Something magical is included in certain Korean sunscreens and I’m convinced of it. I tried to step away for a little bit and try sunscreens that are readily available in the United States since that’s where I’m based, but it’s just not the same.
I found myself attempting to avoid putting on sunscreen and somehow trying to convince myself despite already knowing better.
When it comes to Korean sunscreens, there is no convincing necessary. I genuinely enjoy putting Korean sunscreens on. Something about the formulation of these products are specially made to not be heavy on your skin while not having that awful white cast that some mineral sunscreens can leave.
When it comes to skincare, I’ve always believed that your skincare routine needs to be enjoyed or else, you just won’t actually do it. You may skip steps here and there. Slack some days. On the other hand, if you find products that really work with your skin, then it won’t necessarily be so much a chore, but more of an act of self-care.
Best Korean Sunscreen List
The Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen (Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics) SPF 50+
If you’re on any form of social media at all, I know you’ve heard or seen of this sunscreen. This sunscreen has had #skintok shook by its formulation. It claims to be a “light moisturizing cream” that is “not sticky or slippery” even through reapplication.
With those claims, I would have to agree. It’s just a really good sunscreen that I don’t mind putting on first thing in the morning and every reapplication after that.
I did not want to believe that this product was that good. If you’re like me, you are slightly cautious about products that are overly hyped on social media. In this case, there is definitely a good reason for such a positive response within the skincare community.
Available on StyleKorean for $21 for 2/50 ml containers or Stylevana for $19.99 for 2/50 ml.
Normally it is also available on Amazon, but at the time I’m writing this, it is unavailable unfortunately.
Laneige Watery Sun Cream SPF 50+
Unlike the Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen, I’ve never actually heard of this sunscreen. I know the brand of course because they are stocked in Sephora and because their lippies are iconic. I don’t think I knew that they made sunscreens as well.
I picked out out because I was interested in the brand. I’ve never actually tried anything from Laneige, but I was also picking up their Lip Sleeping Mask so it just made sense to me. Well, it also had five star reviews, but not too many reviews in comparison to other more popular Korean sunscreens.
I REALLY liked this sunscreen. During my first impressions, I actually liked this sunscreen more than the Beauty of Joseon sunscreen. (Don’t come for me #skintok)
The website describes it as a “watery moisturizing” sunscreen focused on maintaining the “moisture barrier all day,” I have to agree. It’s so watery and beautiful to apply on the skin.
I immediately brought this sunscreen upstairs to my master bathroom because I like it so much. That’s how convinced I was and still am about this product.
It also says that it is recommended for dry skin, but I personally have pretty oily skin and I love it. I don’t find it to be too heavy or oily for my skin.
This sunscreen reminded me why I loved Korean sunscreens so much more
Available on StyleKorean for $21 for 50 ml and on Stylevana for $17.99 for 50 ml.
Innisfree Intensive Leisure Sun Stick SPF 50+
Lastly, I wanted to include a sun stick version of Korean sunscreen because this product was just so handy to have. You don’t necessarily have to touch your face when your reapply it, you just use the applicator.
I’ve used it a couple times and it’s just a solid sunscreen. If you have never tried a sun stick, it is reminiscent of deodorant packaging and you just apply as you would your deodorant.
The brand claims that it has a “soft and smooth finish” without the greasiness. That’s pretty much what it is.
Although I wouldn’t call this my favorite Korean sunscreen out of the bunch, it’s definitely handy to have especially when you don’t want to get your hands dirty or if you have dirty hands.
I actually purchased this from StyleKorean, but when I looked to link it, it was sold out and I couldn’t find the page. It also seemed to be sold out on Stylevana.
Available on YesStyle for @15.84 for 0.63 oz.
Last Thoughts
These three sunscreens are definitely the best Korean sunscreens I’ve found in 2022. I’m surprised that I actually had a haul that had so many good products, but I was picky when I purchased from the website since shipping takes longer.
Out of these three sunscreens, I would have to choose the Laneige Watery Sun Cream as the best Korean sunscreen. You know when you apply a product and you just know you’ll love it, that’s how I feel about this sunscreen.
The best sunscreen will always be the sunscreen that you put on though, I’ve learned my lesson. Now I just have to convince my husband to wear his sunscreen every day.
