13 Best Korean Sunscreens for Acne-prone Oily, Dry, and Sensitive Skin

If you are a person with a job, or a stay-home folk, either way, sunscreen is the most important part of everyone’s daily routine. Wearing sunscreen regularly keeps your skin young and healthy. Not only that, but it also protects your life. It doesn’t matter if you are spending hundreds of dollars on beauty products and skincare products, if you are not wearing sunscreen when you go out then, there’s nothing that can help you with your skin. So, let’s dive into the best Korean sunscreens!

The Best Korean Sunscreens for All Skin Types

Even though I suggest reading all recommendations to find the best fit for your skin type, if you prefer to check the best products first, click the image below to see the reviews directly.

Top-rated Korean Sunscreens

Sunscreen is an essential way to keep the skin healthy and protected from damaging sun rays. To make sure you stay safe and fresh, we are here to suggest the best Korean sunscreens for acne-prone oily skin, dry and sensitive skin that will help you and your skin.

Best Overall: ROUND LAB 365 Derma Relief Sun Cream

• ROUND LAB 365 Derma Relief Sun Cream
• Physical sunscreen
• 50ml
• Skin Type: All Skin Types

Ingredient Callouts :

#Alcohol-free #Fragrance-free #Essential Oil-free #Paraben-free #Ocean-friendly #Clean beauty

Key Ingredients :

• Sunscreen: Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide
• Soothing: Panthenol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Allantoin

Cautions for Use :

All green + Titanium Dioxide

How to Use :

Recommend to apply a nickel-sized dollop for your face. After placing it on several spots and gently spread it to cover all your face.

This is a 100% reflective sunscreen which is suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin. It comprises of non-nano mineral filter that blocks UVA and UVB rays and protects the skin without any nastiness. Round Lab 365 Derma Relief Sun Cream has a very light creamy texture without a sticky feeling. Like most physical sunscreen, it has a white cast slightly but it’s way less than others. Moreover, its soothing ingredients improve the skin condition by calming effects with Centella Asiatica Extract,Allantoin, and Panthenol. They strengthen the skin barrier as well to rejuvenate for healthy skin.

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Best Physical+Chemical: MAKEP:REM UV Defense. Daily Sun Fluid

• MAKEP:REM UV Defense. Daily Sun Fluid SPF 50+ PA++++
• Physical + Chemical sunscreen
• 150ml
• Skin Type: Dry, Normal, Combination, Oily

Ingredient Callouts :

#Alcohol-free #Fragrance-free #Essential Oil-free #Paraben-free #Sulfate-free

Key Ingredients :

• Sunscreen: Titanium Dioxide, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Ethylhexyl Triazone
• Hydrating: Beta-glucan, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sunflower Seed Oil, Centella Asiatica Extract

Cautions for Use :

All green + chemical sunscreen ingredients

How to Use :

Recommend to apply a nickel-sized dollop for your face. After placing it on several spots and gently spread it to cover all your face.

A lot of sunscreens cause headaches due to their strong scent. But, MakePrem Sun Fluid is refreshing with a natural floral scent from Rosemary Leaf Extract and Jasmine Water. Not only it’s one of the best-selling Korean sunscreens, but It also is light-weighted so I can easily apply makeup over it. Besides, It is safe with all green ingredient that provides UV protection and is suitable for all skin types without any harmful components. What’s more, Ceramide NP and Tocopherol strengthen the skin barrier for healthy glowy skin.

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Best Chemical: THANK YOU FARMER – Sun Project Light Sun Essence SPF50+ PA+++

• THANK YOU FARMER Sun Project Light Sun Essence SPF50+ PA+++
• Chemical sunscreen
• 40ml
• Skin Type: Dry, Normal, Combination, Oily

Ingredient Callouts :

#Alcohol-free #Essential Oil-free #Paraben-free #Sulfate-free

Key Ingredients :

• Sunscreen: Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
• Soothing: Aloe Vera Leaf Extract, Sunflower Seed Oil

Cautions for Use :

Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Fragrance (at the end)

How to Use :

Recommend to apply a nickel-sized dollop for your face. After placing it on several spots and gently spread it to cover all your face.

