9 Best Korean Sunscreens For Acne-Prone Skin (2024), Esthetician-Approved
Get sun protection without aggravating your acne-prone skin with the right skincare essentials at hand.
Carlee is a Licensed Esthetician with over 10 years of experience and a certified acne specialist with Face Reality. She is the co-founder of The Switch Suites, a luxury skincare wellness center located in Bankers Hill, San Diego. She specializes in lymphatic drainage, microcurrent, facial sculpting and dermaplaning.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Experience: 11 yearsRamona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.
Read full bio of Ramona Sinha
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People with oily or acne-prone skin usually avoid wearing sunscreens, as they are greasy and heavy and tend to clog pores. Here is a tip! Find the best Korean sunscreen for acne-prone skin types. Most Korean moisturizers are non-greasy and lightweight, exactly what oily or combination skin types need. They help control shine and regulate excess sebum production.
But why should you even use sunscreen? Contrary to popular belief, sunscreens are not just for a bright, sunny day. You have to wear them every day as a part of your skin care routine to prevent your skin from harmful UV rays and reduce the risk of sunburns, premature aging, and skin cancer. To help people with acne-prone and oily skin, we have listed a few of the best acne-friendly sunscreens along with oil-free sunscreens in this article. Take a look!
In This Article
9 Best Korean Sunscreens For Acne-Prone Skin
1.Best Overall:Dr.Oracle 21;Stay A-Thera Sun Block SPF 50+ PA+++
The Dr.Oracle 21; Stay A-thera Sun Block SPF 50+ Pa+++ provides all-round UVA and UVB protection to keep your skin safe and damage-free. Its soothing properties and irritation-free formula deeply hydrates the skin, leaving behind a cooling sensation upon application. This high-protection hypoallergenic, lightweight sunscreen is formulated with chemical blockers and skin-nourishing ingredients like Lock’n Pore Complex and Maca Peptide that relax, moisturize, protect, and hydrate dehydrated skin. Celtic water helps regulate sebum production while soothing the skin and keeping the pores clean. Besides, bamboo water relaxes and calms tired skin. We recommend performing a patch test before adding this sunscreen to your daily kit, as it contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that may feel heavy on sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Also Recommended By: harpersbazaar and instyle have also listed NYK1 Nailbond Superstrong Nail Tip Glue Adhesive in their top 10.[1]The 10 Best Nail Glues for Long-Lasting DIY Manicures. harpersbazaar. https://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/nails/g40395234/best-nail-glues/[2]The 10 Best Nail Glues of 2024. instyle. https://www.instyle.com/beauty/best-nail-glue
Pros
- Lightweight
- Leaves no residue
- Hypoallergenic
- Prevents inflammatory
- Prevents dryness
- Dermatologically-tested
Cons
- Sticky texture
Quick Tip2.Best Moisturizing:Etude House Sunprise Mild Watery Light SPF50+/Pa+++
The Sunprise Mild Watery Light SPF50+/PA+++ sunscreen from Etude House has a lightweight formula specially crafted for acne-prone and sensitive skin. This sunscreen gel has a skin-caring formula that glides smoothly over the face to offer a fresh and clean finish. It is equipped with SPF50+ PA+++ to provide broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection without causing breakouts. This mineral-based sunscreen contains the innovative formula of Carex humilis root, aloe, and portulaca extracts to protect the skin against sun damage. The hydrating agents like cactus and hyaluronic acid moisturize the skin. This sunscreen with Centella Asiatica and mistletoe soothes inflammation and irritation. Soft acai berry and acerola adds vitality and shine to dull skin, while sunflower seeds and dwarf ground sedge extract provide UV protection. Saima, a personal skin care blogger, who has studied beauty therapy is impressed with the Korean skin care product. She says, “In the summer it helps to cool my skin a bit too, which is a nice feeling. Another major plus point is that it doesn’t leave a white cast on my skin and just blends in well (i).” Click here to check out a detailed personal review of this sunscreen.
