Got a Vacay Coming Up? Our Favorite Korean Sunscreens Make Sun Protection No Sweat (2025)

Our Top Picks

Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate | SPF: 36 |Size: 1.69 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

No matter your skin type or tone, this sunscreen from Innisfree gets the job done and does it well. It's the best of both worlds—it's silky like a moisturizer but absorbs quickly without leaving a residue on the skin. Don't let the texture fool you though; this one doesn't leave any white cast on all skin tones even though it's a little bit thicker. We love that it's formulated with plenty of skin-soothing ingredients like green tea and cica, making it perfect for everyday wear. The best part is that it gives the skin a dewy, healthy glow without becoming too shiny as the day goes on.

Shannon Stubbs, Byrdie writer with dry skin: “I love this hydrating, creamy sunscreen that doesn't feel too heavy on the skin or cause congestion. It doesn't leave a white cast, and it's half the price and better in quality than other sunscreens I’ve tried.”

Type: Chemical and mineral hybrid | Key Ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, octinoxate | SPF: 50 |Size: 2.4 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Korean sunscreens aren't usually exorbitantly expensive, but Missha's Soft Finish Sun Milk is $10 to $20 cheaper than most other options we reviewed. As the name suggests, this SPF 50 formula has a milky texture and a lightweight finish, making it perfect for those who live in hot, humid environments where perspiration makes thicker formulas feel unpleasant. Oily skin types will jive with this formula as well, as it won't increase shininess throughout the day. Another benefit: It's water and sweat-resistant. Our one criticism is that it can leave a white cast on deeper skin tones.

Type: Mineral | Key Ingredients: Aloe arborescens leaf extract, titanium dioxide | SPF: 50 |Size: 1.69 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

For an all-around amazing mineral sunscreen that works on most skin types, reach for Cosrx's Aloe Soothing Sun Cream. Christin is a fan of Cosrx's sunscreens, and we can see why. The hydrating formula provides optimal broad spectrum protection and can be used on its own or under makeup. And thanks to an ample dose of aloe vera, it soothes irritation and protects the skin from environmental damage. While mineral sunscreens are infamous for the chalky cast that they can leave behind, we're big fans of this one because it dries completely clear on all skin tones.

Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Ethylhexyl salicylate, homosalate, hyaluronic acid | SPF: 50 |Size: 1.69 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

In case you’re not familiar, chemical sunscreens contain UV filters that safely absorb the sun’s rays and turn them into heat. Unlike mineral sunscreens, which sit on top of the skin and deflect UV rays, chemical sunscreens tend to be more transparent and lightweight. Korean beauty expert and YouTube personality Kelly Driscoll loves this formula and uses it herself. "This has a texture that's easy to spread and dries down quickly so you can apply your makeup over it easily in the morning, and it doesn't leave any white cast on the skin," she says. That said, this sunscreen can leave a shiny finish—something to keep in mind if you prefer a matte base.

Hallie Gould, editor-in-chief and GM: "It feels lightweight and offers a beautiful glowy finish. I also love that it incorporates all my favorite skincare ingredients—centella asiatica, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid—for a formula that feels good on my face while it protects from the sun."

Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Rice extract, niacinamide, Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150 | SPF: 50 |Size: 1.69 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This soothing, protective sunscreen is made with sensitive skin types in mind. The broad-spectrum SPF 50 formula contains rice extract (a popular ingredient used to reduce sun damage) and fermented grains (great for delivering probiotics to the skin). These ingredients are also rich in antioxidants to calm and further protect your skin. We love that it has absolutely no white cast as well as soothing and hydrating properties.

Jasmine Phillips, social media editor:“Upon application, this sunscreen blends into my skin seamlessly with no white cast in sight. It would definitely work for all skin types—it is lightweight and doesn't feel heavy or greasy while still providing moisture."