This is another best lightweight Korean sunblock essence. Thank You Farmer Sun Essence provides SPF50+ PA+++ protection against sun damage with a light-watery texture. No need to worry about leaving a heavy or sticky feeling on your skin. Moreover, it’s absorbed fast onto the skin without a greasy finish. The best part of this sun essence for oily skin is formulated with natural extracts like Aloe leaf and Lime to calm and nourish. Plus, it made without harmful ingredients for your skin like parabens, sulfates, SLES, talc, alcohol, or mineral oil which is a great point for sensitive skin!

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How to Choose the Best Korean Sunscreen for your skin type

Now, before we jump into the list, there are few important things one must keep in mind before buying any sunblock or sunscreen. 

• Checking the SPF:
  The abbreviation of SPF is “Sun Protection Factor”. Every sunscreen has specific SPF for various skin types and regional areas. For people living in hot climate conditions, their sunscreen SPF is higher than the ones living in cold areas. So, before buying checking the SPF is important. For more information about SPF, check this post from skincancer.org.
• Wearing sunscreen means reducing skin cancer risk by 50%.
• Exposure to UV sun rays may result in early aging.
• If you don’t use it now, start using it now because it’s never too late or too early to use it.

Difference between Physical and Chemical Sunscreen

The main difference between a physical and chemical sunscreen is that the physical sunscreen has mineral-based ingredients that create a barrier over the skin and filter out the UV rays. The representative ingredients in physical sunscreen are Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide. On the other hand, the chemical sunscreens absorb sun rays and scatter the harsh UV rays with Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, and Avobenzone.

Pros & Cons: Physical and Chemical Sunscreen

PHYSICAL SUNSCREEN: Creates a film over the skin that filters out both UV-a and UV-b rays. 

• Pro: Often better for sensitive skin, more moisturizing for dryer skin.
• Cons: Can leave a white-cast, Can be thicker and more difficult to blend

CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN: Absorbs UV-a and UV-b rays and Scatters them. 

• Pro: More modern UV filters, No white-cast (Better for Darker Skin), Often lighter texture, more sweat resistant 
• Con: Not always suitable for sensitive skin

Korean sunscreens for acne-prone oily skin

Missha All Around Safe Block Soft Finish Sun Milk

This soft finish sun milk with its SPF50 and PA+++ complex protects the skin from harmful UV radiations while its non-sticking texture fluid brightens up the skin tone. It will make your skin look more naturally refreshing with plant-based ingredients like Aloe vera leaf extract. When you spend a lot of time outdoors, reapply as needed (every 4 hours recommended). HERE, you can check more popular Missha products from skincare to makeup.

Key Ingredients

Zinc Oxide (Physical sunscreen), Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Chemical sunscreen) / Tocopherol (Antioxidant) / Aloe Leaf Extract (Soothing)

Pros

• Light weight
• Brighten skin tone
• Refreshing property
• SPF50 and PA+++ for more sun rays protection

Cons

• Fragrance contained
• Alcohol contained

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A’PIEU PURE BLOCK Natural Daily Sun Cream

The Pure block natural daily sun cream by top Korean beauty brand A’PIEU is one of the best Korean sunscreens out there. Its moisturizing formula keeps the skin hydrated and protected from harsh UV rays. Its cream texture is non-sticky, light-weighted, and comfortable to wear and spreads evenly only your skin leaving behind soft smooth skin without any residues. Also, It contains Red fruits, aloe extracts, and flower extracts that keep your skin fresh and scented throughout the day. 

Key Ingredients

Avobenzone, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Chemical sunscreen) / Panthenol, Aloe Leaf Extract (Soothing)

Pros

• Fine texture
• Moisturizing
• Natural ingredients
• Provides extensive protection from harsh UV rays
• Light-weighted
• No tackiness

Cons

• Too scented (fragrance contained)
• Shiny texture makes blemishes prominent 

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ETUDE HOUSE Sunprise Mild Watery Light SPF50+/PA+++

Etude House’s Sunsunscreen is very popular for its lightweight and non-cakey look. This SPF 50 sunscreen is specially formulated for oily skin. Not only the formula is watery and thinner for easier absorption but it also adds moisture with Hyaluronic Acid. Plus, several soothing ingredients like Centella Asiatica and Aloe Vera Leaf Juice help to calm your damaged skin (more effective onto oily type). However, I won’t recommend this Korean sunscreen to sensitive skin cause it contains alcohol and fragrance. If you are non-sensitive oily skin, it’s good to try at a friendly price point!

