10 Best Korean Sunscreens in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
Finding the perfect sunscreen can be a challenge, especially with the many options available from different brands. Korean sunscreens have become a popular choice due to their advanced formulations and skin-friendly ingredients. In this article, discover the best Korean sunscreens available in the Philippines!
Our comprehensive buying guide, featuring insights from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Meg Sison, ensures you choose the right product for your skin type and needs. Additionally, we’ve included a list of top-rated Korean sunscreens that you can conveniently purchase on Lazada and Shopee.
Quick List - Top Korean Sunscreens
Nature Republic
Cooling and Lightweight Sun Protection With a Soft, Powdery Finish
Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.
Rica is a writer and editor for mybest PH who first joined the team in October 2020. She mostly writes lifestyle titles, especially ones that tap into fashion, beauty, food, arts, and hobbies. Though she's someone who dabbles in whatever sparks her interest, Rica spends most of her free time fangirling, watching races, and playing with her dogs.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- What Makes Korean Sunscreens Special?
- Tips from a Board-Certified Dermatologist
- Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Dr. Meg Sison
- How Often Should You Use Sunscreen?
- Are Korean Sunscreens Suitable for Filipino Skin?
- Should You Apply More Sunscreen to Get More Protection from the Sun?
- Discover Other Korean Skincare Products
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
What Makes Korean Sunscreens Special?
Korean sunscreens are renowned for their lightweight, innovative formulas, contrasting the often sticky, heavy feeling associated with many Western sunscreen brands. Despite their featherlight texture, many Korean sunscreens boast higher SPF content than their Western counterparts, ensuring robust protection from harmful UV rays.
Moreover, these sunscreens are packed with nourishing ingredients that cater to various skin concerns such as oiliness, dryness, and uneven skin tones. As a bonus, they blend seamlessly with makeup, making them an excellent choice for those who want their sun protection to complement their beauty routine.
Korean sunscreens are a hit among consumers because people prefer cosmetically elegant sunscreens that are easier to blend and are great to use for the hot, humid weather in the Philippines. In addition, these sunscreens also incorporate skincare ingredients that soothe the skin and provide additional benefits such as Centella Asiatica and niacinamide.
How to Choose a Korean Sunscreen – Buying Guide
Get SPF 30 or Higher and Check the PA Level
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how long it takes for UVB rays to cause sunburn, skin redness, and premature aging. Dermatologists recommend using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher for adequate protection. Korean sunscreens often use the PA system, which measures protection against UVA rays. UVA rays penetrate deeply and cause skin darkening and premature aging.
The PA system ranges from PA+ to PA++++, with higher ratings offering more extended protection. This rating is based on the Persistent Pigmentation Darkening Test (PPD), which measures darkening from UVA radiation. To ensure comprehensive protection from both UVA and UVB damage, choose sunscreens labeled as broad-spectrum.
Broad-spectrum sunscreens are recommended so that you can have both UVA and UVB protection. It is important to choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which blocks 97% of the sun’s UVB rays. A higher number SPFs block slightly more of the sun’s UVB rays, but no sunscreen can block 100% of the sun’s UVB rays.
UVA protection factor is required to be at least one-third of the labeled SPF. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the dermis, and they are responsible for photoaging, while UVB penetrates the epidermis and can cause sunburns. Both types of UV rays can actually cause skin cancer.
Select Among the Formulation Types
When selecting a Korean sunscreen, consider your skin type, any specific skin concerns, and your personal preferences for texture and application. Know more about the different types of sunscreens below.
Physical: Best for Sensitive Skin
Physical sunscreens, also known as mineral sunscreens, contain active mineral ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients sit on the skin's surface and reflect UV rays away.
They are ideal for sensitive skin because they are less likely to cause irritation and start protecting immediately upon application. They also tend to be less likely to clog pores, making them a good option for those with acne-prone skin.
Chemical: Lighter and Easier to Blend
These sunscreens tend to be lighter in texture, making them easier to blend into the skin without leaving a white cast. They are ideal for daily use. However, they can sometimes irritate, particularly those with sensitive skin.
