Student Beans » Blog » Health & Fitness

The Best Korean Sunscreen & Where to Buy in the UK

, by Danielle Slauter, min. read

Everything you ever wanted to know about Korean sunscreen.

Thanks to the cult following and viral TikTok explosion of products, there’s never been a better time to shop for K-beauty. Whether you’ve been using K-beauty products for years or are new to the game, there is quite literally something for everyone. The latest product going viral? Korean sunscreen.

K-beauty has been a skincare staple for years now, but Korean sunscreen is having a major moment. Thanks to the lightweight formula, plethora of beauty benefits, and laundry list of ingredients that strengthen your skin, it’s no wonder everyone is looking to try K-beauty sunscreen.

The Best Korean Sunscreen & Where You Can Buy It In The UK

It’s not always easy to discern which viral beauty products are actually worth the hype. Just because something is all over TikTok doesn’t mean that it works. That’s why we’ve done all the hard work to ensure you get your hands on the best Korean sunscreen on the market.

We’ve also answered all your questions about Korean sunscreen, where to get it, and the different types you can purchase. You’ll be an expert in no time! Plus, you’ll find the perfect new K-beauty SPF for your skin, regardless of your skin type.

Is Korean sunscreen safe?

Yes! Korean sunscreen is 100% safe to use. It’s not any different than other beauty products with SPF in it. Most Korean sunscreens are chemical sunscreens, which makes them incredibly safe and effective to use.

Korean sunscreen is known for its weightless texture that quickly absorbs into the skin without leaving any residue. Hence why it’s become so popular in the last few months.

“Korean sunscreens often incorporate advanced formulations that provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays,” says Dr. Hamdan Abdullah Hamed, MBChB and Dermatologist at PowerYourCurls.com. “They are designed to be lightweight, non-greasy, and suitable for daily use, making them ideal for young people who may be prone to oily skin or acne.”

Where can I buy Korean sunscreen in the UK?

Thanks to the internet, Korean sunscreen has never been easier to purchase. Aside from Amazon, there are plenty of other retailers who supply K-beauty products now, too. Some of our favourite places to shop are:

What are the different types of sunscreen?

There are two main types of sunscreens: chemical and mineral.

Chemical sunscreen has special chemicals in the product that absorb into the skin when applied. This allows the UV rays to be converted into heat, which eventually dissipates from the skin.

Mineral sunscreen (also known as physical sunscreen) works by creating a barrier of minerals that remain on the skin’s surface. The minerals then reflect and physically block the UV rays from being absorbed into the skin. This is the best option for people with hyperpigmentation or who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or undergoing fertility treatments.

Both are effective, so it just depends on your preference. Just remember that you’ll probably have a harder time finding a mineral Korean SPF versus a chemical SPF.

Best Korean Sunscreen in the UK

COSRX Aloe Soothing Sunscreen SPF50 PA+++, £17.60

Why we love it: This sunscreen is infused with aloe, which helps shield the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Hello double protection! It absorbs into your skin quickly without making it feel greasy or sticky. Plus, it gives your skin plenty of much-needed hydration!

New customers who use Student Beans get 22% off their first order with LOOKFANTASTIC

Thank You Farmer Sun Project Skin Relief Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++, £22.00

Why we love it: Looking for an SPF with all-natural ingredients? Then this is the one to grab. Thank You Farmer’s products strengthen your skin’s natural barrier, allow it to repair and protect itself, and even helps with anti-aging.

Shop all the Cult Beauty discounts & deals when you use Student Beans

Erborian CC Red Correct – Colour Correcting Anti-Redness Cream With Soothing Effect SPF25, £41.00

Why we love it: Yes, an SPF can give you sun protection and work as a foundation at the same time. Don’t be freaked out at the green-colored product that comes out of the tube. This works to counteract any unwanted redness in your skin. The formula also contains glycerin, tiger grass extract, and vitamin E, all of which add moisture and plump your skin.

Thank You Farmer Sun Project Silky Calming Sun Stick SPF50+ PA++++ 14G, £23.00

Why we love it: Another great pick from Thank You Farmer, this sunscreen is for everyone who needs SPF on the go. The Silky Calming Stick makes application easier than ever. Its long-lasting formula means you won’t be reapplying every couple of hours—the perfect addition to throw in your bag!

Dr. Jart+ Premium BB Beauty Balm SPF 50, £37.00

Why we love it: If you’re like us and are rushing out the door every morning, you don’t want to spend a ton of time applying products to get ready for the day. Dr. Jart+ gets it, which is why they made their Premium BB Beauty Balm. It’s skincare, makeup, and SPF all rolled into one. Less time for getting ready means more time for sleeping.

Find all the Dr. Jart+ discounts when you shop with Student Beans

Huxley Sun Essence Stay Sun Safe SPF50+ PA++++, €36.99

Why we love it: Getting a sunscreen that isn’t harsh on your skin isn’t the easiest thing to do. Thankfully, Huxley developed a formula that balances sun protection and moisture. This 100% vegan formula also repairs your skin’s barrier while you wear it—what more could you ask for?

Get up to 20% off at MiiN when you shop with Student Beans

Village 11 Factory Daily Mild Sun Fluid, €24.99

Why we love it: If you hadn’t noticed, we love products that do double. This SPF 50+ sunscreen from Village 11 Factory also acts as an anti-aging serum! Developed with niacinamide and adenosine, this lightweight formula helps fight signs of aging and brightens your skin’s appearance.

Dr. Jart+ Cicapair™ Tiger Grass Camo Drops SPF35, £37.50

Why we love it: If you’re looking for a texture closer to a serum than a traditional sunscreen, this is the one to get. Dr. Jart+ developed a serum SPF that also acts as a color-corrector. A few drops will immediately neutralize any unwanted redness in the skin while giving a natural, dewy finish.

Sunscreen Tips From The Expert

These are the key tips when it comes to sunscreen use, according to Dr. Hamed:

  1. Look for Broad-Spectrum Protection: Ensure the sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection, which shields the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. This is crucial for preventing sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer.
  2. Check for Authenticity: Be cautious of counterfeit products, which can be ineffective or even harmful. Purchase from reputable sources and check for authenticity markers, such as official logos or holograms.
  3. Consider Your Skin Type: Choose a sunscreen that suits your skin type. For instance, gel-based sunscreens are great for oily skin, while cream-based ones may be better for dry skin. Non-comedogenic options are ideal for acne-prone skin.
  4. Daily Use is Essential: Make applying sunscreen a daily habit, even on cloudy days or when staying indoors, as UV rays can penetrate through windows and clouds.
  5. Reapply Regularly: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating, to maintain effective protection throughout the day.

You may also be interested in...

View more