Top 11 K-Beauty Sunscreens for Ultimate UV Protection
If you’ve spent any time scrolling through TikTok sunscreen videos, chances are you’ve come across the viral Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun, a Korean sunscreen that has taken the beauty world by storm. This revolutionary product offers both UVA and UVB protection and has been featured in a staggering 80 percent of the top sunscreen videos. With over 18 million units sold as of January 2025, this sunscreen has become a cult favorite among skincare enthusiasts worldwide. Its lightweight, creamy consistency glides effortlessly over the skin, leaving behind a radiant glow without any white cast. However, due to the use of sunscreen filters not yet approved in the U.S., this product can only be purchased through specific websites. But fear not, Beauty of Joseon also offers the FDA-approved Daily Relief Sunscreen, which provides SPF 40 protection.
Expert dermatologist Nussbaum praises the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun, noting its potent blend of ingredients like rice extract, probiotics, green tea, niacinamide, and pumpkin ferment extract. This powerful formula not only protects the skin from burning but also nourishes it with antioxidants that aid in repair and healing. Ideal for dry, combination, and oily skin types, this sunscreen has garnered rave reviews from customers, with one user expressing delight in the product’s ability to moisturize without leaving a greasy residue.
Neogen’s Day-Light Protection Airy Sunscreen is another standout product in the K-Beauty sunscreen lineup. This fast-absorbing sunscreen is enriched with nourishing plant extracts like aloe, avocado, acai, and hibiscus, making it an excellent choice for oily and combination skin types. Endorsed by skincare influencer Cho, this sunscreen is lauded for its lightweight, airy texture that feels comfortable on the skin. Neogen’s formula also helps control sebum production, making it a top pick for those struggling with oily skin.
For those seeking a mattifying sunscreen, Thank You Farmer’s Sun Project Light Sun Essence is a popular choice. This broad-spectrum sunscreen absorbs quickly, hydrating the skin deeply with key ingredients like lotus water, soybean lipid, and portulaca extract. Its semi-matte finish is perfect for combating T-zone shine, making it a go-to product for all skin types. Despite a slightly off-putting apricot scent for some, this sunscreen delivers on its promise of a lightweight, non-greasy formula that leaves the skin feeling fresh and protected.
Innisfree’s Jumbo Daily UV Defense Invisible Broad Spectrum SPF 36 Sunscreen is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. Powered by green tea, Cica, and sunflower seed oil, this SPF 36 sunscreen shields the skin from UVA and UVB rays while providing ample hydration. Customers rave about the product’s ability to leave the skin with a healthy glow without any white cast, making it a versatile choice for all skin types.
Looking for a mineral sunscreen that won’t leave your skin feeling heavy or greasy? Etude’s Sunprise Mild Airy Finish Sun Milk SPF 50+ is a top contender. Dermatologist Gratch recommends this SPF 50+ option for its lightweight, milky formula, and matte finish. Infused with plant oils and botanicals, this mineral sunscreen locks in moisture, soothes irritation, and protects the skin from harmful UV rays.
Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day Sun Fluid SPF 50+ is a cooling sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection while leaving a radiant finish on the skin. Formulated with vitamin E and other key ingredients, this sunscreen helps the skin retain moisture and counteracts the sun’s heat. Ideal for all skin types, this liquid formula absorbs quickly, making it a popular choice among skincare enthusiasts.
CosRX Vitamin E Vitalizing Sunscreen SPF 50+ is a cult-favorite sunscreen that combines sun protection with antioxidant benefits. This SPF 50+ formula uses vitamin E, cotton extract, silica, and cocoa extract to shield the skin from UV rays and prevent further damage. Ideal for dry, sensitive, and mature skin types, this sunscreen is recommended for its lightweight, hydrating properties.
Hero Cosmetics Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is a mineral and reef-safe sunscreen that caters to sensitive skin. Featuring a green tint to minimize redness, this sunscreen is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, making it an excellent choice for acne-prone skin. Customers praise this sunscreen for its gentle formula that doesn’t cause irritation or breakouts.
Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Daily Sun Gel SPF 30 is a hydrating sunscreen that delivers intense moisture to the skin. Formulated with 10 types of hyaluronic acid, this lightweight gel formula is ideal for normal to oily skin types. Dermatologist Nguyen recommends this sunscreen for its weightless feel and hydrating properties, making it a great option for daily use.
Then I Met You Essence Light Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Moisturizer SPF 50 PA +++ is a fragrance-free sunscreen that doubles as a hydrating face primer. Beauty writer Moorhouse praises this sunscreen for its smooth texture and moisturizing benefits. In addition to chemical sunscreen filters, this sunscreen is infused with provitamin B5, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and fermented sake extract, making it a comprehensive skincare product for all skin types.
Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit SPF50+ Sun Serum is a sunscreen that offers a dewy finish while protecting the skin from UV rays. Formulated with seven types of sprout extracts, this serum-like sunscreen is safe for acne-prone skin and helps soothe redness and hydrate the skin. Dermatologist Nussbaum recommends this sunscreen for its lightweight feel and nourishing ingredients.
In conclusion, Korean sunscreens offer a wide range of options tailored to different skin types and preferences. From lightweight mattifying formulas to hydrating mineral sunscreens, there is a K-Beauty sunscreen for everyone. Whether you’re looking for broad-spectrum protection, antioxidant benefits, or a dewy finish, the top 11 K-Beauty sunscreens listed above have something for every skincare need. Trust the experts and customer reviews to find the perfect sunscreen for your skin type and concerns.
