9 Best Dermatologist-Approved Korean Sunscreens For Oily Skin
Protect your skin from the sun with these non-greasy Korean sunscreens meant for oily skin.
Dr. Enrizza Factor is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and Fellow of the Philippine Academy of Dermatologic Surgery Foundation Inc. She is also a member of the Philippine Academy of Cutaneous Surgery and an Associate of the Philippine Society of Venerology Inc.
Read full bio of Dr. Enrizza Factor
Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
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Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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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.
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If you are here looking for the best Korean sunscreen for oily skin, you have landed in the right place! While sunscreen is an essential skin care product in your everyday routine, do you know that you need to get one as per your skin type? While people who have a dry skin type may benefit from sunscreens with additional moisturizing ingredients, those with oily skin or excess oil production should go for something that absorbs and balances your skin’s natural oils which helps keep the skin healthy. Korean skin care products, with their exotic natural ingredients, are formulated to suit different skin types and soothe skin irritation.
Dr. Enrizza Factor, a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and Fellow of the Philippine Academy of Dermatologic Surgery Foundation Inc., says, “People with oily skin should use sunscreen to protect against skin cancer and sun damage. Korean sunscreens are really changing the game when it comes to sun protection. They feel more like skin care and they have more skin care ingredients; they use updated SPF filters, which protect you from UVB and UVA rays. Korean sunscreens have become a superior option for sun protection because of their skin care-like properties.”
Traditional sunscreens are often laden with chemicals and ingredients that help form a protective barrier on your skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun. However, if you know where to look, you can also find some sunscreens made with natural skin care ingredients. Also, you should select one that offers additional ingredients or benefits for your skin type, other than protecting your skin from sun damage. People with high oil production should stay away from moisturizing, dewy, or glow-inducing products that contain natural oils. People with skin irritation or inflammation should look for soothing and high-quality ingredients. Thankfully, there are some professional-grade and high-quality Korean sunscreens specially formulated for oily skin that enhance your skin health. To help you learn more about them and get one for yourself, we have shortlisted the 9 best Korean sunscreens for you to begin with and to give you healthy skin. Check them out below!
In This Article
9 Best Korean Sunscreens For Oily Skin (2024) – Reviews
1. Best For Sensitive Skin:Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish
Nothing better than a Korean sunscreen for acne-prone skin that targets oily zones. It gives the shine-prone and oily skin people what they really need— oil-free skin and sun protection together. This 100% mineral-based sunscreen is free from harmful ingredients. From providing long-lasting, strong protection to taking extra care of your skin, this Korean mineral sunscreen for oily skin does it all. Enriched with sunflower seeds, acai berry, and aloe vera, it is extremely nourishing, helps with skin irritation, and is super mild in nature. The SPF 50+ sunscreen with PA+++ works for all skin types and is probably one of the best Korean sunscreens for oily skin. Blogger Annie Le, writes, “MAF absorbs easily into the skin, instantly mattifying and smoothing the texture of the skin. It isn’t heavy or greasy and is lightweight; it also doesn’t leave a white cast or streaks on the face (i).”
To understand more about the usage of this skin care product, check out the tester’s experience in this YouTube video.
Pros
- Sebum-free
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Natural ingredients
- No white cast
Cons
- Fragrance doesn’t linger enough
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 9,549 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
2. Best UV Ray Protection:Missha Soft Finish Sun Milk SPF50+/PA+++
Those who use Korean sunscreens will surely know this brand and those who are new to this world must try out this product. This innovative formula is popular for its double layer UV-blocking system that can keep sweat and water away and let the sunscreen stay longer. In case you live in a hot and humid place, this is the best Korean oil-control sunscreen to opt for. It gives a satin finish and makes the skin soft and even. Key ingredients of this Korean formula are natural barrier complex, glycofilm and helichrysum flower water. These natural ingredients keep your skin hydrated, protect it from the sun and offer a relaxing and calming effect. When looking for a Korean sunscreen for oily, dehydrated skin, this is one you should choose. A blogger says, “The milky texture blends in so easily without excessive rubbing and disappears into my skin. After just a minute, it’s completely gone as if I never applied it. It’s not sticky or greasy, which is amazing for a mineral sunblock (ii).”
