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The 10 Best Korean Sunscreens for Ultimate UV Protection
Add these beloved picks to your list of skincare essentials
Wearing daily SPF is non-negotiable, but even the most knowledgeable beauty lovers may not know that all formulas aren’t created equally. The best Korean sunscreens are considered the crown jewels of sun protection, as these coveted formulas contain advanced skincare technology that many top U.S. facial sunscreens aren’t yet equipped with.
Shop the Best Korean Sunscreens
Along with skin-soothing ingredients like aloe vera, cica, and green tea, most K-Beauty sunscreens use unique UVA filters (typically signified by the letters “PA”) that are slightly more powerful than the staples found at your local drugstore. According to the Food and Drug Administration, sunscreens in other countries are regarded as cosmetics, not as drugs, but tubes sold in the U.S. are regulated as such because they make these claims.
"One of the main differences between Korean sun care and that in the States versus other countries, is that there are more advancements and innovations in sun filters in Korea," esthetician and Soko Glam co-founder Charlotte Cho tells Bazaar. "The advancement of special sun filters has allowed Korean sunscreen textures to be very lightweight and not leave a white cast, making them more versatile for a wider variety of skin types and tones."
If you’re looking to up the suncare ante, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite Korean sunscreens to shop right now. From Dr. Jart+ and Etude House's top-rated mineral picks to featherweight fluids from Missha and Neogen that won't leave behind a white cast on darker skin tones, these products are ideal for just about any routine. Keep reading for a few of the best Korean sunscreens shoppers and skin professionals always reach for.
Related: The Best Facial Sunscreens You'll Actually Want to Wear Every Day
Tiffany Dodson is currently the associate beauty commerce editor at Harper’s Bazaar, where she specializes in trend forecasting, building relationships with major and emerging brands, and crafting shopping stories—from holiday gift guides to product road tests. Tiffany's work has previously been featured in outlets like SELF, Bustle, and Teen Vogue, and she's been quoted as a commerce and beauty expert in publications and platforms like The Business of Fashion and NPR’s Life Kit podcast.
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