The most widely used UVB filter worldwide is octinoxate, while the most widely used UVA filter is oxybenzone. Organic filters are more cosmetically elegant, but they have the tendency to sting the eyes, especially when you accidentally rub the product in your eye area.
Hybrid: Provides a More Comprehensive Coverage
The physical filters provide immediate protection, while the chemical filters ensure a lightweight and non-greasy application. These offer the best of both worlds, making them suitable for a wide range of skin types and conditions.
Consider Your Skin Type or Concern
As with any other skincare product, it is important to start with your skin type and any concerns you might have to ensure you get the most appropriate formula and effective protection.
Oily, Acne-prone Skin: Gel- or Water-Based, Non-Comedogenic, and Oil-Free Formulas
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, it's essential to choose a sunscreen that won't further worsen these conditions. Look for formulations labeled as "non-comedogenic," meaning they won't clog pores. Oil-free sunscreens are also beneficial as they help prevent adding extra shine to the skin.
Gel-based or water-based Korean sunscreens are typically lightweight and absorb quickly without leaving a greasy residue, making them ideal for oily skin types.
For those with oily skin, look for lightweight formulas such as sunscreen fluid or gel. These contain more humectants that draw moisture from the atmosphere and hydrate your skin without making it sticky. Look for ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid.
Sunscreens with niacinamide can also help with excess sebum production. Soothing ingredients like panthenol are great because they have anti-inflammatory properties, and they likewise function as humectants. Beta-glucan is useful for its skin healing benefit because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It also aids in skin hydration.
Dry Skin: Cream Sunscreens With Hydrating Ingredients
For dry skin, picking a sunscreen with hydrating ingredients is crucial to maintaining the skin's moisture balance. Opt for sunscreens with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides, which help to attract and retain moisture in the skin.
Formula-wise, cream sunscreens can provide an extra layer of hydration and help prevent your skin from drying out further. Additionally, some sunscreens include nourishing oils and butter that offer both sun protection and deep hydration.
Other hydrating ingredients to look for in sunscreens are ceramides, squalane, glycerin, and natural moisturizing factors, to name a few.
Sensitive Skin: Fragrance-free Sunscreens With Soothing Ingredients
Physical sunscreens are often recommended because they are less likely to cause skin reactions. Additionally, look for formulations that include soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, and calendula, which can help to calm and protect the skin. Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic sunscreens are also good choices for minimizing potential irritation.
Those with sensitive skin should look for sunscreens with fewer ingredients to minimize skin allergies or irritation. They can also look for fragrance-free sunscreens and those with inorganic/physical filters like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide because these two filters have no reports of photoallergy, according to existing literature.
10 Best Korean Sunscreens to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
SPF | PA Rating | Type | Best For | Key Ingredients | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Face Republic Purity Sun Essence | | Skincare-Like Sunscreen That Cares for the Planet | 50+ | PA++++ | Hybrid Sunscreen | All Skin Types | Niacinamide, Plant Extracts, Ceramides | 50ml | |
2 | COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream | | Keep Your Skin Soft, Soothed, and Protected From the Sun | 50+ | PA+++ | Hybrid Sunscreen | All Skin Types | Aloe Leaf Extrac | 50ml | |
