Best Korean Sunscreens for Oily Skin

Why Korean Sunscreens Are a Must for Oily Skin

Korean sunscreens are legendary for their innovative formulas that blend sun protection with skincare perks. “K-beauty SPFs are designed to be lightweight, non-greasy, and packed with ingredients like niacinamide or cica to control oil and soothe skin,” says Dr. Y. Claire Chang, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York. Unlike traditional Western sunscreens, which can feel thick and pore-clogging, Korean options prioritize breathable textures and matte finishes, making them ideal for oily complexions. Plus, they often come with high SPF and PA++++ ratings for top-notch UVA/UVB protection.

What to Look for in a Sunscreen for Oily Skin

• Oil-Free and Non-Comedogenic: Avoid formulas that add extra oil or clog pores.

• Matte or Semi-Matte Finish: Look for sunscreens with silica or micro-powders to absorb excess shine.

• Lightweight Textures: Gels, serums, or fluids feel weightless and won’t suffocate oily skin.

• Skin-Soothing Ingredients: Niacinamide, centella asiatica, and green tea help control oil and calm irritation.

• Broad-Spectrum Protection: Choose SPF 30+ and PA+++ or higher for full UV coverage.

Our Top 10 Korean Sunscreens for Oily Skin

After testing dozens of formulas, consulting dermatologists, and scouring reviews from oily-skinned users, here are the best Korean sunscreens to keep your skin protected and shine-free.

1. Best Overall: Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++

• Price: ~$20 at Stylevana

• Why We Love It: Silky, lightweight, and zero white cast—this sunscreen is a cult favorite for a reason.

• Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, birch sap, hyaluronic acid

• Tester Take: “It sinks in like a dream and keeps my T-zone matte all day.”
  This mineral-based SPF blends effortlessly, leaving no residue or grease. Niacinamide brightens and controls oil, while birch sap hydrates without heaviness.

2. Best Matte Finish: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++

• Price: ~$18 at Stylevana

• Why We Love It: A true matte finish that feels like a lightweight moisturizer.

• Key Ingredients: Rice extract, panthenol, niacinamide

• Tester Take: “No shine, no stickiness—just soft, protected skin.”

• 
  Formulated for oily and combination skin, this chemical sunscreen absorbs fast and leaves a velvety, non-greasy finish. Rice extract soothes, and panthenol strengthens the skin barrier.

3. Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Some By Mi Truecica Aqua Calming Suncream SPF 50+ PA++++

• Price: ~$15 at Amazon

• Why We Love It: Calms redness and fights breakouts while protecting.

• Key Ingredients: Centella asiatica, tea tree oil, niacinamide

• Tester Take: “My acne-prone skin didn’t flare up, and it stayed matte for hours.”
  This non-comedogenic formula is a lifesaver for oily, sensitive skin. Cica and tea tree soothe irritation, and it’s light enough to layer without clogging pores.

4. Best Lightweight Gel: Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Daily Sun Gel SPF 30 PA+++

• Price: ~$22 at Amazon

• Why We Love It: Feels like a hydrating serum, not sunscreen.

• Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, niacinamide

• Tester Take: “It’s so light, I forgot I was wearing SPF!”
  This gel-based chemical sunscreen is a go-to for oily skin. It absorbs in seconds, plays well under makeup, and keeps shine at bay. Dr. Jenny Liu, a board-certified dermatologist, calls it “elegant and great for layering.”

5. Best Sun Stick: Beauty of Joseon Matte Sun Stick Mugwort + Camelia SPF 50+ PA++++

• Price: ~$18 at Amazon

• Why We Love It: Perfect for on-the-go reapplication without disturbing makeup.

• Key Ingredients: Mugwort, camellia, silica

• Tester Take: “This stick is a game-changer for touch-ups—no greasy fingers!”
  This mineral stick delivers a matte finish and is non-comedogenic, making it ideal for oily skin. Its portable design makes reapplying SPF a breeze.

6. Best for Sensitive Skin: Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Air-Fit Suncream Light SPF 30

PA++++

• Price: ~$16 at Amazon

• Why We Love It: Gentle on reactive skin with a lightweight, matte feel.

