamlessly blends into my skin sans white cast and has chic, compact packaging that makes it simple to travel with.
If you’re experience a subtle loss of firmness or elasticity, this is a sweet splurge. Trust me, it’s a versatile product that should reinvigorate your love of Korean skincare at large.
Size: 1.35 ounces | Key ingredients: Korean White Ginseng, Proprietary Herb Blend
Pros:
- Hydrating and soothing, thanks to it containing aloe
- Excellent for blurring out pores
- Helps clarify skin texture
Cons:
- Not the best for oily skin, as it is a bit heavier than most other sunscreens tested
A new-to-me brand is dearcloud, and not only is its packaging cute, but its formulations are even better.
The dearcloud Tone Blur Essence Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++ is like your serum-infused moisturizer, including hydrating ingredients like cica and aloe that help soothe my skin wheneer I use it. I love how it blurs my pores, too, and it’s unbeatable for texture.
For less than $20, this formulation doesn’t leave a white cast and clarifies my skin well. I will say, it’s not the best for oily skin because it’s slightly heavier than some other sunscreens I’ve used, but if you want to help mitigate the look of pores, rest assured that this face sunscreen is a good fit.
Size: 1.69 ounces | Key ingredients: Aloe Vera, Cica
How I tested
After running through the gamut of Korean sunscreens for more than 4 years, here’s the criteria I kept in mind while reviewing each one:
- Formulation: How did the product feel out of its packaging and then on the face or body? Korean skincare is known to be glass skin-producing and dewy, leaving baby-smooth results, so I took note of which products made the cut.
- SPF level: If a product, be it a moisturizer with SPF that is formulaically like a face sunscreen, or a traditional lotion, didn’t contain at least SPF 30, it wasn’t considered. There’s no point in using that product alone if it doesn’t meet the boilerplate standards set forth by dermatologists.
- Broad-spectrum: Similarly, each face sunscreen has to be broad-spectrum, meaning that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays help prevent aging, while UVB rays help prevent physical sunburns.
- Ingredients: Aside from SPF, the quality of the ingredients makes an impact. For instance, dermatologists love a face sunscreen with antioxidants mixed in to help protect against environmental stressors, while an ingredient like hyaluronic acid is your best bet for dry skin.
An FAQ on Korean Sunscreens
Ahead, Lin shares what differentiates Korean sunscreens from the rest, how they’re formulated and why they’re on the rise — and then some.
What are some popular Korean skincare practices?
“‘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.
Why do you think Korean skincare is on the rise?
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.”
How are Korean skincare products formulated?
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.”
What should one look for in a Korean sunscreen?
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.”
Are Korean sunscreens different from traditional ones?
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.
What to look for in Korean sunscreen for every skin type, explained by a dermatologist
Below, Lin offers her expertise across each skin type:
- Combination and dry: Consider a lightweight more moisturizing sunscreen with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and squalane.
- Mature: Sunscreens with antioxidants may be helpful to provide additional anti-aging benefit.
- Oily or acne-prone: You want to look for a more lightweight, oil-free and non-comedogenic sunscreen.
- Sensitive: Consider using a mineral sunscreen as it may have less of a chance to cause irritation and a rash than the chemical versions. It would be best to choose one that is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.
This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include testing the best vitamin C serums on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos of 2025. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.