Key Ingredients

Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Chemical sunscreen) / Centella Asiatica, Aloe Vera Leaf Extract (Soothing)

Pros

• SPF 50
• Hydrating
• Lightweight like a lotion
• High protection from UVA and UVB

Cons

• Alcohol contained
• Essential oils (Lemon Peel Oil, Orange Peel Oil, Lime Peel Oil) contained
• Not suitable for sensitive skin

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Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen

This water-based sunscreen has the best moist and light-weighted texture. Its UV protection formula keeps your skin protected while the pleasant scent gives you a refreshing feeling throughout the day. If you love the products by Innisfree, check this post about the best-selling Innisfree products.

Key Ingredients

 Titanium Dioxide (Physical sunscreen) / Centella Asiatica, Houttuynia Cordata Extract (Soothig) /  Sodium Hyaluronate, Squalane, Betaine (Hydrating)

Pros

• Moisturizing formula
• Pleasant smell
• Free of white cast
• SPF36 and PA+++
• Suitable for delicate skin
• Water splash formula
• Unisex
• Anti-oxidant
• Oil-balancing
• Budget-friendly

Cons

• Almost clean ingredients except for essential oils like lavender oil and orange peel oil

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Best Korean Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin

Dr.G Green Mild Up Sun

This genuine organic sunscreen for face provides UV protection to sensitive skin types. Dr.G Green Mild Up Sun uses a mild mineral filter that creates a protected layer over the skin and keeps it safe from harmful sun rays. Moreover, Its antipollution and electronic protection complex saves the skin from blue light and helps repairs it. 

Key Ingredients

Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide (Physical sunscreen) / Cholesterol, Ceramide NP (Strengthen skin barrier) / Centella Asiatica Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract (Soothing) / Phytosphingosine (Anti-acne)

Pros

• 100% organic
• Mild and safe
• Suitable for sensitive skin type
• Suitable for children as well
• Healthy and convenient to use

Cons

• Flower oils may cause reactions onto sensitive skin sometimes
• Extreme white cast 

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ROUND AROUND Greentea Cica Sun Lotion

It is a very mild physical sunscreen with green tea cica ingredients that block strong UV radiations reaching the skin. Round Around is the Korean cosmetic brand made by OLIVE YOUNG that is like Sephora in Korea. This Green Tea Sun Lotion is formulated with Madecassoside and Centella Asiatica extracts which makes it ideal for the face and body. The watery essence and no sticky textures make it easy to use. But, I’d like to recommend you to test it before purchasing if you have sensitive skin cause it contains Orange oil and lavender oil that could make reactions on some skin types.

Key Ingredients

Titanium Dioxide (Physical sunscreen) / Centella Asiatica, Green Tea Extract (Soothing) / Tocopherol (Antioxidant)

Pros

• Botanical ingredients
• Blocks extreme UV rays
• Watery essence
• Non-sticky texture

Cons

• Fades quickly
• Not suitable for those who have sensitivity with essential oils like Bergamot oil

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Labno Safe Tone Up Sun Block Cream SPF50PA++++

LabNo is one of the best Korean cosmetic brands leading the trend with proven ingredients at a reasonable price. This mineral-based sunscreen works wonders once you apply it to your skin. Not only it protects your skin from UV rays but it also makes your skin tone up naturally. Definitley, it’s not a white-cast thing. No worries! Moreover, Its smooth formula keeps the skin hydrated and absorbs quickly. The smooth texture blends with your skin and leaves no scrambled bits behind. LabNo Sun Black Cream is formulated without harmful ingredients so it’s suitable for sensitive skin.

