Everybody needs sunscreen – no matter what your skin tone. Here are the best Korean sunscreen for dark skin! Check it out!
Are you looking for a sunscreen that suits your skin tone and protects your skin from damages? Here are some Korean sunscreen products just for you.
A sunscreen protects the skin from harmful effects of the sun and prevents damages to your skin such as dark spots, discoloration and skin cancer.
As someone with a dark skin tone, I’ve tested a few Korean sunscreen products along with my friends and listed some of the best products below. When choosing a sunscreen, I consider 2 important factors. The SPF of the product and the broad spectrum.
- SPF: Sun protection factor measures how a sunscreen protects the skin against UV rays.
- Broad spectrum: There are 2 types of rays harmful to the skin. UVA rays which cause wrinkles by prematurely aging the skin and UVB rays that cause skin burns and tans.
Best Korean Sunscreen for Dark Skin – Quick Summary
| Best Korean sunscreens for dark skin | Best for (skin type) | Key Ingredients |
| COSRX Aloe soothing sun cream SPF50+ PA+++ | Dry skin | Aloe vera, cactus and hyaluronic acid |
| Neogen Day-Light Protection Sunscreen SPF 50/PA+++ | Sensitive and oily skin | Titanium dioxide, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate and Zinc Oxide |
| Make P: rem UV Defense Me. Moisture Sun Cream | Sensitive, combination, dry skin | Bamboo water, Glycerin, titanium dioxide and calamine |
| d’Alba Waterfull Essence Sun Cream | Dry and combination skin | Water, silica, orange oil and white truffle |
| Dr.G Green Mild Up Sun SPF50+/PA++++ | Sensitive skin | CICA and zinc oxide |
Which is the best Korean sunscreen for dark skin?
My team and I tested 20+ Korean sunscreen for dark skin based on ingredients, SPF, texture and effectiveness on the skin. We found out that Neogen Day-Light Protection Sunscreen SPF 50/PA+++ is the best.
Neogen Day-Light Protection Sunscreen SPF 50/PA+++ contains a safe mineral called zinc oxide that protects you from sun damage, harmful bacteria and also controls sebum. It’s formulated with natural ingredients like lavender, hibiscus, blueberry extracts, etc. that help in skin nourishment. It’s hydrating, lightweight, and quickly gets absorbed in the skin. It doesn’t contain alcohol, artificial colour, or fragrances.
Top Korean Sunscreen For Dark Skin 2023
How to choose the best Korean sunscreen for dark skin
The UVA and UVB rays emitted by the sun are harmful for your skin irrespective of your age, gender, and skin tones. Too much exposure to the sun and long periods outdoors can cause skin cancer.
Hence, sunscreen is an essential product if you spend most of your time outdoors. However, choosing the right sunscreen product to match your skin tone is quite crucial. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best sunscreen for a dark skin tone:
SPF:
The SPF of the sunscreen plays a major role in matching a skin tone. Dermatologists recommend SPF30 sunscreen for daily use and SPF50+ can be used when you’re going outdoors. Korean sunscreen products have a higher SPF which will guard your skin from the harmful UV rays.
Low Zinc oxide:
Zinc oxide protects your skin from bacteria, but a high level of zinc oxide can give your face a chalky white cast. Most Korean sunscreens are chemical based hence they contain very low zinc oxide. So, Korean sunscreens will give you a natural look when applied without leaving any white casts.
Texture:
It is always best to go for a sunscreen that has a simple texture which can be applied easily on the skin. A sunscreen with a heavy texture can make your face look cakey. Most if not all Korean sunscreen products are lightweight, moisturizing and non-sticky. So, it can be quickly applied on the skin without leaving any trace on your skin.
What ingredients to look for in a Korean sunscreen made for darker skin tones?
When looking for a Korean sunscreen suitable for darker skin tones, there are a few key ingredients to consider:
- Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide: These mineral-based ingredients provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. They are less likely to leave a white cast on the skin, making them suitable for darker skin tones.
