11 Of The Best Korean SPFs To Invest In For Spring
If you're on the hunt for a face SPF that absorbs without a trace, suits sensitive skin and doesn't leave that dreadful ghostly white cast, let us introduce you to the lightweight world of Korean SPFs.
The K-beauty boom has been steadfast in the last few years and Korean skincare brands like CosRx, Laneige and Dr Jart+ have made the mainstream thanks to their gel moisturisers, lightweight hydrators and niche innovations like snail mucin essence (trust us, it works). The biggest draw in Korean skincare, however, is its blossoming category of traceless sun care. From travel-friendly sticks to soothing Aloe-infused gels and SPFs for acne-prone skin, the options for Korean sunscreens are endless.
Why Are Korean Sunscreens So Good?
Kimberley Medd, Clinic Lead at Face the Future is the first to make a case for them: 'Korean SPF products have revolutionised the skincare industry with their unparalleled ability to provide advanced UV protection while also nourishing the skin from within. The fusion of cutting-edge technology and potent ingredients in Korean sunscreens not only shields the skin from harmful rays but also enhances its overall health and radiance.'
'Korean SPFs use innovative UV filters such as tinosorb, uvinul, and mexoryl, which provide high protection while maintaining a lightweight, non-oily texture, resulting in a natural finish,' says skincare expert Hayley Walker from Just My Look. 'These advanced filters offer broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, ensuring full SPF coverage without compromising on comfort or appearance.'
You may have noticed that Korean sun creams not only come with an SPF factor rating, but also a PA rating. But what does this actually mean?
'PA ratings measure the level of protection against UVA rays, offering a more accurate understanding of their effectiveness. The PA rating system, ranging from PA+ to PA++++, indicates how well a product shields your skin from UVA-induced ageing and long-term damage. This ensures you can choose a sun cream that provides comprehensive protection, tailored to your needs.'
And the benefits aren't just limited to innovation via UV filters. It's the additional skin-boosting ingredients that keep us coming back for me.
'Korean SPFs boast hydrating and brightening properties that allow the skin to thrive in the sun. By including ingredients such as rice extracts, these creams help reduce UV damage, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Rice extracts are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, which not only protect the skin but also promote cell regeneration and even out skin tone. Korean sun creams offer more than just protection; they go the extra mile with their natural, beneficial ingredients. Enriched with soothing and hydrating elements like aloe vera, green tea, and vitamin E, these creams stand out from the rest.'
Here, see the Korean SPFs we think are truly deserving of their hype.
The Best Korean Sunscreens and SPFs To Try This Spring
Sun Project Water Sun Cream SPF50+ PA+++
Arguably K-Beauty's best SPF in show, Thank You Farmer's suncream is a favourite of Korean skincare fans and the ELLE UK beauty team alike. It absorbs into skin effortlessly, leaving a plumped, hydrated feel (thank you, hyaluronic acid) as well as the coveted glass skin finish we expect from a nourishing water cream.
Every Sun Day Ultra Sheer Priming Sunscreen Stick SPF30
If squeezing your primer and SPF in a liquids bag feels more like a game of Tetris than effortless, efficient packing, we'd recommend investing in this handy travel stick. It envelopes skin in a matte, blurring finish which is perfect for make-up, while protecting it from dangerous UV rays. It's also excellent for topping up your sunscreen throughout the day.
Aloe Soothing Sunscreen SPF50 PA+++
If your skin veers on the more sensitive side, let us introduce you to this cult CosRx sunscreen. Powered by calming aloe vera extracts, it protects your skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays (note its SPF50 PA+++ rating), while replenishing your skin's moisture barrier and defending it from pesky environmental aggressors.
Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen SPF50
Loyal to your mineral sunscreen? Rest assured, there are plenty of effective mineral SPFs on the K-beauty market, perfect for defending against harsh UV rays. Boasting eight forms of hyaluronic acid for maximum nourishment and soothing cica for combatting redness, this is another great option if you're tackling sensitivity in the summer.
Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50+ PA++++
A viral glass skin finish doesn't require a twelve-step skincare routine, just a lightweight hydrating suncream that's complete with a mirror-like dew. This unique watery sun serum soaks into the skin effortlessly, using ingredients like hyaluronic acid and centella asiatica from Madagascar to soothe and plump lacklustre skin, all while boasting a SPF50+ PA++++ protection.
Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Balm Sunscreen Stick SPF30
While Glow Recipe is primarily an American beauty brand, there is no denying that Korean founders Sarah Lee and Christine Chang have drawn ample influence from the K-beauty scene. This sheer SPF stick features tone-balancing niacinamide, making it the perfect double agent for protecting against UV rays and remedying post-sun dark spots.
Relief Sun SPF50 PA++++
This viral K-beauty SPF is constantly selling out and for good reason. Armed with a host of barrier boosting ingredients, here you'll find probiotics and rice extracts (these make up a whopping 30% of the formula, by the way), for the ultimate nourishing final step in your skincare routine.
Premium BB Beauty Balm SPF 50
If you're looking for a tinted SPF moisturiser to replace your everyday foundation, look no further than Dr.Jart+'s Premium BB Beauty Balm. An all-time favourite of beauty editors everywhere, this luxurious feeling formula envelopes the skin in lightweight coverage as well as full sun protection. Available in four shades, it's the perfect summer skin companion.
Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen SPF50 PA++++
Purito has long been a favourite brand in the K-beauty sphere and this nourishing high-protection sunscreen gives ample evidence as to why. Best for oilier skin types, this matte Korean sunscreen leaves a comfortably hydrated finish that's neither shiny or greasy, while still harnessing the power of five different ceramides for an added boost of calmness.
Bio Watery Sun Cream SPF50 PA++++
Ideal for stressed and irritated skin types, this soothing SPF features mung bean extract (a potent antioxidant that calms as well as protects) and hyaluronic acid for major hydration. With a skincare-sun cream hybrid formula, it absorbs exactly like a serum. The result? Replenished skin without the icky slippy finish. Your skin barrier will thank you.
Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF50 PA++++
A moisture-boosting formula that doesn't compromise on coverage, this cult classic K-beauty SPF has a host of Korean skincare ingredients. Centella asiatica extract is a favourite for calming aggravated skin, while ceramides aid to strengthen your skin barrier. Not to mention, it glides onto skin like a dream.
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