3 | Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics + B5 | | Nourish and Protect with the Power of Rice & B5 | 50+ | PA++++ | Chemical Sunscreen | All Skin Types | Rice Extracts, Grain Probiotics Complex | 50ml | |
4 | Nature Republic California Aloe Fresh Powdery Sun Stick | | Cooling and Lightweight Sun Protection With a Soft, Powdery Finish | 50+ | PA++++ | Chemical Sunscreen | All Skin Types | Aloe Vera Extract | 24ml | |
5 | Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel | | Ultra-Light Hydrating Sun Gel with Hyaluronic Acid for All-Day Moisture | 50+ | PA++++ | Chemical Sunscreen | Dry Skin | Hyaluronic Acid | 50ml | |
6 | Tocobo Cotton Soft Sun Stick | | A Sunblock Stick That Mattifies Without Drying the Skin | 50+ | PA++++ | Hybrid Sunscreen | All Skin Types | Cotton Extract, Herb AC Complex (4 herbal extracts), Mung Bean Extract | 19 g | |
7 | SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50+ PA++++ | | Lightweight Hydration Meets Powerful Sun Protection – Dewy Glow, Zero Stickiness | 50+ | PA++++ | Chemical Sunscreen | All Skin Types | Hyaluronic Acid, Centella Asiatica Extract | 50ml | |
8 | Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen | | Moisturize and Protect Your Skin With Hyaluronic Acid and Silver Birch Tree Sap | 50+ | PA++++ | Chemical Sunscreen | All Skin Types | Birch Juice, Niacinamide, Vitamins, and Hylauronic Acid | 50ml | |
9 | Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish | | A Non-sticky Daily Sunscreen With Calming Properties | 50+ | PA++++ | Physical Sunscreen | Normal and Sensitive Skin Types | Aloe Vera Leaf Extract | 55ml | |
10 | Numbuzin No.1 Clear Filter Sun Essence | | A Lightweight Sun Essence With Soothing and Hydrating Benefits | 50+ | PA++++ | Chemical Sunscreen | All Skin Types | Heartleaf, Centella Asiatica, Licorice Root Extracts | 50ml | |
Face RepublicPurity Sun Essence
| SPF | 50+ |
|---|---|
| PA Rating | PA++++ |
| Type | Hybrid Sunscreen |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
Skincare-Like Sunscreen That Cares for the Planet
- Brightens and nourishes skin with niacinamide and plant-based extracts
- Certified vegan, cruelty-free, and reef-safe for eco-conscious sun protection
- Stays water-resistant and long-lasting, making it perfect for active or outdoor activities
- Dermatologist-tested and gentle on the skin, it's ideal for daily use—even for sensitive skin
Reviews mention:
Reviewers say this sunscreen feels like skincare with its lightweight, hydrating texture that leaves no white cast. It’s especially gentle on sensitive skin, and the subtle scent fades quickly. The invisible finish also layers well with other products.
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, Plant Extracts, Ceramides |
|---|---|
| Net Weight | 50ml |
COSRXAloe Soothing Sun Cream
| SPF | 50+ |
|---|---|
| PA Rating | PA+++ |
| Type | Hybrid Sunscreen |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
Keep Your Skin Soft, Soothed, and Protected From the Sun
- Soothes and hydrates with krantz aloe to keep skin calm and moisturized
- Absorbs quickly with a light, non-greasy texture and no white cast
- Delivers SPF 50 broad-spectrum protection without drying the skin
- Works year-round—feels light in summer and keeps skin moisturized in colder months
Reviews mention:
Buyers praise this sun cream for being gentle yet effective on all skin types. Its non-clogging, non-irritating formula, combined with its moisturizing texture, makes it a go-to for everyday use..
| Key Ingredients | Aloe Leaf Extrac |
|---|---|
| Net Weight | 50ml |
Beauty of JoseonRelief Sun: Rice + Probiotics + B5
| SPF | 50+ |
|---|---|
| PA Rating | PA++++ |
| Type | Chemical Sunscreen |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
Nourish and Protect with the Power of Rice & B5
- Lightweight, refreshing sunscreen with a hydrating formula.
- Contains nourishing Rice extract to brighten and soothe skin.
- Enriched with Vitamin B5 for deep moisture and skin barrier support.
- Provides broad-spectrum SPF protection against UVA and UVB rays.