- Physical Sunscreen Filters: Look for sunscreens that primarily use physical or mineral filters like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, as they tend to be more inclusive and less likely to leave a white residue.
- Broad-Spectrum Protection: Ensure that the sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection, as this indicates coverage against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Non-Comedogenic Formulas: Opt for non-comedogenic formulas, which are less likely to clog pores and cause breakouts, regardless of skin tone.
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Look for sunscreens that contain moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. These help to hydrate the skin and prevent dryness or flakiness.
- Lightweight Texture: Choose sunscreens with a lightweight and non-greasy texture that will not leave a heavy residue or make the skin feel greasy, as this can be more suitable for darker skin tones.
Additionally, it’s crucial to remember that individual preferences and skin sensitivities may vary. It’s always a good idea to check the product labels and, if possible, test a small patch of the sunscreen on your skin to ensure compatibility before applying it to your entire face or body.
Missha All-around Safe Block Waterproof Sun Milk
Missha All-around Safe Block Waterproof Sun Milk is one of the best sunscreens for dark-skinned people as it leaves no white cast and gives a natural finish. I’m addicted to this sunscreen because of its amazing eucalyptus scent that doesn’t even harm the skin.
This Missha sunscreen contains eucalyptus extracts that help in sebum control and will make you feel refreshed. This sunscreen contains SPF50+ PA+++ that is perfect for protection from harmful UVA/UVB rays.
I also liked how lightweight and non-sticky this sunscreen feels. I can wear it all day and it doesn’t even feel anything on my skin. The sleek packaging is also something that makes the application process super easy.
The only downside of Missha All-around sunscreen is that it can be drying so it’s not recommended for skin types that are dry.
Pros:
- Leaves no white cast
- Non-sticky
- Lightweight
- Nice eucalyptus scent
- Sleek packaging
- Controls sebum
Cons:
- Can be drying
Ratings:
- Ingredients: 9/10
- Sun protection: 10/10
- Lightweight: 10/10
- Affordability: 8/10
COSRX Aloe soothing sun cream SPF50+ PA+++
Best for oily skin
The COSRX Aloe soothing sun cream is the best sunscreen if you are going for a refreshing look. It is a chemical based sunscreen with a lightweight formula designed especially for dehydrated skin.
As someone with dry skin, I use this sunscreen daily to keep my face moisturized for the day. I have experienced positive results after using this sunscreen for more than a month. The aloe vera and cactus in this cream hydrates my skin by giving it a fresh look.
It is mild and does not leave any dreaded chalky white cast on your skin and hence would suit dark skin tones. The SPF50+ formula and the broad spectrum protects your skin from harmful UVA & UVB rays.
This can be used as the last step of your skincare routine and ensure to apply generously to all the exposed areas such as face, hands, neck and ears.
Pros:
- SPF50+ formula
- Non chalky or ashy
- Quick absorbing
- No white cast
Ratings:
- Ingredients: 10/10
- Sun protection: 10/10
- Lightweight: 8.5/10
- Affordability: 8.5/10
Neogen Day-Light Protection Sunscreen SPF 50/PA+++
This sunscreen contains zinc oxide which is a safe mineral that protects your skin from harmful bacteria, sun burns and damages and prevents your pores from clogging by controlling sebum production.
It also contains natural ingredients like raspberry and blueberry fruit extracts, lavender and hibiscus which gives a natural fruity scent when applied. It is also proven to have anti-aging benefits and nourishes your skin deeply without any irritation.
It has an ultra-light weight formula that absorbs quickly to your skin when applied. It hydrates the skin from within leaving no oily and chalky look. The SPF50+ formula acts as a shield to protect your skin from the UVB rays. It is also free from artificial fragrance and alcohol.
It is effective throughout the day and can be worn under make up. It is ideal for dark skin tones as it leaves no white cast or any grease on the skin. Re apply every 2 hours for long lasting protection and better results.