Pros
- Satin finish
- Long-lasting
- Skin-friendly ingredients
- Can be used in all seasons
Cons
- Less quantity
3. Best Moisturizing Formula:Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 PA+++
This is usually termed as a sun-moisturizer as the basic nature of this Korean beauty product is to nourish the skin along with maximum protection. It contains clinically-tested ingredients such as aloe arborescens leaf extract which is super soothing for the skin. This K-beauty sunscreen from Cosrx is quite similar to a light moisturizer which ditches any kind of dryness and balances oil in the skin. Thus, the lightweight sunscreen is suitable for oily skin. In case you are looking for a product that works as both a lightweight moisturizer and a broad-spectrum sunscreen, the cosrx aloe soothing sun cream has to be your choice. It is also a product for those with dry and sensitive skin types. This waterproof sunscreen for oily skin offers SPF50 PA+++, which means you get three times more protection from the sun, minus the stickiness as with other sunscreens and radiant skin as well. This product is supported by clinical data, making it an ideal choice for most skin types across countries. Take a look at this YouTube video for a detailed visual demonstration of this product.
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Moisturizing effect
- No greasy residue
- Hydrates skin
Cons
- Slight aloe scent
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 5,330 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish Best For Sensitive Skin | Missha Soft Finish Sun Milk SPF50+/PA+++ Best UV Ray Protection | Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 PA+++ Best Moisturizing Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Items | 1 | 1 | - |
| Dimensions | 2.2 x 1.61 x 0.91 inches | 3.94 x 1.97 x 3.94 inches | 3.94 x 1.97 x 3.94 inches |
| Weight | 1.76 Ounces | 3.88 Ounces | 3.88 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 9,549 | 3,602 | 5,330 |
| Price | $12.95 | $16.5 | $15.38 |
4. Best For Day Long Wear:A’pieu Pure Block Daily Sun Cream SPF45/PA+++
A’pieu Pure Block sun cream is one of the most suited Korean beauty products for your daily sun protection needs. It has a non-sticky texture that controls oil production and suits all skin types. This easy-to-spread formula leaves no residue and gives a matte finish that stays with you all day long. Formulated with berry blossom complex, watermelon extract, and aloe vera, it is highly nourishing and has a calming effect, especially for skin irritation. When looking for the best Korean sunscreen to keep your skin revitalized and sun-protected, try this perfect sunscreen. Thousands of public reviewers tested this K-beauty sunscreen and received visible results.
Pros
- Natural ingredients
- Lasts long
- Non-oily finish
- No white cast
Cons
- Strong fragrance
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 3,592 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
5. Best For Reapplication:ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Airy Sun Stick
The ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Airy Sun Stick is a sunscreen in a stick formulation specially designed for oily skin and is a must-have for makeup lovers! It is a solid sunscreen that feels like you are wearing nothing on the skin. It is easy to use anytime and anywhere and is ideal for applying over makeup. The teardrop shape enables you to reach every corner of your face and form a protective barrier from UV rays. It is infused with eight types of hyaluronic acid, adenosine, and niacinamide to prevent dryness. It has SPF 50, PA++++, and broad spectrum protection. It is very easy to travel with this perfect sunscreen due to its compact size.
Pros
- Travel-friendly
- Matte look
- Natural finish
- Easy to reapply
- No white cast
- Maximum protection against sun and aging
- Cooling on the skin
Cons
- Gives a heavy feeling on skin
6. Best Non-Greasy:Self Beauty Ultralight Feel Free Sunscreen
The Self Beauty Feel Free Sunscreen is a water-based Korean sunscreen with an ultralight texture. It is most suited for people with excess oil production or oily skin, but those with dry skin can also use it. It has an SPF of 50 and chemical UV filters that provide broad-spectrum protection. This non-greasy sunscreen has a lotion-type texture with a two-in-one formula that works as a lightweight moisturizer and a sunscreen. The silky smooth, velvety texture is easy to apply and blend into the skin. It contains hyaluronic acid and centella asiatica that soothe and calm the skin and keep it hydrated. This moisturizing sunscreen leaves no white cast on mature skin. It is also an ethical choice as this product is not tested on animals.
Pros
- Reel-safe
- Suits all skin types
- Hydrating formula
- Water-based texture
- Fast-absorbing
- Cruelty-free
- Unisex
Cons
- The chemical filters may not suit sensitive skin.
