SPF as a daily requisite is stressed by dermatologists around the world but is ingrained into K-beauty practices. In South Korea, skincare is ritualistic, and complexion protection is of the utmost importance. The country is a bellwether of innovation and that extends to the expansive selection of sun-shielding formulas.
Dr Jinah Yoo, Consultant Dermatologist at Maylin x Dr Jinah Yoo explains, “Korean skincare is often defined by hydrated, dewy, plump skin, and has gained popularity globally due to formulation and innovative ingredient use, affordability and aesthetically pleasing packaging”. She continues, “It has become synonymous with skin health, due to the results-driven formulations that generally don't disrupt the acid mantle, instead focusing on barrier support , meaning skin is never stripped or over exfoliated - the key to maintaining bouncy looking, and happy and healthy feeling skin”. Broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays is guaranteed but these are not the laborious, thick sunscreens that leave a white cast that once dominated the UK market.
In SPF 50 PA+++ and higher, Korean suncare products have lightweight serum-like textures, are infused with skin-loving and hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and Centella Asiatica and can be slipped into your AM routine with ease thanks to non-greasy finishes and their ability to layer under makeup . Dr Yoo explains, “In Korea, sun protection is a key cornerstone of skincare routines, with a strong cultural emphasis on maintaining youthful skin. This cultural focus drives continuous innovation and high consumer demand for effective sunscreens, meaning they use more advanced, next-gen UV filters compared to ones developed in the West, and there are rigorous testing standards”.
The idea is that you are treating your skin with nourishing and anti-ageing ingredients to improve skin health, while shielding against further damage from environmental stressors. According to Dr Yoo, “Korean sunscreens often include a PA rating (Protection Grade of UVA), which indicates the level of UVA protection and is more specific than Western methods of grading. In addition, Korean sunscreens are known for their minimal or no white cast and weightless texture, making them more appealing to a wider range of skin tones, and their absorbency is second to none”.
Diving into the world of Korean skincare, you will notice the same ingredients popping up. Dr Yoo says these are the hallmarks of K-beauty formulations. “You will often spot Centella Asiatica, commonly known as "cica" or "gotu kola”, ginseng, green tea , niacinamide , and rice and pearl extract.
All are staples in Korean formulas due to their healing, calming and skin-nourishing properties. When looking at SPF filters, try to look out for Tinosorb S, Tinosorb M, and Uvinul A Plus”. According to the dermatologist, “Fragrances, preservatives, or chemical UV filters can sometimes cause redness and irritation in the skin, and even essential oils and naturally derived ingredients can sometimes irritate.
Watch out for UV filters Oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, and octisalate if shopping for SPF”. Shop the best Korean SPFs below.
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