Pros:
- No greasy look
- No white cast
Ratings:
- Ingredients: 10/10
- Sun protection: 9.5/10
- Lightweight: 10/10
- Affordability: 6.5/10
Make P: rem UV Defense Me. Moisture Sun Cream
This is a moisturizing sun cream which has a lightweight milky formula which can be easily applied on the skin. It is a mixture of physical and chemical sunscreen and the SPF50+ formula protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays.
It is also packed with 88% moisturizing agents and hydrating ingredients which boosts hydration levels in your skin. It provides your skin a radiant glow as well.
It contains hydrating ingredients such as bamboo water, calamine and glycerin that keeps your skin moisturized and refreshing throughout the day. It is proven to be free from any irritation to the skin and keeps it calm.
It comes in a new improved packaging and formula that suits most skin types and skin tones as well.
Make sure to use a moisturizer and a serum before applying for best results. It works very well as a make-up base or primer.
Pros:
- Hypoallergenic
- Strong SPF50+ formula
- Hydrating
Cons:
- Leaves minimal white cast
- Strong smell
d’Alba Waterfull Essence Sun Cream
The d’Alba Waterfull Essence Sun Cream’s major ingredient is water. Which means, the product is almost entirely made up of water.
It is also said to be notable when applying on the skin. It has a clear oil soluble texture which can be easily applied over the skin, and it is quickly absorbed as well. This water packed sun cream hydrates the skin from inside.
However, it leaves the outer part of the skin dry. The orange oil in the cream gives a good fragrance and it also contains white truffle which is a mineral element that helps to enhance the texture of the skin.
Moreover, this sun cream is quite different from the rest of the sunscreens on the list due to its ingredients and its silky texture. This sunscreen is vegan friendly and free from gluten, alcohol, artificial fragrance and harmful chemicals.
The SPF50+ formula shields your skin from damages and the broad-spectrum guards it from the detrimental UVA rays as well as aging UVB rays. Use it as the last step of your skin care routine and 30 mins before exposure to the sun.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- SPF50+ and powerful broad spectrum
- No white cast
- Hypoallergenic
Cons:
- High irritancy
Dr.G Green Mild Up Sun SPF50+/PA++++
This is another mineral sunscreen that contains zinc oxide, an element which protects your skin from bacteria. This is a physical and hypoallergenic sunscreen that is ideal for sensitive skin but can also be used for other skin types as well.
This sunscreen contains natural and mild ingredients like sunflower seed oil and CICA which gives your face a natural look and protects your skin against stress factors and pollutants.
It has a non-sticky texture, and it is free from harmful chemicals such as paraben, sulphate and dyes. And hence, can be used by both children and adults. It also protects the skin from the blue light emitted by electrical devices like smartphones and computers.
This sunscreen leaves no white cast and hence would be suitable for dark skin tone. Shake well and apply evenly in the exposed areas before going outdoors.
Pros:
- Contains natural ingredients
- SPF50+ formula
- No harmful chemicals
- Hypoallergenic
- Non sticky
Cons:
- No value for money
Korean sunscreens for dark skin
Korean cosmetic companies have become experts in creating sunscreen products that are highly effective and comfortable to wear.
They have also surpassed most of their Western competitors in producing the best sunscreens with the right ingredients to suit all skin tones. Korean sunscreens are also higher in SPF to protect your skin from the dangers of the UV rays.
They are beneficial for most skin types as they are proven to soothe irritation, inflammation and can soak up unnecessary oils in your face. Try out these Korean sunscreens for a natural looking and healthy skin.
Why You Should Trust BestKoreanProducts?
All our editors including the author of this article, Jih Yun do extensive research on the products reviewed and recommended in the article. We also use these products ourself to give you accurate, first hand information without any prejudice or bias. BestKoreanproducts has also got a team of medical reviewers and skincare experts to help give accurate advice and provide research-based facts concerning a product, its formulation or ingredients.
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