Sunscreen is the most important skincare product from spring to autumn. A high-quality sunscreen absorbs quickly, works well under makeup, and feels so comfortable on the skin that it’s indistinguishable from a moisturizer.
We’ve compiled the 10 best sunscreens that will protect your skin throughout sunny days. This includes hits from Korean sunscreens as well as new top products! ☀️
Before choosing a sunscreen: frequently asked questions about sunscreens
Why should you use sunscreen?
The sun's UV radiation harms the skin in many ways. Even if the skin doesn't get directly sunburned, UV radiation can cause premature aging, pigmentation changes, and wrinkles.
When should you use sunscreen?
A good rule of thumb is to apply sunscreen when the UV index, which indicates the intensity of UV radiation, is at least level 3. In Finland, these readings often occur from April to September. Did you know that protection is also important on cloudy days, as UV radiation penetrates clouds!
What is the difference between UVA and UVB rays?
The sun's rays come in both UVA and UVB forms. UVA rays contribute to skin aging, while UVB rays cause sunburn. Therefore, always choose a product with both UVA and UVB protection or a "broad-spectrum" label.
What is a sufficient SPF?
Skin sensitivity to the sun affects the need for SPF: for easily burning skin, SPF 50 is recommended, while SPF 30 suits most and sun-accustomed skin. SPF 30 filters about 97% of UVB radiation, and SPF 50 filters about 98%. The difference sounds small, but in practice, SPF 30 allows twice as much UVB radiation to reach the skin as SPF 50, which is reflected in how long the skin can tolerate the sun without burning.
When should sunscreen be applied?
Sunscreen should be applied to the skin approximately 15 minutes before going outdoors. If you spend a lot of time in the sun, reapply sunscreen every few hours!
Why are Korean sunscreens considered the best?
In Korea, sunscreens are not a "necessary evil" in the summer, but an essential part of skincare all year round. This is why a lot of effort is put into developing sun protection products. Korean sunscreens are particularly popular due to their thin skin feel, high SPF, and skin-benefiting properties.
The best sunscreens for different skin types: top 10
Sun protection is important, but sunscreen can also moisturize, soothe, and balance the skin. Grab these tips for different skin types!
Scandy Gimme Shade SPF 50 – a new domestic product!
High sun protection factor that smells like candy and absorbs without a greasy feeling! This tropical pineapple-scented cream is perfect for both beach days and daily skincare, as it absorbs completely unnoticed. The formula is entirely vegan, and the ingredients are natural, excluding UV filters and fragrance.
Hada Labo Tokyo Light Hydrator Sun Face Cream SPF50
This popular Japanese sunscreen combines high sun protection, deep hydration, and anti-aging effects in one jar. Hyaluronic acids keep the skin supple, and the light Dry-Touch formula absorbs quickly even on damp skin. Designed for all skin types, it also easily glides under makeup.
Hada Labo Tokyo Light Hydrator Sun Face Cream SPF30
A sunscreen that doesn't feel like sunscreen? This light yet effective cream prevents pigment spots, skin damage, and premature aging while moisturizing. The Dry-Touch formula absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy feeling and is suitable for all skin types.
Read also: Japanese cosmetics superstar Hada Labo, what and why?
Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF50+
One of Korea's all-time favorite sunscreens offers strong sun protection and a skincare boost in the same product. The moisturizing, brightening, and regenerating formula contains birch sap, hyaluronic acids, and brightening niacinamide and regenerating adenosine. The lightweight cream is also perfect under makeup!
“Absolutely the best sunscreen. Light, but moisturizing. Absorbs quickly and works great under makeup, as it doesn't pill at all.” Sini T.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+
This Korean sunscreen bestseller combines skincare, a silky lightweight texture, and high SPF 50+ and PA++++ protection. Rice extract moisturizes and soothes, while probiotics support the skin's natural barrier.
Buy here!
“Very good under makeup. Absorbs quickly and leaves a matte finish on the skin.” Anna R.
“Best ever. Works under makeup even on oily skin. I used this instead of moisturizer daily throughout the summer, and I claim my skin was even in better condition than usual. It didn't clog pores or cause breakouts. Thin texture, spreads and absorbs easily, and I often layer it to ensure sufficient SPF.” – Saara
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh: Rice + B5 SPF50+
The lighter version of the beloved Beauty of Joseon sunscreen is a good match especially for oily and combination skin. Rice water moisturizes, while panthenol soothes and strengthens the skin's protective barrier. It disappears onto the skin colourlessly without stickiness!
Buy here.
PURITO SEOUL Wonder Releaf Centella Daily Sun Lotion SPF50+
This fragrance-free sunscreen is excellent for dry and easily irritated skin that needs high protection and gentle care. This lightweight yet moisturizing sunscreen offers very high protection with SPF 50+ PA++++ effectiveness. Skin-caring, soothing, and moisturizing Centella asiatica and hyaluronic acid. And of course, this sunscreen also absorbs without a white cast!
Buy here!
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50+
Looking for a very thin sunscreen that absorbs quickly and perfectly under makeup? This light serum-like formula combines high SPF 50+ PA++++ protection and skincare. Centella asiatica soothes and strengthens the skin, and hyaluronic acid takes care of hydration.
S.NATURE Aqua 365 UV Sun Protective Cream SPF 50+ PA++++
This moisturizing and soothing sunscreen offers strong resistance to UV rays, but gentle care for the skin. Three different sizes of hyaluronic acid moisturize in different skin layers, and patented COOL-H and MAXCALMING ingredients soothe and cool. The formula absorbs lightly and colourlessly.
“I really like this sunscreen. It's relatively light but moisturizes well. It feels quite similar to the Round Lab sunscreen, perhaps slightly thicker.” Henna R.
Read also: S.Nature, minimalist skincare from Korea
Rom&nd Zero Sun Clean SPF50
This light and moisturizing sunscreen contains high SPF50+ / PA++++ protection that settles quickly on the skin. Suitable even for sensitive skin, it pampers the skin with persimmon extract, as well as antioxidant botanical extracts and oils.
Scroll through the entire sunscreen selection and find your skin's new best friend against UV rays! ☀️
