Korean sunscreens are known for combining high UV protection with lightweight formulations and skin care benefits. Many are also perfectly compatible with makeup, so it’s of little wonder that Korean sunscreens are hyped globally.
With so many options available, how do you know which K-Beauty sunscreens are best for you? We’re curated a list of the best Korean sunscreen for every skin type, analyzing key differences in texture, finish and formulation so you can easily find your favorites that match your skin needs!
How We Selected These Korean Sunscreens
Many factors went into ranking these products, including sun protection power (all are fitted with SPF 50+ PA++++), formulation, daily wearability and compatibility with individual skin types. We also looked at product popularity, sales and customer reviews at YesStyle to ensure we make the best picks!
The Best Korean Sunscreens at a Glance
- Best overall: Beauty of Joseon – Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics (SPF 50+ PA++++)
This chemical sunscreen has been YesStyle’s bestselling sunscreen since its launch in 2021 and continues to be our No.1 bestselling beauty product! Need I say more? - Best for oily skin: House of Hur – Weightless Sun Fluid (SPF 50+ PA++++)
Ranked No. 10 in YesStyle’s list of bestselling sunscreens, the chemical sun fluid absorbs instantly into skin for a refreshing matte finish. - Best for dry skin: ROUND LAB – Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen (SPF 50+ PA++++)
Ranked No.5 in YesStyle’s bestselling sunscreens, the chemical sunscreen is enriched in hyaluronic acid, birch juice and plant oils to replenish moisture in skin. - Best for sensitive skin: AXIS-Y – Complete No-Stress Physical Sunscreen (V3) OTC Version (SPF 50+ PA++++)
The 100% mineral sunscreen is formulated with mugwort, calendula and chamomile extracts to soothe skin. - Best for acne-prone skin: SKIN1004 – Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum (SPF 50+ PA++++)
Crowned Favorite Sunscreen in the 2025 YesStyle Awards, the chemical sun serum combines hyaluronic acid with centella extract to balance sebum and niacinamide to brighten post-acne scars. - Best for combination skin: Purito SEOUL – Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen (SPF 50+ PA++++)
Ranked No. 11 in YesStyle’s list of bestselling sunscreens, the vegan formula soothes with centella extract while moisturizing skin with ceramides. - Best under makeup: House of Hur – Weightless Sun Fluid (SPF 50+ PA++++)
The weightless sun fluid from House of Hur leaves zero white cast and greasiness and it sits comfortably under makeup for day-long wear.
Comparison of the Best Korean Sunscreens
| Product | Best For | SPF | Finish | Key Benefits | Fragranced |
| Beauty of Joseon – Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics | All skin types / Creating “no makeup” look | SPF 50+ PA++++ | Satin | Supports healthy skin microbiome | No |
| House of Hur – Weightless Sun Fluid | Oily skin / Wearing under makeup | SPF 50+ PA++++ | Matte | Lightweight protection | No |
| ROUND LAB – Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen | All skin types including dry skin | SPF 50+ PA++++ | Dewy | Lightweight hydration | No |
| AXIS-Y – Complete No-Stress Physical Sunscreen (V3) OTC Version | Sensitive skin | SPF 50+ PA++++ | Matte | Non-irritating | No |
| SKIN1004 – Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum | All skin types including acne-prone skin | SPF 50+ PA++++ | Natural | Controls sebum, calming | No |
| Purito SEOUL – Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen | Dry, oily, combination skin | SPF 50+ PA++++ | Matte | Soothing, barrier care | No |
In-Depth Look at the Best Korean Sunscreens
Best Overall:
Beauty of Joseon – Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics
Why choose this sunscreen over others: Not only does its soft and dewy finish enable flawless makeup, the rice extract also mildly exfoliates skin and strengthens skin’s barrier for smoother and healthier skin. Niacinamide offers brightening effect to support radiant skin. The sunscreen can be worn under makeup, or on its own for a “no makeup” look.
Textureand wear experience: The smooth and creamy texture doesn’t feel heavy or cakey under makeup. White cast-free and scentless, the chemical sunscreen doesn’t sting the eyes or pill when other products are applied.
Who should pick this: Those looking for a well-rounded chemical sunscreen with a lightweight satin finish.
Best for Oily Skin + Wearing Under Makeup:
House of Hur – Weightless Sun Fluid
Why choose this sunscreen over others:
This ultra-light, fluid formula is designed to keep skin feeling fresh and breathable while offering high-level sun protection. Infused with Jeju yuzu and Manuka honey extracts, it refreshes skin without caking, making it especially suitable for oily skin types or those living in humid climates. Silica helps to keep excess oil at bay.