Pros 

• Clean beauty – suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin
• Natural skin tone up
• Hydrates and moisturizes
• SPF50+ and PA++++ provided extra protection for long time

Cons

• Pricey

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Best-selling Korean sunscreens for dry skin

COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream

COSRX Sun Cream for the face is the best Korean sunscreen for dry skin. Its soothing aloe formula combined with botanical mixture ingredients keeps the skin moisturized, smooth and provides nutrients to the skin along with proper sun rays protection. This sunscreen has used several ingredients that block ultraviolet radiation to the skin and those ingredients are scientifically proven to provide such defense. It is all-natural and perfect for daily use. 

Key Ingredients

 Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Chemical sunscreen), Titanium Dioxide (Physical sunscreen) / Aloe Leaf Extract (Soothing)

Pros

• High SPF formula
• Safe natural and botanical ingredients
• Aloe formula
• Moisturizes and nourishes the skin
• Scientifically proven ingredients
• Soothing effect
• Extra UV protection

Cons

• Thick
• Tacky texture
• Alcohol & fragrance contained
• Not suitable for every skin type

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Papa Recipe Real Centella Sun Essence Sunscreen 50ml

Another best physical sunscreen with Centella Asiatica extracts that helps your skin to recover and heal. Papa Recipe Sun Essence provides protection from UV with its SPF50 and PA++++ complex. It is of the best sunscreen for oily skin and as well as sensitive skin with proven ingredients like Centella Asiatica extract, Betaine, and Panthenol.

Key Ingredients

Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide (Physical sunscreen) / Centella Asiatica, Panthenol (Soothing) / Tocopherol (Antioxidant)

Pros

• Suitable for oily and sensitive skin
• SPF50 and PA++++
• Physical sunscreen with natural extracts
• Made in South Korea

Cons

• Pricey
• Not suitable for those who have sensitivity with essential oils like Bergamot oil

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The Face Shop Natural Sun Eco No Shine Hydrating Sun Cream

The face shop natural sun eco hydrating sun cream is marked as a top seller on Amazon shopping website. This multipurpose Korean sunscreen keeps the skin protected by harmful UVA and UVB radiations and is suitable for oily skin. Moreover, Its mattifying textures gently soothes the skin and also works as a pore smoothing primer. All-natural ingredients as chia seed and cottonseed and sebum extracts are used best known for carrying moisture up to 10 times than usual sunscreens. It also keeps skin hydrated and adds shine to your face once you apply it. 

Key Ingredients

 Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Chemical sunscreen) / Panthenol (Soothing)

Pros

• SPF 40
• Hydrating
• Moisturizing
• Natural ingredients with 10x moisture carrying property
• Matte
• Smooth pores 
• High protection from UVA and UVB

Cons

• Alcohol & Fragrance contained
• Not suitable for dark tone skin

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All these items mentioned above are from top Korean beauty brands. Each product is unique in its way and provides special UV protection with their specific ingredients.  Check out all the list above and find the one the suits you the best. The ideal way to choose a good sunscreen is dependent on your skin type. There are several types of the best Korean sunscreen for various skin types in the market. 

How to choose Korean sunscreens for sensitive skin

People with sensitive skin often get allergic reactions easily. If you have experienced getting break out or irritated after using sunscreen, the main reason is the sunscreen ingredients like Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate. However, we can’t give up using sunscreen for our healthy and young skin. So, we need to find the best product that is right for your skin by checking the ingredients sometimes it takes several trials. If you have sensitive skin, then try using physical sunscreen sunblocks with Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide instead of chemical ones with no added fragrances and free of any harsh chemicals. You can check the sunscreens above that are specifically made for sensitive skin types. And check THIS POST for 20 ingredients to avoid for sensitive skin.

Sunscreen for oily acne-prone skin

 A lot of people suffers from acne problem and want to buy sunscreens that don’t clog their pores. If you have oily skin and want something that mattifies your skin then you can buy oil-free sunscreen like the watery type. Try using Korean sunscreen that has soothing ingredients that protect your skin and doesn’t clog your skin pores. HERE, you can check the 10 effective ingredients and 5 worst ingredients to avoid if you have acne-prone skin. Through the post, I hope you can find a fit for your skin type.

Hydrating Sunscreen

If you have dry skin and it feels tight, then go for a Korean sunscreen that adds hydrating texture to your skin and nourishes it. So, check the top 12 ingredients for dry skin before you choose a sunscreen. Shop smart and stay protected!

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