Also Recommended By: whatthefab has also listed Etude House Sunprise Mild Watery Light SPF50+/Pa+++ in their top 10.[1]6 BEST Korean Sunscreens for Oily Skin Types. whatthefab. https://whatthefab.com/korean-sunscreen-for-oily-skin.htmlPros
- Lightweight
- Clean finish
- Skin-friendly formula
- No white cast
- Formula does not oxidize
- Prevents breakouts
- Non-sticky
Cons
- Unpleasant fragrance
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 2,240 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
3.Best Clinically Tested:Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30 from Hero Cosmetics
Experience flawless skin with Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30 from Hero Cosmetics. It is a great everyday SPF 30 sunscreen for acne-prone skin as it is packed with zinc oxide, green surge, and extrapolates, which don’t cause damage. It is a non-comedogenic sunscreen that will give you a smooth texture and won’t clog pores. This dermatologically-approved sunscreen with zinc oxide helps to regularly protect your skin from UVA/UVB rays. It is a clinically-tested weightless gel cream that is very hydrating and absorbs quickly without making your skin greasy. This broad-spectrum fragrance-free sunscreen is reef-safe and non-irritating even on sensitive skin.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Silicone-free
- Non-irritating
- Non-comedogenic
- Clinically-tested
- Reef safe
- Non-greasy
- Long-lasting
- Designed for sensitive skin
Cons
- Not suitable for dark skin
Pro Tip| Dr.Oracle 21;Stay A-Thera Sun Block SPF 50+ PA+++ Best Overall | Etude House Sunprise Mild Watery Light SPF50+/Pa+++ Best Moisturizing | Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30 from Hero Cosmetics Best Clinically Tested | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Items | 1 | 1 | - |
| Dimensions | 1.85 x 1.02 x 5.03 inches | 1.97 x 1.97 x 1.97 inches | - |
| Weight | 2.72 Ounces. | 1.7 Ounces | - |
| Weight | - | - | 50 Milligrams |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 41 | 2,240 | - |
| Price | $18 | $15.99 | $19.99 |
4.Best For Daily Use:Mary&May CICA Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 + PA++++
Mary&May CICA Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50 PA++++ offers maximum broad-spectrum protection from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays, fights against wrinkles, and brightens the skin. It absorbs quickly like a moisturizer and provides an amazing finish for the makeup. Lucy, a skin care blogger who loves to test and review Korean skin care products, likes this sunscreen’s non-sticky finish. She writes, “The finish is on the dewy side and stays dewy all day unless I put some powder over the top. With powder, it’s perfect. I use Mary & May all over the face, neck, and ears, including the area around the eyes, with no issues (ii).” This product is packed with organic ingredients like vitamin C, cica, and essential amino acid-rich fermented yeast to calm irritated skin and strengthen the skin barrier. Hyaluronic acid from safe plant-based white wood mushrooms is a potent moisturizing ingredient that improves skin cells’ ability to retain moisture. It is a perfect everyday broad-spectrum sunscreen without any white cast to protect the skin from sun damage.
Pros
- Non-irritating
- Vegan
- All ingredients EWG Green Grade
- Cruelty-free
- Reef-safe
- Vegan
- No Streak
- No white cast
- Pleasant fragrance
Cons
None
MARY AND MAY CICA Soothing Sun Cream SPF50+ Review On Dark Skin
5.Best Quick-Absorbing Formula:IUNIK Centella Calming Daily Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++
IUNIK Centella Calming Vegan Moisture SPF 50+ PA++++ is a clinically-proven, quick-absorbing formula that provides complete sun coverage against harsh and damaging UVA and UVB rays. This K-beauty product was made based on reviewers opinions of what their ideal sunscreen would contain and feel like. It has a soft gel-like texture that applies smoothly without leaving a grease behind. It dries fast and leaves no white cast, making it a perfect base for your makeup. This non-greasy sunscreen is reef-safe and great for all skin types, including sensitive, dry, and oily skin. It has gone through various clinical trials to ensure the quality of its products. This multi-functional sunscreen is free from harmful or allergic ingredients.