- Non-greasy, fast-absorbing texture ideal for daily use.
| Key Ingredients | Rice Extracts, Grain Probiotics Complex |
|---|---|
| Net Weight | 50ml |
Nature RepublicCalifornia Aloe Fresh Powdery Sun Stick
| SPF | 50+ |
|---|---|
| PA Rating | PA++++ |
| Type | Chemical Sunscreen |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
Cooling and Lightweight Sun Protection With a Soft, Powdery Finish
- Infused with aloe vera extract for natural hydration and soothing effects
- Provides broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ protection
- Leaves a soft, powdery finish that helps reduce oil
- Transparent and dries quickly
Reviews mention:
Many reviewers love the powdery texture that doesn’t feel heavy or greasy at all. They like that it keeps their skin smooth and helps control midday shine. Some also enjoy the cooling sensation and subtle scent it gives off.
| Key Ingredients | Aloe Vera Extract |
|---|---|
| Net Weight | 24ml |
IsntreeHyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel
| SPF | 50+ |
|---|---|
| PA Rating | PA++++ |
| Type | Chemical Sunscreen |
| Best For | Dry Skin |
Ultra-Light Hydrating Sun Gel with Hyaluronic Acid for All-Day Moisture
Features and benefits:
- Provides strong defense against UVA and UVB rays, helping prevent sunburn and premature skin aging.
- Deeply hydrates and retains moisture in the skin, keeping it soft and plump throughout the day.
- Help brighten the skin, balance oil-moisture levels, and strengthen the skin barrier, which supports overall skin health.
- Absorbs quickly without leaving a white cast or greasy feel, making it comfortable for daily use and ideal as a makeup base.
- Calm redness and irritation, making the formula suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
| Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid |
|---|---|
| Net Weight | 50ml |
TocoboCotton Soft Sun Stick
| SPF | 50+ |
|---|---|
| PA Rating | PA++++ |
| Type | Hybrid Sunscreen |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
A Sunblock Stick That Mattifies Without Drying the Skin
In addition, it has the Antisebum P Complex, a blend of numerous plant extracts to help control sebum production. It also has small particles of silica powder that absorb excess oil and even out the skin. But even though it is mattifying, it won't dry out your skin - in fact, it also moisturizes and calms the skin with the Herbal AC Complex.
| Key Ingredients | Cotton Extract, Herb AC Complex (4 herbal extracts), Mung Bean Extract |
|---|---|
| Net Weight | 19 g |
SKIN1004Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50+ PA++++
| SPF | 50+ |
|---|---|
| PA Rating | PA++++ |
| Type | Chemical Sunscreen |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
Lightweight Hydration Meets Powerful Sun Protection – Dewy Glow, Zero Stickiness
- A serum-like chemical sunscreen with SPF50+ PA++++ providing strong UVA/UVB protection.
- Ultra-lightweight, non-sticky, and fast-absorbing with a dewy, moisturizing finish and no white cast.
- Contains Hyalu-Cica, Centella Asiatica Extract, Hyaluronic Acid to deeply hydrate, soothe, and promote skin healing and regeneration.
- Enriched with Baby Green Complex, a blend of 7 sprout extracts (Camellia, Wheat, Broccoli) for antioxidant protection and skin nourishment.
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, with clinically tested hypoallergenic and irritation-safe formulation.
| Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid, Centella Asiatica Extract |
|---|---|
| Net Weight | 50ml |
Round LabBirch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen
| SPF | 50+ |
|---|---|
| PA Rating | PA++++ |
| Type | Chemical Sunscreen |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
Moisturize and Protect Your Skin With Hyaluronic Acid and Silver Birch Tree Sap
This sunscreen is enriched with silver birch tree sap, which locks in moisture and protects the skin against environmental factors. It also contains hyaluronic acid, providing superior hydration, anti-aging benefits, and skin-soothing effects. Users raved about its lightweight texture and how it moisturizes even very dry skin.
| Key Ingredients | Birch Juice, Niacinamide, Vitamins, and Hylauronic Acid |
|---|---|
| Net Weight | 50ml |
Etude HouseSunprise Mild Airy Finish
| SPF | 50+ |
|---|---|
| PA Rating | PA++++ |
| Type | Physical Sunscreen |
| Best For | Normal and Sensitive Skin Types |
A Non-sticky Daily Sunscreen With Calming Properties
Got sensitive skin? This sunscreen from Etude House is another good find. It is crafted from a 100% mineral-based formula that is sebum-free, and it comes with calming plant-based ingredients such as Centella asiatica and aloe vera to soothe your skin.
