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The best Korean sunscreens are among our absolutefavorite sunscreens,and the reasons are beyond skin-deep.
Source images:Allureeditors and courtesy of brands; Collage: Laneen Wells
(Hey, FDA,get on it.)
That means, no, they can’t be legitimately sold on Amazon and any other U.S. retailers.
Sarah Han applying Thank You Farmer Sun Project Moisture Sun Cream SPF 40.
Sarah Han applying Thank You Farmer Sun Project Moisture Sun Cream SPF 40.
Han after applying Thank You Farmer Sun Project Moisture Sun Cream SPF 40.
)," says commerce editorSarah Han.
This lightweight cream truly melts right in without the slightest bit of cast."
Sarah Han applying Thank You Farmer Sun Project Moisture Sun Cream SPF 40.
Nicola Dall’Asen applying Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF 50.
Dall’Asen after applying Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF 50.
Don’t forget to shake well before system!
Nicola Dall’Asen applying Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF 50.
Sarah Han applying Etude Sunprise Milk Airy Finish Sun Milk SPF 50+.
Sarah Han after applying Etude Sunprise Milk Airy Finish Sun Milk SPF 50+.
How’s that for innovation?
Nicola Dall’Asen applying Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF 50.
Deanna Pai applying Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum.
Pai after applying Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum.
And the subtle glow it leaves doesn’t emphasize my shine-prone areas."
Annie Blackman applying Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 36.
This Korean sunscreen essential soothes acne and excess sebum using niacinamide and hydrates skin with hyaluronic acid.
The longtime favorite is free of fragrance but rich in soothing cica and heartleaf.
Sarah Han applying Etude Sunprise Milk Airy Finish Sun Milk SPF 50+.
Although it’s made of 100% zinc oxide, the sunscreen still suits every skin tone.
“The lotion blends into skin easily and doesn’t leave any sort of white cast.”
Not only does this lightweight gel-like lotion contain 10 (!)
Deanna Pai applying Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum.
Are Korean sunscreens better than Western sunscreens?
Depends on who you ask, but many would say yes.
“They just have access to more sunscreen ingredients to work with.”
Deanna Pai applying Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum.
How should I choose a Korean sunscreen?
She equates PA+++ to SPF 30 and recommends seeking out sunscreens with a minimum of each.
“PA is based on the PPD test or thepersistent pigmentation darkening test.
So, until you exceed that hypothetical 16x UVA level, you won’t start to tan or burn.
We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies.
To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our completereviews process and methodology page.
Annie Blackman applying Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 36.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase.
Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if its never been tested on curls?
Can’t get enough of Korean skin care?