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Soft texture
- No white cast
- Beta-glucan
- Non-irritating
- Fragrance-free
- Non-sticky
- Non-greasy
- Suitable for all skin types
- Reef-safe
- Clinically-tested
- No harmful ingredients
- Absorbs quickly
Cons
- Can sting around eyes sometimes
6.Best For Sensitive Skin:ACSEN UV Protector Sun Essence Sunscreen, SPF50+ PA+++
The ACSEN UV Protector is a lightweight sun essence with a watery texture that is the ideal sun protection. This innovative product is a great option for sensitive skin types, acne, and uneven pigmentation. This sunscreen isn’t sticky or greasy and doesn’t leave a white cast. It is infused with various actives and soothing ingredients like biosaccharide gum that help hydrate, heal, and nourish the skin. Its formula also works as a great primer for makeup.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Broad spectrum
- Non-greasy
- Non sticky
- Hypoallergenic
- Repairs and strengthens the skin
Cons
None
Did You Know?7.Best Creamy Texture:A’pieu Pure Block Daily Sun Cream SPF 45 PA+++
A’pieu Sun Cream with SPF 45 and PA+++ offers protection against UVA and UVB rays of the sun. This broad-spectrum sunscreen has a creamy texture that keeps the skin healthy, soft, and supple and does not leave any white cast. It contains aloe vera, watermelon extract, and berry blossom complex that get absorbed quickly and help keep your delicate skin hydrated. This matte sunscreen has a lightweight, non-sticky texture that blends smoothly over the skin and does not leave sticky residue post-application. Click here to check out a detailed review of this product based on a reviewer’s experience.
Note: Do not use this sunscreen if you use retinol products.
Pros
- Quick-absorbing formula
- Non-sticky
- Non-greasy
- Does not leave a residue
- Matte finish
- Dermatologist-tested
- Lightweight
- Shine-free
Cons
- Strong fragrance
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 3,592 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
8.Best Gentle:Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++
This soothing sun cream from Cosrx is a lightweight moisturizer that leaves your skin soft and gentle. Enriched with SPF50 and PA +++, it protects your skin from stress and environmental damage. The fast-absorbing formula moisturizes the skin without leaving it greasy. With the goodness of aloe leaf extract, it keeps your skin hydrated for a radiant look. This gentle formula needs to be applied generously 30 minutes before heading outdoors for complete protection.
Also Recommended By: theskincareculture has also listed Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++ in their top 10.[1]10 Best Korean Sunscreens For Acne-Prone Skin. theskincareculture. https://theskincareculture.com/best-korean-sunscreens-for-acne-prone-skin/Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-sticky
- Non-greasy
- Moisturizes the skin
- Soothes the skin
- No white cast
Cons
- May cause pilling
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 5,330 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
9.Best Skin-Protecting Formula:Missha Soft Finish Sun Milk SPF 50+ PA+++
Missha Soft Finish Sun Milk is a double-layered UV blocker that protects your skin even in humid weather conditions. It contains a Natural Barrier Complex and Antozone rose extract that nourishes your skin and keeps it hydrated. Enriched with glycofilm 1.5p and helichrysum flower water, it protects your skin from free radical damage and keeps it calm. This clinically-tested SPF 50 sunscreen has a skin-protecting formula and PA +++ to offer broad-spectrum UV protection. It does not leave any oily residue, even in high humidity conditions. However, based on a few reviewer’s experiences, it is recommended to conduct a patch test if you have oily or acne-prone skin.
Pros
- No white cast
- No oily residue
- Skin corrector
- Hydrating formula
- Brightens the skin
Cons
- May trigger acne
Managing acne can be a tough task especially while choosing the right sunscreen product. Here are some important factors to consider before buying a Korean acne-safe sunscreen.
Things To Consider Before Buying AmKorean Sunscreen For Acne-Prone Skin
- Skin Type: Some chemical sunscreens may cause skin breakouts with skin sensitivity. Choose a product that suits your skin and does not cause side effects such as irritation and inflammation. The choice of Korean sunscreen creams will vary if your skin type is dry or oily. Opt for oil-free, gel sunscreens for oily or combination skin and cream or lotion-based for dry skin.