Type: Mineral | Key Ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, centella asiatica | SPF: 50 |Size: 1.69 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Folks with oily skin may get frustrated with how sunscreens can add even more shine to their already dewy complexion.But Suntique's I'm Pure is different—it’s nonsticky, fast-absorbing, and delivers a matte finish. It also contains cica (better known as centella asiatica), a natural ingredient with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The only downside is it does have a strong, unpleasant scent when first applying—but it does fade once the product has absorbed.

Type: Chemical and mineral hybrid | Key Ingredients: Homosalate, ethylhexyl salicylate, titanium dioxide | SPF: 50 |Size: 1.75 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you have combination skin (i.e. your T-zone is oily but your cheeks are dry), then a water-based sunscreen like this one will help prevent clogged pores and breakouts. It subtly hydrates with African walnut oil and bamboo extracts while calming aloe vera and hollyhock root help reduce inflammation. The formula goes on super smooth without a sticky feel and won't leave a white cast, creating a great base for makeup.

Type: Chemical and mineral hybrid | Key Ingredients: Octinoxate, zinc oxide, rose extract, raspberry extract | SPF: 50 |Size: 1.65 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

This notably light, silicone-free formula moisturizes dry skin without clogging pores or causing breakouts. The formula boasts 20 types of plant extracts, including moisturizing aloe vera, soothing hibiscus flower, and evening primrose oil, which helps keep sebum (the skin’s natural oil) in check. Wear it solo, layer it over your favorite daily moisturizer, or apply it underneath your makeup for seamless UV protection.

Type: Chemical and mineral hybrid | Key Ingredients: Titanium dioxide, Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150 | SPF: 50 |Size: 5.07 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you’re looking for a sunscreen that provides moisturizing full-body coverage, UV Defense Me is the way to go. This Korean hybrid sunblock offers broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection by incorporating both chemical and mineral ingredients, creating a moisture-rich UV barrier without any stickiness. You'll get almost 7 ounces of product per bottle, which you can slather like a body lotion on your arms, legs, feet, hands, belly, chest, neck, and even your face.

Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Trisiloxane, tocopherol, cotton | SPF: 50 |Size: 1.69 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Mature skin types might be more on the lookout for sun damage or already have some existing spots, so consistent sunscreen use is a must for a healthier complexion. This formula from Cosrx is super-charged with tocopherol (more commonly known as vitamin E), which is popular for its healing and protective properties. The antioxidant ingredient can also protect the skin from free radicals in the environment, which can cause damage and accelerate skin aging. This formula has a creamy but lightweight texture, and it's hydrating without causing irritation. We also love that it contains cotton extract and silica to balance the oil and sebum levels in the skin.

Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Homosalate, octinoxate, octisalate | SPF: 50 |Size: 3.38 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

If you don't love the heavy feel that a lot of sunscreens can leave behind, you won't be motivated to apply it every morning (as you should be doing). This ultra lightweight formula from Dr. Jart+ is the solution, with a liquid consistency that spreads easily and sinks into the complexion quickly, leaving a dewy glow to the skin. It protects the skin with variety of chemical blockers and even contains vitamin E to prevent environmental damage. Because it's so light and dries clear on all skin tones, it's easy to reach for every single day.

Olivia Hancock, editor: "This liquid sunscreen provides SPF 50 protection, doesn’t leave a white cast, and pairs well with other products (no pilling). I appreciate that the formula is incredibly easy to blend and instantly makes my skin feel more hydrated. I also love the dewy radiance it adds to my complexion."

FAQ

• Do Korean sunscreens work?

  Korean sunscreens work as well as any other brand. K-beauty sunscreens come in a range of SPF ratings, and many are broad-spectrum, which means they protect against UVA and UVB rays.

• Is Korean sunscreen better?

  Korean sunscreen is not necessarily better, although Korean brands often provide additional skin care benefits. For instance, you can find a wide range of varieties for specific skin types or concerns, such as sensitive, dry, or oily skin. Many products contain extracts and ingredients that can help nourish, calm, and protect the complexion.