What to Look for in a Korean Sunscreen

Rating SPF/PA

The most important thing you should look for in any sunscreen, Korean or any other, is the SPF. This indicates how well the sunscreen protects your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Christin concurs with Scott’s recommendation to use products that have at least 30 SPF. She says that products must have broad-spectrum protection and an SPF of 30 or less. Broad-spectrum protection includes protection against both UVA and UVB radiations.

K-beauty products usually have SPF 50 or more. But what does this all mean? Driscoll says that Asian sunscreens include an additional SPF rating as well as a PA rating. This helps to determine how much protection you have from UVA rays. These rays are the most damaging to the skin. I prefer to search for a ++++, PA rating. This is the highest possible.

Physical vs chemical

Physical sunscreens create a physical barrier between your skin’s UV rays and the sun. Scott says that zinc oxide is a trusted sunscreen because it protects skin from both UVA and UVB radiations. It also holds up to sweat and water.

To activate chemical sunscreens, it takes about 15 minutes. They convert UV rays into heat and protect your skin from sun damage. Christin says, “We recommend that someone look for a hybrid sunscreen which has both organic (chemical and physical) filters.”

Ingredients

Beyond minerals and chemicals that protect your skin from UV light, many Korean sunscreens are formulated with other complexion-benefiting components. Scott recommends looking for a sunscreen that is multifunctional.

Driscoll adds, “I also like to have niacinamide listed on the ingredients list.” There is interesting research showing that niacinamide, when combined with UV filters, can protect the skin against UV damage. There are also soothing aloe vera and hydrating tea tree oil that can prevent skin breakouts, healing centella Asiatica, moisturizing honey, smoothing Royal jelly, and anti-inflammatory, anti-inflammatory, hollyhock root.”

Texture

The texture of a sunscreen is crucial. It can either make you dislike it so much that you don’t wear it anymore or it could make you love it so much that you apply it every day. Christin says that a sunscreen application should be easy and comfortable. Smooth formulas are better than sticky, tacky finishes. It could be a gel-cream or a sheer chemical/physical mix, or a chemical formula.

Which Korean sunscreen is the best?

COSRX’s Aloe Soothing Sun Cream, which is a great sunscreen for all skin types, is our top choice. Etude House’s Soon Jung Mild Defense Sun Cream, and IPKN Big Apple Sun Cream, SPF 50 are also excellent options.

Are Korean sunscreens effective?

Korean sunscreens are as effective as any other brand. There are many SPF ratings available for K-beauty sunscreens. Many of them are broad-spectrum which means that they protect against UVA as well as UVB rays.

Korean sunscreens are not necessarily superior, but Korean brands can often offer additional skin care benefits. There are many options available for different skin types, including those with oily, sensitive or dry skin. Many products have ingredients and extracts that can nourish, calm, or protect the skin.

Is CosRX sunscreen effective?

CosRX sunscreens are effective and loved by many reviewers. CosRX sunscreens have received overwhelmingly positive reviews. COSRX’s Aloe Soothing Sun Cream has an SPF 50 and is light, quick-absorbing, and can be worn under makeup.