Texture-wise, it is non-greasy and not sticky. It allows a smooth application, making it comfortable to wear even during sweltering days or for those who never liked the malagkit feeling some sunscreen leave. However, note that this isn't water- or sweat-proof, so it might just be best as an everyday sunscreen.
| Key Ingredients | Aloe Vera Leaf Extract |
|---|---|
| Net Weight | 55ml |
Numbuzin No.1 Clear Filter Sun Essence
| SPF | 50+ |
|---|---|
| PA Rating | PA++++ |
| Type | Chemical Sunscreen |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
A Lightweight Sun Essence With Soothing and Hydrating Benefits
Furthermore, it is packed with ingredients like heartleaf, Centella Asiatica, and licorice root extracts, which work together to calm and hydrate the skin. Furthermore, its lightweight texture ensures a non-greasy, comfortable application, making it ideal for everyday use. Several reviewers also love that it leaves no white cast at all and is fragrance-free as advertised.
| Key Ingredients | Heartleaf, Centella Asiatica, Licorice Root Extracts |
|---|---|
| Net Weight | 50ml |
Tips from a Board-Certified Dermatologist
According to Dr. Meg, when building a skincare routine, start with the essentials: cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Cleansers are important to remove sebum, dirt, makeup, and sunscreen at the end of the day. Moisturizers restore our skin barrier and keep our skin hydrated. Finally, sunscreens protect our skin from the harmful effects of UV rays like premature aging, sunburn, and skin cancer.
Sunscreens are not perfect. No sunscreen can block 100% of the UV rays. So don’t just rely on sunscreen alone as a means of photoprotection. Seek shade, especially between 10 am to 4 pm when the sun’s rays are the most intense. Make sure to wear a wide-brimmed hat, UV-protective eyewear, pants, and long-sleeved shirts whenever applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Dr. Meg Sison
If you still have some unanswered questions on your mind, Dr. Meg is here to answer some of the most asked questions on the web to further add to your sunscreen knowledge.
How Often Should You Use Sunscreen?
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. A broad-spectrum sunscreen means it has protection for both UVA and UVB rays. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, especially after swimming or sweating or if you are outdoors.
Are Korean Sunscreens Suitable for Filipino Skin?
Yes. Sunscreen is a must for all individuals, regardless of skin color. Those with brown or dark brown skin are more prone to develop pigmentation like sunspots and melasma. Skin cancers in these individuals are also more advanced. That’s why sunscreen use is highly recommended.
It is a matter of finding your favorite sunscreen that is cosmetically acceptable for you at a price you can afford so that you can use it every day.
Should You Apply More Sunscreen to Get More Protection from the Sun?
It is recommended that sunscreen should be applied at a concentration of 2mg/cm2. This is equivalent to 30mL or 1 oz of sunscreen to cover the entire body surface.
In reality, studies showed that the actual usage of sunscreen is only 0.5 to 0.8mg/cm2, so the actual in-use SPF is significantly lower than that on the sunscreen label. Thus proper sunscreen application is a must to maximize photoprotection.
Discover Other Korean Skincare Products
If you're interested in trying out other Korean skincare products, you might want to check out our other article reviews below. These products have a lot to offer that their Western counterparts cannot, so click away to discover the radiant world of Korean skincare!
7 Best Korean Face Powders in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Visual and Makeup Artist
10 Best Korean Ampoules in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Korean Toners in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Korean Essences in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Top 5 Korean Sunscreens
No. 1: Face Republic｜Purity Sun Essence
No. 2: COSRX｜Aloe Soothing Sun Cream
No. 3: Beauty of Joseon｜Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics + B5
No. 4: Nature Republic｜California Aloe Fresh Powdery Sun Stick
No. 5: Isntree｜Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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