Korean sunscreen offers a wide variety of types and brands, giving consumers many options to choose from. It can be broadly categorized into three types: chemical sunscreen (organic), physical sunscreen (mineral), and hybrid sunscreen. Here’s a comparison of their characteristics, major brands, and pros and cons:
1. Chemical Sunscreen (Organic UV Filters)
- Characteristics:
- Absorbs UV rays and chemically breaks them down within the skin.
- Minimal white cast and good spreadability.
- Lightweight and refreshing texture.
- Available in various formulations (essence, lotion, gel, etc.).
- Major Brands:
- ROUND LAB: Popular for its gentle and moisturizing feel, such as the Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen.
- BEAUTY OF JOSEON: Known for its lightweight and hydrating texture like an essence, such as the Relief Sun : Rice + Probiotics.
- rom&nd: Offers a fresh and non-sticky finish, such as the Zero Sun Clean.
- Dear, Klairs: Provides a light and mild feel, such as the All-Day Airy Sunscreen.
- make p:rem: Formulates products to minimize the stickiness often associated with chemical sunscreens.
- Pros:
- No white cast, resulting in a natural skin appearance.
- Good spreadability, making application easy.
- Available in various formulations to suit different skin types and preferences.
- Cons:
- May contain chemical ingredients that can potentially irritate the skin.
- Requires time for the UV-blocking ingredients to be absorbed into the skin (recommended to apply 20-30 minutes before sun exposure).
- Can be irritating for sensitive skin.
2. Physical Sunscreen (Mineral UV Filters)
- Characteristics:
- Forms a physical barrier on the skin’s surface using mineral ingredients (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) to reflect UV rays.
- Less likely to cause skin irritation, suitable for sensitive skin and children.
- Provides immediate sun protection upon application.
- Major Brands:
- Dr.G: Offers gentle products that help strengthen the skin barrier, such as the Green Mild Up Sun.
- Easydew: Contains DW-EGF to help soothe and protect the skin.
- Atopalm: Formulated with MLE skin barrier formula, suitable for sensitive and dry skin.
- goodal: Emphasizes skin-soothing ingredients, such as the Heartleaf Calming Mineral Sun Cream.
- athe: Offers vegan-formulated and gentle mineral sunscreens.
- Pros:
- Low skin irritation, safe for sensitive skin.
- Immediate sun protection.
- Physically blocks UV rays, making it stable.
- Cons:
- May leave a white cast on the skin.
- Can feel somewhat thick and difficult to spread.
- May have a heavier texture compared to chemical sunscreens.
3. Hybrid Sunscreen
- Characteristics:
- Combines the advantages of both chemical and physical sunscreens.
- Aims to reduce white cast while improving spreadability and minimizing skin irritation.
- Various brands offer hybrid sunscreens with different textures and features depending on the formulation.
- Major Brands:
- HERA: Offers sunscreens with various functionalities, such as the UV Protector Multi-Defense.
- IOPE: Emphasizes skin protection and improvement effects, such as the UV Shield Sun Protector.
- LANEIGE: Known for its hydrating and refreshing feel, such as the Sun Block Aqua+.
- Cell Fusion C: Offers customized sunscreens for different skin types.
- Real Barrier: Contains skin barrier-strengthening ingredients in its hybrid sunscreens.
- Pros:
- Combines the spreadability of chemical sunscreen with the gentleness of physical sunscreen.
- Less white cast and relatively good texture.
- Offers various functionalities (tone-up, hydration, soothing, etc.).
- Cons:
- Texture and white cast may vary depending on the specific product.
- Characteristics differ depending on the ratio of chemical and physical filters.
Considerations When Choosing Sunscreen:
- Skin Type: Choose a type and formulation that suits your skin type (oily, dry, sensitive, etc.).
- Purpose of Use: Check the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) and Protection Grade of UVA (PA) based on your intended use (daily life, outdoor activities, etc.).
- Ingredients: If you have sensitive skin, carefully check the ingredient list and identify any ingredients to avoid.
- Texture: Consider your personal preference for white cast, stickiness, and spreadability.
Compare the various Korean sunscreen brands and types to choose the product that best suits your needs.