7. Best For Damaged Skin:JM Solution Marine Luminous Pearl Sun Spray SPF50+PA++++
The JM Solution Marine Luminous Pearl Sun Spray Pearl SPF 50+ PA++++ Sunscreen leaves your skin moisturized while protecting it from the sun’s rays. It also offers a natural glow to your skin. This physical barrier sunscreen is enriched with pearl extract, which is rich in amino acids and mineral ingredients to help prevent melanin development and treat damaged skin. It contains tocopherol and vitamin E that protects the skin from free radical damage and makes it more resistant to UV radiation. The sun fluid is also infused with collagen that acts as a water-binding agent and makes the skin supple, smooth, and silky and calms skin irritation. The brand claims that its products are scientifically formulated and have clinically-proven efficacy even in the most irritation-prone skin.
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- SPF 50+
- Natural ingredients
- Hydrates the skin
Cons
- Overwhelming scent
8. Best Soothing:IUNIK Centella Calming Daily Sunscreen
For oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types, the IUNIK Centella Calming Daily Sunscreen is one of the best Korean sunscreens. This dermatologically tested Korean sunscreen for sensitive skin features a lightweight formula, silky smooth texture, broad-spectrum sun protection, and a calming effect on the skin. It contains 49% centella asiatica, beta-glucan, adenosine, and niacinamide to moisturize and soothe and help with skin irritation for several hours. The product has clinically proven results. In addition, it boasts an SPF of 50, a PA++++ rating, and a creamy texture with no white residue, cast or greasiness. This feathery light sunscreen is suitable for wearing under makeup, outdoors in the sun, and underwater. The brand does not do animal testing, making it ideal for those looking for an ethical sunscreen.
Pros
- Calming ingredients
- Lightweight texture
- Matte look
- Natural finish
- No white cast
- Light texture
- No greasy residue
- Suits all skin types
- Reel-safe
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
None
9. Best Pore Mininizer:IPKN Big Apple Sun Cream
IPKN Big Apple Sun Cream is a pore-minimizing sunscreen formulated with SPF 50, which reduces excess sebum production, provides smoother skin, and retains its natural moisture. This oil-free cream protects the skin all day long and can be used as a perfect base for makeup. Concentrated apple water extract keeps the skin calm. Niacinamide infused in the non-comedogenic sunscreen improves the appearance of the pores, minimizes the fine lines & dullness, and evens the skin tone, and gives you healthy skin.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Apple fragrance
- Price-worthy
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Leaves residue
After reading the review of the best Korean sunscreens for oily skin that can be used in 2024, here are certain points to keep in mind. These are really important and deserve your attention before buying a Korean sunscreen for flawless skin.
How To Choose Korean Sunscreen For Oily Skin?
There are a number of Korean sunscreens in the market these days and choosing one can be really difficult. But if you follow these tips, choosing the best Korean Sunscreen for oily skin can be sorted easily.
- Understand what’s what? Yes, it is important to know the difference between SPF, UVB, UVA, and PA before opting for any sunscreen for oily skin. SPF refers to the sun protection factor whereas PA refers to the protection grade. Both of these are required to stay safe from the harmful UVA & UVB rays of the sun. The + sign indicates maximum protection from the sun. So you must check the SPF & PA grade before buying a sunscreen.
- The consistency of a shine-control sunscreen formulated for oily skin must be such that it hydrates the skin and doesn’t leave any greasy residue. Generally, gel-based formulas are considered wonderful for oily skin. UV sprays and water-based sunscreens are also quite good for people with oily skin. Go for dermatologically-approved sunscreens to prevent unwanted damage and achieve glass skin.
- Another quality to check for is water resistance of the product as people with oily skin can get all oily and sweaty. You don’t want to miss out on those pool days or beach days either.
- A sunscreen with no pore-clogging ingredients is considered safe for people with oily skin. So look for sunscreens that have non-clogging ingredients along with oil-free formulation.
- Ditch thick formulas that can trigger your skin towards acne or leave you with a heavy feeling on the skin. Opt for sunscreens that are scientifically formulated with clinically verified ingredients. It is recommended to perform a patch test to check for allergies.
Important Factors To Consider When Buying Sunscreen
- Always choose a sunscreen based on your skin type and personal preferences.
- Do not forget to check out the manufacturing and expiry dates of your Korean product.
- Opt for a sunscreen that offers more than broad spectrum SPF 30 and provides excellent protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
- Do not invest in sunscreen without knowing its ingredients or at least the active ingredient, as it may cause skin irritation. It is better to go for hypoallergenic formulas approved by dermatologists to protect your delicate skin from damage.
