The beauty world hasn’t been able to stop talking about Korean beauty since it first entered the Western skincare and makeup market several years ago — and for a good reason.
Their formulas, ingredient lists, and packaging were seen as innovative that’s inspired many Western brands to incorporate K-beauty practices.
However, perhaps the most famous K-beauty export is sunscreen. Korean sunscreens are often seen as the gold standard for SPF for several reasons.
Are Korean sunscreens really better than Western sunscreens?
While it’s totally personal preference, many would argue that the answer is yes. That’s the general consensus because K-beauty’s advanced formulas are touted as the best. But why?
Due to differing regulatory guidelines, there is often more innovation in the Korean sunscreen space. This allows for advanced formulations that, for example, don’t leave behind white casts (regardless of skin tone) and have a unique lightweight, airy feel.
Korean sunscreens are also infused with skin-loving ingredients — think niacinamide, rice extracts, and cica. So K-beauty sunscreens don’t just protect your skin from the sun, they also deliver additional skincare benefits.
Ultimately, if you haven’t tried a Korean sunscreen, you’re missing out.
That’s why we rounded up 10 of the best ones to help you choose which K-beauty SPF is right for you, including many that are tested and loved by our team, from Beauty of Joseon, mixsoon, COSRX, and more.
