Choosing the right sunscreen is just as important as using one every day. Your skin type oily, dry, combination or sensitive, affects how a sunscreen feels, how well it wears under makeup, and even how likely you are to reapply it. In K-beauty, formulas are designed to match these types and textures precisely.
At ByKorea Beauty we believe sun protection isn’t one-size-fits-all. Let’s break down how to pick the best sunscreen for your skin type and highlight excellent Korean options.
What to consider when choosing a sunscreen
Before diving into skin-type specific picks, keep these key factors in mind:
-
Broad spectrum protection (UVA + UVB) with at least SPF 30 (ideally SPF 50+ for daily use).
-
Texture and finish: matte vs dewy vs invisible.
-
Ingredients that match your needs (oil control, hydration, soothing).
-
Compatibility with makeup or lifestyle (outdoors, humid weather, etc.).
K-beauty sunscreens often excel in cosmetic elegance: lightweight textures, minimal white-cast, additional skincare benefits.
For Oily & Acne-Prone Skin
What your skin needs: Lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas that help control shine, avoid clogging pores, and leave a matte or natural finish.
Look for: Oil-free, gel or watery texture, maybe mattifying ingredients like silica, niacinamide or green tea.
Product example:
COSRX Ultra Light Invisible Sun Cream SPF50+. A very lightweight Korean sunscreen with minimal residue, suited for oily/combination skin.
Tip: Reapply often when outdoors. Consider using blotting powders midday rather than heavier moisturizers.
For Dry or Dehydrated Skin
What your skin needs: Hydrating formulas that provide moisture in addition to UV protection, and finishes that don’t emphasize flakiness or rough texture.
Look for: Humectants (hyaluronic acid, glycerin), rich but absorbent textures, maybe a dewy finish.
Product example:
COSRX Vitamin E Vitalizing Sunscreen SPF50+. Contains Vitamin E plus hydrating ingredients, kinder to skin that tends to feel tight or dry.
Tip: You can layer a small amount of a richer moisturizer before or after (depending on texture) if your sunscreen doesn’t feel enough.
For Combination Skin
What your skin needs: A balance control excess oil in the T-zone but provide enough hydration for the cheeks and dry patches.
Look for: Medium-weight textures, formulas that adapt to zones (gel-cream hybrid), maybe soothing/repair ingredients.
Product example:
Beauty of Joseon Matte Sun Stick. Though in a stick format, a good alternative for reapplication especially in combination skin zones; Korean sunscreens often accommodate mixed needs.
Tip: Use your regular sunscreen and consider spot application of a mattifying SPF or powder on oilier zones midday.
For Sensitive or Reactive Skin
What your skin needs: Minimal-irritant formulas, fragrance‐free, calm-focused, possibly mineral or hybrid filters that minimize risk of stinging or redness.
Look for: “Hypoallergenic”, “fragrance-free”, soothing botanical extracts (centella asiatica, chamomile), mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) if your skin reacts to chemical filters.
Product example:
SKIN1004 Centella Hyalu Sica Sunscreen SPF50+. A soothing Korean sunscreen with centella and support ingredients for reactive skin.
Tip: Patch test first. Reapply at consistent intervals (every 2–3 hours) for true protection.
General Application & Reapplication Tips
-
Apply generously: about two fingers’ length for face and neck.
-
Apply as the last step of your morning routine (after moisturizer) so the sunscreen forms your protective shield.
-
Reapply every 2–3 hours when outdoors or sweating.
-
Don’t forget ears, neck, hands exposed areas often overlooked.
-
On cloudy or indoor days you still need SPF UVA penetrates windows.
Final Thoughts
Sun protection is non-negotiable for healthy, youthful skin, but how you apply and which formula you choose can make a big difference depending on your skin type. By selecting a sunscreen that matches your skin’s texture, finish preference, and lifestyle, you’ll be more likely to use it consistently.
At ByKorea Beauty we curate Korean sunscreens that deliver both protection and skincare benefits so you don’t have to compromise between “shielding from the sun” and “loving the feel on your skin."