- Pick a sunscreen that can be used as per your routine. For example, if you are somebody who needs to wear makeup, choose a product that can be worn as a base for makeup without any greasy feeling. In case you are in a profession where you sweat a lot, choose a water-proof and sebum-regulating sunscreen.
Infographic: How To Choose A Korean Sunscreen For Oily Skin: A Guide
If you have an oily skin type, most sunscreens tend to feel heavy or greasy on your skin. Also, most commercial chemical sunscreens are made with strong ingredients that keep your skin protected from UV rays but might cause rashes or breakouts. Thankfully, Korean sunscreens are made with natural, skin-friendly ingredients and you can easily incorporate them in your daily skin care routine. These fragrance-free sunscreens usually have a lightweight and non-greasy formula. But how do you choose the best one for you?
In the below infographic, we have listed a few tips to help you choose the best Korean sunscreen for your skin. Scroll down for more information. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Oily skin tends to get greasy soon after cleansing the skin thoroughly. This skin type needs special attention and products that are specially formulated, keeping in mind its requirements. Unlike regular chemical sunscreen, sunscreens formulated for oily or combination skin should be free from oils that could increase greasiness. The best Korean sunscreens for oily skin are packed with high-quality ingredients that get absorbed into the skin without any excess oiliness, balancing the skin’s natural oils. If you are looking for a lightweight sunscreen that suits sensitive or acne-prone skin, consider the Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish. The IUNIK Centella Calming Daily is ideal for sensitive or irritated skin as it soothes and reduces inflammation. For a lightweight and non-greasy formula, with a matte finish, you can try the Missha Soft Finish Sun Milk SPF50+/PA+++. In addition, the K-beauty products listed in our article are loaded with skin-friendly ingredients that nourish your skin, protect it from UV rays, and skin irritation, and offer a Korean beauty natural glow!
Why Trust Stylecraze?
Krati Darak, the author, is a skin care aficionado devoted to exploring, researching and sharing products that fortify and protect all skin types. She discusses the best Korean sunscreens that can be used on oily skin types. Each of these products and their reviews have been studied and vetted by the author for your benefit. She recommends these products based on SPF spectrum, ingredients, and other factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Pa+++ In Korean Sunscreens?
PA+++ is a protection grade of UV-A. PA+ signifies the protection efficacy. The + sign indicates the level of protection. The sign “PA+++” reflects a greater level of protection efficacy than PA++.
Is SPF 100 Too Much?
Yes, SPF 100 is too much. Though it feels like SPF 100 sunscreen could be better at providing effective sun protection than SPF 50, 40, or 30, the reality is that SPF 100 is only slightly better at sun protection and won’t really make a lot of difference. Choosing SPF between 15 to 50 is ideal as these sunscreens are appropriate for the skin.
Do I Really Need To Reapply Sunscreen Every 2 Hours?
Yes, you need to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. This is because no matter how high the SPF is, it can’t really protect you for long from the sun if you have been sweating or swimming. If you spend time indoors where you are away from the sun then you might not need to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours.
Does SPF 100 Prevent Tanning?
SPF 100 does not prevent tanning completely. It surely can protect your skin from the sun effectively for a few hours.
How long does a Korean sunscreen last?
A Korean sunscreen can last up to a year once the seal is opened. The unopened shelf life of these sunscreens is for 2.5 years or 30 months.
How often do Koreans reapply sunscreen?
Koreans reapply sunscreen every three hours. However, matte sunscreens’ effect can last longer.
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. Honeysuckle Haiku
https://projectswitchgirl.wordpress.com/2019/06/11/etude-house-sunprise-mild-water-light-mild-airy-finish-spf50-pa-sunscreen-review/
ii. Strawberry Blueberry
https://strawberryblueberry.wordpress.com/2019/08/23/review-missha-all-around-safe-block-soft-finish-sun-milk-ex-spf-50-pa/
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- 9 Best Sunscreens For Oily Skin
- Best Japanese Sunscreens For All Skin Types
- Best Recommended Sunscreens For Every Skin Type
- Best Sunscreens For Acne-Prone Skin
- Best Sunscreens For Eczema
Read full bio of Dr. Enrizza Factor
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Read full bio of Medha Deb
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
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