- Formulation: Choose Korean sunscreens that are lightweight and do not feel too heavy on the skin. Such creams don’t leave additional residue nor do they clog the pores. Choose a cream that absorbs quickly while gliding smoothly over the face offering a fresh finish. The best sunscreens offer deep and long-lasting hydration on the skin. They prevent dryness and breakouts on the epidermis which is one of the major reasons for frequent acne.
- SPF Strength: You can find dermatologist-recommended sunscreens that have an SPF of 30 and above which is perfect for daily exposure to UV rays. If you are out in the sun for a longer duration, then it is advisable to pick a broad spectrum, dermatologically-approved sunscreen with SPF 30-50. Also, choose sweat-proof sunscreens, water-resistant sunscreens, or waterproof sunscreens for the best visible results.
- Ingredients To avoid: Read the label cautiously and avoid certain active ingredients in sunscreens like avobenzone and oxybenzone that are harmful for the body, and Retinyl Palmitate known as vitamin A, which when exposed to the sun can be cancerous.
- Additional Benefits: Sunscreen creams offer prevention against harmful UV radiation that can damage skin cells. Buy Korean sunscreen for acne-prone skin certified by experts to protect you against both UVA and UVB radiations. This will ensure that you are safe against the harmful effects of acne creation, skin damage, and also premature aging. Ensure that your sunscreen contains all essential ingredients like SPF 50+, homosalate, and octocrylene to offer full-proof protection.
Note:
Patch testing is always recommended when you are trying new products to check for adverse reactions.
Infographic: Dos & Don’ts Of Korean Sunscreens
Sunscreen is non-negotiable. When it comes to Korean sunscreens, they most certainly deserve a place in your skin care routine. They nourish, hydrate, and protect the skin and also treat dryness and hyperpigmentation. Scroll down to check out the infographic about the dos and don’ts of using a Korean sunscreen. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
It is usually suggested that oily or acne-prone skin does not require the use of sunscreen as it might intensify the skin issue. However, to the utter reality, every skin type needs sunscreen for the best results. Sunscreen plays an important role in protecting your skin from sunburns, premature aging, and cancer. Listed above are the best Korean SPF protection sunscreens for acne-prone skin that ensure optimum sun protection without irritating and further harming the skin. You can explore a variety of products including the Dr.Oracle 21; Stay A-Thera Sun Block SPF 50+ PA+++ which hydrates the skin and prevents inflammation, and the Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30 from Hero Cosmetics which does not clog the pores and is clinically tested.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Korean sunscreens reliable?
Yes. Korean sunscreens have become increasingly popular because of their unique formulation that protects your skin against sunburns.
Can sunscreens prevent breakouts?
Yes! Sunscreens protect your skin from harmful UV rays and reduce exposure to free radicals that can worsen acne and signs of aging. In addition, sunscreens also help treat uneven skin tones and reduce the redness of the skin.
Does putting sunscreen on acne make it worse?
No. Sunscreen does not cause acne. However, there are s few sunscreens contain ingredients that can worsen acne and clog your pores. Use a non-comedogenic sunscreen to avoid such skin issues.
Can I skip moisturizer and use sunscreen?
Yes. If you are using a moisturizing sunscreen, you can skip the moisturizer. Always use a sunscreen that has SPF 30 and above. Reapply your sunscreen (which is also your moisturizer, in this case) every 2 hours.
What happens when you wear sunscreen every day?
Wearing sunscreen every day will protect your skin from harmful sun rays and prevent premature aging and sunburns. It can even reduce the risk of skin cancer!
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this post, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a qualified skincare coach who uses her in-depth knowledge and attention to provide reviews and best product suggestions to her readers. After completing a considerable study and reading various internet reviews from credible sources, she has prepared a list of the best Korean sunscreens for acne prone skin. Each of the featured goods includes a detailed description as well as pros and cons to help you shop!
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
(i) K Beauty Hobbit
https://www.kbeautyhobbit.com/post/mary-may-cica-soothing-sun-cream-spf50-pa-review
(ii) Simply Saima
https://simplysaima.wordpress.com/2020/07/20/review-etude-house-sunprise-mild-watery-light-spf-50-pa/
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