• Key Ingredients: Centella asiatica, niacinamide, zinc oxide

• Tester Take: “No irritation, no shine—just calm, protected skin.”
  This mineral sunscreen soothes with cica and controls oil with niacinamide. It’s perfect for sensitive, oily skin prone to redness.

7. Best Budget Pick: Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish SPF 50+ PA+++

• Price: ~$12 at Amazon

• Why We Love It: Affordable and shine-free for oily complexions.

• Key Ingredients: Sunflower seed oil, cica, aloe vera

• Tester Take: “It’s cheap, light, and doesn’t make me look greasy.”
  This chemical sunscreen dries to a silk-matte finish and works well under makeup. It’s a steal for daily use.

8. Best Brightening: The Face Shop Hydro Sun Barrier SPF 45 PA+++

• Price: ~$20 at Amazon

• Why We Love It: Brightens while controlling oil.

• Key Ingredients: Calendula, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid

• Tester Take: “My skin looked radiant but not oily—a win!”
  This chemical sunscreen feels refreshing and leaves a subtle glow without excess shine. It’s great for humid climates.

9. Best for Pore-Blurring: Sungboon Editor Daily Invisible Blurring Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA+++

• Price: ~$25 at Amazon

• Why We Love It: Blurs pores like a primer while protecting.

• Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, glutathione, silica

• Tester Take: “My pores looked smaller, and it stayed matte all day.”
  This clear gel sunscreen doubles as a makeup base, with niacinamide to even skin tone and silica to control oil.

10. Best Hydrating Yet Matte: IOPE UV Defense Sun Protector SPF 50+ PA++++

• Price: ~$32 at Amazon

• Why We Love It: Hydrates without adding shine.

• Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, panthenol, bamboo extract

• Tester Take: “It feels nourishing but keeps my T-zone in check.”
  This chemical sunscreen balances hydration and oil control, making it a top pick for oily skin in need of moisture.

How We Chose These Sunscreens

We tested over 30 Korean sunscreens, focusing on formulas suited for oily skin. Our criteria included:

• Texture and Finish: Must be lightweight with a matte or semi-matte finish.

• Absorption: No greasy residue or white cast.

• Ingredients: Prioritized non-comedogenic, oil-controlling, and soothing actives.

• Performance: Evaluated for all-day oil control and makeup compatibility.
  We also consulted dermatologists and analyzed reviews from oily-skinned users to ensure these picks deliver.

Tips for Using Sunscreen on Oily Skin

1. Apply on Clean Skin: Use a gentle cleanser like COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser before SPF.

2. Use Enough: Follow the “two-finger” rule—apply two finger-lengths of product for your face.

3. Reapply Smartly: Use a sun stick or powder SPF for touch-ups over makeup.

4. Double Cleanse at Night: Remove sunscreen thoroughly with an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based one to prevent clogged pores.

5. Layer Lightly: Skip heavy moisturizers if your sunscreen is hydrating enough, like Round Lab or Isntree.

FAQs About Korean Sunscreens for Oily Skin

Why are Korean sunscreens better for oily skin?
“They use advanced UV filters and lightweight textures that don’t clog pores,” says Dr. Chang. Ingredients like niacinamide and cica also address oiliness and irritation, unlike heavier Western formulas.

Can I skip moisturizer with these sunscreens?
Yes, many Korean sunscreens (like Round Lab or Beauty of Joseon) are hydrating enough to double as a moisturizer, especially for oily skin. Test what works for you.

How often should I reapply?
Every 2–3 hours if you’re in direct sun, says Dr. Rashmi Shetty, a cosmetic dermatologist. Sun sticks make reapplication easy over makeup.

Meet the Experts

• Dr. Y. Claire Chang, MD: Board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm, New York.

• Dr. Jenny Liu, MD: Board-certified dermatologist based in the Twin Cities.

• Dr. Rashmi Shetty, MD: Cosmetic dermatologist at Ra Skin & Aesthetics, Mumbai & Hyderabad.