By Ggot-song Kim, a Seoul-based K-lifestyle curator. With years of personal experience navigating the challenges of oily, acne-prone skin, Kkot-song is dedicated to sharing tried-and-true solutions that truly work.
Finding the best korean sunscreen for oily skin can feel like an impossible mission.
Hello, beautiful!
Are you tired of the endless search for a sunscreen that doesn’t feel like a greasy, pore-clogging mask? I’ve been there. Living in Seoul, with its humid summers and daily exposure to city life, finding a sunscreen that protects my oily, acne-prone skin without causing a breakout felt like an impossible mission. It’s a frustrating cycle: you know you need sun protection, but most products seem to make things worse, leaving you with a shiny T-zone and new blemishes. But what if I told you that your holy grail sunscreen does exist, and it’s likely waiting for you in the world of K-beauty?
In this guide, I’m sharing my personal, tried-and-tested list of the absolute best Korean sunscreens that are perfect for those of us with oily and acne-prone skin. We’ll dive into what makes them so special, how to choose the right one for you, and where you can get them, no matter where you are in the world. Get ready to finally meet your match and embrace happy, protected skin.
Why the Right Sunscreen is a Game-Changer for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin
For those with oily and acne-prone skin, sunscreen is non-negotiable. Sun exposure can increase inflammation and sebum production, making acne worse. It can also darken acne scars (a condition called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or PIH), making them linger for months. A good sunscreen acts as a shield, preventing this damage. But the wrong sunscreen—one that’s too thick, oily, or contains pore-clogging ingredients—can trigger more breakouts, defeating the purpose. This is why Korean sunscreens have become a global phenomenon; they specialize in creating formulas that are incredibly lightweight, cosmetically elegant, and packed with skin-loving ingredients.
Your Quick Checklist: What to Look For in a K-Beauty Sunscreen
When hunting for your perfect K-beauty sunscreen, keep these key terms in mind:
- “Non-Comedogenic”: This is your most important keyword. It means the product is formulated to not block your pores.
- Lightweight Texture: Look for terms like “gel,” “essence,” “serum,” or “watery.” These formulas absorb quickly without leaving a heavy film.
- Sebum-Controlling Ingredients: Ingredients like niacinamide, green tea extract, or silica help manage oil production throughout the day.
- Soothing Ingredients: To calm inflammation and redness associated with acne, look for centella asiatica (cica), houttuynia cordata, or aloe vera.
- High SPF & PA Rating: Aim for SPF50+ and PA+++ or PA++++ for broad-spectrum protection against both UVB and UVA rays.
The 5 Best Korean Sunscreens for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin in 2025
After countless tests, here are my top 5 picks that deliver powerful protection without the grease.
Our Top 5 Picks for the Best Korean Sunscreen for Oily Skin
1. Beauty of Joseon – Relief Sun : Rice + Probiotics (SPF50+ PA++++)
- Why I Love It: This is a cult favorite for a reason. Its texture is like a light lotion that sinks into the skin beautifully, leaving a natural, satin finish—not too dewy, not too matte. It contains 30% rice extract and grain-derived probiotics that deeply moisturize and nourish the skin. It feels so comfortable you’ll forget you’re wearing sunscreen.
- Best For: All skin types, but especially oily and combination skin that needs hydration without the grease.
- Where to Buy: [Link to Stylevana/YesStyle/Official Brand Website]
2. ROUND LAB – Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream (SPF50+ PA++++)
- Why I Love It: If your oily skin is also dehydrated, this is your savior. It’s a chemical sunscreen that feels like a hydrating essence. The Birch Tree Sap from Inje, Korea, is packed with minerals and amino acids to keep the skin moisturized. It gives you a healthy, “chok-chok” (dewy) glow without being oily.
- Best For: Dehydrated oily skin that wants a dewy finish.
- Where to Buy: [Link to Stylevana/YesStyle/Official Brand Website]
3. ISNTREE – Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel (SPF50+ PA++++)
- Why I Love It: This is the definition of a “watery” sun gel. It’s incredibly lightweight and refreshing, absorbing in seconds with zero white cast. With eight types of hyaluronic acid, it provides deep hydration, plumping the skin from within. It works beautifully under makeup and is perfect for hot, humid days.
- Best For: Those who hate the feeling of sunscreen and want an ultra-light, refreshing formula.
- Where to Buy: [Link to Stylevana/YesStyle/Official Brand Website]
4. SKIN1004 – Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum (SPF50+ PA++++)
- Why I Love It: This is my go-to when my skin is feeling irritated or sensitive. The “Hyalu-Cica” formula combines hyaluronic acid for hydration and centella asiatica from Madagascar to soothe redness and calm breakouts. It’s a non-nano chemical sunscreen with a serum-like texture that leaves a dewy, breathable finish.
- Best For: Sensitive, acne-prone skin that needs calming and soothing properties.
- Where to Buy: [Link to Stylevana/YesStyle/Official Brand Website]
5. COSRX – Aloe Soothing Sun Cream (SPF50+ PA+++)
- Why I Love It: A long-time favorite in the K-beauty world, this sunscreen is formulated with Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract, which soothes and moisturizes the skin. It’s incredibly gentle and feels more like a lightweight daily moisturizer than a sunscreen. It’s a reliable, affordable option that gets the job done without any fuss.
- Best For: A simple, soothing, and effective daily sunscreen for all skin types, including oily and sensitive.
- Where to Buy: [Link to Stylevana/YesStyle/Official Brand Website]
You Asked, We Answered: Your Top K-Beauty Sunscreen Questions
1. Can I skip moisturizer if I use a hydrating sunscreen? For very oily skin types, some of these sunscreens (like the Round Lab Birch Juice) might provide enough moisture on their own, especially in the morning. I recommend testing it out to see how your skin feels!
2. How often should I reapply sunscreen? You should reapply every 2-3 hours, especially if you are sweating or have been outdoors.
3. Will these sunscreens leave a white cast on my darker skin tone? All five of the sunscreens listed are chemical or hybrid sunscreens known for having minimal to zero white cast, making them suitable for a wide range of skin tones.
Your Journey to Shine-Free Skin Starts Now
Finding the perfect sunscreen is a journey, not a destination. But with these incredible K-beauty options, you’re one step closer to finding your holy grail. You no longer have to choose between sun protection and clear skin. Embrace the innovation of Korean skincare and give your skin the protection it deserves.
What are your favorite Korean sunscreens? Do you have any questions? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you and help our global community!
P.S. For more K-Beauty tips, check out our upcoming guide to the 10-Step Korean Skincare Routine!