K-beauty is a leader within the skincare space and has been for many years now, thanks to its use of advanced ingredients and innovative textures. (Gel creams, cushion compacts and jelly cleansers? You can thank our friends in Seoul for that.)
That said, if I had to choose just one category where they absolutely excel, it would be sunscreen. Similarly to their Western counterparts, both use skincare ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and ceramides. The big differentiator is in the sunblock technology and the emphasis on calming ingredients.
Dr. Kseniya Kobets, Director of Cosmetic Dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care, tells me, "They more commonly layer in newer-generation UV filters and botanicals rooted in hanbang, or traditional Korean herbal medicine. Ingredients like centella asiatica, green tea, licorice, ginseng, and sometimes PDRN show up more often, with a stronger emphasis on calming inflammation, supporting the barrier, and improving the overall feel of the formula on the skin."
If you have an aversion to sunscreen from past childhood memories of being slathered in thick white paste or are wary that the stuff might break you out, a Korean sunscreen can be an absolute game-changer for you. Depending on your skin type and preferences, there are plenty of options. I narrowed it down to 13 of the best Korean sunscreens for you to shop now.
