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K-beauty sunscreens are truly like no other.

Two selfies and a swatch of Byrdie favorite Korean sunscreens

Byrdie

As you may know,Korean skincareis taking the Western cosmetics world by storm.

While it dominates many categories, K-beauty shines when it comes to sunscreen.

We also scoured customer reviews, consulted experts for their recommendations, andtesteda few.

Innisfree Daily UV Defense Invisible Broad Spectrum SPF 36 Sunscreen

PHOTO: Sephora

After considering dozens of formulas, we landed on these top-rated picks.

Another benefit: It’s water and sweat-resistant.

Our one criticism is that it can leave a white cast on deeper skin tones.

Best Sunscreens for Face

Christin is a fan of Cosrx’s sunscreens, and we can see why.

The hydrating formula provides optimal broad spectrum protection and can be used on its own or under makeup.

And thanks to an ample dose ofaloe vera, it soothes irritation and protects the skin from environmental damage.

Missha Soft Finish Sun Milk SPF 50+ PA+++

PHOTO: Amazon

Korean beauty expert and YouTube personalityKelly Driscollloves this formula and uses it herself.

Hallie Gould, editor-in-chief and GM:“It feels lightweight and offers a beautiful glowy finish.

These ingredients are alsorich in antioxidantsto calm and further protect your skin.

COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 PA+++

PHOTO: Amazon

We love that it has absolutely no white cast as well as soothing and hydrating properties.

But Suntique’s I’m Pure is differentits nonsticky, fast-absorbing, and delivers a matte finish.

This formula has a creamy but lightweight texture, and it’s hydrating without causing irritation.

Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel

PHOTO: Isntree

We also love that it contains cotton extract andsilicato balance the oil and sebum levels in the skin.

It protects the skin with variety of chemical blockers and even contains vitamin E to prevent environmental damage.

I appreciate that the formula is incredibly easy to blend and instantly makes my skin feel more hydrated.

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++

PHOTO: Amazon

I also love the dewy radiance it adds to my complexion.”

What to Look for in a Korean Sunscreen

Korean sunscreens work as well as any other brand.

Korean sunscreen is not necessarily better, although Korean brands often provide additional skin care benefits.

Before and after photos showing the effects of using Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++

Byrdie

Many products contain extracts and ingredients that can help nourish, calm, and protect the complexion.

She also contributes to testing products for her articles.

She updated this story with more picks based on testing insights.

Suntique I’M PURE Perfect Cica Suncream

PHOTO: StyleKorean

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Thank You Farmer Sun Project Water Sun Cream

PHOTO: Amazon

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NEOGEN Dermalogy Day-Light Protection Sunscreen SPF 50/PA+++

PHOTO: Amazon

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make p:rem UV Defense Me Daily Sun Fluid

PHOTO: Amazon

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Published 2021 Mar 10. doi:10.3390/plants10030522

Keen MA, Hassan I.Vitamin E in dermatology.

Indian Dermatol Online J.

Cosrx Vitamin E Vitalizing Sunscreen

PHOTO: Cosrx

2016 Jul-Aug;7(4):311-5. doi: 10.4103/2229-5178.185494.

PMID: 27559512; PMCID: PMC4976416.

Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50+ for Face

PHOTO: Dr. Jart+

Before and after photos showing the impact of using Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50+ for Face

Byrdie