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Korean sunscreens have a cult following for good reason. While Western SPFs have historically been thick, white, and frankly unpleasant to wear daily, Korean sun care has spent decades perfecting formulas that are lightweight, invisible, and genuinely enjoyable to use.
The good news? You no longer need to import them. Several of the best Korean SPFs are now available in the UK – and this guide covers exactly which ones are worth your money.
What Makes Korean Sunscreens Different?
Korean sunscreens tend to use newer UV filter technologies – particularly Tinosorb S and Uvinul A Plus – that aren’t yet approved in the US but are widely used in Europe and the UK. These filters offer broader UVA protection and tend to feel lighter on the skin.
The result is sunscreens that:
- Leave no white cast
- Layer beautifully under makeup
- Feel like skincare, not sunscreen
- Are suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin
The Best Korean Sunscreens You Can Buy in the UK
1. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++
Best overall
This is arguably the most popular Korean sunscreen in the world right now – and for good reason. The Relief Sun has a silky, serum-like texture that sinks in quickly and leaves a subtle glow rather than a greasy film. It contains fermented rice water and probiotics, which means it genuinely improves skin texture over time.
- SPF: 50+ PA++++
- Finish: Natural, slight glow
- Best for: All skin types, especially dry and normal skin
- Where to buy: Amazon UK | Stylevana (coming soon)
2. COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 PA+++
Best for sensitive skin
COSRX is a brand that needs no introduction in the K-beauty world, and their Aloe Soothing Sun Cream is a staple for good reason. As the name suggests, it’s packed with aloe vera, making it one of the most calming SPFs on the market. It’s ideal if your skin runs sensitive or reactive.
The texture is slightly more creamy than the Beauty of Joseon, with a soft matte finish that works well under makeup.
- SPF: 50 PA+++
- Finish: Soft matte
- Best for: Sensitive, reactive and combination skin
- Where to buy: Amazon UK | LookFantastic (coming soon)
3. Purito Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
Best lightweight formula
Purito’s Daily Go-To Sunscreen is a favourite among those who struggle with heavier formulas. It’s water-light, absorbs almost instantly, and leaves absolutely no residue. If you’ve tried other SPFs and found them too heavy or pore-clogging, this is the one to try.
It’s also one of the most affordable Korean SPFs available in the UK, making it a brilliant entry point into K-beauty sun care.
- SPF: 50+ PA++++
- Finish: Weightless, invisible
- Best for: Oily, acne-prone and combination skin
- Where to buy: Amazon UK | Stylevana (coming soon)
4. Anua Heartleaf Silky Moisture Sun Serum SPF50+ PA++++
Best serum-sunscreen hybrid
Anua has become one of the most exciting K-beauty brands of the last few years, and their Sun Serum lives up to the hype. It uses a newer generation of UV filters that are completely free from acrylates – a family of ingredients some people find irritating – making it a brilliant option for those who’ve struggled to tolerate other SPFs.
The serum texture feels genuinely luxurious and plumping, making this feel less like a sunscreen and more like a high-end skincare step.
- SPF: 50+ PA++++
- Finish: Dewy, plumping
- Best for: Sensitive skin, those who want a skincare-SPF hybrid
- Where to buy: Amazon UK | YesStyle (coming soon)
5. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF50+ PA++++
Best for dry skin
If your skin leans dry, you’ll love the Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Sun Gel. It combines serious SPF protection with a hefty dose of hyaluronic acid, leaving skin feeling plump and hydrated rather than tight or parched. The gel texture melts into skin beautifully and works well layered under heavier moisturisers.
- SPF: 50+ PA++++
- Finish: Dewy, hydrating
- Best for: Dry and dehydrated skin
- Where to buy: Amazon UK | Stylevana (coming soon)
How to Choose the Right Korean Sunscreen for You
| Skin Type | Best Pick |
|---|---|
| Dry / Normal | Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun |
| Sensitive / Reactive | COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream |
| Oily / Acne-prone | Purito Daily Go-To Sunscreen |
| All skin types (luxury feel) | Anua Heartleaf Sun Serum |
| Dehydrated | Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Sun Gel |
Do You Really Need SPF50+?
Short answer: yes, especially for daily use. SPF50 blocks around 98% of UVB rays, while SPF30 blocks around 97%. That 1% difference might sound small but adds up significantly with daily exposure.
The PA++++ rating refers to UVA protection – the rays responsible for ageing and pigmentation. Always look for at least PA+++ for meaningful UVA coverage.
Where to Buy Korean Sunscreens in the UK
Most of the SPFs in this guide are available on:
- Amazon UK – fast delivery, reliable
- Stylevana – dedicated K-beauty retailer, good range
- LookFantastic – stocks a growing number of K-beauty brands
- YesStyle – huge range, slightly longer delivery times
Final Thoughts
Korean sunscreens have genuinely changed the way many people approach sun protection. If you’ve always found SPF a chore to wear, trying one of the formulas above might be the thing that finally makes daily SPF feel like a pleasure rather than a hassle.
Start with the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun if you’re new to K-beauty SPFs – it’s the best all-rounder and consistently lives up to its reputation.
Have a favourite Korean sunscreen we haven’t covered? Let us know in the comments below.
Last updated: June 2026