Texture and wear experience:
Thin and fast-absorbing formula melts effortlessly into skin without leaving residue. Drying down to a natural-to-semi-matte finish, it layers well under makeup for day-long comfort.
Who should pick this:
Those with oily or combination skin who want a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that keeps shine under control.
Best for Dry Skin:
ROUND LAB – Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen
Why choose this sunscreen over others:
Infused with ROUND LAB’s signature silver birch tree sap sourced from Inje, South Korea, this sunscreen relieves dryness while using chemical filters to protect skin from the sun’s rays. It’s ideal for those seeking both hydration and sun protection in one step.
Texture and wear experience:
This lightweight sunscreen spreads easily and blends seamlessly into skin, leaving a soft, hydrated glow without heaviness or stickiness. It wears comfortably under makeup and helps prevent dry patches and flaking.
Who should pick this:
Those with dry or dehydrated skin who want lasting hydration and a smooth, radiant base for makeup.
Best for Sensitive Skin:
AXIS-Y – Complete No-Stress Physical Sunscreen (V3) OTC Version
Why choose this sunscreen over others:
This vegan mineral sunscreen is formulated with zinc oxide and soothing ingredients like mugwort, calendula and chamomile extracts. The low-irritation formula makes it suitable for those who are sensitive to chemical UV filters or prone to redness.
Texture and wear experience:
Creamy and slightly thicker than chemical sunscreens, this physical sunscreen forms a protective layer that may leave a subtle tone-up effect, but it settles into a natural finish. Apply in thin layers to avoid heaviness or pilling.
Who should pick this:
Those with sensitive, reactive or easily irritated skin who prefer a mild, calming mineral sunscreen.
Best for Acne-Prone Skin:
SKIN1004 – Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum
Why choose this sunscreen over others:
This sunscreen offers multiple skin care benefits including soothing care with Madagascan centella asiatica, moisturizing care with hyaluronic acid, and antioxidant protection with spout extracts. It offers broad-spectrum sun protection while remaining lightweight and breathable.
Texture and wear experience:
The fast-absorbing sun serum leaves a fresh, slightly dewy finish without feeling greasy. It layers seamlessly under makeup without pilling.
Who should pick this:
Those with acne-prone, sensitive or easily congested skin who want a calming, lightweight sunscreen that won’t clog pores.
Best for Combination Skin:
Purito SEOUL – Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen
Why choose this sunscreen over others:
This water-resistant vegan sunscreen strikes a balance between hydration and oil control, making it ideal for combination skin. Infused with ceramides, it provides enough moisture for drier areas, while centella extract keeps skin calm and happy. The matte finish tames oilier zones, creating a more balanced overall complexion.
Texture and wear experience:
Lightweight with a soft, velvety feel, it glides smoothly onto skin and dries down to a non-greasy finish. It helps minimize the appearance of pores and works well under makeup for a smooth finish.
Who should pick this:
Those with combination skin who want a balanced sunscreen that hydrates without heaviness and controls shine without drying out skin.
FAQs About Korean Sunscreens
Are Korean sunscreens better than Western ones?
Korean sunscreens often feel lighter and more suitable for makeup wearers thanks to advanced filters and textures. They’re also added with skin care benefits to cater to different skin needs, such as sebum-control properties to manage oily skin or hydrating ingredients to fight dryness. Western sunscreens may focus more on water-resistance formulations that meet regulatory sun protection standards.
Is Korean or Japanese sunscreen better?
Both are excellent. Korean sunscreens emphasize skin care benefits like hydration, while Japanese sunscreens often prioritize durability, water-resistance and lightweight textures that suit hot and humid conditions.
Which sunscreens are popular in Korea?
Popular Korean sunscreens include the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun, ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen and SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum. These bestselling sunscreens are all known for lightweight formulations that deliver multiple skin benefits (like hydration) while being comfortable for daily wear.
Is UVA protection weak in Korean sunscreens?
No. Although Korean UVA labeling is different from Western systems like UVA-PF or PPD, most modern Korean sunscreens provide strong UVA protection with PA++++ rating, indicating high-level coverage.
Other Recommendations
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-fresh, the lighter and more refreshing version of Relief Sun, is suitable for oily or combination skin types or anyone living in a humid climate. If you need a sun stick, try TOCOBO Cotton Soft Sun Stick, which uses both physical and chemical filters for sun protection, plus cotton extract and anti-sebum powder to keep skin matte yet hydrated. To lock down makeup while adding a layer of sun protection, look to the Tage Cica-Tree Shaking Glow Sun Fixer.
